Once known as “Pragiyotishpura” or Light of the East, Guwahati is Assam's interesting capital and its largest city.
Its name is a combination of two words: “Guwa” meaning areca nut and “Hat” meaning market.
Guwahati is the gateway to places of beauty in one of the most exotic and wonderful regions of India – the North East.
More than just a gateway, it is itself a place of interest. It is a place abundant of natural wonders and beauty.
A chain of hills stretching in the horizon ring three of its sides. The northern side is bounded by the mighty river Brahmaputra which is indeed a wonderful sight at the height of the monsoons. Many ancient Hindu temples can be found in and around the capital.
Today, it is the business hub of the Northeastern region. It is the center for the oil and tea plantations. Also notable about the place is that the holding of largest tea auctions. Guwahati is the capital city of Assam and the name derives from Assamese words “Guwa” meaning areca nut and “Haat” meaning market.
Formerly this city is known as Pragjyotishpur which literally means the city of Eastern light. The Himalayan mountain range surrounds the city beautifully. Guwahati offers lots of tourist attractions that include temples, ashrams, etc.
One of the holiest temple Kamakhya is located on the pick of the Nilachal hill. Also the temples like Bhubanesheari temple which is located above the Kamakhya Temple and offers the city’s scenic and panoramic view. In the middle of Brahmaputra River on a small island Shiva temple of Umananda is located. The temple of nine planets which is popularly known as Navagraha Temple is located on the top of a hill in eastern part of Guwahati.
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