How to reach Guwahati: Top Transportation Options for Travelers
Guwahati is a city next to the Brahmaputra River and is like a door to the beautiful Northeast India. When you’re getting ready to travel, you might feel a little confused because there are so many ways to get there. You can take a plane, a train, or a bus and each one has its own good and not-so-good things about it. If you want to have a fun trip to Guwahati, it’s important to know the best ways to get there that fit how much money you have, what you like, and when you want to go. Whether you want things to be easy or you’re looking for some excitement, knowing how to reach Guwahati will help a lot. Keep reading to find out the best ways to travel to Guwahati so you can start your adventure happily and without worries!
Transportation options for a smooth journey
1. Reaching Guwahati by Air
Reaching Guwahati by air is convenient and straightforward. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the primary airport serving Guwahati and is well-connected to major cities across India. Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular flights to and from Guwahati, offering travellers a variety of options. The airport is equipped with modern facilities and services, ensuring a comfortable travel experience. Upon arrival, taxi services and car rentals are readily available for transportation to your final destination. It’s advisable to book your flights in advance to secure the best deals and ensure a smooth travel experience. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, flying to Guwahati offers a convenient and efficient way to reach this vibrant city in the heart of Assam.
2. Traveling to Guwahati by Train
Travelling to Guwahati by train is a convenient and enjoyable experience. Guwahati is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai via the Indian railway network. You can choose from a variety of train options based on your budget and preferred travel time. The journey to Guwahati offers picturesque views of the scenic landscapes and the diverse culture of the region. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred class and schedule. Upon arrival at Guwahati Railway Station, you can easily find transportation to reach your final destination within the city. Whether you’re a solo traveller or with family and friends, travelling by train to Guwahati is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of northeastern India.
3. Road Travel to Guwahati
Getting to Guwahati by road is a convenient option for travellers. The city is well-connected by a network of national highways, making road travel a viable choice. If you’re coming from nearby cities like Shillong or Tezpur, the drive to Guwahati is relatively smooth and scenic. However, it’s essential to plan your journey carefully, considering factors like weather conditions and road maintenance. The most common routes to Guwahati include NH27 and NH17, both offering picturesque views along the way. Additionally, there are numerous rest stops and eateries en route, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable road trip experience. Whether you’re travelling for leisure or business, reaching Guwahati by road allows you to explore the diverse landscapes of the region and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Local Transportation in Guwahati
Guwahati, the largest city in the state of Assam, has a range of local transportation options. These include buses, auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis. The city also has a river port, and ferries are a popular mode of transport across the Brahmaputra River. Additionally, app-based cab services are also available in Guwahati, providing convenient and reliable transportation for residents and visitors alike.
Travel Tips for Reaching Guwahati
1. Book Flights Early: Guwahati is a popular destination and gateway to Northeast India, especially during tourist seasons (October to April). Booking your flights in advance ensures better fares and seat availability.
2. Check for Direct Flights: Direct flights are available from many major Indian cities. If you’re flying internationally, you may need to transit through cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata before flying into Guwahati.
3. Plan for Weather:
(a) Monsoon Season (June to September): Heavy rainfall can cause flight delays or cancellations. It’s advisable to keep some buffer time in your itinerary.
(b) Winter Season (December to February): Mornings may be foggy, causing occasional delays. Try to schedule midday flights to avoid fog-related issues.
4. Airport to City Transfers:
(a) Pre-book taxis or rides: The airport is located 25 km from the city centre, so it’s a good idea to pre-book a cab using apps like Ola or Uber for a hassle-free transfer. There are also prepaid taxi counters available at the airport.
(b) Avoid rush hours: Guwahati can experience traffic congestion, especially during rush hours (8–10 AM, 5–8 PM), so plan your airport transfer accordingly.
5. Check Luggage Allowance: If you are travelling domestically from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata, check the luggage allowance of budget airlines, as many have lower baggage limits.
6. Have a Backup Plan: In case of flight cancellations or delays (due to weather or operational issues), consider alternative routes such as train travel or long-distance buses to reach Guwahati.
7. Keep Essentials Handy: Guwahati airport is not as large as other metro airports, so amenities might be limited. Carry snacks, entertainment, or other essentials, especially if you have a long layover or potential delays.
Conclusion
Getting to Guwahati, a lively city in Northeast India, is easy because there are many ways to travel there. You can fly into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, which is the main airport for the area, and it connects to big cities in India and nearby countries. If you want to drive, there are good highways, and you can take buses that run regularly. There’s also a busy train station called Guwahati Railway Station, where you can catch many trains. So, whether you choose to fly, drive, or take a train, getting to Guwahati is simple and fun, making it a great place to visit and explore!
Here you can also check our Guwahati Tour Packages.
People also ask about How to reach Guwahati
1. What is the nearest airport to Guwahati?
The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), located about 25 km from the city centre. It has direct flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and international destinations like Bangkok.
2. Is Guwahati connected by rail?
Yes, Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) is well-connected with major cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. You can also find trains to northeastern states like Manipur, Nagaland, and Meghalaya.
3. Are there any direct bus services to Guwahati?
Yes, Guwahati is connected by buses to nearby cities and states. You can find State Transport Corporation buses as well as private operators offering services from towns in Assam and neighbouring states like Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh.
4. How can I reach Guwahati by road?
Guwahati is well-connected by road to the rest of Assam and neighbouring states via NH 27 and NH 17. You can drive or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Shillong (Meghalaya), Tezpur (Assam), and Siliguri (West Bengal).
5. Are there ferry services to Guwahati?
Although Guwahati is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, ferry services are mainly used for local transportation. However, cruises are available on the river for tourists.
6. What are the best options for travelling from nearby cities like Shillong?
From Shillong (around 100 km away), you can either take a taxi or use a shared cab. There are also frequent bus services connecting Shillong and Guwahati.
7. What is the fastest way to reach Guwahati from Delhi?
The fastest way is by air. There are several direct flights from Delhi to Guwahati that take around 2.5 to 3 hours.
8. Is Guwahati accessible by train from Kolkata?
Yes, there are several direct trains from Kolkata to Guwahati, including the Saraighat Express and Kamrup Express. The journey takes around 17-19 hours.