Guwahati, the ‘Gateway to North-Eastern India’, has its roots in an ancient city called Pragjyotishpur. Translated as ‘Light of the East’, Guwahati is Assam's biggest city. Founded right on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra river, Guwahati is the service centre for the oil industry and tea plantations; the world's largest tea auctions are held here. Guwahati is split into two towns on either side of the Brahmaputra, with most places of interest and offices in the southern section, simply known as Guwahati while the northern section is called North Guwahati. The state government is based in the drab outlying town of Dispur, about 8 km away.

There are numerous ancient Hindu temples in and around the town and a fine zoo. While the Hindus worship at the Hayagriba Madhab Temple, for Muslims the Pao Mecca Mosque is sacred.  On the north bank of Brahmaputra 28 km from Guwahati, is Hajo which is an important pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists and Muslims. Some Buddhists believe that the Buddha attained nirvana here.

Guwahati is also known for the exquisite muga silk, the best selection of which is offered by shops on GN Bordoloi Road.