How to Reach Guwahati: Travel by Air, Train, and Road

Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and the gateway to Northeast India, is a vibrant hub where modern India meets traditional Assamese culture. Known for the iconic Kamakhya Temple, the scenic Brahmaputra riverfront, and bustling urban life, Guwahati is not only a tourist destination but also the transit point for all other northeastern states.

Whether you’re planning to visit Guwahati itself or use it as a base for exploring places like Shillong, Tawang, Majuli, or Kaziranga, understanding how to reach Guwahati is key to a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—by air, train, and road—with complete travel tips, route options, booking details, and local insights.

1. Where is Guwahati Located?

• State: Assam
• Region: Western Assam
• Coordinates: 26.1° N, 91.7° E
• Altitude: ~55 meters above sea level
• Borders: Meghalaya (to the south), Bhutan hills (to the north)

Guwahati lies on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River and is the most accessible city in the entire northeastern region.

2. Reaching Guwahati by Air

A. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU)

• IATA Code: GAU
• Location: Borjhar, ~20 km west of the city center
• Type: Domestic and International
• Operator: Airports Authority of India
• Terminal: Single integrated terminal

B. Domestic Connectivity to Guwahati

Guwahati is well-connected to all major Indian cities with daily flights.

C. International Flights

Note: Most international flights currently route through Delhi or Kolkata.

D. Airport to City Transfers

E. Booking Tips

• Use aggregator apps like MakeMyTrip, Skyscanner, or Google Flights
• Book 2–3 weeks early during peak seasons (Durga Puja, Bihu, December)
• Guwahati Airport Code: GAU

3. Reaching Guwahati by Train

Train travel is one of the most popular and affordable ways to reach Guwahati, especially for tourists, families, and budget travelers.

A. Main Railway Stations in Guwahati

B. Major Train Routes to Guwahati

C. Booking Information

• Use IRCTC or mobile apps like ConfirmTkt, Trainman
• Choose 3AC or 2AC for long-distance comfort
• Tatkal and Premium Tatkal available
• Always confirm arrival station (GHY or KYQ)

D. Local Transfers from Railway Station

4. Reaching Guwahati by Road

Driving to Guwahati or taking a bus is perfect for those exploring regional destinations, making budget trips, or enjoying scenic travel across Assam and neighboring states.

A. Highways Leading to Guwahati

B. Road Travel from Major Cities

C. Bus Services to Guwahati

Boarding Point in Guwahati: ISBT Garchuk, Paltan Bazar (private)

D. Shared Taxis & Vans

5. Which Mode is Best for You?

6. Travel Time and Cost Comparison

7. Best Time to Travel to Guwahati

8. Entry Permits for Northeast Travel

Guwahati itself does not require any permit, but if you’re heading further:

9. Local Transport in Guwahati

10. Where to Stay After Arrival

11. Sample 5-Day Travel Itinerary (Arrival via Train or Flight)

12. Final Thoughts: Is Guwahati Easy to Reach?

Yes—Guwahati is the most accessible city in Northeast India. Whether you’re flying in from Delhi or Chennai, catching a train from Kolkata, or road-tripping from Shillong, Guwahati acts as your launchpad into all seven sister states. With increasing infrastructure, smooth roads, and consistent transport options, reaching Guwahati has never been easier.

Whether you’re a spiritual seeker visiting Kamakhya, a wildlife enthusiast heading to Kaziranga, or an adventurer going toward Tawang or Majuli—Guwahati is your starting point.

Zogyy Travel Tip

“Book a flight in, but take a train back. That way, you see the skies of Assam on the way in—and its green heart from the rails on the way out.”