Guwahati
As in most places in Assam, in Guwahati too, the Brahmaputra reigns supreme. One of the main attractions here is a boat ride on the Brahmaputra. The town houses some beautiful areas that date back to the British times. The chaotic markets are beguiling and full of character. Just a short ride along the main city road, is the Umananda temple located on a scenic island. The temple is on the highest point of the island and is a perfect vantage point with fabulous views of the city and the river. It is not uncommon to spot the Golden Langur (monkey) here.Kamakhya Temple
The main place for Tantric practices, the hilltop Kamakhya temple is dedicated to Kali or Sati (Shiva's wife). Legend has it that on having her beloved Shiva insulted, she committed suicide. The incensed God then carried her body all over the world. To separate him from the dead body, Vishnu sent his celestial chakra that broke up the body into 51 pieces that scattered all over the earth. These places where parts of the body fell, are venerated as "Shakti Sthal" -- a place to worship Shakti/Kali who rules the tantric world. Sati's vulva is supposed to have fallen at Kamakhya and thus this is the centre for all tantric practices.The temple complex has an intensely vibrant atmosphere. Priests clad in red robes, with blazing eyes, mesmerized looking devotees and the regular animal sacrifices make this place fit for those who are not faint hearted! However, those who are willing to brave this, will be rewarded by some incredible surreal happenings and sights. On our visit, we witnessed the sacrifice of a large male buffalo, along with crashing of cymbals and booming drums. Truly tantric experience that is unforgettable!
