Have you ever wondered what a place where serenity and history meet look like in the midst of Guwahati’s bustling city life? Your imagination ends here, as you have to look no further than the Mahabahu Brahmaputra River Heritage Centre, a breathtaking transformation of a historic hillock by the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority's vision to showcase river Brahmaputra's rich heritage. Perched majestically, this site once served as the strategic vantage of the legendary Lachit BorPhukan during the epic battle against the Mughal army.
As you stroll along tree-lined pathways leading to this pedestrian-only haven, be captivated by the charm of the 170-year-old Heritage Bungalow, the vibrant Art Garden, and the modern Café with its sleek glass façade. Each section of this heritage Bungalow is adorned with installations pertaining to specific themes. The Heritage Bungalow is also the premiere venue for hosting the visiting domestic and international dignitaries.
The elements of The Heritage Centre include - The Art Lobby, The Central Hall, The Viewing Room, The River Lounge, The Meeting Room, The Library Hall, The Attic Room, The Craft Shop, The Amphitheatre, The Art Garden, The Verandah, The Play Zone and The Riverside Garden.
There are beautiful art installations placed in the manicured gardens in front of the Heritage Bungalow,that captivate the many visitors with their unique and artistic marvel. The Art Garden includes ‘The Heritage Alpana’, ‘The River Life’, and ‘The Culture Wheels’.
The open-air Amphitheatre invites you to enjoy performances against the backdrop of the river, while the Riverside Garden, adorned with art installations and viewing decks, promises moments of tranquility amidst lush green expanses. The long Verandah of the Heritage Bungalow, overlooking the Riverside Garden and the river itself, is by far the best spot in Guwahati to enjoy an ever flowing breeze and beautiful views of the picturesque horizon.
The Central Hall with a theme of ‘Life along the River’, has an installation on the ceiling of a collection of traditional Fishing equipment. The space at the entry lobby of the Heritage Bungalow is a dedicated Art Gallery. The Viewing Lounge with a mounted projector for regular screenings, has wall installations, with the theme ‘Weaving a Heritage’. The Library room holds several books on varied subjects related to the river Brahmaputra and all that exists along its banks. A Musical Heritage in the Attic showcases an extensive collection of indigenous and traditional Musical Instruments of the tribes and communities living along the River Brahmaputra. Lahé Life, tucked away on one side of the Heritage Bungalow, is a room displaying curios and other interesting collectibles made locally in the region.
Set amongst trees as one enters the Riverside Garden along the Heritage Bungalow, is a corridor of activities. Starting with a multi-level ‘Play Zone’, and a full size ‘Snakes’n’Ladders’ game. The Riverside Garden behind the Heritage Bungalow overlooked by the Verandah, has been designed to inspire a communion with the majestic River Brahmaputra and to provide a serene space in midst of the bustling Guwahati city.
The artistic and thematic concept of the MBRHC has been formulated and designed by Shahnaab Alam with a logo crafted by Guwahati based artist Manav Dutta Barua. The architectural design to conserve and restore the Heritage Bungalow was done by Smita Makhija and Zia Hussain, and the restoration process was executed under the supervision of Jagat Ranjan Goswami.
MBRHC has its own dedicated car-parking space, with an overhead Walkway connecting both the sections. To maintain this serenity of the place vehicular traffic has been prohibited, and the visitors are encouraged to walk around and explore the campus, or use silent electric carts.
Visit the Mahabahu Brahmaputra River Heritage Center and immerse yourself in a unique blend of history, art, and nature. Tickets are priced at Rs. 100 for ages 10 to 75 years. It is open on all days of the week, so even if your plans are sudden and without preparation, you can surely visit to absorb some history within you while enjoying a beautiful time by the majestic Brahmaputra!