Beyond the natural beauty of Northeast

Assam, the land of red river and blue hills, is a paradise known for its pristine beauty. It is a wonderland where nature shines and wildlife thrives. But, when you are here, go beyond and explore the Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, a sanctuary of art and culture located in the Panjabari area of Guwahati, Assam. It will show you a side of Assam you didn’t know.

Named after the visionary poet and playwright, Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, the foundation of this institution was laid in 1988 to preserve, promote, and present the art and culture of the people of Assam. Covering an expansive 17.5 hectares, its campus is divided into different sections that brings out the rich cultural side of Assam and the broader North-eastern region.

Visiting here will not only make you familiar with the Assamese traditions but it will also help you get the essence of Northeast India’s cultural soul.

Experience time travelling in Guwahati

Travel through time as you step inside the Purbajyoti Museum, which lies within the premises of Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra. Its purpose is to cradle, preserve, and unveil the treasures of Assamese culture, alongside the rich heritage of North East India. Here, you can witness over 4000 artefacts that tell tales of timeless craftsmanship. Everything in this museum reflects the rich ingenuity of the region's artisans, from the mystical Sattriya masks to the ancient musical instruments, from the intricate terracotta and clay art to the traditional textiles. After visiting the museum, walk down the literature lanes at the institution’s in-house library, filled with old manuscripts and rare books.

If you are familiar with the world of Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh, you will fall in love with the vibe of the Lalit Kala wing that lies within Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra. It is a great platform for regional artists to showcase their work, and this wing has also hosted several exhibitions of renowned painters of the state and country.

A place that puts a smile on every face

When a place is associated with art, culture, and heritage, it is often believed that there’s nothing to cater to or entertain children. However, Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra is not just for adults who embrace art, it is also a fun place for little adventurers. If you are visiting with kids, don’t worry about their entertainment. A recreational park within the campus allows children to play in the open ground and have fun on the rides and swings. The institution also houses a big outdoor theatre, where you can enjoy cultural programs under the open sky with your family and friends. Another major stop can be the Artists' Village, which reflects the charm of Assam's countryside, and not to forget the beautiful heritage park, where you can hop on a cable car and catch stunning views of the Shillong hills.

Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 07:00 PM

The peak of creativity and storytelling

Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra is an amalgamation of art, intellect, and entertainment. As the sun dips below the horizon, the stage is set for the sound and light show. Colours dance and shadows play, weaving tales of ancient glory and timeless wisdom and with every flicker and echo, the heart of Assam beats in harmony with the rhythm of the art. Let the whispers of the past and the melodies of the present captivate your senses under the starlit sky. Experience the magic of the light and sound show at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, where history becomes a masterpiece and memories are etched in the soul forever.

Experience Assam at its best

Make the most of your time and plan your trip between October and April, which is the time when the weather is pleasant in Guwahati. Now picture this: cool temperatures ranging from decently cold 10°C to a comfortable 20°C, making it just perfect for exploring the cultural complex and enjoying outdoor activities without breaking a sweat. Plus, winter is festival time in Assam and you won't want to miss out on the lively celebrations and local culture.

To elevate your overall experience, time your visit to coincide with Bihu, Assam's most famous festival. It is celebrated in January, April, and October, but April's Bohag Bihu is the major one. It is the time when Kalakshetra comes alive with cultural performances, exhibitions, and all sorts of traditional festivities. So, plan your leaves, and mark your calendars as you embark upon the journey of cultural exploration in Assam.