In the wooded hills on the southern fringe of the city, the Basistha (Vashishtha) Ashram is a Shiva temple complex by a confluence of three small streams — Sandhya, Lalita and Kanta — that drop in a series of low falls just below the temple. Mythology attaches the site to the sage Vasishtha, who is said to have meditated here. The complex itself dates from the 18th century, an Ahom-period rebuilding.
The temple is modest; the falls are the real draw, especially after rain. It is a popular weekend escape for Guwahati families and can be crowded, with food stalls and parked cars at the entrance. Visit on a weekday for a quieter time. About 12 km from the centre — combine with a trip to Sankardev Kalakshetra. Sneakers help on the slippery rocks below the falls.