Guwahati is a famous pilgrimage destination known for its many Hindu temples, thereby giving it the name “city of temples.” Located at the southern bank of river Brahmaputra, most of the temples provide beautiful vistas of the surrounding hills. Each temple tour also throws light on ancient architecture and culture.
If you’re ever in Guwahati, you should at least make it to these following places:
Kamakya Temple
This beautiful temple, located in the Nilachal hills, looks as enamoring as the deity it represents. The Ambubachi Mela, held during monsoons, is attended by thousands of devotees from all over the country. It is one of the most important Shakti Peethas and is known for its many stories and facts to enlighten one with Indian mythology.
Bhuvaneshwari Temple
Atop Neelachal hills and above the Kamakya temple is the beautiful Bhavaneshwari temple dedicated to goddess Bhuvaneshwari. The temple is a remnant of ancient architecture, and the view of the city from here enriches the experience. Just submit to the peace it demands.
Umananda Temple
The beautiful stories of Shiva and Parvati do not end at the temple of Kamakya. You will be refreshed with more facts from Indian mythology when you visit the Umananda temple. This temple is located in the smallest inhabited river island in the world, Umananda Island. The Maha Shivratri is grandly celebrated here. The hill on which the temple is located is called Bhasmacala, as Lord Shiva’s anger burnt Kamdeva here. It is worth visiting the temple not just to be enlightened about the Indian mythology but also for experiencing the beauty of the Brahmaputra river. The Saraighat bridge can be seen on the way. The British called the island Peacock island because of its shape. You will get ferries from Kachari ghat that go to Umnanada temple. The temple remains open from 5.30 am to 6 pm, and it takes around 3 hours to reach by ferry.
Navagraha Temple
The Navagraha temple on Chitrasal hill is another most-visited temple. As the name suggests, it allows one to worship the nine planets. Other temples such as Iscon temple, Balaji temple, and temples in nearby Hajo fulfill one’s religious and cultural expedition.
Ugra Tara Temple
This temple dedicated to Tara (Devi) has more stories than the architecture’s or nature’s treat. The simple looking Shakti Peetha has more important religious relevance. More such stories continue through many other temples like the Basistha temple, Dirgheshwari temple, Sukreswar temple, Rudreswar temple etc.
A trip to Guwahati serves several purposes: as a religious journey, to treat oneself with natural beauty, and to witness how myriads of cultures amalgamate and form a different lifestyle. I chose to show you the beauty of the temples from different aspects that can add to a traveler’s experience of this wonderful city.
