Upon a mythical mountain

Not far from the bustling city of Guwahati, nestled amidst the tranquil embrace of the mighty Brahmaputra River, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This serene sanctuary is none other than Peacock Island, which is revered as a sacred pilgrimage site, and here lies the exquisite Umananda Temple. To reach this holy sanctuary, you can take a boat ride from the banks of the Brahmaputra. You can even admire the stunning view of the riverfront from the jetty while waiting for the boat to pick you up.

The origins of this sacred site trace back to a divine encounter between Lord Shiva and Lord Kamadeva. As the legend goes, while Lord Shiva was engrossed in meditation on the island, Lord Kamadeva dared to disrupt his penance, provoking the ire of the mighty deity. In his wrath, Lord Shiva reduced Lord Kamadeva to ashes, giving rise to the sacred Bhasmacala mountain upon which the Umananda Temple now stands.

Established by the illustrious King Gadadhar of the Ahom dynasty, the Umananda Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. To reach the temple, pilgrims must ascend the steep steps that lead to its hallowed grounds.

The name "Umananda" itself is proof of the temple's divine essence, combining "Uma," another name for the goddess Parvati, and "Ananda," meaning happiness or joy. The temple lives up to that name not only through the serene beauty of Peacock Island and the temple’s idyllic surroundings but also through sacred rituals and beliefs. Many believe that worshipping here on Amavasya days, particularly those falling on Mondays, bestows the highest bliss upon devotees. Additionally, the vibrant festivities of the Shiva Chaturdasi festival, celebrated with fervent devotion at this temple, further amplify the sheer joy that permeates the air around the temple.

A benevolent merchant’s legacy

This island is famous for being the smallest inhabited riverine island in the world. During the boat ride to the island, you should give a silent thanks to the unknown merchant, who is the reason this beautiful temple still stands in all its glory. This is because, in 1897, a powerful earthquake damaged the temple. But this rich merchant helped reconstruct the damaged parts and it was restored to its former glory, preserving its sanctity for generations to come.

Upon arrival, behold the awe-inspiring rock-cut structures that adorn the temple, each a testament to the divine presence revered within. Here, amidst the sacred precincts, one can marvel at the representations of Lord Surya, Ganesha, and Shiva, as well as the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, embodied in the timeless beauty of stone. Let each carving serve as a reminder of the eternal presence of the divine, guiding seekers on their path to spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.

Timings

Opening time - 05:30 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

Delightful experiences await

While exploring the vicinity of Umananda Temple, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the mystical aura of the renowned Kamakhya Temple. Dedicated to the tantric goddess Kamakhya, this sacred site offers a transcendental experience that resonates deeply with seekers of spiritual wisdom. Additionally, venture to the ancient town of Hajo, situated approximately 24 km from Guwahati, where you'll encounter a treasure trove of ancient temples steeped in Assam's rich cultural heritage.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Assam State Zoo promises a captivating experience, with its diverse array of wildlife species awaiting discovery. Meanwhile, the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary beckons with its proud population of one-horned rhinoceroses, offering a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity.

Finally, for those seeking unique souvenirs and shopping delights, Fancy Bazaar is a must-visit destination. Here, amidst the bustling streets, you'll find an array of traditional Assamese items, including Mekhela Sador (traditional attire) and bridal dresses, perfect for commemorating your cherished visit to this enchanting land.

So come and experience the divine essence of Umananda Temple and create an unforgettable voyage into Assam's spiritual legacy!