Umananda Temple – Guwahati, Assam:
Nestled on the Peacock Island in the mighty Brahmaputra River, the Umananda Temple stands as a testament to spirituality, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Guwahati, Assam. This sacred site holds a captivating history, profound significance, and allure that draws devotees and tourists alike.
Legend of Umananda Temple:
It is believed that Siva lived here as Bhayananda. The Kalika Purana states that at the beginning of creation, Siva sprinkled ashes (bhasma) here and gave Parvati (his consort) knowledge. The hillock was named Bhasmacala because it is believed that when Siva was meditating on this hillock, Kamadeva interrupted his yoga and was subsequently consumed by the fire of Shiva’s wrath.
Another name for this mountain is Bhasmakuta. The island was named Urvasi Island because, according to the Kalika Purana, Urvasikunda is located here and the goddess Urvasi stays there. She sends Amrit, or nectar, for Kamakhya to enjoy.
Umananda (Tatrasti bhagavan sambhu- ruma- nandakarah Prabhu) is the temple’s chief deity. The Hindi terms “Uma,” which was another name for Lord Shiva’s bride, and “Ananda,” which signifies bliss, are the sources of the name “Umananda.” Peacock Island is actually one of the tiniest inhabited islands and maybe one of the most picturesque as well. Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in the temple’s surroundings and in the island’s sublime yet understated beauty.
It is thought that the greatest happiness is experienced by those who worship here on Amavasya day, which falls on a Monday. The most vibrant celebration that takes place here every year is Shiva Chaturdasi.
Umananda Temple History:
At the location, there is evidence of a post-Gupta period stone temple. Early mediaeval stone carvings and sculptures can be seen at the location. Along with some rock-cut images of Ganesha and a cave, there is still a stone image of Achaturbhuja here.
Built in 1694 CE by the Bar Phukan Garhganya Handique, the Brick Temple of Umananda was ordered by King Gadadhar Singha (1681-1696), one of the strongest and most eldest monarchs of the Ahom dynasty. The Mughal Army desecrated the temple.
However, a terrible earthquake in 1897 severely wrecked the old temple. Later, a wealthy local businessman rebuilt it and decided to engrave Vaishnavite phrases on the inside of a Shiva temple.
Umananda Temple Timings:
The timings of Umananda temple is 5.30 am – 6.00 pm
Umananda Temple Address:
Peacock Island, Baruah Souk, North Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781030.
Umananda Temple Ferry Timings
7 am – 4.30 pm
Umananda Temple ferry Ticket Price:
Government – Rs.20/ person – 10:30 am – 4:00 pm
Private – Rs.200 – Rs.300/ person – 10:30 am – 4:00 pm
Kachari Ghat is where the ferry departs.
Travel time to the Mandir: 10 minutes. Government and private boats operate to the Temple from every Ghat.
How to reach Umananda Temple?
By Air: Guwahati, the closest airport, is about 22 kilometres from Ghat.
By Train: Guwahati, which is 3 km away, is the closest train station.
By Road: From Guwahati, this temple is reachable by boat.
Umananda temple is located on which hill?
Bhasmacala is the name of the mountain upon which the umananda temple is situated.
Guwahati to Umananda Temple distance – 33 min (12.5 km) via Assam Trunk Rd
Kamakhya to Umananda Temple distance – 23 min (7.7 km) via Kamakhya Mandir Rd, Assam Trunk Rd and MG Rd
Paltan Bazar to Umananda Temple distance – 9 min (2.3 km) via Motilal Nehru Rd
umananda temple to dharapur distance – 31 min (15.9 km) via Assam Trunk Rd and NH 17
Famous Temples to visit in Guwahati:
Kamakhya Temple
Navagraha Temple
Bhuvaneshwari Temple
Sukreswar Temple
Umananda Temple Photos:
