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Umananda Temple – Guwahati, Assam:

Umananda Temple is a renowned Hindu shrine located on the Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam, India. It is one of the most important and ancient temples in the state and holds great religious significance for the people of Assam. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple attracts numerous devotees and tourists from all over the country.

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The Peacock Island, also known as the Umananda Island, is a small riverine landmass formed by the course of the Brahmaputra River. It is believed that the island got its name from the abundance of peacocks that once roamed its verdant surroundings. Umananda Temple, situated on this picturesque island, was built during the 17th century by the Ahom King Gadadhar Singha.

Legend & History of Umananda Temple:

It is believed that Siva lived here as Bhayananda. According to the Kalika Purana, Siva taught Parvati (his spouse) at this location in the beginning of creation after scattering ashes (bhasma) there. According to legend, Kamadeva interrupted Siva’s concentration while he was on this hillock practising yoga, which caused Siva to become enraged and burn Kamadeva to ashes. As a result, the hillock was given the name Bhasmacala.

Bhasmakuta is another name for this peak. According to the Kalika Purana, this is where Urvasikunda is located. The goddess Urvasi stays here and brings Kamakhya Amrit (nectar) for his enjoyment, which is how the island received its name, Urvasi Island.

Umananda is the temple’s presiding deity. The words “Uma,” another name for Lord Shiva’s bride, and “Ananda,” which denotes happiness, are combined to form the name “Umananda.” Peacock Island is among the tiniest inhabited islands, and it might also be among the most stunning. It is a refuge for those who enjoy the outdoors because of the temple’s surroundings and the island’s sublime yet modest beauty.

People are said to experience the ultimate happiness when they worship here on Mondays when Amavasya falls. The most vivid celebration held here every year is Shiva Chaturdashi. On this occasion, a sizable number of devotees visit the temple to adore the deity.

On the site, there is evidence of a stone temple from the post-Gupta era. Early mediaeval stone carvings and sculptures can be seen at the location. Along with Ganesha figurines carved onto the rock and a cave, this location still has an Achaturbhuja stone female figure.

King Gadadhar Singha (1681-1696), one of the oldest and most powerful kings of the Ahom dynasty, ordered the Bar Phukan Garhganya Handique to construct the brick temple of Umananda in 1694 CE. The Mughal Army destroyed the temple.

Umananda Temple Architecture:

Some rock-cut images that speak passionately of the superb talent of the Assamese craftsmen have been passed down to the shrine. The sculptures in this location demonstrate that all the major Hindu gods were worshipped there. Along with Visnu and his 10 avatars, there are also representations of Surya, Ganesha, Shiva, and Devi (whose symbol is a scorpion). There are a few steep steps to climb to get to the main shrine. The expert Assamese craftsmen created the Umananda temple in an exquisite manner. In addition to Lord Shiva, the temples house the icons of ten additional Hindu gods.

The Umananda temple is not only a place of prayer, but also a delightful deviation from the norm. This location lacks the noise of oppressive religion and offers a calm atmosphere that invites you to take a seat and take in the scenery.

Umananda Temple Timings:

The timings of Umananda Temple is 9:30 am–5:30 pm in all days

Festivals Celebrated at Umananda Temple:

In this temple, Maha Shivratri is observed with considerable fanfare. This event is extremely significant in this location because the temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. People from all over the world travel to pay their respects on Mondays, which are revered as the holiest day of the week.

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How to reach Umananda Temple?

The closest airport is in Guwahati, 22 kilometres from Ghat.Three kilometres away in Guwahati is the closest railway station. From Guwahati, one can travel by boat to this temple.

Umananda Temple Location:

Peacock Island, Baruah Souk, North Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781030.