The Umananda Temple in Guwahati is a place of profound spiritual significance. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is nestled on the Brahmaputra River Peacock Island (Umananda Island). The temple is one of Guwahati’s most revered ancient temples.
The Umananda Temple resonates with sacred energy and offers a blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and historical charm. The name ‘Umandanda’ is derived from ‘Uma,’ an epithet for Lord Shiva’s wife, and ‘Ananda,’ which means happiness in Hindi. Indulge in the beauty of hills and iconic temples with our list of famous tourist spots in Guwahati.
Surprisingly, the Umananda Temple in Guwahati houses idols of 10 other Hindu gods besides Lord Shiva. The temple’s most significant event is the annual festival of Siva Chaturdasi, a celebration of immense joy. It’s said that people who visit the temple and pray on the day when Amavasya and Monday coincide are blessed with lasting happiness.
Umananda Temple in Assam is a revered place of worship and offers a tranquil escape to absorb the beauty of the surroundings. As part of your Guwahati vacation, you can explore this temple and a myriad of other tourist attractions. Our tour experts are ready to assist you in booking your tour packages for Guwahati, promising an unforgettable journey through the enchanting North East.
Everything you need to know about Umananda Temple
History of Umananda Temple
Earlier, this temple was known as Umamanda Devaloi, which means ‘the abode of Lord Shiva.’ Bar Phukan Gadadhar Singha commissioned the temple in 1694 AD. However, King Gadadhar Singha, one of the greatest kings of the Ahom Dynasty, gave the order.
If legends are to be believed, Lord Shiva resides here as Bhayananda. The mountain’s name is derived from the story that says Lord Shiva burnt to ashes Kamadeva when he interrupted Lord Shiva’s meditation. At the beginning of creation, Lord Shiva scattered ashes at this spot and gave his wife, Parvati, supreme knowledge. Another legend says that the Goddess Urvasi lives on Peacock Island and brinks nectar or Amrit for Goddess Kamakhya. This is why the island is also known as Urvasi Island.
When the Mughals ruled in Kamarupa, the Umananda Temple received donations from two famous Mughal emperors, Jahangir and Aurangzeb. The island on which this temple is located was originally built in 1694 AD by King Gadahar Singha. Later 1897, an earthquake destroyed it, and a wealthy local merchant reconstructed it.
Architecture of Umananda Temple
Umananda Temple Assam is exquisitely designed with long stairs. The sanctum sanctorum embeds the rock on which Lord Shiva sat to meditate. It demonstrates the mastery of the Assamese artisans and architects. The interior of this Shiva Temple reflects its spiritual significance and gives you better insight into Hindu Mythology.
Umananda Temple Timings
You can visit Umananda Temple in Guwahati for darshan between 5.30 am and 6 pm.
Best Time to Visit Umananda Temple
To visit Umananda Temple, October to March is the best time to plan a trip to Guwahati city for the best experience.visit the temple during Maha Shivratri, as it is celebrated here with great pomp and show. This festival is of the utmost importance here.
How to Reach Umananda Temple Guwahati
The temple is connected to Guwahati and North Guwahati by ferry on the Brahmaputra River. Umananda Ferry timing is usually from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm, by the government. Whereas private Ferry operates between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm. Ferries are available from the Fancy Bazar and Sukleshwar ghats. Remember, they are a bit expensive but offer a great experience. You can take the Inland Water transport connecting Peacock Island to Guwahati from Uzanbazaar Ferry Ghat.Don’t miss out on reading how to reach Guwahati here
