History, Importance, Timings, Festivals, Architecture, Activities, Interesting Facts and Travel Guide of Umananda Temple, Guwahati, Assam, India
Guwahati is a historically significant city in Assam that houses numerous shrines of gods and goddess across faiths, since the ancient times. The Umananda Temple in the city is an example of rich Indian tradition and heritage. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is frequently visited by devotees, especially the Shaivism sect of the Hindu tradition. Located on the Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, Umananda Temple is one of the most famous ancient temples in Guwahati attracting visitors for both pilgrimage and sightseeing. Thus the temple gives a fusion of sacred vibes, scenic views, with a sense of historical touch.
History of Umananda Temple Guwahati
Earlier the temple was known as Umamanda Devaloi, meaning 'the abode of Lord Shiva.' The temple was commissioned in 1694 AD by Bar Phukan Gadadhar Singha. However, the order was given by King Gadadhar Singha, who was one of the greatest kings of the Ahom kingdom. When Mughal rule was established in Kamarupa, the Umananda Temple received donations from Mughal emperors, Jahangir and Aurangzeb. Later, in 1897, an earthquake destroyed it, and a wealthy local merchant reconstructed it for the devotees to offer worship.
Popular legend behind Umananda Temple Guwahati
The term, 'Umandanda’, is taken from two Hindi words called 'Uma’, signifying Lord Shiva's wife, and 'Ananda’, meaning happiness and joy. If popualr legends that circulate around the history of the temple are to be believed, Lord Shiva resides here as Bhayananda. The mountain's name has been derived from the story which says Lord Shiva burnt Kamadeva into ashes when he interrupted Lord Shiva's meditation. At the beginning of creation, Lord Shiva scattered ashes at this spot and gave supreme knowledge to his wife, Parvati. 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 by the name Urvasi Island.
It is believed if someone visits the temple and worships on the day when Amavasya falls on a Monday, gets blessed with happiness and blessing of the Supreme God.
Architecture of Umananda Temple Guwahati
Umananda Temple is intricately designed to be reached through a winding flight of stairs. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva but also has shrines of ten other Hindu Gods, Goddesses and religious figures. Idols of Lord Surya, Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva along with and the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu are housed in the inclusive Umananda temple complex. The temple is actually an epitome of the mastery of the great Assamese craftsmen and architects. The sanctification encloses the rock which is believed to be the resting place of Lord Shiva where he sat and meditated.
Tourist attraction here at Umananda Temple Guwahati
The temple's surroundings are beautiful, which makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Other than Lord Shiva, there are ten other Hindu gods' idols in the Umananda Temple. Besides being one of the top places of worship in Assam, the Temple is a great place to sit back and absorb the beauty of the place. Apart from this temple, there are endless tourists’ attractions situated nearby that will grace your Guwahati vacation.
Festivals celebrated at Umananda Temple Guwahati
Maha Shivratri is celebrated in this temple with great religious fervour. As the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, this festival is of utmost importance. Mondays are considered to be the holiest days of the week according to Shaivism and devotees from far and wide come to offer their respects on this day.
The annual festival of Shiva Chaturdasi is also celebrated with equal vigour.
Umananda Temple Guwahati Temple Timings
One can visit Umananda Temple in Guwahati for darshan between 5.30 am and 6 pm.
Best Time to visit Umananda Temple Guwahati
October to March is the best time to plan a visit to the Temple. For best experience, visit the temple during Maha Shivratri, as it is celebrated here with great pomp and show. This festival is of utmost importance here, that celebrates Lord Shiva’s marriage with his consort, Goddess Parvati.
How to Reach Umananda Temple Guwahati, The Temple City and major City of Assam and North East India, Assam, India
Guwahati being one of the major pilgrimage and tourist center along with important city and metropolitan area of Assam, it is very well connected with all major cities of India via road, rail and air network. Thousands of tourist across the world visits here throughout the year which makes Guwahati more convenient in terms of travel, accommodation and other services. Guwahati has major railway junction from where you can get train to almost all region of India. Guwahati has International Airport which is the located at just 15 km from city area from where you can find flight to almost every region of world. Guwahati is located at 15 km from Dispur, 98 km from Shillong, 107 km from Udalguri, 30 km from Sualkuchi, 350 km from Kohima, 485 km from Imphal,
