Umananda Temple is a revered Shiva temple situated on the Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam, India. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindu worshippers and an attractive tourist spot offering panoramic views of the surrounding river and landscape.
To reach Umananda Temple, you have to take a ferry from Kachari Ghat in Guwahati. The temple is located on a river island, and the ferry ride across the Brahmaputra river is the only means to reach there. The ferry service is reasonably frequent and available throughout the day.
The Umananda Temple was built in 1694 A.D. by King Gadadhar Singh, one of the rulers of the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for six centuries. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has been constructed on the site that, according to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva turned Kamadeva, the god of love, into ashes when he was interrupted during meditation.
The best time to visit Umananda Temple is from November to April when the weather is relatively dry and pleasant. It is recommended to visit the temple during Shivratri, when a grand celebration takes place, although it might be crowded during the festival.
No, there is no entrance fee for visiting the Umananda Temple. However, visitors may have to pay a nominal fee for the ferry ride to the island where the temple is situated.
While there is no strict dress code for visiting Umananda Temple, it is advisable to wear modest clothes out of respect for the place of worship. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the temple premises.
Tourists can expect to see intricate rock-cut figures and sculptures dedicated to several Hindu gods and goddesses. The serene ambiance of the island, with its lush greenery and the presence of various endemic and endangered species of wildlife, offers a unique experience. The temple itself is an architectural marvel set against the picturesque backdrop of the Brahmaputra River.
There are no food and accommodation facilities available on the island itself. However, Guwahati offers a wide range of options for staying and dining, catering to different budgets and preferences, which are located close to the ferry point.
Photography and videography are generally allowed in the outer areas of the temple, but may not be permitted inside the sanctum sanctorum where the main deity is located. It is best to seek permission from the temple authorities before filming or taking photographs.
Yes, daily rituals and special pujas are performed at Umananda Temple. Devotees often participate in these rituals, offering prayers to Lord Shiva. The temple witnesses extra rush and special rituals on auspicious occasions like Shivratri and Mondays, which are considered sacred to Lord Shiva.
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