Kamakhya Devi Temple Guwahati Assam

Kamakhya Devi Temple Guwahati Assam

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Kamakhya Devi Temple Guwahati Assam

The Kamakhya Devi Temple Guwahati Assam, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. The temple is situated atop the Nilachal Hill in western Guwahati, overlooking the Brahmaputra River and offering panoramic views of the city.

Kamakhya Devi Temple History

  1. Ancient Origins: The origins of the Kamakhya Devi Temple are rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, the temple is associated with the story of Lord Shiva and his wife Sati. It is believed that when Sati self-immolated at her father’s sacrificial fire, her yoni (reproductive organ) fell at the site where the Kamakhya Temple now stands.
  2. Evolution of the Temple: The Kamakhya Devi temple has evolved over time with various renovations and additions. The current structure is said to have been constructed during the 16th century by the Koch dynasty rulers. The Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam from the 13th to the 19th century, also made significant contributions to the temple’s development and patronage.

The Kamakhya Devi Temple’s Guwahati Assam history is intertwined with myth, spirituality, and cultural heritage. It continues to inspire devotion and curiosity among visitors and stands as a testament to the rich religious traditions of Assam.

Kamakhya Devi Temple Mystery

  1. Menstruation of the Goddess: One of the most intriguing aspects of the Kamakhya Devi Temple is the belief that the goddess Kamakhya undergoes her menstrual cycle during the Ambubachi Mela, an annual festival held at the temple. The temple remains closed for three days, and on the fourth day, the temple reopens, symbolizing the rejuvenation and fertility of the goddess.
  2. Yoni Symbolism: The temple is known for its unique focus on the yoni (reproductive organ) of the goddess. The sanctum of the temple houses a stone structure resembling a yoni, which is covered with a red cloth and represents the creative energy of the goddess. The yoni symbolism and its association with feminine power and fertility remain shrouded in mystery and deep spiritual significance.
  3. Unseen Underground Streams: It is believed that there are underground streams or channels running beneath the Kamakhya Temple. The origin and direction of these streams remain unknown, contributing to the temple’s mystical aura.
  4. Sati’s Curse: According to legend, the Kamakhya Temple is associated with the curse of Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva. The curse is said to have played a role in the establishment and significance of the temple, adding a sense of myth and enchantment to its history.
  5. Healing Powers: The temple is renowned for its supposed healing powers. Devotees believe that offering prayers and seeking blessings from the goddess Kamakhya can cure ailments and bring about spiritual well-being.

Famous For Kamakhya Devi Temple

  1. Spiritual Significance: The Kamakhya Devi Temple is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly devotees of the goddess Kamakhya. It is believed to be one of the most sacred Shakti Peethas, where the reproductive organ (yoni) of the goddess Sati is said to have fallen.
  2. Cultural Festivals: The temple plays a vital role in Assamese culture, particularly during festivals such as Durga Puja and Navaratri. Elaborate celebrations, including music, dance, and processions, take place within the temple premises, attracting both locals and tourists.
  3. Natural Scenic Beauty: The Kamakhya Temple is situated atop the Nilachal Hill, offering panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River and the surrounding landscapes.

Best Time Is Visit Temple

  1. Ambubachi Mela: The Ambubachi Mela, held annually in the month of June or July, is one of the most significant times to visit the Kamakhya Devi Temple. It is believed to be the time when the goddess Kamakhya undergoes her menstrual cycle. The temple remains closed for three days during this period, and on the fourth day, the doors are reopened, marking a celebration of the goddess’s rejuvenation and fertility.
  2. Navaratri: The nine-day Navaratri festival, typically falling in September or October, is another auspicious time to visit the Kamakhya Devi Temple. The temple witnesses heightened religious activities and celebrations during this period. The last few days of Navaratri, known as Durga Puja
  3. Festivals and Lunar Phases: Other festivals such as Diwali, Basant Panchami, and the full moon (Purnima) are also considered favorable times to visit the temple.
  4. Weather Considerations: Assam experiences a tropical climate, and the monsoon season (June to September) can bring heavy rainfall. If you prefer to avoid the rain and explore the region in pleasant weather, the post-monsoon months of October to February are generally recommended.
Visit Near Places Kamakhya Devi Temple
  1. Umananda Temple: Located on the Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, the Umananda Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It offers a serene and picturesque setting and can be reached by ferry from the Kachari Ghat in Guwahati.
  2. Assam State Museum: Situated in Guwahati, the Assam State Museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, manuscripts, and archaeological finds.
  3. Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden: Also known as Guwahati Zoo, it is a popular attraction for wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo houses a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various bird species.
  4. Basistha Ashram: Located on the outskirts of Guwahati, Basistha Ashram is a serene and tranquil spot. It is believed to be the site where the sage Vashistha meditated. The ashram features a temple, a waterfall, and peaceful surroundings
  5. Hajo: Situated about 24 kilometers from Guwahati, Hajo is a pilgrimage center known for its religious diversity. It is home to the Hayagriva Madhava Temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu), the Powa Mecca (a mosque), and the Kedareswara Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva).
  6. Guwahati Planetarium: Located near the Assam State Zoo, the Guwahati Planetarium offers educational and entertaining shows on astronomy and space.

Temple Timeings

Morning Opening Time
The Kamakhya Devi Temple opens its doors early in the morning for devotees. The exact opening time may vary, but it is typically around 5:30 AM or 6:00 AM.

Afternoon Closing Time
The temple closes for a few hours during the afternoon. The closing time is usually around 1:00 PM.

Evening Reopening Time
generally around 3:00 PM or 3:30 PM.

Evening Darshan and Aarti
Devotees can have darshan and participate in the evening aarti (ritual worship) of the goddess Kamakhya from the reopening time until the evening closing time.

Evening Closing Time
The temple closes for the day in the evening. The exact closing time may vary, but it is typically around 5:30 PM or 6:00 PM.

Near Accommodation
  1. Hotels and Guesthouses:
  • Hotel Nandan: Located in the heart of Guwahati, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities. It is approximately 7 kilometers from the Kamakhya Devi Temple.
  • Hotel Prag Continental: Situated near the Guwahati Railway Station, this hotel provides well-appointed rooms and facilities for a comfortable stay. It is around 9 kilometers from the temple.
  1. Dharamshalas and Ashrams:
  • Kamakhya Temple Trust Dharamshala: This accommodation option is located within the temple complex itself and offers basic rooms for devotees. It provides a convenient stay close to the temple.
  • Basistha Ashram: Situated on the outskirts of Guwahati, Basistha Ashram offers simple rooms in a serene environment. It is approximately 9 kilometers from the temple.
  1. Homestays and Guesthouses:
  • There are also several homestays and guesthouses available in and around Guwahati that offer a more personalized and local experience. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com provide options for such accommodations.
How To Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to the Kamakhya Devi Temple is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, also known as Guwahati Airport.

By Train: Guwahati Junction is the main railway station in Guwahati and is well-connected to major cities in India. Once you arrive at Guwahati Junction, you can take a taxi, an auto-rickshaw, or a bus to reach the Kamakhya Devi Temple.

By Road: Guwahati is well-connected to various cities in Assam and neighboring states by road. National Highway 27 passes through Guwahati, providing easy access to the city. You can reach the Kamakhya Devi Temple by hiring a taxi or taking a public bus from the city center or any other part of Guwahati.

Local Transportation: Once you reach the vicinity of the Kamakhya Devi Temple, you can use local transportation options such as auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, or taxis to reach the temple complex, which is located atop the Nilachal Hill. There are also battery-operated vehicles available for transportation within the temple premises.

It is advisable to check the traffic conditions and plan your visit accordingly, especially during festivals or peak tourist seasons, as congestion may affect travel times. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to have the contact information of reliable taxi services or pre-paid taxi booths to ensure a smooth journey to the Kamakhya Devi Temple.