➡️ About Umananda Temple, Guwahati
Umananda Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on Umananda Island in the Brahmaputra River, in the heart of Guwahati, Assam. The temple was originally built in 1694 by the Ahom king Gadadhar Singha. According to mythology, the island—also known as Peacock Island—was the site where Lord Shiva incinerated Kamadeva (the god of love) with his third eye during meditation, giving the hill the name “Bhasmacala” (hill of ashes).
Accessible only by boat from Uzan Bazar, the temple is set amidst scenic surroundings, offering stunning views of the Brahmaputra. The architecture reflects a blend of Assamese and North Indian styles, with detailed carvings of Hindu deities like Ganesha, Surya, and Shiva. The temple is especially vibrant during Maha Shivaratri, when hundreds of devotees visit for prayers and rituals.
Though small, the island is rich in biodiversity and once sheltered the endangered golden langur. A visit to Umananda Temple is a serene spiritual experience that also allows visitors to appreciate Assam’s natural beauty and cultural depth. It remains one of Guwahati’s most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks.
Temple Name Umananda Temple, Guwahati
Visiting Hours: 9:30 am–5:30 pm daily
➡️ History of Umananda Temple, Guwahati
Umananda Temple, located on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam, is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s name combines “Uma,” another name for Goddess Parvati, and “Ananda,” meaning joy or bliss, signifying the joyous union of Shiva and Parvati.
The temple was originally constructed in 1694 AD by the Ahom King Gadadhar Singha, a devout Shaiva ruler. Built in the traditional North Indian style with local Assamese elements, the temple showcases intricate rock-cut figures and sculptures that reflect excellent craftsmanship. Though much of the original structure was damaged by an earthquake in 1897, it was later reconstructed by local devotees.
According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva resided on this island in a meditative state. A legend associated with the temple says that Shiva burned Kamadeva, the god of love, to ashes here when he tried to disrupt his meditation. This mythological significance makes the site sacred among devotees.
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➡️ Why You Should Visit Umananda Temple, Guwahati?
Umananda Temple, located on the picturesque Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, is a spiritual and scenic gem in Guwahati. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple holds deep mythological significance, believed to be where Shiva reduced Kamadeva to ashes. Its serene setting, away from the city’s hustle, offers peace and tranquility.
The island’s lush greenery, river views, and the presence of the rare golden langur add to its charm. A short and enjoyable ferry ride takes you to the island, making the journey as delightful as the destination. The temple’s blend of ancient rock-cut carvings and Assamese architecture attracts history lovers and devotees alike. Visiting Umananda offers a unique mix of spirituality, nature, and culture—making it a memorable experience for all travelers.➡️ Location and How to Reach
📍 Location of Umananda Temple, Guwahati:
Umananda Temple is situated on Peacock Island (Umananda Island) in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, opposite the Deputy Commissioner's office in Guwahati, Assam. The island is renowned as the smallest inhabited riverine island in the world.
By Road:
From Guwahati City Center: The ferry terminals are approximately 2–3 kilometers from the city center. You can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use public buses to reach the ghat.
E India Tourism
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, approximately 22 kilometers from the ferry ghat. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services to reach the ferry point.
By Rail:
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station, about 2 kilometers from the ferry ghat. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the ghat.
E India Tourism
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal time to visit Umananda Temple is between November and May, avoiding the monsoon season when ferry services may be disrupted.
Temple Info
Visiting Umananda Temple not only offers a spiritual experience but also provides a serene escape amidst nature, making it a must-visit destination in Guwahati.
📍 Address: Umananda Island, Baruah Souk, North Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781030
Visiting Hours:9:30 am–5:30 pm Daily
📍 Find Us on Google Maps➡️ Some Tourists Review
“Umananda Temple is a sacred and peaceful place located on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple offers spiritual serenity along with stunning views of the mighty river and surrounding hills.
"A very nice place. God Shiva is the shrine here with the name Umananda. It is on an island. Boat is the only mode of transport to reach there. On Monday there may be a little rush, otherwise it is very calming place to visit..
“"Umananda Temple, situated on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, is an enchanting destination that beckons travelers to explore its serene beauty. When combined with a visit to the sacred Kamakhya Temple.
“Hopeless devotees and pandits .... Long wait .. just know how to earn money... A temple complex in a small island ... Not so worth or we can say Pandas make the place worse otherwise quite an old temple but the main temple is quite
Umananda Temple is a serene and spiritual gem located on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River. The boat ride, scenic views, and peaceful ambiance make it a perfect place for both worship and relaxation.
“Oommen ANAND Temple is a great place to visit. It is in middle of river Brahmaputra. You have to reach there by boats. Sometimes the temple may be a bit crowded, which might take 1 to 2 hours for Darshan.- PUSHPENDRA SHARMA
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➡️ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Where is Umananda Temple located?
Umananda Temple is located on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, in Guwahati, Assam, India.
2.How do I reach Umananda Temple?
You can reach the temple via ferry services from Uzan Bazar (Kachari Ghat) or Fancy Bazar Ghat. The boat ride takes around 15–20 minutes.
3.What are the temple timings?
The temple is open daily from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Ferry services generally run between 7:00 AM and 4:30 PM.
4. What is the best time to visit Umananda Temple?
The best time to visit is from November to May, avoiding the monsoon season when water levels rise and ferry services may be limited.
5. Is there an entry fee?
There is no entry fee for the temple. However, ferry charges apply — around ₹20 for government boats and more for private boats.s
➡️ Why is Umananda Temple So Famous?
Umananda Temple is famous for its unique location, spiritual significance, and natural beauty. Situated on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, it is one of the smallest inhabited river islands in the world, making the temple truly one of a kind.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the site where he incinerated Kamadeva, the god of love, during deep meditation. This mythological link makes it a powerful place of worship, especially during Maha Shivaratri.
Set amidst the Brahmaputra’s flowing waters, the island offers breathtaking river views, making the journey by ferry peaceful and memorable.
Built in 1694 by Ahom King Gadadhar Singha, the temple showcases traditional Assamese style and rock-cut sculptures, reflecting both religious and artistic heritage.