Among Assam’s sacred Shiva temples, Sukreswar Temple holds a special place of reverence and beauty. Located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River, this ancient temple stands gracefully atop Itakhuli Hill in the heart of Guwahati. The temple attracts countless devotees and visitors from different parts of the country.
Sukreswar Temple is especially known for its massive Shiva Lingam, one of the largest in India. It is also believed to be connected with the sixth Jyotirlinga, making it a highly sacred site for Shiva devotees. Ahom King Pramatta Singha built this holy temple in 1744. Later, King Rajeswar Singha, a strong promoter of Shaivism, arranged funds for its maintenance and development around 1759. A devoted follower of Lord Shiva, he contributed generously to various temples across Assam, including Sukreswar Temple. His support helped preserve the temple’s grandeur and rituals.
Lord Shiva is worshipped here as the main deity. The temple often hosts festivals, such as Maha Shivaratri, which are celebrated with grandeur and devotion. During this festival, the temple shines with lights and decorations, drawing large crowds of devotees. You can visit the temple during Shivaratri to experience the vibrant festive atmosphere, which offers a unique spiritual experience. During the holy month of Shravan, devotees participate in the Bol Bam festival. They walk long distances to collect sacred water from the Bashisthashram and pour it over the Shiva Lingam.
Sukreswar Ghat, near the temple, is another sacred spot. Devotees immerse the ashes of the deceased in the Brahmaputra River. It is believed that immersing ashes at this ghat grants peace and salvation to the departed soul. Surrounded by the calm river, gentle breeze, and spiritual aura, Sukreswar Temple offers both peace and divine energy. Whether you seek blessings, witness rituals, or admire the scenic beauty, this temple promises a deeply fulfilling experience.
Sukreswar Temple is a renowned Shaiva temple in Assam, where Lord Shiva is worshipped with great devotion. Daily rituals, including regular puja and aarti, as well as various religious festivals, are observed here. Every day, a special puja is performed, in which devotees actively participate. Typically, during this puja, devotees pour water, milk, and other offerings over the Shiva Lingam, along with various flowers and Bel leaves. It is believed that worshipping the Shiva Lingam at this temple fulfils the wishes of devotees. If you also believe in this, you can visit the temple and offer your prayers.
As the temple is situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. From the Sukreswar Temple, one can also see the Umananda Temple, located on an island in the middle of the Brahmaputra. The temple’s location is surrounded by a serene and picturesque natural environment, making it a peaceful retreat for countless devotees.'
The vast blue waters of the Brahmaputra, the chirping of birds, the distant hills, passing ferries, and the soothing natural beauty enhance the charm of the temple’s surroundings. This scenic setting offers immense joy to visitors. To experience this mesmerising natural beauty, a visit to Sukreswar Temple is a must.
The Sukreswar Temple complex offers a serene relaxation area where you can sit and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Brahmaputra River. The peaceful surroundings, fresh air, and natural beauty create a perfect atmosphere for you to relax. Many devotees and tourists spend time here, embracing the temple's spiritual and calming ambience; you, too, can experience this tranquil retreat.
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Distance From Guwahati City : 3 Km
Nearest City: Guwahati (3 Km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station(3 Km)
Nearest Bus Stoppage: Fency Bazar(1 Km)
Nearest Airport: LGBI Airport, Guwahati(21 Km)
Sukreswar Temple is located in Guwahati city, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
If you are travelling by flight, then Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport will be the nearest one. From the airport, you can reach the Sukreswar Temple in about 1 hour via NH 17. From there, you can book a cab or travel comfortably by public bus.
For those travelling by train, this destination is very convenient. Sukreswar Temple is just a short distance from Guwahati Railway Station. You can even walk from this station to the temple if you wish.
Guwahati is well connected by road, and local transport such as buses, taxis, and autorickshaws is easily available. From ISBT Guwahati, it takes only about 30 to 45 minutes to reach this temple via NH 27. From there, you can also reach Sukreswar Temple by cab or public transport, which ensures a smooth journey.
During the winter season (October to March), you can visit the temple comfortably at this time. The weather stays pleasant during these months. The temperature also remains moderate, making it ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing and walking around the Sukreswar Temple area.
During the spring season (April to June), the weather and temperature become hot and humid. Since the days are usually warm, it is better to attend the aarti in the early morning or evening.
The summer/monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, so visiting Sukreswar Temple may not be very convenient. However, you can still go in the morning or evening for puja or aarti.
Sukreswar Temple remains open every day of the week. You can visit anytime within the schedule. The temple opens at 5 AM and closes at 8 PM.
Winter, from October to March, is the best season to visit the Sukreswar Temple. During this time, the weather and temperature remain moderate, and there is no discomfort for outdoor activities. Moreover, for puja rituals, you can visit in the morning hours, as the temple surroundings are calm and peaceful at that time.
However, if you want to experience the festive celebrations, visiting the various festivals organised here will offer a unique experience.
One of the major attractions of Sukreswar Temple is its historical significance. Located on Sukreswar Hill, also known as Itakhuli Hill, this temple has several legends associated with its origin.
It is believed that the history of this temple is linked to the great sage and guru of the demons, Shukracharya. According to popular belief, Shukracharya himself established a massive Shiva Lingam here for his worship. This Shiva Lingam was carved out of a large rock on the hilltop. A legend states that since this rock is considered to be alive, the Shiva Lingam continuously grows in size. Due to this belief, the Lingam is regarded as a "Jagrit Shiva Lingam" (Living Shiva Lingam). As Shukracharya consecrated this Lingam, the temple came to be known as Sukreswar Temple.
On the other hand, the temple is also referred to as the Sukleswar Temple. Another legend suggests that the name originates from the word "Shukla," which means white or pure. It is believed that when Lord Shiva covered his body with sacred ash, the white colour of the ash led people to address him as "Shukla." Since this temple enshrines Lord Shiva, some devotees believe that the name Sukleswar Temple is derived from this association with the word "Shukla."
The architectural style of the Sukreswar Temple is similar to other temples in Assam. The temple showcases elements of ancient Hindu architecture. The main sanctum houses the Shiva Lingam along with idols of various deities. This sanctum also serves as a space for performing Vedic rituals and ceremonies.
Adjacent to the main temple is the Janardana Temple, dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Inside its sanctum, there is a stone-carved idol of Vishnu, where devotees offer prayers and seek blessings.
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