Want to have a divine, peaceful experience in Guwahati? Consider visiting the 9 most famous temples in Guwahati to have a great devotional experience.
Rituparna Borgohain
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Updated on :
Guwahati, known as the “City of Temples,” is a hub of religious and cultural heritage. The city hosts several sacred sites where history and cultural heritage integrate. As you wander through the streets, you’ll discover a treasure trove of ancient temples, each with its own story to tell.
Keep on with me, and explore the most famous temples in Guwahati mentioned below, where every stone, every idol, and every prayer takes you deeper into a journey of spiritualism.
9 Most famous temples in Guwahati to have a great devotional experience
1. Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple is one of the most famous temples in Guwahati, even one of the most visited tourist places in Assam. This temple is a major site of Shakti worship and is regarded as the most powerful Shakti peeth. Also popular for the Ambubachi Mela, which is celebrated every year in this temple premise, and it attracts the pilgrims across the globe.
The temple is accessible through all means of transport, be it through road, railways, or airways. Very near to Kamakhya Junction and about 20 km from LGBI Airport.
This temple is situated at the top of the Nilachal Hill. There are two ways to reach the Temple. The usual way and the stairway (Mekhela Ujua Path), which is still incomplete. It is believed that the incomplete staircase was built by demon king Narakasura to win the love of Maa Kamakhya and marry her. The challenge was to complete the stairs in one night from the bottom of Nilachal Hills. Just when the seemingly impossible task was about to be completed, Maa Kamakhya played a trick. A rooster was made to cry out, signaling dusk.
2. Umananda Temple (Island)
Umananda Island, or Peacock Island, is the world’s smallest river island. It is located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, which flows through the city of Guwahati. The Umananda Temple is situated on this island on a small hill called Bhasmachala. It was built in the 17th century by Ahom king Gadadhar Singha. The temple is a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for his worship. The Shivaratri festival is usually celebrated here.
A boat service is available to reach the temple. It’s among the most iconic, famous temples in Guwahati for a peaceful and unique spiritual experience. It is about 16 km from Guwahati city center and 22 km from LGBI Airport. The nearest railway station is Guwahati Junction, which is about 5 minutes away by cab.
3. Navagraha Temple
It is an ancient and sacred pilgrimage site. This temple is another significant attraction among the famous temples in Guwahati. Its surroundings are enriched with natural beauty, making it a peaceful destination. The architectural style of the Navagraha Temple is highly artistic. This temple is famous as a place for the worship of the Sun, Moon, and the Nine Planets. Special worship, particularly the Navagraha Puja, is performed here. The Ahom king built the temple in the 18th century.
Located on Citrachal Hill on the eastern side of Guwahati city. From the railway station, reach the Navagraha Temple, which is approximately 3-4 kilometers away. About 19 km from the city center and 25 km from LGBI Airport.
4. Balaji Temple
An artistic and ornate architectural temple. Where a delightful blend of intricate designs and modern artistic elements can be seen. The temple is adorned with various images and idols from Hindu mythology. Among the famous temples in Guwahati, the Balaji temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is inspired by the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Telangana.
It is situated next to ISBT Guwahati, 22 km from LGBI Airport, and about 12 km from both Guwahati and Kamakhya railway stations.
5. Doul Govinda Temple
A spiritual significance and a holy place for devotees. The temple is especially dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna. The festival of Holi is primarily celebrated at this temple. Doul Govinda Temple was renovated during the 19th century. The temple is built with a blend of modern and traditional architectural styles. It is located at the foothills of the scenic Rajaduar area on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River in north Guwahati. There is the option to reach the temple by crossing the Brahmaputra River by ferry. Otherwise, you can reach the temple by road via the Saraighat Bridge.
Make sure to try the ropeways while visiting Doul Govinda Temple. Which is why it’s considered one of the famous temples in Guwahati.
6. Basistha Ashram
The place provides a peaceful and meditative environment. It is a spiritual place located on Sandhyachal Hill in the southern part of Guwahati city. The ashram is one of the famous temples in Guwahati, known for the Basistha Temple, where Maharishi Basistha is worshipped. This ashram is named after Sage Basistha, who is believed to have meditated here. A small river known as the Basistha River flows through the Ashram. It enhances the beauty of the ashram. The architecture of Basistha Ashram is simple and traditional, featuring a dome-shaped structure and intricate artwork.
The temple is easily accessible by road from Guwahati city. It is about 15 km from Guwahati railway station and 32 km from LGBI Airport.
7. Bhubaneswari Temple
A special place for spiritual merit and mental peace. A traditional Assamese design, and the temple features a simple, elegant style of architecture. It is among the famous temples in Guwahati. This ancient pilgrimage site is located on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati. It is devoted to Goddess Bhubaneswari. She is worshipped as the embodiment of power and energy.
Bhubaneswari Temple is located about 10 km away from Guwahati railway junction.
8. Sukreswar Temple
It is considered one of the most important Shaivite temples in Assam. This temple is primarily dedicated to the worship of Shiva. Sukreswar Temple is associated with the Ahom reign. It was constructed during the time of Ahom king Prithu Singha. This major Shaivite pilgrimage site holds great significance among the famous temples in Guwahati.
This temple is located on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River in the Panjabari area of Guwahati.
9. Aswaklanta Temple
A divine Hindu pilgrimage center dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its name is associated with events from the Indian epic Mahabharata. According to legends during the Mahabharata battle, Lord Krishna’s horse became tired and rested at this location. This is how the place got its name, “Aswaklanta.” Ahom King Siva Singha built the temple in 1720 AD. The temple stands on a hill at the bank of the Brahmaputra River in north Guwahati. From here, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Brahmaputra River. Its historical significance and the scenic view make it one of the most famous temples in Guwahati to visit.
You can easily reach the temple by road or ferry from Guwahati, making the journey both convenient and picturesque.
Bottomline
The 9 most famous temples in Guwahati mentioned here are based on popularity among local as well as inbound devotees. There are several other famous temples in Guwahati, and each temple not only serves as a religious destination but also showcases the cultural history of Assam. Whether for pilgrimage or tourism, visiting these sacred sites provides an enriching and peaceful experience and definitely will give you a mesmerizing experience.
Rituparna Borgohain is a passionate explorer and writer. She is a history graduate from Sibsagar College with a keen interest in uncovering the social and cultural history of Assam. She loves exploring places and expressing the stories through her writing. Reach her at rituparna@diversityassam.com.
