Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati

About:

Nestled atop the Nilachal Hill in the western part of Guwahati, the Kamakhya Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to the mother goddess Kamakhya. As one of the oldest Shakti Pithas among the revered 51, this temple holds immense significance for pilgrims and Tantric worshippers alike.

History:

The Kamakhya Temple boasts a rich history, with its current structural iteration being built and renovated multiple times from the 8th to the 17th century. The temple showcases a unique indigenous architectural style, known as the Nilachal type, featuring a hemispherical dome on a cruciform base.

Founding Year:

Though the temple’s founding year is ancient and shrouded in history, its prominence and continuous renovations have contributed to its enduring legacy.

Significant Milestones:

In July 2015, the Supreme Court of India transferred the administration of the temple from the Kamakhya Debutter Board to the Bordewri Samaj, marking a significant administrative shift.

It is a complex of individual temples dedicated to the ten Mahavidyas, each residing in specific chambers. The temple’s architecture, with four chambers including the garbhagriha and three mandapas, reflects the distinctive Nilachal style.

How to Reach:

Kamakhya Devi Temple is located on the Nilachal Hill in the western part of Guwahati, Assam, India. Here are various ways to reach Kamakhya Devi Temple:

By Air:

1. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU):
   • The nearest airport to Kamakhya Temple is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati.
   • From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach the temple.

By Train:

1. Guwahati Railway Station:
   • Guwahati Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India.
   • From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use other local transportation to reach Kamakhya Temple.

By Road:

1. Local Buses and Taxis:
   • Guwahati has a well-established road network, and local buses and taxis are available for transportation.
   • You can hire a taxi or use local buses to reach Kamakhya Temple from various parts of Guwahati.
2. Personal Vehicles:
   • If you are traveling by your own vehicle, you can use the well-maintained road network to reach the temple.
   • Parking facilities are available near the temple.

By Foot:

1. Nilachal Hill Climb:
   • The temple is situated on the Nilachal Hill, and there is a climb involved to reach the main complex.
   • Pilgrims often prefer to climb the hill by foot as a part of their spiritual journey.

Important Tips:

• Local Transportation: Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and e-rickshaws are also available for short-distance travel within Guwahati.
• Guides: If it’s your first visit, hiring a local guide can be helpful for navigating the temple complex and understanding its historical and spiritual significance.
• Footwear: It’s customary to remove footwear before entering the temple premises, so consider comfortable and easily removable shoes.

Timings:

The temple is open to devotees and visitors during specific hours. Ensure you plan your visit accordingly to partake in the spiritual ambiance.
The correct time of the closing depends on the rush of the devotees.
The temple opens in the morning for darshan from 8 to 8:30 am in the morning.

Aarti Timings:

Morning:

5:30 am – Snana of Pithasthana
6:00 am – Nitya Puja
8:00 am – Temple door opens for devotees

Evening:

1:00 pm – Temple door closed for cooked offerings to the goddess followed by distribution among the devotees.
2:30 pm – Temple door reopens for the devotees
5:15 pm – Closing the temple door for the night
7:30 pm – Aarti of Goddess

Special Events Schedule:

The temple hosts special events and festivals that add vibrancy to its spiritual aura. Stay tuned for announcements on auspicious occasions.

Ticket Prices:

The entry to the temple is Free.
The paid darshan will also be available, for latest rates one

Festivals at the Temple:

January – Posha Sangkranti (Makkar Sakranti), Sri Sri Ratanti Kali Puja
January/ February – Sri Sri Ganesh Puja, Sri Sri Saraswati Puja
February/ March – Maha Shiv Ratri, Gopal Daul (Holi Utsav)
March/ April – Shiva Doul, Durga Doul, Sri Sri Bansanti Puja, Sri Sri Raj Rajaswari Puja (from Chaitra Amavasya to Purnima)
April – Sri Sri Manasha devi Puthi opening ceremony, Chaitra Sangkarnti, Bhogal Bihu and Halkhata (Assamese new year)
May – Puja of Sri Sri Grammya devta
June – Satha Brata, Ambubachi Mela
July – Daksinayan Sangkranti and puja of Sri Sri Dakshina kali devi
August – Sri Sri Manasha Devi Puja and Debaddhani Festival, Lalita saptami and puja of Sri Sri Latititakanta devi, Puja of Sri Sri Joyadurga devi
August/ September – Janam Ashtami (Birth Day of Lord Krishna), Pitri Tarpan
September – Sri Sri Manasha devi Puthi closing ceremony, Sri Sri Biswakarma Puja
September/ October – Nabamyadi Kalparambha, Shardiya Sri Sri Durga Puja from Krishna Navami to Shukla Navamai
October – Sri Sri Lakshmi Devi Puja
November – Sri Sri Kartik Puja
November/ December – Dhannya sedan, Navanna
December/ January – Puhan Biya (Marriage day of Devi Kamakhya)

Online Booking Options:

Plan your visit seamlessly by booking tickets online through the official website or designated reservation platforms.
You can check it from this link

Guided Tours:

Embark on an enriching journey with guided tours, offering in-depth insights into the temple’s history and spiritual significance. Additional costs may apply.

Parking Facilities:

Ample parking facilities are available near the temple, ensuring convenience for visitors. Costs may vary.

Photography and Filming Policies:

Capture the temple’s divine beauty while adhering to photography and filming guidelines. Certain restrictions apply, and designated photo zones are provided. Inside the main temple photography and videography is not allowed.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 0361 – 2734654, 0361 – 2734555
• Email: [email protected], [email protected]

COVID-19 Safety Measures:

Your safety is paramount. The temple strictly adheres to COVID-19 safety measures, including mask requirements, social distancing protocols, and sanitation practices.

Amenities:

The temple offers amenities such as resting areas, seating, shade, and facilities for visitors, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Food and Refreshments:

Indulge in on-site dining options and snack stalls, offering a variety of choices to satisfy your palate.

Explore the Kamakhya Temple, a spiritual haven where ancient traditions meet architectural marvels, creating an unforgettable journey for every seeker.