Umananda Temple Assam

Situated on the small island called Peacock island, the Umananda temple is dedicated to lord Shiva. It is located in Guwahati. The legend goes that Lord Shiva used to live here in the form of Bhayananda. Kalika Purana mentions that during the inception of Srishti(creation) lord Shiva sprinkled ashes(bhasma) on this hill and gave knowledge to goddess Parvati. When lord Shiva was in deep meditation and was interrupted by Kamdev(God of Love) and his wife, lord burnt him to death on this hill. Hence the hill was given the name Bhasmacala.

This temple was constructed by an Ahom king on the Bhasmachala hill on the island in the 17th century. Unfortunately the original temple fell prey to the wrath of an earthquake in 1897. Later it was rebuilt by a wealthy local merchant. The interior of the temple depicts several Vaisnavite slogans. The temple also boasts of beautiful rock-cut figures reflecting the praiseworthy craftsmanship of Assamese. Sculpture of several Hindu deities are present in the temple.

The Umananda Temple is accessible only by motor boats and public ferries. Ferry services are available from 7 am to 5 pm.

Places of Tourist Interest Near Umananda Temple
Kamakhya Temple
Bhubaneshwari Temple
Navagraha Temple