Kamakhya Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination in Guwahati, Assam, and is one of the oldest and most revered temples in India. It is a complex of several temples dedicated to different forms of the Mother Goddess, and is visited by devotees from all over the world.  

Introduction  

The Kamakhya Temple is located on the Nilachal Hill in the western part of Guwahati. It is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas or holy shrines of the Mother Goddess. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, who is worshiped as the Goddess of Desire and Fertility.  

History of Kamakhya Temple  

The history of the Kamakhya Temple is shrouded in mystery and legend. According to some legends, the temple was originally built by the demon king Narakasura. The present temple, however, is believed to have been built by the Ahom kings in the 17th century. It was rebuilt in the 19th century by the British, after it was destroyed by an earthquake.  

Architecture and Design of Kamakhya Temple  

The Kamakhya Temple complex is spread over several acres and consists of several temples and shrines dedicated to different forms of the Mother Goddess. The main temple is a four-story structure made of stone and bricks, with a dome-shaped roof. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting the different forms of the goddess.  

Legend of Kamakhya Temple  

According to legend, the temple is the site where the Goddess Sati's genital organ fell when Lord Shiva was carrying her dead body. It is said that the Goddess had sacrificed herself by jumping into a sacrificial fire after her father Daksha insulted her husband Lord Shiva. The Kamakhya Temple is thus considered a powerful symbol of the goddess's power and the yoni (female genitalia) is worshiped here as a representation of the divine feminine.  

Festivals Celebrated at Kamakhya Temple  

The Kamakhya Temple is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The most famous festival celebrated here is the Ambubachi Mela, which is held every year during the monsoon season. During this festival, the temple is closed for three days, as it is believed that the goddess menstruates during this time.  

How to Reach Kamakhya Temple  

The Kamakhya Temple is located in Guwahati, Assam and is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, which is about 20 km from the temple. The Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest railhead and is about 10 km away from the temple. Buses and taxis are also available from various parts of Guwahati to reach the temple.  

Best Time to Visit Kamakhya Temple  

The Kamakhya Temple can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the months of September to March when the weather is pleasant and cool. The temple can get crowded during the festive season, so it is recommended to plan your visit accordingly.  

Tips for Visiting Kamakhya Temple  

Visitors to the Kamakhya Temple are advised to dress modestly and remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. Photography is not allowed inside the temple complex. It is also advisable to hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the temple.  

Accommodation near Kamakhya Temple  

There are several accommodation options near the Kamakhya Temple, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the popular apartments and hotels near the temple include Hotel Rajdhani Regency, Hotel Prag Continental, and Hotel Atithi. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and basic amenities to their guests.  

Other Places to Visit Near Kamakhya Temple  

Apart from the Kamakhya Temple, there are several other places to visit in Guwahati. The Umananda Temple, situated on a small island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, is another popular pilgrimage destination. The Guwahati Zoo, Assam State Museum, and the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary are also worth visiting.  

Hidden facts about Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati:-

Here are some lesser-known facts about the Kamakhya Temple:

The temple is unique in that it does not have an idol or image of the goddess. Instead, the temple houses a natural spring that flows through a yoni-shaped stone, which is considered to be the physical representation of the goddess.

The temple complex is spread over several acres and comprises a number of smaller temples and shrines dedicated to various deities.

The temple is believed to have been built by the Koch dynasty in the 16th century, although some historians believe that the temple may be much older.

The temple is also associated with the Tantric tradition of Hinduism, and Tantric practitioners from all over the world visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings.

The Kamakhya Temple is also known for its unique architecture, which blends elements of both Hindu and Islamic styles. The temple's dome, for example, is said to be inspired by Islamic architecture, while the temple's walls are adorned with intricate Hindu carvings.

The temple is also famous for its annual Ambubachi Mela, a four-day festival that celebrates the goddess's menstruation. During this time, the temple is closed to visitors, and devotees from all over India flock to the temple to participate in the festival.

According to local legend, the temple was originally built on a site where a king had killed his daughter out of shame, and the goddess Kamakhya appeared to him in a dream and asked him to build a temple in her honor to atone for his sin.

The temple is situated atop the Nilachal Hill and offers stunning views of the Brahmaputra River and the city of Guwahati.

Overall, the Kamakhya Temple is a fascinating and deeply spiritual place that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

How to reach Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati by air and nearest airport?  

The nearest airport to Kamakhya Temple is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, located in Guwahati, which is approximately 21 kilometers away.  

The airport is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad, with regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other cities.  

Once you reach the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kamakhya Temple. Buses and taxis are easily available outside the airport, and the journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic.  

Alternatively, you can also take a train to Guwahati Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kamakhya Temple. Buses and taxis are easily available outside the railway station, and the journey takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on the traffic.  

How to reach Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati by train and nearest railway station?  

Kamakhya Temple is located in Guwahati, Assam, India. The temple can be reached by road from various parts of the city.  

If you are coming from Guwahati city center, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Kamakhya Temple. The nearest bus stand to Kamakhya Temple is Adabari Bus Stand, which is located at a distance of about 8 kilometers. You can take a bus from Adabari Bus Stand to reach the temple.  

If you are coming from outside Guwahati, you can reach the city by train or by bus. The nearest railway station to Kamakhya Temple is Guwahati Railway Station, which is located at a distance of about 6 kilometers. You can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from the railway station to reach the temple.  

How to reach Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati by road and nearest bus stand?  

Kamakhya Temple is located in Guwahati, Assam, India. The temple can be easily reached by train from various parts of the country.  

The nearest railway station to Kamakhya Temple is Guwahati Railway Station, which is located at a distance of about 6 kilometers. Guwahati Railway Station is well connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, etc. There are many trains that run between Guwahati and these cities.  

Once you reach Guwahati Railway Station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Kamakhya Temple. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. You can also take a bus from the railway station to reach the temple.  

Closure  

The Kamakhya Temple is a must-visit pilgrimage destination for devotees of the Mother Goddess. The temple's rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant festivals make it a fascinating place to visit. Plan your trip to Kamakhya Temple and experience the spiritual and cultural heritage of Assam.  

FAQs  

What is the significance of Kamakhya Temple?   

The Kamakhya Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas or holy shrines of the Mother Goddess, and is believed to be the site where the goddess's genital organ fell.  

What is the best time to visit Kamakhya Temple?   

The best time to visit Kamakhya Temple is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and cool.  

Are there any accommodation options near Kamakhya Temple?   

Yes, there are several budget to luxury hotels and apartments near the Kamakhya Temple, including Hotel Rajdhani Regency, Hotel Prag Continental, and Hotel Atithi.  

What are the festivals celebrated at Kamakhya Temple?   

The Kamakhya Temple is known for its vibrant festivals, including the Ambubachi Mela, which is held every year during the monsoon season.  

What are some other places to visit near Kamakhya Temple?   

Apart from the Kamakhya Temple, visitors can also explore other places in Guwahati, such as the Umananda Temple, Guwahati Zoo, Assam State Museum, and the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.