Everything About Umananda Temple

The Umananda Temple is located on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the important pilgrimage sites in the region.

Umananda Temple History

Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and repairs. In 1694, Ahom king Gadadhar Singha constructed the current temple structure in the typical medieval Assamese style of architecture. The temple’s notable features include a prominent dome at the top.

Read More: List of Famous Temples in Assam

Umananda Temple Significance

The Umananda Temple holds great significance for Hindus, especially for the Shiva devotees. It is considered one of the most important Shiva temples in the region, and pilgrims from all over India come to visit the temple during the annual Shivaratri festival. The temple attracts many tourists due to its unique location on Peacock Island, which offers scenic views of the Brahmaputra River and the surrounding hills.

In addition to its religious significance, the Umananda Temple has historical and cultural significance. It is an important reminder of the Ahom dynasty’s rule in the region, and the temple’s architecture and design reflect the medieval Assamese style. The temple is also an important cultural center and annually hosts various cultural events and festivals.

Umananda Temple Tradition:

Opening & Closing Timing of Umananda Temple

The Umananda Temple is open daily to visitors from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The best time to visit the temple is during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the crowds are fewer. The temple is busiest during festivals and weekends, so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.

Learn More:- Everything About Sukreswar Temple

Rules & Regulations of Umananda Temple:

1. Dress appropriately: Visitors should dress modestly and avoid revealing or provocative clothing.

2. Remove shoes before entering: Visitors must remove them before entering the temple premises.

3. Follow the designated path: Visitors should follow the designated path while visiting the temple and avoid taking shortcuts or deviating from the path.

4. Do not disturb the wildlife: Peacock Island is home to various flora and fauna, and visitors are expected to respect and avoid disturbing the wildlife.

5. Do not litter: Visitors should not litter or leave behind any trash on the temple premises or the island.

Umananda Temple Route for Visitors:

The Umananda Temple is located on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam. Visitors can reach the temple by taking a ferry from the Sukreswar Ghat in Guwahati. The ferry ride takes 10-15 minutes, and visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Brahmaputra River and the surrounding hills during the journey. Once on the island, visitors can walk to the temple or hire a local guide to show them around.

Temple Architecture

• Style: Ahom-era architecture with Hindu and Buddhist influences.

• Materials: Stone, brick, and wood.

• Design: The temple has a rectangular shape with a flat roof.

• Carvings: Intricate carvings of Hindu deities, mythical creatures, and geometric patterns.

• Sculptures: Life-size sculptures of Shiva, Parvati, and other deities.

Deities and Worship

• Primary deity: Lord Shiva (Umananda).

• Other deities: Parvati, Ganesha, and Vishnu.

• Worship: Daily pujas, Abhishekam, and special rituals during festivals.

• Priesthood: The temple has a dedicated team of priests.

History and Legends

• Built by: Ahom King Suklengfaa (1594).

• Renovations: Bar Phukan rulers (17th century).

• Earthquake damage: 1897 earthquake caused significant damage.

• Restoration: British colonial era and post-independence efforts.

Festivals and Events

• Maha Shivaratri (February-March).

• Shiva Chaturdashi (May-June).

• Bihu (January, April, and October).

• Janmashtami (August-September).

• Navaratri (September-October).

Tourism and Accessibility

• Location: Peacock Island, Brahmaputra River, Guwahati.

• Ferry services: From Guwahati or North Guwahati.

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

• Best time to visit: October to March.

Conservation Efforts

• Protected by: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

• Restoration projects: Ongoing efforts to preserve the temple.

• Challenges: Floods, erosion, and human impact.

Interesting Facts

• Smallest inhabited island: Peacock Island.

• Rare flora and fauna: Golden langur, birds, and plants.

• Ancient inscriptions: Found on temple walls.

• Cultural significance: Important pilgrimage site.

Nearby Attractions

• Kamakhya Temple.

• Guwahati Planetarium.

• Assam State Museum.

• Brahmaputra River cruise.

Primary Deities:

• Lord Shiva (Umananda): Main deity, worshipped as a symbol of cosmic energy.

• Parvati: Goddess of love, fertility, and devotion.

• Ganesha: Remover of obstacles, lord of wisdom.

• Vishnu: Preserver of the universe.

Other Deities:

• Nandi: Shiva’s bull, symbolizing strength and loyalty.

• Kartikeya: Shiva’s son, god of war and wisdom.

• Durga: Goddess of power and protection.

Sculptures:

• Intricate carvings of Hindu mythological scenes.

• Life-size sculptures of Shiva, Parvati, and Ganesha.

• Ornate doorframes and pillars with floral motifs.

• Carvings of mythical creatures (e.g., lions, elephants).

• Ancient inscriptions on temple walls.

Sculptural Significance:

• Representations of cosmic dance (Tandava) and Shiva’s various forms.

• Symbolism of feminine and masculine energies (Shiva-Shakti).

• Depictions of nature’s cycles (birth, growth, decay).

• Storytelling through sculptures, conveying moral lessons.

Artistic Style:

• Ahom-era architecture blending Hindu and Buddhist influences.

• Assamese craftsmanship with intricate details.

• Use of local materials (stone, brick, wood).

FAQs about Umananda Temple:

Q1: Where is Umananda Temple located?

Ans: Umananda Temple is situated on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, Guwahati, Assam.

Q2: What are the temple timings?

Ans: The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Q3: Is there a dress code or photography restriction?

Ans: Yes, dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. Photography is allowed with restrictions.

Q4: What are the primary worship and rituals?

Ans: Daily pujas, Abhishekam, and special rituals during festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Shiva Chaturdashi.

Q5: Who preserves and protects the temple?

Ans: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protects and preserves the temple, with ongoing restoration projects.