Places of Intersted in Guwahati
Hajo: This place located on the 25 kms west of Guwahati, is the site of the Pua-Mecca mosque, setup by an Iraqi prince who turned preacher and traveled all the way to Assam in the 12th century to spread the prophet’s teaching. Hajo is revered by Muslims and Hindu’s for in the town is the Hayagriba Madhava Temple reached by way of a long stone stairway. At the base of the stairway is a large pond where resides one of the town is also well-known for its bell-metal work, of plates and serving bowls.
Kamakhya Temple: Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hill, eight km west of the city is believed to be an ancient ‘Khasi’ sacrificial site. It has been a part and parcel of Assamese life and culture from ancient times. The temple dedicated to the Goddess Kamakshya is one of the oldest and most sacred centres for Shakti worship and Tantric Hinduism. The original 10th century temple was destroyed by Muslim converts but was rebuilt in 1665 by King Naranarayana of Koch Bihar. The sikhara or spire is in the shape of a beehive and it has the nymph motifs and the long turtle back hall. The stone images and other relics found around the temple have been dated by archaeologists to the eighth century onwards. It attracts pilgrims from all over India, especially during the Ambubachi Festival which usually falls around July. The ponds here are home to some giant turtles. There is a majestic view of the city and the Brahmaputra river from the hill top. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the sanctum.
Navagraha Temple: Navagraha temple or temple of nine planets is situated on Chitrachal Hill to the east of the town. It was the ancient seat of study of astronomy and astrology. The nine planets are represented by the nine linga’s inside the main temple. This temple just 3 km from the railway station is still a center of Astrological and Astronomical research. It was for this temple Guwahati was named Pragjyotishpur (the city of Astrology).
Umananda Temple: The Shiva temple stands on Peacock Island in the midst of river Brahmaputra. The temple built by an Ahom king in 1594, can be reached by crossing the river via country boats plying from Kachari Ghat in Guwahati. Ferries make regular crossings from 7am to 5pm. The site is especially busy during the annual Shivaratri festival, when devotees from all over the state come to worship the god.
Janardhan Temple: The temple is situated on the hillock Suklesvar in the heart of the city. The temple consecrated in the 10th century was rebuilt in the 17th century. Located near Suklesvar Ghat of the Brahmaputra River, the temple has an image of the Lord Buddha, which is a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism.