Kamakhya Temple: History, Location, Darshan Timings and How to Reach
Nestled in Nilachal Hills, Kamakhya Devi Temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Guwahati. Built in the 8th century, it is one of the oldest temples of India. It is dedicated to mother goddess Kamakhya. The temple is an enduring symbol of Guwahati’s spiritual heritage. Its architecture consists of four chambers: a Garbh Griha, which has a unique rock cleft in lieu of the idol and three mandapas named Calanta, Pancharatna, and Natamandira. The Kamakhya temple is steeped in mysteries and there are many interesting stories revolving around it. In this blog we will show you complete details about the temple's rich history, timings, location and how to reach.
Location of Kamakhya Devi Temple
Kamakhya Devi Temple is located 7 km from Guwahati. Located atop the Nilachal Hills, the serene Brahmaputra River adds to the mesmerizing charm of the temple. When devotees enter Nilachal Hills, they are greeted by lush greenery of refreshing hills and the soothing sound of Brahmaputra river nourishes the spirit with peace.
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Temple Timings of Kamakhya Devi Temple
Given below the Darshan timings of Kamakhya Devi Temple which will help you to reach on time and embrace the spiritual whirlwind of Kamakhya Temple-
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Kamakhya Devi General Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 10:00 AM
- Evening: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- Days: Monday to Sunday
Aarti Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM
- Evening: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
- Days: Monday to Sunday
History of Kamakhya Devi Temple:
The history of Kamakhya Devi Temple traces a path through the pages of ancient scripts and the oral traditions of the common people. The first mention of the temple can be traced back to the 9th century, as confirmed by the Tezpur inscription of the Mlechchha dynasty, and with traces of archeological findings. Such evidence indicates that the temple developed its roots in this period and was among the most important in the ancient times. Traditional rituals concealed a multifaceted tale in which the Khasi and Garo tribes may have worshiped the land space as a sacred site way before the rise of the Mlechchha tribe. For the local legends, it was the place of sacrifice and worship, an indispensable element of spiritual life in those times. The combination of historical records and stories from cultural narratives makes the history of Kamakhya Devi Temple rich and relevant throughout eras and communities.
Legends of kamakhya Devi Temple
Kamakhya Devi Temple’s story is very interesting. Once, the contempt of Daksha for Lord Shiva ended in tragedy when Daksha publically disgraced and abused his daughter, Sati, who was married to Lord Shiva, and she decided to cut her life short. Shiva who was now ravaged by desolation and fury disturbed Daksha's ritual ceremony and went on with the dead Sati's body. Seeing him losing control Vishnu decided to help by breaking Sati’s body into 51 parts. One part went to the spot of Kamakhya Temple which is considered to be the site of her womb. At the end, Kamadev, the god of love, is seen recovering his beauty at Kamakhya and because of that tradition, the area is named Kamrup and it is here that the goddess is known as Kamakhya. Kamakhya Devi Temple’s story continues to allure visitors with this legend of love, sacrifice, and divine intervention.
Exploring the Mysteries of Kamakhya Devi Temple:
- Ritual of mensturation: In the Ambubachi Mela, the temple shuts down for three days , it is believed these days correspond with Goddess Kamakhya`s menstruation period. This ritual serves to show the temple's connection to fertility and life cycles, which attracts those who are praying for a blessing and grace from god.
- No Idol: Unlike other Hindu temples, Kamakhya does not have a conventional idol. Devotion revolves around yoni, symbolizing the divine feminine energy and creative force of goddess Kamakhya.
- Ties to Shakti Peethas: Get to the bottom of Kamakhya Temple's designation as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas that are believed to hold parts of the deity Sati. This association with ancient mythology not only enriches the sacredness of the temple, but also draws pilgrims seeking for spiritual grace.
- Unique Tantric Traditions: Dip yourself into the temple's union of tantra practices that are administered by shamans. These practices aim to connect an individual with the divine and one's own inner self.
- Embrace Holy Waters: Get to know the temple's own sacred ponds and wells, where each of them has a legend behind and is considered to have healing properties. The Pilgrims are purified and seek spiritual refreshment through the sacred waters.
The Mysteries of Kamakhya Devi Temple provides a forum for discovering the bewitching stories hidden in this sacred place which in turn, is a marriage of mystical beliefs with the rituals of olden times
Where to stay near Kamakhya Devi Temple
Here are some of the places to stay near Kamakhya Temple, ensuring easy access for darshan:
- Hotel Sreemoyee Inn (11 m): The lodge stands adjacent to the temple providing a convenient homestay for pilgrims.
- Swastik Inn (2.8 km): Placed within walking range from the temple, offering the tourists a variety of pleasant lodgings.
- Abhisarika Guest Inn (2.5 km): A guest inn that is always available near Kamakhya Kshetra, the right choice for peace seeking pilgrims.
- OM Regency (1.3 km): Just opposite to the temple, accommodation facilities are offered to all the pilgrims in a much simpler and comfortable way.
- . Maa Sharda Guest House (2 km): Creating housing options for pilgrims situated near the Kamakhya Temple so that they enjoy the convenience of going to the shrine anytime for the darshan.
The hotels, which have different levels of comfort and convenience, are the best places for the visitors of Kamakhya Temple to take a rest.
How to reach Kamakhya Temple:
- By Air: Reach the Guwahati International Airport, some 20 km from the temple, with regular flights from major cities in India such as New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and other cities.
- By Rail: Disembark at the Guwahati Railway Station to enjoy excellent connection to major cities. Start from Mandela Bridge to look for autos or metered taxis that will take you to your hotel, or you can head to the temple straight away.
- By Road: Guwahati Railway Station is at a distance of 8 km from the temple of Kamakhya. Try taking auto-rickshaws, metered taxis or buses that stop there. Auto-rickshaws cost around Rs. 100, while shared rides are Rs. 15 per person. Besides that, Assam Tourism Department buses connect the destination with the railway station.
- On Foot: Prepare to walk up steps to get to the top of the hill where the Kamakhya Temple is situated. Besides, use the rock-cut staircase from the bottom of the hill. Porters can be hired to travel with the elderly on palanquins on which they could pay for a ride.
Best Time to Visit Kamakhya Devi Temple:
The period from October to February offers visitors with an excellent weather to enjoy clear skies and less rainfall making it ideal for sight-seeing and outdoor activities. In this period, temperatures are between 15 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius, creating a nice environment for pilgrims.
Now you know about all the essential details about Kamakhya Devi Temple. What are you still waiting for? You must visit Kamakhya Devi Temple once in a lifetime. It is a place which will fine-tune your spirits from all the chaos of the world and nourishes your soul with positive energy.
