Umananda temple | a visit to Umananda | smallest inhabited riverine island in the world | Assam

                                Umananda Temple


Umananda Temple




Umananda Temple is located on Peacock Island that lies on the mighty Brahmaputra River. This serene place of worship is named after and dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

The name 'Umananda' comes from the two Hindi words, namely 'Uma', which was another name for Lord Shiva’s wife and 'Ananda' which means happiness.

 In fact, Peacock Island is one of the smallest inhabited island and possibly one of the most beautiful too. The surroundings of the temple and the divine but understated beauty of the island make it a haven for nature lovers.

The temple is situated on the top of a hill called Bhasmakala or Bhasmakuta. The island was originally built in 1694 A.D. by King Gadadhar Singha. However, it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1897 and later rebuilt by a wealthy local merchant. 

The Umananda temple was crafted beautifully by the skilled Assamese workmen. Aside from Lord Shiva, there are 10 other Hindu Gods whose idols reside in the shrines.



 How To Reach Umananda Temple 




The Umananda Temple can be reached easily from Guwahati and North Guwahati by ferries. Ferries are available from the Fancy Bazaar ghat and the Sukleshwar ghats. In spite of being expensive, travelling in ferries is quite an experience. Tourists get to experience the might of the Brahmaputra River, and the view is breathtaking. However, a much cheaper option is to avail the Inland Water transport which connects the Peacock island to Guwahati from Uzanbazaar Ferry Ghat.

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