About Kamakhya Temple for First-Time Travelers
The unique sites, no matter how unknown they are, have a magic effect on me; thus, I try to always travel to new places, and Shakti Peeth Kamakhya Temple is one such. Nestled on the scenic Nilachal Hills at Guwahati, this treasure gagging me to visit. And the icing on the sundae? It's quite near home.
This Kamakhya Temple travel guide contains ultimate travel details accompanied by budgeting strategies for first-time travelers.
Relax, fellow wanderers! The following guide explains all the reasons why Kamakhya Temple should be on your travel itinerary.
Get ready to discover what makes Kamakhya Temple stand out from the usual pilgrimage spots.
5 Reasons to Visit Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati
The Abode of Ten Mahavidyas
Kamakhya is the only temple in India with separate shrines dedicated to the ten Mahavidyas, which include Kali, Tara, Tripura Sundari, Bhuvaneshwari, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Chhinnamasta, Baglamukhi, Matangi and Kamala.
The Divine Presence of Heruka Bhairava
One thing that makes Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati unique is the presence of Heruka Bhairava (fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva).
The Tantric Hub of India
Did you know Kamakhya Temple is one of India’s most powerful Tantric sites?
Sadhus and Tantrics from around the world visit Kamakhya to perform rituals and seek blessings.
A Temple with Healing Powers
The Kamakhya Temple is famous for its miraculous healing powers. Devotees visit the temple to receive blessings for marriage as well as fertility and health.
A Budget-Friendly Destination
With the cheap accommodation options, Kamakhya Temple is also a good budget destination for first-time travelers. This holy place is very economical for travelers coming from Siliguri, Kolkata, and other regions of India.
You May Also Like
Things to Know About Kamakhya Temple
Who Built Kamakhya Temple?
The Kamakhya Temple history is referred to in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. A rock inscription from Umachal Hill proves that a temple existed here as early as the 4th or 5th century. The temple as we see it today has undergone multiple reconstructions.
- The Pala Dynasty constructed the temple during the 8th–9th century, which marked the rise of Shaktism.
- Rebuilt by Koch King Naranarayan in the 15th century.
- Muslim general Kalapahar caused destruction to the temple until King Chilarai of Koch Hajo carried out its restoration.
- The Ahom rulers expanded and refined their architectural design.
Conservation of Kamakhya Temple
Umachal and Persian rock inscriptions on Nilachal Hill are preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Even though the site is over 2,000 years old, UNESCO does not yet recognize it as a World Heritage Site.
How is Kamakhya Temple Managed?
Bordeuri Samaj, a group of temple priest families manages the temple which can be probably said as the only interesting thing about Kamakhya Devalaya.
Where did the name Nilachal come from?
The name "Nilachal" has its roots in mythological and religious reasons. After Sati's death, her yoni dropped on a a hillock (Anchal) making it blue (Nila). This blue hillock or Nilachal thus became so popular among the devotees.
Devi Kamakhya: The Goddess of Desire
Among the ten Mahavidyas Devi Kamakhya emerges as Goddess of Desire Kameshvari who maintains various divine forms based on her emotional state.
The goddess is depicted with 6 heads and 12 arms, representing her ability to transform herself. She is the consummate artist, seated on the lotus throne, inviting the devotees into her world of Maya.
Myths associated with Kamakhya Temple Guwahati
History of Kamakhya Temple
As mentioned in the Vedas, it says Brahma told Daksh to go to Jagatmata and take the wisdom. Delighted by his devotion she bestowed upon him a daughter Sati who eventually married Lord Shiva.
Daksha performed yajna (a ritual) and made sure that Shiva and Sati were not invited. Sati attended the yagna despite Shiva’s warnings, and at the yagna Daksha insulted Shiva. Unable to bear the insult, Sati poured herself into the flames.
Shiva took her dead body and started performing the Tandava dance of destruction. To protect the universe Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut Sati’s body into 51 pieces, which fell in different regions of the world where the Shakti Peeths are located.
When Sati's womb fell on the Nilachal Hills it became the Kamakhya Shakti Peeth.
Mekhela Ujowa Poth: The Unfinished Stairway of Narakasura
Hindu mythology describes Narakasura who evolved from a noble king into a cruel dictator. When he fell in love with Goddess Kamakhya she set a test. She challenged Narakasura to build a staircase from the temple foothills to the shrine in a single night.
Confident of his victory, Narakasura nearly finishes the task. But before dawn, Kamakhya created an illusion, making a rooster crow early. Thinking he had failed, Narakasura gave up his work. Thus this resulted in the incomplete staircase called Mekhela Ujowa Poth that remains until today.
The Curse on the Royal Koch Family
While doing my research, I came across a writing style as the Koch royal family in the Kalika Purana. Koch dynasty's story went from a peaceful kingdom that demonstrated hope and joy to destining into decline because of a single mistake.
King Naranarayana and his brother Chilarai were very much fascinated by the divine dance of Goddess Kamakhya. They paid a temple priest named Kendukalai to look at the divine ritual in secret. This act was strictly forbidden.
Kamakhya got very angry, so she turned the priest into stone. Added to it, she also cursed them that they themselves could not ever enter the Kamakhya Temple.
Koch family members continue to abstain from even as of the present days not visiting the shrine because of the imposed curse.
My Visit to Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati
First-time travelers will find a unique experience visiting Kamakhya Temple. I woke up early, completed my tasks, and caught a local bus from Paltan Bazar to begin my journey at 5 AM for ₹40. The bus took me up to the temple base.
A ₹150 taxi ride brought me to the temple entrance where I awaited the spiritual experience.
A quick tip: Leave your shoes at a nearby shop for ₹10 before entering. I also bought a puja thali for ₹50 to fully immerse myself in the rituals of devotion.
Kamakhya Temple Unique Architecture
Architecture is the most talked about aspect of Kamakhya Temple. Entering the temple brought me overwhelming happiness as the artwork and pillars captured my attention. There is no doubt that this temple has the finest carvings on its walls.
This sacred temple reflects the Nilachala architectural style. A unique blend of the North Indian Nagara and Mughal architecture style. The temple’s architecture is a rare masterpiece blending multiple artistic styles. The structure is made up of five rooms:
Chalanta Hall
The rectangular Chalanta Hall has twelve glorious pillars while displaying a Chalanta Devi Kameshwari statue. The hall has sculptures of Kings Naranarayan and Chilarai along with other displays.
Pancha Ratna Hall
It has statues of Devi Manasa and Devi Chamunda.
Nat Mandir
It is located at the western entrance of Pancha Ratna Hall reflecting a glance of Ahom rule. The two stone platforms were built for cultural events during ancient times. Even today, it hosts the Debadhani Dance Festival.
Bhog Ghar
As I walked past the Bhog Ghar the aroma of freshly prepared khichdi and sweet rice offerings filled the air making me eager to try the temple prasad.
Garbha Griha of Kamakhya Temple Guwahati
My anticipation kept increasing while I stood in the lengthy queue for darshan. Surprisingly, the wait time was only one hour, and I got to see some playful monkeys and birds.
 |
| Garbagriha Kamakhya Temple |
The narrow stone stairs steeply went down into the dimly lit sacred Garbha Griha chamber. It was amazing to see how an underground spring fills the yoni-shaped stone worshipped as Goddess Kamakhya. Unlike other temples, there is no idol. Touching and drinking the holy water filled me with peace and mystical healing energy.
Shikhara Design of Kamakhya Temple
Not many know that Kamakhya Temple is actually a pancharatna design with five projections on the tower or Shikhara. I was drawn to the Ganesha deity along with other deities sculpted into the lower Sikhara section. The Garbha Griha rests underneath the Shikhara.
Kamakhya Temple Nat Mandir Plan
The apsidal architectural design of Nat Mandir at Shaktipeeth Kamakhya Temple demonstrates Rang Ghar-Building of Entertainment architecture from the Ahom kingdom. As far as my personal experience goes I have never encountered a temple constructed with an apsidal plan. The roof of Kamakhya Temple Nat Mandir features an apsidal plan known as Gajaprishta which means 'back of an elephant.'
Sculptures at Kamakhya Temple
I was on the steps of Kamakhya Temple taking a break and admiring the sculptures. Mayukh, a photographer from Kolkata – I met him completely by chance. It was instant chemistry over photography and travel. In fact, Mayukh was so nice that he invited me to visit Kalighat, another Shaktipeeth located in Kolkata. He took me there to shoot the beautiful sculptures at Kamakhya Temple.
The photo tour started with impressive carvings and beautiful architecture:
- A magnificent Ganesha idol carved into the temple wall with coins stick on it. Mayukh was especially intrigued by this unique practice.
- The western side of the temple features twelve-century old rock-cut Shiva lingas.
- The sculpture of Dancing Bhairava filled us with wonder because it displayed a skull garland.
- The stone gateway along with Vishnu Janardana—photographs completely revealed the temple's noble dimensions.
- And finally the dragon-like structure on the walls above Nat Mandir’s six gates each one more fascinating than the other.
Saubhagya Kunda: A Sacred Visit
The holy Saubhagya Kunda waterbody sat in a northern position beside the temple complex. The devotees conducted religious ceremonies at this site which elevated the holy nature of the environment.
We explored Bhairabi Pukhuri and Natun Pukhuri where turtles and fish moved through the waters that serenely connected the temple and nature.
KOUROSITY REQUEST
Please do not dump litter and plastic around the holy ponds, as the fish and turtles dwell there.
Ambubachi Mela: The Biggest Festival of Assam
I led Mayukh to a panda at Kamakhya Temple because he wanted to understand the popularity of Ambubachi Mela. He told us the Mela takes place every June drawing thousands of sadhus tantrics and devotees worldwide.
 |
| Ambubachi Mela Guwahati |
According to temple secretary Jnan Nath Sarma, last year, the temple witnessed around 30 lakh devotees from across the world during Ambubachi Mela.
During this time, the temple closes for three days to honor Maa Kamakhya’s annual menstrual cycle. On the fourth day, the temple reopens with a festive spiritual ceremony called Yoni Puja.
The panda explained that the Mela is a vibrant showcase of Assam’s cultural heritage featuring traditional dances music, and sacred chants.
Sacred Prasad of Kamakhya Temple
The panda gave us two sacred items from the Mela: Angodak (holy red water) and Angabastra (a red cloth) symbolizing Maa Kamakhya's sacred blood. He instructed us to place them in our household temple.
He clarified that though some local rituals might seem strange to tourists they maintain critical cultural and religious value for the locals.
Kamakhya Temple Guwahati Rituals
When we walked down the temple stairs, Mayukh asked, what did they sacrifice to the temple. I told him that, during certain pujas, goats are sacrificed as part of cultural norms. This rituals was conducted in ancient times by the Khasi and Garo peoples.
I told him about some special rituals, including Vashikaran, and the Navagraha Puja done in the temple. Mayukh was enthralled by the customs and before we parted he invited me to visit to Kolkata.
Kamakhya Temple–What to Pack
How to pack a backpack keeping in mind guidelines for Travellers going to Kamakhya Temple for the first time? You need:
- Sunglasses.
- Water Bottle to stay hydrate.
- Small denominations of cash for temple offerings.
- In wet weather, you need to carry a raincoat or an umbrella, etc.
Kamakhya Temple Guwahati Dress Code
It was nice weather when I visited the Kamakhya Temple in October so, I wore a kurta with the formal pants. While women around were dressed in saree, salwar suits and mekhelas but with due modesty.
Ample tip: No leather bags or belts are allowed inside the temple.
Photography Tips at Kamakhya Temple
While the beauty of the temple is enhanced by the scenic view of the Brahmaputra River and the hills. Take pictures at your leisure but remember photography is prohibited inside the temple's inner chamber (garbhagriha).
Best Time to Visit Kamakhya Temple: Festivals and Celebrations
Religious festivals bring out the vibrant spirit of Kamakhya Temple which provides devotees with both cultural and spiritual enrichment. Here’s when you can visit:
- Raja Rajesvari Puja a sacred celebration is observed during the spring Navratri. The climate in April is pleasant which makes your visit enjoyable.
- Ambubachi Mela is the biggest festival of Assam celebrated in the month of June. The best part about this month is warm days and breezy nights with no rainfall. But you can expect large crowds due to the festival’s immense popularity.
- Manasa Puja in September is a three-day festival honoring the serpent goddess. It is accompanied by the traditional Deodhani dance at Nat Mandir. During this season you will find both hot weather and sporadic rain periods.
- Durga Puja and Kumari Puja are in October, a grand three-day festival where young girls are worshipped. Sightseeing conditions reach their peak because the weather remains mild while rainfall stays at a minimum.
Travel Guide: How to Reach Kamakhya Temple
By Road
Visitors can get to the Kamakhya Temple from Guwahati City Center, Siliguri and other Northeastern states by bus or taxi services.
By Rail
The closest rail stations are Guwahati and Kamakhya, which give access to visitors throughout India.
By Air
The international airport in Guwahati is about 20 km from the Kamakhya Temple. The temple is around 1 hour away from the station, by taxi costing about ₹400.
Budget Travel Tips for Kamakhya Temple Guwahati
Kamakhya Temple Ticket Price
Hundreds of devotees visit the temple daily so I waited in a long queue to do my darshan. For ₹501 VIP ticket holders get fast entry to the temple. You can buy tickets online and show at Gate no 6 reception counter.
Kamakhya Temple Timings
Temple timing is from 5:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Facilities at Kamakhya Temple Guwahati
The temple has IndusInd Bank and State Bank of India ATMs, clean public toilets and parking for visitors.
Hotels Near Kamakhya Temple
I had personally checked all this hotels so sharing with you all.
- Guest House Athishala. Contact No: 9706386505
- Nilachal Homes. Contact No: 9707002586
- Panda House. Contact No: 9859010086
- Prashanti Lodge. Contact No: 9101087580
Best Restaurants near Kamakhya Temple
You can have fresh fruit juice, pithas and traditional thali at eateries near the temple. Kamakhya Rasoi serves pure vegetarian food from its location near the temple.
Things to do near Kamakhya Temple Guwahati
Visiting Kamakhya Temple is just the beginning of an adventure.Travelers can visit Umananda Temple, Bhootnath Temple, Balaji Temple and Basistha Temple by local buses or taxis.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is 50 km from Guwahati for wildlife enthusiasts. You can see one-horned rhinoceros on Jeep Safari.
Evening Delight
Brahmaputra River View Point
Sunset lovers and photography enthusiasts will find this as their perfect spot.
Fancy Bazar Guwahati
The shopping hub of Guwahati gives you an opportunity to visit street market while enjoying local food in vibrant.
Best Places to visit near Kamakhya Temple Guwahati
The natural beauty around Kamakhya Temple does provide an excellent opportunity to enhance your travel experience.
Shillong: This beautiful hill station is 113 km from Guwahati along National Highway 40 and takes 2 hours to reach.
Kaziranga National Park: 192 km from Guwahati for wildlife lovers to see one-horned rhinoceros.
My Lasting Impression on Kamakhya Temple
I departed from the captivating Kamakhya Temple while its spiritual energy remained embedded within my heart. The divine power inside the Garbha Griha combined with the historical tales in the architecture made each instant feel magical. This should be your compass for your first visit.
I hope you have liked this guide. Don’t miss your overnight trip to Ambabuchi Mela and enjoy the Assamese festival vibe!
What is so special about Kamakhya Temple?
Among all temples, Kamakhya Temple is the only one where yoni is honored in worship. Rituals from the Tantric tradition and Vashikaran are performed at this Shakti Peetha. The temple is known to bless women who are childless.
Can women visit Kamakhya Temple during periods?
Since menstruation is considered an important natural part of a woman’s life in the Maa Kamakhya Temple, women are free to come and worship there anytime. However, women are not allowed to pray in some temples when they have their period. There is also the Ambubachi festival, celebrated each year in the Kamakhya Temple for the goddess during her annual menstruation.
What is Ambubachi Mela?
Ambubachi Mela is held each year to celebrate the annual menstruation of the Goddess Kamakhya and the temple remains closed for those days. Many people from all over India come to Ambubachi Mela to get the red cloth (blood cloth) first, when the temple opens again after four days.
Tags:
TRAVEL GEMS