Kamakhya Temple, located in Guwahati, Assam, is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. It is a temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, who is worshipped as the goddess of fertility, strength, and power. The temple is considered to be one of the Shakti Peethas, which are the 51 sacred shrines where the body parts of the goddess Sati fell.
In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and unique features of the Kamakhya Temple.
Table of Contents
Introduction
History of Kamakhya Temple
Legend of Kamakhya Temple
Architecture of Kamakhya Temple
Main Shrine of Kamakhya Temple
Other Shrines in Kamakhya Temple
Festivals Celebrated in Kamakhya Temple
Kamakhya Temple Timings and Entry Fee
How to Reach Kamakhya Temple
Accommodation Near Kamakhya Temple
Precautions While Visiting Kamakhya Temple
Things to Do in Kamakhya Temple
Famous Personalities Who Visited Kamakhya Temple
Significance of Kamakhya Temple
Conclusion
History of Kamakhya Temple
Kamakhya Temple is believed to have been built in the 8th century AD by the Koch dynasty. The temple was later renovated and expanded by successive rulers of Assam, including the Ahom dynasty. The current structure of the temple was built in the 17th century by King Nara Narayan.
Legend of Kamakhya Temple
According to Hindu mythology, the Kamakhya Temple is the place where the yoni of Goddess Sati fell. It is believed that Lord Shiva performed the Tandava Nritya (cosmic dance) with Sati's body on his shoulders, which caused her body to disintegrate into several parts. The yoni, which is the symbol of the female reproductive organ, is believed to have fallen at the spot where the Kamakhya Temple stands today.
Architecture of Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple is built in the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati and is surrounded by lush green forests. The temple's architecture is a fusion of Hindu and Islamic styles. The temple has a dome-shaped structure, which is made of gold and brass.
Main Shrine of Kamakhya Temple
The main shrine of the Kamakhya Temple houses the yoni of the goddess Kamakhya. The yoni is covered by a red silk cloth, which is changed every year during the Ambubachi Mela, the annual festival of the temple. The temple also has a black stone idol of the goddess, which is worshipped by devotees.
Other Shrines in Kamakhya Temple
Apart from the main shrine, the Kamakhya Temple complex has several other shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha. The temple also has a sacred pond, which is believed to have healing powers.
Festivals Celebrated in Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple is known for its elaborate festivals, which are attended by thousands of devotees from all over India. The most famous festival of the temple is the Ambubachi Mela, which is held in June every year. During this festival, the temple is closed for three days, and the yoni of the goddess is worshipped as a symbol of the menstruation cycle.
Kamakhya Temple Timings and Entry Fee
The Kamakhya Temple is open to visitors from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm every day. However, the temple is closed during certain festivals and special occasions.
The entry fee to the temple is nominal, and there is no charge for taking photographs. However, visitors are expected to dress modestly and remove their footwear before entering the temple premises.
It is advisable to visit the temple early in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially during the festival season. The best time to visit the temple is during the Ambubachi Mela, which is held in June every year, and the Durga Puja festival, which is celebrated in September or October.
How to Reach Kamakhya Temple
By Air: The nearest airport to the Kamakhya Temple is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is well-connected to major cities across India.
By Train: The Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the Kamakhya Temple, which is well-connected to major cities in India.
By Road: Guwahati is well-connected by road to all major cities in Assam, and there are frequent bus services from Guwahati to other parts of the state.
Accommodation Near Kamakhya Temple
There are several accommodation options near the Kamakhya Temple, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Budget-friendly Accommodation: If you are looking for budget-friendly accommodation, you can opt for guesthouses and lodges located near the Kamakhya Temple. Some of the popular options include the Shree Shyam Guest House, the Hotel Usha Kiran, and the Hotel Shivam.
Mid-Range Accommodation: If you are looking for mid-range accommodation, you can opt for hotels such as the Hotel Rajmahal, the Ginger Hotel, and the Hotel Ambarish Grand Residency. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and basic amenities at affordable rates.
Luxury Accommodation: If you are looking for luxury accommodation, you can opt for hotels such as the Vivanta Guwahati, the Radisson Blu Hotel, and the Novotel Guwahati GS Road. These hotels offer luxurious rooms, excellent amenities, and top-notch service.
It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the festival season, as the demand for accommodation is high during these times.
Precautions While Visiting Kamakhya Temple
While visiting the Kamakhya Temple, there are certain precautions that visitors should keep in mind to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
Dress Appropriately: Visitors are expected to dress modestly and conservatively when visiting the Kamakhya Temple. It is recommended to wear clothes that cover the knees and shoulders.
Remove Footwear: Visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. It is advisable to carry a bag or a pouch to store your footwear.
Maintain Silence: Visitors are expected to maintain silence while inside the temple premises. Talking loudly or creating noise is considered disrespectful.
Respect the Rituals: Visitors are expected to respect the rituals and customs of the temple. It is important to follow the instructions of the temple authorities and not to disturb the offerings or decorations.
Avoid Photography: Photography is generally not allowed inside the temple premises. Visitors should respect this rule and not take photographs unless explicitly permitted.
Beware of Pickpockets: The temple can get crowded, especially during festivals. Visitors should be aware of pickpockets and keep their belongings safe.
By keeping these precautions in mind, visitors can ensure a safe and respectful visit to the Kamakhya Temple.
Things to Do in Kamakhya Temple
Here are some of the things you can do while visiting the temple:
Explore the Temple Complex: The Kamakhya Temple complex is vast and houses several smaller temples and shrines. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the complex and explore the different structures and sculptures.
Witness the Daily Aarti: The Kamakhya Temple conducts daily aarti, a Hindu religious ritual involving the offering of light to the deities. Visitors can witness this ritual, which takes place twice a day, at sunrise and sunset.
Attend Festivals: The Kamakhya Temple is famous for its annual Ambubachi Mela, which celebrates the menstruation of the goddess Kamakhya. Visitors can attend this festival, which takes place in June, to witness the traditional rituals and customs of the temple.
Seek Blessings: Visitors can offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess Kamakhya, who is believed to grant wishes and blessings to her devotees.
Visit the Kamakhya Museum: The Kamakhya Museum is located within the temple complex and houses several ancient artefacts and sculptures related to the temple's history and mythology. Visitors can visit the museum to learn more about the temple's cultural significance.
Shop for Souvenirs: The temple complex has several shops and stalls selling souvenirs such as books, incense, and traditional clothing. Visitors can shop for these items as a memento of their visit to the Kamakhya Temple.
By doing these things, visitors can have a fulfilling and enriching experience while visiting the Kamakhya Temple.
Famous Personalities Who Visited Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple has attracted several famous personalities over the years. Here are some of the notable personalities who have visited the Kamakhya Temple:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Kamakhya Temple in 2017 to attend the Ambubachi Mela.
Princess Diana: Princess Diana visited the Kamakhya Temple in 1992 during her visit to India. She was accompanied by Mother Teresa.
Mahatma Gandhi: Mahatma Gandhi visited the Kamakhya Temple during his travels in Assam in 1921.
Indira Gandhi: Indira Gandhi, the first female Prime Minister of India, visited the Kamakhya Temple in 1982.
Shankaracharya: Shankaracharya, a prominent Hindu saint, visited the Kamakhya Temple several times and is believed to have established the temple's current structure.
Swami Vivekananda: Swami Vivekananda, a renowned spiritual leader, visited the Kamakhya Temple in 1897 during his travels in Assam.
Rabindranath Tagore: Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate in literature, visited the Kamakhya Temple during his travels in Assam in the early 20th century.
These personalities and many others have visited the Kamakhya Temple, highlighting its cultural and spiritual significance.
Significance of Kamakhya Temple
It is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site and a popular tourist attraction. Here are some of the significant aspects of the temple:
Shakti Peeth: The Kamakhya Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, which are believed to be the sites where the body parts of the goddess Sati fell during Lord Shiva's Tandava Nritya (cosmic dance).
Goddess Kamakhya: The temple is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, who is considered to be an embodiment of the divine feminine energy. She is worshipped as the goddess of fertility, love, and devotion.
Tantric Traditions: The Kamakhya Temple is renowned for its association with Tantric practices, which involve the use of specific rituals and techniques to connect with the divine. The temple is considered to be a centre of tantric worship and knowledge.
Annual Ambubachi Mela: The Kamakhya Temple hosts the annual Ambubachi Mela, which celebrates the menstruation of the goddess Kamakhya. The temple remains closed for three days during this festival, and the devotees believe that the goddess is undergoing her menstrual cycle.
Cultural Significance: The Kamakhya Temple is a significant cultural landmark and a symbol of Assam's rich cultural heritage. The temple's architecture and sculptures reflect the state's diverse cultural influences and artistic traditions.
Tourist Attraction: The Kamakhya Temple is a popular tourist attraction and receives thousands of visitors every year. The temple's beautiful surroundings and peaceful ambiance make it an ideal destination for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.
These aspects make the Kamakhya Temple a significant site of spiritual, cultural, and historical importance.
Conclusion
The Kamakhya Temple is a fascinating destination that offers a window into the rich history and culture of Assam. From its unique architecture to its controversial practices, there is no shortage of interesting facts and stories associated with this revered shrine. Whether you are a devotee seeking spiritual enlightenment or a curious traveller looking to explore the region, the Kamakhya Temple is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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