Kamakhya temple stands on Nilachal hill in Guwahati, Assam, overlooking the Brahmaputra river. It is one of the most important centres of Shakti worship in India and draws devotees from across the country.
This article is based on religious beliefs and traditions. Democratic Bharat Live does not claim to verify them.
Significance
According to belief, when Lord Shiva carried the body of Goddess Sati after her self sacrifice, parts of her body fell at different places, which became sacred sites. Kamakhya is believed to be the place where her yoni fell. There is no idol in the inner sanctum. Devotees worship a natural rock formation kept moist by an underground spring. The temple is also an important centre of tantric tradition.
History
The present temple structure was rebuilt in the 16th and 17th centuries under the Koch and Ahom kings after earlier damage. Its beehive shaped shikhara is a well known example of the local Nilachal style of architecture.
Ambubachi Mela
The Ambubachi Mela is held every year in June during the monsoon. Devotees believe the goddess goes through her annual menstrual cycle at this time, so the temple doors stay closed for three days. On the fourth day, the doors reopen and devotees receive prasad. Lakhs of pilgrims, sadhus and tantrics gather during the mela, and the district administration makes special arrangements for crowds.
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Darshan tips
- There is a general queue, which can take several hours on busy days.
- The temple administration has at times offered a paid special entry for quicker darshan. Check the current system at the temple office.
- Go early in the morning to avoid long waits.
- Dress modestly and respect local customs.
- Avoid touts and pay only at official counters.
Other shrines on the hill
Nilachal hill also has temples of the ten Mahavidyas, including Bhuvaneshwari temple at the top, which offers a view of Guwahati city.
How to reach
Kamakhya is about 8 km from Guwahati railway station. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is about 20 km away. Kamakhya also has its own railway station. Taxis and buses go up the hill.
Bottom line
Kamakhya is a unique Shakti temple. Visit early, follow official queue systems, and plan carefully if you go during the Ambubachi Mela.
Source / स्रोत: Assam Tourism, Incredible India
