Kamakhya Devi Temple
The Kamakhya Devi Temple is located on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. Overlooking the serene Brahmaputra River, this temple is one of the most revered Shaktipeeths in India.
Mythological Story & Religious Significance
Kamakhya Devi Temple is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, when Goddess Sati sacrificed herself in her father Daksha’s yagna, a grief-stricken Lord Shiva performed the Tandava with her corpse. To calm him, Lord Vishnu cut her body into 51 parts, which fell across the Indian subcontinent. The yoni (womb) of Sati is believed to have fallen at the site of Kamakhya, making it a powerful symbol of feminine energy and fertility.
This temple celebrates the divine feminine power (Shakti) and is an important pilgrimage for Tantric worshippers. The temple remains closed for three days during the Ambubachi Mela, symbolising the annual menstruation of Goddess Kamakhya — a rare celebration of menstruation in religious traditions.
Temple Architecture & History
The present temple structure was rebuilt in the 17th century by King Naranarayana of the Koch dynasty after it was destroyed by Muslim invaders. The temple displays a blend of Tantric, medieval Hindu, and Assamese architectural styles, with its beehive-shaped dome (shikhara), sculpted panels, and intricate carvings.
Unlike traditional temples, no idol of the goddess is worshipped here. Instead, the sanctum houses a natural rock fissure shaped like a yoni, constantly moistened by a natural underground spring.
Natural Beauty Surrounding the Temple
Perched atop Nilachal Hill, Kamakhya offers panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River, lush greenery, and misty hilltops. During sunrise and sunset, the temple is bathed in a surreal golden hue, enhancing its spiritual ambiance.
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal Season: October to April (pleasant climate)
- Avoid: Monsoons (June–September) due to heavy rainfall
- Special Event: Ambubachi Mela (June), attended by thousands of devotees and sadhus from across India.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), about 20 km away.
- By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is the nearest major station, about 6 km from the temple.
- By Road: Well connected via NH-27. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and local buses are easily available in Guwahati.
Road Journey to Kamakhya Temple
The drive from central Guwahati to Nilachal Hill is serene and scenic, with curving mountain roads, tea gardens, and views of the Brahmaputra River. The uphill route to the temple is dotted with devotional graffiti, small eateries, and resting spots. Pilgrims also often walk the last stretch as a mark of devotion.
Local Food & Eateries
- Jolpan (traditional Assamese breakfast) like pitha, chira, and doi.
- Try local thalis with assorted Assamese curries, bamboo shoot preparations, and fish delicacies.
- Popular eateries nearby: Mising Kitchen, Paradise Restaurant, and local stalls near the temple complex.
Accommodation Options
Category | Suggested Places | Highlights |
Budget | Hotel Blue Moon, Hotel Shree Krishna Inn | Close to the temple, basic amenities |
Mid-Range | Hotel Rains Inn, Vishwaratna Hotel | Comfortable stay with decent views |
Luxury | Radisson Blu Guwahati, Novotel Guwahati GS Road | Premium amenities and river views |
Category | Suggested Places | Highlights |
Budget | Hotel Blue Moon, Hotel Shree Krishna Inn | Close to the temple, basic amenities |
Mid-Range | Hotel Rains Inn, Vishwaratna Hotel | Comfortable stay with decent views |
Luxury | Radisson Blu Guwahati, Novotel Guwahati GS Road | Premium amenities and river views |
Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Umananda Temple (on Peacock Island)
- Assam State Museum
- Basistha Ashram
- Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra
- Brahmaputra River Cruise
For pilgrims and spiritual seekers, Kamakhya is not just a temple—it’s an experience of divine feminine energy, nature, mysticism, and serenity. Plan your journey to this spiritual abode and immerse in the power of Shakti that radiates from every stone of this sacred hill.