The vibrant heart of Guwahati, the Ugro Tara Temple is a spiritual treasure of Assam, revered as a Shakti Peeth and a powerful Tantric shrine. Dedicated to Goddess Tara, a fierce incarnation of the Divine Mother, this ancient temple holds deep mythological, spiritual, and cultural significance. With its unique worship practices, spiritual intensity, and location by the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River, the temple draws pilgrims, history lovers, and curious travelers from across India.
About the Temple
Ugro Tara Temple is a revered Shakti shrine located in the heart of Guwahati, Assam, dedicated to Goddess Tara, a fierce form of Goddess Kali. This sacred temple, dating back to the 18th century, was constructed by Ahom King Shiva Singha. Instead of a traditional idol, the goddess is worshipped in the form of a water-filled pit, symbolizing her womb-like power.This unique Shakti Peeth is considered spiritually connected to the Kamakhya Temple, making it significant for Tantric practices and rituals. Devotees visit seeking blessings for fertility, protection, and spiritual power.
Temple Description
The temple was built in the 18th century by Ahom king Shiva Singha. Unlike typical temples, it doesn't house a traditional idol. Instead, the goddess is worshipped in the form of a small pit filled with water – a symbolic representation of the goddess. The sanctum is built underground and has a unique architectural style blending Tantric influences and local Assamese aesthetics.
Temple Speciality
Water-filled pit instead of an idol – unique Tantric symbolism.
Important Tantric and Shakti Peeth site.
Celebrates major festivals with grandeur, especially Navratri, Durga Puja, and Kali Puja.
Practiced rituals include offerings of red hibiscus flowers, betel nuts, and specific Tantric rites.
Known for its spiritual intensity and deep-rooted Shaktism influence.
Address & Coordinates
Address: Uzan Bazaar, Guwahati, Assam 781001, India
Location (Lat-Long): 26.1909° N, 91.7539° E
Temple Timings & Sevas
Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Poojas: Morning and evening rituals
Special Sevas:
Tantra poojas during Navratri
Animal sacrifices on specific festival days (subject to regulations)
Devotees can offer flowers, rice, and vermillion
Facilities
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected by city buses, autos, and taxis
Smooth road connectivity from railway station and airport
Food Facilities
Nearby Assamese eateries, cafes, and local street food stalls
Offers traditional cuisine like rice thali, fish curry, pitha
Stay Facilities
Lodges, budget hotels in Uzan Bazaar, Pan Bazaar
Premium stays available in central Guwahati (2–4 km away) Nearest Travel Hubs
Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station (~2.5 km)
Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) (~22 km)
Bus Station: ISBT Guwahati, Betkuchi (~11 km) How to Reach
Bus Routes
City buses from ISBT Guwahati, Fancy Bazaar, and Paltan Bazar to Uzan Bazaar
ASTC and private services available from nearby towns
Train Routes
Trains from all over India to Guwahati Junction
Take a cab or auto to the temple from station (~10 min)
Airways
Direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore to Guwahati Airport
Prepaid taxis and app cabs available from airport to temple (~45 min)
Nearby Attractions
Nearby Cities
Shillong – ~100 km
Tezpur – ~180 km
Jorhat – ~300 km
Nearby Temples & Places
Kamakhya Temple – Major Shakti Peetha (~8 km)
Umananda Temple – On Peacock Island (via ferry)
Navagraha Temple
Assam State Museum
Brahmaputra riverfront – perfect for evening cruises
Best Time to Visit
October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and festivals
Avoid monsoon (June–August) due to heavy rains
What to Shop For?
Assamese silk (Muga, Eri, Pat sarees)
Handicrafts, bamboo & cane items
Traditional jewelry
Local Assam tea, pickles, sweets (pitha, til ladoo)
Suggested Itinerary (Day Trip)
Morning
8:00 AM – Breakfast (Jolpan)
9:00 AM – Visit Ugro Tara Temple
10:30 AM – Navagraha Temple visit
Afternoon
12:00 PM – Umananda Temple (ferry from Uzan Bazaar)
2:00 PM – Lunch near Pan Bazaar
Evening
4:00 PM – Assam State Museum or Brahmaputra Sunset Cruise
6:30 PM – Evening Aarti at Ugro Tara Temple
8:00 PM – Local dinner & shopping at Fancy Bazaar
Temple Etiquette
Dress modestly
Avoid photography in sanctum
Be mindful of Tantric rituals
Remove shoes before entering premises
Emergency Info
Police: 100
Ambulance: 108
Fire Station: 101
Hospital: Gauhati Medical College (~4 km)
Tourist Info: Assam Tourism Office at Guwahati Railway Station
The Ugro Tara Temple is not just a place of worship but a portal into Assam's rich spiritual heritage and Tantric traditions. From its unique water deity to its intense rituals and divine aura, the temple offers an unforgettable journey for every seeker. Surrounded by historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and the tranquil Brahmaputra, a visit here is both spiritually enriching and culturally immersive.
