The heart of the mighty Brahmaputra River, the Umananda Temple stands as a spiritual oasis on Peacock Island the smallest inhabited river island in the world. This sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is not only an architectural and cultural gem but also a serene escape from the bustle of Guwahati city. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a lover of history, or an admirer of scenic beauty, Umananda Temple offers a unique blend of devotion, mythological significance, and natural splendor. This comprehensive guide is crafted to help you explore every aspect of your visit from how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and what not to miss.
About Uma Nanda Temple
Uma Nanda Temple is a revered Shiva temple situated on Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam. The temple, whose name translates to "the bliss of Shiva," was constructed in 1694 AD by the Ahom king Gadadhar Singha. It stands as a symbol of devotion and tranquil spirituality.
Temple Description
The temple showcases a blend of Assamese and North Indian architectural styles. Though originally built during the Ahom era, it was damaged by an earthquake in 1897 and later rebuilt by a local merchant. The temple houses several rock-cut figures of Hindu deities like Surya, Ganesh, and Vishnu, carved into the surrounding rocks.
Temple Specialty
Located on India’s smallest inhabited river island.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva—believed to be meditating here during creation.
A major spot during Maha Shivaratri, drawing thousands of devotees.
Offers panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River and Guwahati city.
Temple Address
Umananda Temple, Peacock Island, Brahmaputra River, Guwahati, Assam 781001, India
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
26.1901° N, 91.7524° E
Temple Timings
Opening Time: 5:30 AM
Closing Time: 6:00 PM
Best to visit in the morning or before sunset due to ferry schedules.
Temple Sevas
Rudrabhishekam
Archana and Aarti
Special Poojas on Maha Shivaratri
Local priests perform daily worship rituals.
Traveling Facilities
Ferry Services: Boats available from Kachari Ghat (near High Court) to Peacock Island. Operates from morning to evening.
Private Boats also available for group visits.
Food Facilities
No restaurants on the island itself.
Multiple eateries and restaurants available near Kachari Ghat and Fancy Bazaar in Guwahati.
Stay Facilities
No accommodation on the island.
Hotels, guesthouses, and lodges available across Guwahati (especially in Pan Bazaar, Paltan Bazaar, and Fancy Bazaar).
Nearby Railway Station
Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) – approx. 2.5 km from ferry point.
Nearby Airport
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati – approx. 24 km.
Nearby Bus Station
ISBT Guwahati (Betkuchi) – approx. 10 km from ferry point.
Paltan Bazaar Bus Stand – approx. 2.5 km.
Bus Routes to Temple
Reach Paltan Bazaar or Kacheri Ghat via local buses or rickshaws.
From there, take a ferry to Peacock Island.
Train Routes to Temple
Trains to Guwahati Railway Station from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
From the station, take an auto/taxi to Kacheri Ghat for the ferry.
Airways to Temple
Fly to Guwahati Airport.
Take a taxi to Kacheri Ghat (approx. 1-hour drive).
Ferry to the island.
Nearby Cities to Temple
Shillong (~100 km)
Tezpur (~180 km)
Nagaon (~120 km)
Jorhat (~300 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples & Places
Kamakhya Temple
Navagraha Temple
Basistha Temple
Assam State Museum
Umananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Dighalipukhuri Park
Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Pleasant weather and post-monsoon clarity.
Avoid monsoon (June–September) due to strong river currents.
Shopping Famous For?
Silk (Muga & Eri) Sarees
Assamese Traditional Jewelry
Handicrafts and Bamboo Items
Local Tea Varieties
Pickles and Spices from Fancy Bazaar
A visit to Umananda Temple is more than just a trip to a sacred site it's a journey into the soul of Assam’s spiritual heritage, natural beauty, and timeless mythology. The tranquil ferry ride across the Brahmaputra, the echo of chants inside the temple, and the panoramic views from Peacock Island create an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Whether you're in Guwahati for a day or planning a cultural circuit across Northeast India, make sure Umananda Temple is on your list. Come for the blessings, stay for the peace and leave with a heart full of serenity and a camera full of memories.
