1. What is the historical significance of Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati?
The Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati is considered to be one of the oldest and most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. It holds a deep historical and religious significance as it is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas (holy shrines dedicated to the Goddess Shakti) mentioned in Hindu mythology. According to legend, it is said that the goddess Sati’s womb and vagina fell at this location when Lord Shiva was carrying her dead body. This event gave rise to the belief that the temple symbolizes female power and fertility.
The temple complex also has an ancient history, with references dating back to the Puranas (ancient Hindu texts) from 10th-12th century. Over time, it has undergone several renovations and additions by different rulers such as the Ahom kings, Koch dynasty, and Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
Apart from its religious significance, Kamakhya Temple also serves as a hub for tantric and shamanistic practices. The annual Ambubachi Mela held here attracts thousands of devotees from all over India who come to seek blessings from the goddess.
Overall, Kamakhya Temple holds great historical importance in Indian cultural heritage and continues to be a significant place of worship for Hindus across the country.
2. Can you suggest any other ancient temples or religious sites to visit in Guwahati?
Yes, some other ancient temples and religious sites to visit in Guwahati are the Kamakhya Temple, Navagraha Temple, Umananda Temple, Sukreshwar Temple, Hayagriva Madhava Temple and Dirgheswari Temple. Additionally, one can also visit the Basistha Ashram and the Hajo Pilgrimage Centre which houses various sacred sites for different faiths.
3. What is the story behind Umananda Island and its famous Shiva temple?
The story behind Umananda Island and its famous Shiva temple dates back to Hindu mythology. According to legend, the island was created by the Hindu god Shiva himself in order to please his beloved wife, Parvati. It is said that Parvati used to visit the island frequently as it was a peaceful and serene place. Impressed by her love for the island, Shiva transformed it into a beautiful haven for her and blessed it with eternal beauty.
In addition, there is also a popular belief that the Umananda Island played an important role in one of the major events in Hindu mythology – the churning of the ocean of milk. It is believed that during this event, a drop of nectar fell on the island, making it a sacred place and giving it its name “Peacock Island”.
Later on, during the 17th century, Ahom king Gadadhar Singha established a Shiva temple on the island. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known as Umananda Temple. It is believed that this temple was built at around the same time when Mughal emperor Aurangzeb destroyed numerous temples across India.
Today, Umananda Island and its famous Shiva temple are important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and attract tourists from all over the world who come to admire its scenic beauty and learn more about its rich history and mythology. The island also serves as a reminder of devotion and love between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
4. Are there any important monuments or landmarks related to Assamese history in Guwahati?
Yes, there are several important monuments and landmarks related to Assamese history in Guwahati. One of the most prominent is the Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. It is believed to have been built in the 8th century and holds great religious significance in Assam.
Other significant landmarks include the Umananda Temple, which is located on an island in the Brahmaputra River and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple dates back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest in Guwahati.
There are also several historical forts and palaces, such as the Talatal Ghar, Rang Ghar and Kareng Ghar, which were built during the rule of the Ahom dynasty in Assam. These structures serve as important reminders of Assamese history and culture.
Additionally, the State Museum of Assam in Guwahati houses a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, manuscripts, paintings, weapons, and more from different periods in Assamese history.
Overall, these monuments and landmarks play a significant role in preserving and showcasing Assamese heritage and history for generations to come.
5. What are some popular scenic spots for sightseeing in and around Guwahati?
1. Kamakhya Temple: Known for its religious and historical significance, this temple is situated on the Nilachal hill and offers a beautiful view of the city.
2. Assam State Museum: This museum showcases the art, culture, and history of Assam through its exhibits including sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts.
3. Umananda Island: Located on the Brahmaputra river, this island is home to the Shiva temple and offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding greenery.
4. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: A popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts, this sanctuary is known for its population of one-horned rhinoceros and other animals like tigers and elephants.
5. Sualkuchi Village: Also known as the “Silk Village”, this place is famous for its handloom silk production and traditional weaving techniques. Tourists can visit here to witness the process of silk making.
6. Bhuvaneshwari Temple Hill: Situated in Chitrachal Hill, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhuvaneswari and offers a stunning panoramic view of Guwahati city.
7. Peacock Island: Located on Brahmaputra River, this island is home to various species of birds including peacocks. It also offers a serene environment for sightseeing and picnics.
8. Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary: This wetland sanctuary is famous for bird watching with over 200 species found here including migratory birds like storks and pelicans.
9. Saraighat Bridge: This iconic bridge over Brahmaputra River connects Guwahati to North-East India region and offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding areas.
10.Basistha Ashram: This ancient ashram located on Basistha Hill is believed to be the residence of sage Basistha in Hindu mythology. It has scenic surroundings with a waterfall and caves to explore.
6. Is there a guided tour available for exploring the grand architecture of Sivasagar town near Guwahati?
Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring the grand architecture of Sivasagar town near Guwahati. These tours typically include a visit to popular historical sites such as Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, and Joysagar Tank. They also provide knowledgeable guides who can give insights into the history and significance of these architectural wonders.
7. Which museum or gallery houses the most extensive collection of Assamese artifacts and art pieces?
The Assam State Museum, located in Guwahati, India, houses the most extensive collection of Assamese artifacts and art pieces.
8. How can one witness and learn about the traditional Bihu dance form in its authentic setting in Guwahati?
One can witness and learn about the traditional Bihu dance form in its authentic setting in Guwahati by attending traditional Bihu celebrations and performances during the Bihu festival, which is typically held in April every year. These celebrations often include music, dance, and cultural exhibitions, providing a firsthand experience of the Bihu dance. Additionally, one can also visit cultural centers or institutes in Guwahati that offer workshops and classes on Bihu dance, allowing for a more immersive learning experience. Visiting local villages or communities where the Bihu dance has been preserved and passed down through generations is also a great way to witness and learn about this traditional dance form in its purest form.
9. What is so special about Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary located just an hour’s drive from Guwahati?
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is known for being the home to the highest concentration of one-horned rhinoceros in the world.
10. Is it possible to visit Kaziranga National Park, one of India’s most famous tiger reserves, from Guwahati?
Yes, it is possible to visit Kaziranga National Park from Guwahati. It is located about 200 kilometers away from Guwahati and can be reached by road or train. There are also tour companies that offer day trips or multi-day tours from Guwahati to Kaziranga National Park.
11. Which is the oldest and most well-preserved fort in Assam that can be visited as a day trip from Guwahati?
The oldest and most well-preserved fort in Assam that can be visited as a day trip from Guwahati is the Rang Ghar.
12. Are there any interesting colonial-era buildings or structures in the city that are worth visiting for their architectural style?
Yes, there are several colonial-era buildings and structures in the city that are worth visiting for their unique architectural styles. Some notable examples include the Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania which served as the meeting place for the Second Continental Congress and is known for its Georgian-style architecture. Another is Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida which is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States and features Spanish Renaissance-style architecture. There are also a variety of churches, government buildings, and private homes from this time period in cities such as Boston, Charleston, and Williamsburg that showcase different colonial architectural influences.
13. Which river cruise route would you recommend for exploring the beauty of Brahmaputra River from Guwahati city center?
As a large and busy river in India, Brahmaputra offers a variety of cruise options for travelers to explore its beauty. Depending on your preferences and the duration of your trip, there are multiple routes you can choose from starting at Guwahati city center.
One recommended route is to take a round trip from Guwahati towards the east, passing through the states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. This route will give you a chance to witness the stunning landscapes of both rural and urban areas along the Brahmaputra River.
Another option is to head west from Guwahati, towards the state of West Bengal. This route takes you along the Bangladesh border, offering picturesque views of lush green fields and traditional villages.
Lastly, if time permits, you can consider taking a longer journey down south on the Brahmaputra River towards Kolkata. This route will take you through various cultural cities and towns along the way and allow you to experience different aspects of life on this mighty river.
Ultimately, while choosing a river cruise route on Brahmaputra from Guwahati city center, it’s essential to research and plan based on your personal interests and budget to ensure a memorable experience.
14. Can you suggest some good vantage points for capturing stunning views of sunrise or sunset over Brahmaputra River in Guwahati?
There are several good vantage points for capturing stunning views of sunrise or sunset over Brahmaputra River in Guwahati. Some suggestions include:
1. Umananda Island: This small river island offers a beautiful view of the Brahmaputra, with the city skyline in the background. It’s a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset over the river.
2. Chilarai Park: Located on the banks of Brahmaputra, this park offers a panoramic view of the river and is an ideal spot to capture the changing colors of the sky during sunrise or sunset.
3. Uma Nanda Temple: This ancient temple situated on top of a hill provides an excellent vantage point for witnessing a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over Brahmaputra River.
4. Neelachal Hill: Located near Kamakhya Temple, this hilltop offers a spectacular view of the river and is a popular spot among photographers for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset shots.
5. Sukreswar Ghat: This riverside ghat is another popular vantage point for capturing gorgeous views of sunrise and sunset over Brahmaputra River in Guwahati.
Remember to always be respectful while visiting these places and make sure you don’t disturb the locals or damage any property while trying to capture that perfect shot.
15. How long does it take to reach Hajo, a holy place with multiple shrines, temples and mosques, from central Guwahati by road transport?
The distance from central Guwahati to Hajo is approximately 29 kilometers and it takes about 1 hour to reach by road transport.
16. Where can tourists experience local village life and interact with villagers near Guwahati city without going too far into the countryside?
Tourists can experience local village life and interact with villagers near Guwahati city at Hajo, a small town situated about 30 kilometers away. It is known for its religious significance and traditional lifestyle, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture without traveling too far into the countryside.
17. Is there any guided tour available for exploring the ancient rock sculptures and rock art paintings in Jatinga village near Guwahati?
Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring the ancient rock sculptures and rock art paintings in Jatinga village near Guwahati. These tours can be booked through local tour operators or through the tourism department of Assam.
18. An Assamese partner of mine raves about a scenic place named Chandubi located 60 km away from Guwahati, but I couldn’t find it on the map?
Chandubi is a scenic place located approximately 60 km away from Guwahati.
19. Are there any local markets or shopping districts in Guwahati where one can find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs from Assam?
Yes, there are several local markets and shopping districts in Guwahati where one can find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs from Assam. Some popular options include Fancy Bazaar, Pan Bazaar, Ganeshguri Market, and the City Centre Mall. These markets offer a variety of authentic handmade products such as bamboo and cane items, silk fabrics, wood carvings, masks, pottery, and more. Visitors can also purchase Assamese tea, spices, and other local specialties at these markets.
20. How long does it take to reach Sualkuchi village, popularly known as “Silk Village,” famous for producing Muga silk, from Guwahati?
The distance between Guwahati and Sualkuchi village is approximately 35 kilometers and it usually takes about 1 hour to reach by road.