Chitrachal Hill · City of Eastern Astrology · Celestial Alignment
Navagraha Temple
The sacred gateway to the stars, where the movements of the cosmos have been tracked for over a millennium.
Historical Origins
The Pragjyotishpura Legacy
Guwahati was known in ancient times as 'Pragjyotishpura'—the City of Eastern Astrology. This temple, perched atop Chitrachal Hill, was the epicenter of this tradition. It was established to study the positions of the stars and their influence on human life. The present temple was built in the late 18th century by the Ahom King Rajeswar Singha, following the destruction of an even older astronomical center on the same site.
Inside the Sanctum
The Nine Lingams
The unique feature of the Navagraha temple is the arrangement within the inner sanctum. Instead of a single deity, there are nine Shivalingams, each representing one of the nine major celestial bodies of Indian astrology: Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangala (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu (North Node), and Ketu (South Node). Each Lingam is draped in a cloth of a specific color associated with that planet.
Spiritual Significance
Seeking Cosmic Balance
Thousands of pilgrims visit the Navagraha temple to perform 'Graha Shanti' rituals, seeking to mitigate the negative influences of planetary alignments in their horoscopes. The temple offers a panoramic view of the Brahmaputra river and the city of Guwahati, serving as a reminder of the connection between the earthly landscape and the vast, shifting sky above.
Pilgrimage Guide
Visiting Navagraha
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. However, the winter months (November to February) are best for enjoying the panoramic views of the city from the hilltop.
Temple Timings
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Many devotees prefer visiting on Saturdays or during planetary transit days for special rituals.
Nearby
Assam State Museum, the scenic Dighalipukhuri Park, and the Brahmaputra Heritage Centre are all within 3-5 km of the hill base.
Getting There
Perched on Chitrachal Hill in Guwahati. Accessible via taxi or auto-rickshaw from the main city. It is a short, scenic drive up the winding hill road.
Shanti Shanti Shanti
May the celestial alignment of the nine planets bring balance, harmony, and prosperity to your life's path.