Bhasmachal Hill · Peacock Island · Sacred River Shrine
Umananda Devaloi Temple
A tranquil sanctuary situated on the world's smallest inhabited river island, where the mighty Brahmaputra bows to Lord Shiva.
The Legend of Bhasmachal
The Burning of Kamadeva
According to the Kalika Purana, Lord Shiva was once deep in meditation on this island hill. Kamadeva, the God of Love, attempted to interrupt Shiva's penance to arouse his desire for Parvati. Enraged, Shiva opened his third eye and reduced Kamadeva to ashes. Hence, the hillock is known as 'Bhasmachal' (the hill of ashes). The temple name 'Umananda' is derived from 'Uma' (Parvati) and 'Ananda' (Joy), signifying the joy Shiva found in the company of his consort on this island.
Ahom Heritage
Construction by Gadadhar Singha
The current structure of the temple dates back to 1694, commissioned by the powerful Ahom King Gadadhar Singha. Although parts of the original temple were damaged during the great earthquake of 1897, the core sanctuary and many exquisite stone carvings survived. The temple exhibits a blend of local Assamese style with rock-cut sculptures that depict various Hindu deities including Surya, Ganesha, and Vishnu.
Pilgrimage & Nature
The Peacock Island Experience
Reaching the temple is a spiritual journey in itself, requiring a ferry or motorboat ride across the Brahmaputra from the Umananda Ghat. The island was named 'Peacock Island' by British administrators due to its shape. Beyond the religious significance, the island is the habitat of the rare Golden Langur, which are considered sacred by the locals and frequently interact with devotees visiting the shrine.
Pilgrimage Guide
Visiting Umananda
Best Time to Visit
October to March. During the monsoon, the Brahmaputra river swells, making the ferry ride an adventurous experience.
Temple Timings
Open 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Note that ferry services from the Umananda Ghat usually stop shortly before sunset.
Nearby
The Guwahati Planetarium and the Assam State Museum are located near the ghat where you board the ferry.
Getting There
Located in the middle of the river in Guwahati. Access is exclusively via motorboats or government ferries from Umananda Ghat.
Har Har Mahadev
May the tranquility of the smallest river island and the grace of Lord Shiva bring peace to your spirit.