Umananda Temple

About Umananda Temple, Guwahati

Shiva shrine on a Brahmaputra island

• Umananda Temple stands on Peacock Island, a granite outcrop in the middle of the Brahmaputra River.
• Ahom king Gadadhar Singha commissioned the temple in 1694, although earthquakes later damaged sections that local merchants repaired.
• Visitors reach the island via motorized public ferries or private boats from Sukreswar Ghat and Kachari Ghat.
• Stone staircases lead past carved rock figures depicting Ganesha, Shiva, and Vishnu dating to the medieval era.
• Golden langurs previously lived on the island, and the surrounding trees still offer clear river views toward the north bank hills.
• Visiting between November and February avoids the rough monsoonal currents and heavy humidity.
• The temple grounds open at 6:00 AM and close around 5:00 PM before dark falls across the water.
• Entry onto the island is free, but boat fares run separately.