Latest news with #KamakhyaTemple
India.com
7 days ago
- India.com
From River Rafting To Jungle Cruises With Quirky Adventures In Guwahati
Guwahati is famous for being the 'Gateway to Northeast India' due to being situated at the bank of the magnificent Brahmaputra River. Not only can one experience rich culture and heritage, ancient temples, vibrant fests, but also relish in the adventures the city has to offer. As much as trekking and paragliding are widely popular in the region, there is still endless to explore and do in the city. This is an all inclusive guide to explore Guwahati as a trek and para glide enthusiast. 1. Brahmaputra River River Rafting The Brahmaputra River is renowned for being the 2nd largest river in the world which makes it the ideal place for thrill seekers. White water rafting is quite the thing during the monsoon because of how turbulent it becomes. Exploration Tours have aid in store with some of the most breathtaking views, great landscapes and the power of the river itself. No matter your expertise, the Brahmaputra river guarantees exhilarating adventures. 2. Camping Beneath The Stars If you love spending time outdoors, camping on the banks of the Brahmaputra River or in the nearby hills is something that you must indulge in. Guwahati has countless places of serenity where you can set up a tent, have bonfires in the evening, and enjoy the magnificent view of the starry sky during the night. Specific areas include the Chandubi Lake region and the foothills of the Meghalaya plateau. These areas offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life as well as birdwatching, stargazing, and even storytelling by the campfire. 3. Deepor Beel Wildlife Exploration In addition to being a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, Deepor Beel, also a Ramsar site as well as one of the largest freshwater lakes in Assam, is an epitome of diverse adventures. While kayaking in the calm waters of the lake, you are able to view the different species of birds which include migratory birds such as Siberian cranes. Other than that, cycling tours on the outskirts of the wetlands help you get to local villages and view the rural lifestyle. 4. Rock Climbing at Nilachal Hills The rugged hills of Nilachal, which houses the notable Kamakhya Temple offers an amazing chance for rock climbers. The hills present a unique challenge for both beginners and experienced climbers. Climbers have guided climbs which are safe and also offer stunning views of Guwahati city and Brahmaputra river. The combination of physical challenge, spirituality and nature makes rock climbing a unique experience at Nilachal Hills. 5. Ziplining Adventures Ziplining is becoming popular in Guwahati as it is an enjoyable and exhilarating means of seeing the landscapes of the cities from the sky. Numerous adventure parks and resorts have opened ziplining attractions for people living in the city as well as international tourists. It is a great experience for the tourists because they get to soar over beautiful green mountains and lakes. This activity is perfect for groups and families looking to do something special. Conclusion Guwahati has a lot more to offer than just the trekking and paragliding activities for adventure lovers. The city caters to a wide range of skill levels and interests with rock climbing, river rafting, ziplining, camping, and so much more. Whether you are looking to escape to the serenity of nature or are on the lookout for some heart-racing activity, Guwahati has something for everyone. Guwahati is bound to fulfill all your adventure dreams and leave you with the desire to come back again and again. So grab your bags and boots and set off to this beautiful city and explore its wonders which are often ignored by the tourists.
India.com
11-07-2025
- India.com
Why Is It Called Guwahati? The Real Story Dates Back Thousands Of Years!
Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra river, Guwahati stands one of the most lively and culturally rich cities in the Northeast region of India. Guwahati earns its recognition as the Gateway to Northeast, owing to its significance. But, have you ever stopped to ask yourself, how did Guwahati get its name? The answer is, as intriguing as its rich historical background filled with mythology, culture, and geography. Origin of Guwahati The moniker 'Guwahati' is said to have been taken from two Assamese words: Areca nut 'Guwa' and market 'Haat'. Hence, Guwahati literally translates to the market of areca nuts. This name marks the capture of Guwahati's essence being a powerful trade center for areca nuts. Areca nuts, which are largely used alongside betel leaves, have a cultural and social place in Assam and wider parts of Southeast Asia. Guwahati was always bound to be the center of trade and spirituality, thanks to its strategic location. This coupled with the city's intertwined history, ancient legends, and religious importance shapes the reason how and why Guwahati is known as what it is today. Connections Guwahati's saga has unbroken ties with Hindu mythology and the two epics, the Mahabharata and the Kalika Purana. One tale suggests that the region was once called 'Pragjyotishpura,' meaning 'the city of eastern lights' or 'Pragjyotishpura' demonstrating its stature as a hub of learning and spirituality during ancient periods. It is believed in myths that Pragjyotishpura was the capital of a demon king Narakasura, who after getting defeated by Lord Krishna became one of the important rulers of the city. The city is also linked with the mythic hero Bhagadatta, known for his allegiance to the Kauravas during the Mahabharata. These myths and folklore enable Guwahati's growing recognition in religion and culture of India. Another mythological link is with the goddess Kamakhya who has a shrine in Guwahati on the Nilachal Hill. With nearly all temples of Shakti fervently worshipped in India, the Kamakhya Temple is perhaps most illustrious and is a prime Shakti Peetha. The temple has made Guwahati a hub of spirituality, adding to the city's unique blend of history and culture. Final Phase Pragjyotishpura, over time, evolved into one of the prominent trading centers Guwahati. Areca nut was one of the many trades that transformed the economy and identity of the city. Consequently,areca nut markets came to denote the city itself, thus leading to the name Guwahati. It is assumed the transition occurred during the medieval period. Guwahati gained tremendous importance over time, forming a critical junction between the subcontinent of India and South East Asia. Over the years, Guwahati has seen numerous cultures come and go, including dynasties like the Varmans, The Palas, and the Ahoms. Because of the presence of the rivers like Brahmaputra, Guwahati cultivated trade routes with Southeast Asia, therefore proving Guhawati vital for the region. There was an increasing importance and utility to a city like Guwahati during the rule of Ahoms and this remained true until 1826. Because of its location, Guwahati became a key point in terms of military, trade, and administrative practices. Moreover, with the intention of protecting the city during invasions, Ahoms built various temples and tanks that can still be found across the city. Influence and Modern Guwahati The city of Guwahati has gone through extensive transformations since the British settled in the area during the 19th century. With British rule in the region, it developed into a major administrative and commercial center. The British recognized this and built roads, railways and schools which helped the city develop further, all of which defined modern Guwahati. Guwahati has also had its share of growth after 1947 when India gained independence. The city became the capital of Assam and further served as the largest city in the state. Today, it is a fast expanding urban center that serves as one of the leading education, trade and culture hubs in Northeast India. Conclusion The name Guwahati is captivating on its own being more than just a reference to a market of areca nuts. This is one of the many reasons that exemplify the city's diverse and extravagant history. Guwahati has been known to be significant from the time it was Pragjyotishpura which is why it is regarded as a wondrous trading hub. The evolution of the name illustrates the cultural, economic, and spiritual aspects of the place which is why it has long distinguished itself as a jaw dropping region in the historical context of India. Guwahati has changed significantly over time – not only its infrastructure, but also the economy, business, tourism, and culture. However, it has not forgotten its ancient roots. The age-old temples, modernized bustling markets, and the constant Brahmaputra river narrate a story of the city's remarkable history. If you are a history buff, spiritual worshipper, or a wanderer looking for experience, Guwahati has a piece of Northeast India's heart that encompasses the blend of history and contemporary times.
India.com
02-07-2025
- India.com
Underneath A Million Stars: Guwahati's Most Stunning Cliff Vistas
Guwahati functions as Northeast India's entryway where residents can access both cultural sites and natural locations with excellent conditions for watching stars. The region surrounding Guwahati provides lesser light pollution than big metropolitan areas thus revealing various concealed observational spots that astronomy fans can use to observe celestial phenomena. The following list identifies seven outstanding cliffside locations adjacent to Guwahati which provide excellent stargazing conditions through spectacular views and negligible artificial lighting interference. 1. Chandrakona Hills Chandrakona operates as a beautiful hill destination within a 60-kilometer distance from Guwahati within Meghalaya's Ri-Bhoi district. A high vantage point at this location offers visitors complete views across surrounding valley locations and the night sky above. On nights without moonlight Chandrakona Hills presents perfect conditions to watch Orion and the Milky Way due to its pollution-free environment and sparse urbanization. Visitors make their travel itinerary by starting with sightseeing in the daytime before moving on to evening stargazing. 2. Umiam Lake Viewpoints To the east of Guwahati stands Umiam Lake which draws a large number of tourists visiting Meghalaya. Visitors seek out cliffs near the lake to behold stunning combined views of the reservoir below and starry space above although water activities are what people primarily associate with the lake. Stargazing is optimal on elevated areas that possess low light pollution since these spots work well for telescope observation and camera usage. 3. Kamakhya Hilltop Located near the heart of the city at Nilachal Hill stands Kamakhya Temple which simultaneously serves the spiritual needs of worshippers and offers optimal stargazing conditions. Planetary observables become more distinct on high-altitude locations despite slight distortion by city luminescence. You will experience an exceptional viewpoint at dawn when the dimming eastern sky brightens up and starlight remains visible during early morning sessions. 4. Majuli Island Riverbanks The highest point of Majuli Island stands as the largest river island in the world because its position above the Brahmaputra River provides elevated riverfront scenery similar to cliff views. These secluded areas sit about 200 kilometers from Guwahati providing faultless skies since there is no artificial lighting present. The cold winter air provides exceptional visibility that lets viewers see meteor showers such as the Geminids and Leonids during night time. 5. Hajo Pancha Ratna Temple Area Located within 24 kilometers west of Guwahati, Hajo becomes famous for its historic temples as well as its spiritual importance. The hilly landscape demonstrates advantages for space observation activities. Pancha Ratna Temple stands atop a little hill where its location creates an isolated relaxation space that protects viewers from the activity of the town below. The location provides unobstructed views of Scorpius and Sagittarius which dominate the southern part of the night sky during clear conditions. Conclusion Near Guwahati you will discover a simple yet exciting opportunity to join nature and space exploration that provides inner peace. The combination of mist-covered Chandrakona hills with peaceful Majuli riverfronts provides beautiful contrasting experiences and distinct obstacles for each location. The night sky can be observed from multiple hidden cliff locations where astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers both discover the marvels of outer space. Your upcoming stargazing experience explained here requires equipment and friend participation to reveal magnificent universe insights about outer space alongside your personal inner journey.
Time of India
22-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Faith, livelihood converge as Ambubachi Mahayog draws traders to city
1 2 3 4 5 6 Guwahati: With the sacred Ambubachi Mahayog set to begin on June 22, small traders from across India have begun setting up makeshift stalls near the Bhootnath temple, transforming the area into a vibrant marketplace of religious artefacts and spiritual items. Celebrated annually at the revered Kamakhya Temple — one of the 51 Shakti Peethas — the Ambubachi Mahayog draws lakhs of devotees from across the country. The spiritual congregation marks the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, during which the temple's sanctum sanctorum remains closed until June 26. Traders have arrived from states including Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, carrying an array of items essential to Hindu worship. Roadside stalls near Bhootnath temple now showcase vibrant displays of pendants, rudrakshas, shivlings, and other devotional merchandise, adding to the spiritual energy ahead of the event. "I've been coming here for the past eight years during Ambubachi. The devotion of people truly touches me," said Usha Bhosle, a trader from Nasik, Maharashtra. "The demand for authentic puja items is always high, but we lose customers daily due to the lack of online payment facilities," she added. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Undo Bhosle added, "Earlier, I went to 'Maha Kumbh Mela' this year and now came to Assam with a group of seven people from my native place. I travel around places where major religious fairs are organised." She estimates that more than 200 traders from different parts of India have come to Guwahati, not just to earn a livelihood, but to be part of the spiritual fervour surrounding Ambubachi. The influx of traders and the expected surge in pilgrims have prompted local authorities to ramp up preparations. Gitanjali Pathak, Assistant Commissioner of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), outlined civic arrangements for the event. "GMC has deployed additional sanitation workers at all temporary camps to maintain cleanliness throughout the Ambubachi period," Pathak said. However, Pathak also raised concerns about street vendors. "We do not encourage roadside vending by migrant traders, as it may lead to severe traffic congestion during the festival. Our enforcement branch has been instructed to manage the situation." Many traders endure tough living conditions during their stay — sleeping near the Kamakhya railway station or the Bhootnath cremation ground—while pursuing their livelihoods. Rajesh Kumar, a trader from Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh shared the emotional motivation behind his journey: "We travel thousands of kilometres because Ambubachi is not just a festival — it's a celebration of faith. Through these sacred items, we help devotees connect with the divine."
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Time of India
Devotees arrive at Nilachal Hills for Ambubachi mahayog
1 2 Guwahati: As the Ambubachi Mahayog, the annual spiritual congregation, begins on Sunday, thousands of devotees from across the country have started arriving at the Nilachal Hills, home to the ancient Kamakhya Temple. The four-day festival marks the annual menstruation cycle of the goddess Kamakhya, making it one of the most significant spiritual gatherings in the northeastern state. Kabindra Prasad Sarma, bor doloi (head priest) of the temple, said the Mahayog is scheduled to commence at 2:56 pm on Sunday and will conclude at 3:00 am on June 26. The areas of Bharalu, Bhutnath, Maligaon, and Adabari are already witnessing a massive influx of devotees who have begun arriving from Rajasthan, Bihar, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh, settling there ahead of the Mahayog. Temporary tents and bhandaras (community kitchens) have been set up in these localities to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. The streets and open spaces in these areas are brimming with activity as the crowd continues to swell with each passing hour, indicating the scale of participation this year. While some have consistently run community kitchens over the years, this year many have stepped up for the first time, claiming they are inspired by the spirit of service during the Ambubachi. "This is the first time we opened a stall, where we will be serving food and water to the pilgrims. We pooled in the necessary resources and got our tent registered at the district administration's office," said Anuvaa Dutta, a resident from Adabari. Meanwhile, Bishwajit Paul, a resident of Pandu who sets up a community kitchen near Pandu Port, said they usually begin operations on the day of the Mahayog. However, due to the overwhelming crowd this year, they were compelled to open a day in advance. "Earlier, tents used to be set up at both Pandu Port and the Kamakhya Railway Station, but this time, the majority of devotees are staying in tents erected on the port premises itself. So, we had to open the gates today. Starting Sunday, we will be serving three meals a day, along with drinks and snacks," he said. Paul also added that the cost of running the community kitchen is very high, as last year, their daily expenditure went up to Rs 1.20 lakh, and this time, they are expecting it to rise even further.
