Navagraha Temple

Navagraha temple or the temple of nine planets is situated atop the Chitrasal hills in the heart of Guwahati. This temple is devoted to the Nava graha (the nine planets). These celestial bodies are named Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangal (Mars), Budh (Mercury), Guru/Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus) Shani (Saturn), Rahu and Ketu . This temple is enshrined in nine Shivalingas, representing the nine Celestial bodies, each covered with a colored garment symbolic of each of the celestial bodies, with a Shivalinga in the centre symbolising the Sun. It is said that this was a significant centre of study for astronomy and astrology. Devotees flung to this temple to make horoscopes of their new born children. Many people offer their prayings in this temple for their well-being. It is also believed that if there is any imbalance in their planetary positions or a particular planet is overshadowing another, one should visit this temple and offer special prayers. The Navagraha temple was built by the Ahom king Rajeswar Singha in the late 18th century.