Umananda Temple

Just in the heart of Guwahati rests a tranquil retreat on the mighty Brahmaputra lies Umananda Island. This smallest inhabited river island is home to the revered Umananda Temple, which is a revered as a sacred pilgrimage site. A ferry ride from the riverbank takes you across the shimmering waters to this spiritual haven. While you wait at the jetty, the sweeping views of the Brahmaputra’s riverfront offer a moment of quiet beauty before the journey begins.

It is believed that Mahadev or Lord Shiva has turned the God of love Kamdev into ashes in this very place. Another legend says that Mahadev is present here for enhancing the love of Uma and hence the name is Umananda. The presiding deity of this temple is Umananda, which is a form of Lord Shiva. The temple comes alive during Shivaratri as devotees, sadhus and tourists make a beeline to this floating place of worship.

Many visit the island for its sheer proximity to nature and the picturesque location. The dwellers here are the priests and the caretakers of the Temple and of course the mischievous primates out to snatch the fruity offerings.