About Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati
Kamakhya Temple crowns Nilachal Hill overlooking the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati. It is among the most important of the Shakti Peethas, places where parts of the goddess Sati's body are said to have fallen. Here there is no murti (sacred image); instead, the goddess is worshipped as a natural stone cleft kept moist by an underground spring, deep within a dark chamber.
The temple is a major center of Tantric worship, and its beehive shaped dome reflects a distinctive Assamese style rebuilt in the sixteenth century. Each June the shrine closes for three days during the Ambubachi Mela, which honors the goddess's annual menstruation, and reopens to huge crowds of pilgrims and ascetics. Smaller temples to the ten Mahavidyas dot the hill.
What to see
- The garbhagriha with the yoni stone and spring
- Beehive style Nilachal dome
- Temples to the ten Mahavidya goddesses
- Views over the Brahmaputra
- Ambubachi Mela gathering of sadhus
Visiting Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati: practical guide
- Best time
- October to April; June for Ambubachi Mela
- Hours
- Usually 8 am to 1 pm and 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm
- Entry
- Free general queue; paid quick darshan about INR 500
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; remove footwear before entering
- Nearest airport
- Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), 20 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Go early to reduce queue time
- Animal sacrifice still occurs on some days; be prepared
- Take a taxi up the hill rather than walking in heat
Festivals and special days
- Ambubachi Mela
- Durga Puja
- Manasha Puja
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Hinduism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and legs covered.
- Some temples, such as Puri Jagannath, admit only Hindus; respect posted signs.
- Ask before photographing shrines, rituals or cremation grounds.
- Use your right hand to accept prasad, the blessed food offering.
- Avoid bringing leather items or meat into temple grounds.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati?
Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati is in Guwahati, Assam, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 26.1664, 91.7055. The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), 20 km.
What is the best time to visit Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati?
October to April; June for Ambubachi Mela
Is there an entry fee for Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati?
Free general queue; paid quick darshan about INR 500 Opening hours: Usually 8 am to 1 pm and 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm
What should I wear when visiting Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati?
Modest clothing; remove footwear before entering
Which religion is Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati sacred to?
Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati is sacred to Hinduism. Active place of worship.
