Manikarneswar Temple North Guwahati. Places of Interest in North Guwahati Area. Tourist Places near Guwahati. মণিকৰ্ণেশ্বৰ
Manikarneswar Devalaya, Historical Temple of North Guwahati
Manikarneswar temple মণিকৰ্ণেশ্বৰ দেৱালয় is a Hindu temple located in North Guwahati, Assam. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is considered one of the holiest shrines of the state. The temple architecture is of ancient and modern styles, with the main shrine featuring a shikhara-style roof. The temple attracts devotees, especially during the festivals of Shivratri and Bihu.
The Myth about Manikarneswar
The Kalika Puran says that King Narakasur looted invaluable gems, pearls, gold, rubies, and other precious stones from beneath the seas, the underworld, and from heaven. He then deposited them in the shape of a mountain, which has now become Manikarneswar, where King Narakasur built a beautiful palace according to the Jogini Tantra.
In the first century, King Debesheswar built a temple over the Manikarneswar Linga, which is a renowned holy place highly spoken of.
Historical Development
The great earthquake ruined it, and a new temple was erected during the reign of Ahom King Rajeswar Sinha in 1677. The present temple, which is dilapidated, was built in 1897.
Lake Manikarna (মণিকৰ্ণ) once beautified the area, but now it is in the bed of the Brahmaputra.
Festivals
They celebrate the Shiva Ratri festival here with much religious fervor, among other functions.
Manikarneswar Temple history and location
Manikarneswar Temple is one of the oldest temples in Assam. According to local belief, Narakasur originally built the temple. Later, Ahom King Rajeswar Singha renovated it.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) currently looks after the temple. The temple is an important religious and historical site in North Guwahati. It also attracts visitors because of its beautiful natural surroundings.
The temple stands on a hill, and visitors need to climb around 100 steps to reach the temple compound. From the top, you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the Brahmaputra River and the green valley.
The earthquake damaged the temple’s original roof. At present, temporary tin sheets cover the damaged roof.
Temple Darshan Timing
The temple remains open throughout the day.
Best time to visit: Early morning or evening. These times offer a peaceful atmosphere for darshan and allow you to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Tips for Visitors
- Carry a water bottle because you need to climb about 100 steps.
- Wear comfortable footwear for the climb.
- Photography is allowed, so you can bring a camera or DSLR to capture the beautiful surroundings.
- Visit early in the morning or in the evening for a more peaceful experience.
How to Reach Manikarneswar Temple
1. By Ferry
The nearest ferry ghat is about 300 metres from the temple. The ferry connects North Guwahati with the Fancy Bazar Ferry Ghat on the Guwahati side. After reaching the North Guwahati side, you can take local transport or walk towards the temple.
2. By Ropeway
You can also take the Guwahati-North Guwahati ropeway from the Kachari Point terminal on the Guwahati side. The temple is about half a kilometre from the North Guwahati ropeway terminal.
3. By Local Transport
You can use shared auto-rickshaws or e-rickshaws to reach the temple. Local transport provides an easy option for visitors travelling around North Guwahati.
4. By Road
North Guwahati has good road connections with Guwahati and other parts of Assam. If you are travelling from Guwahati, you can use the Kumar Bhaskar Barma Setu over the Brahmaputra River and then continue towards the temple.
Pro Tip for Tourists
If you visit Doul Govinda Temple, make sure you also visit Manikarneswar Temple. Doul Govinda Temple is only about 1 km from Manikarneswar Temple.
So, the next time you visit Doul Govinda Temple, take some time to explore this beautiful and historic Shiva temple. The peaceful surroundings, hilltop location, and panoramic view of the Brahmaputra make Manikarneswar Temple a wonderful place for both pilgrims and tourists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Manikarneswar Temple
1. Where is Manikarneswar Temple located?
Manikarneswar Temple is located in North Guwahati, Assam, on a hill overlooking the Brahmaputra River.
2. Who built Manikarneswar Temple?
According to local belief, Narakasur originally built Manikarneswar Temple. The Ahom King Rajeswar Singha later renovated the temple.
3. Why is Manikarneswar Temple famous?
Manikarneswar Temple is famous for its religious importance, historical connection, hilltop location, and beautiful view of the Brahmaputra River.
4. Is Manikarneswar Temple one of the oldest temples in Assam?
Yes. Manikarneswar Temple is considered one of the ancient temples of Assam and has significant historical and religious importance.
5. Who looks after Manikarneswar Temple?
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) currently supervises the temple as a site of historical importance.
6. What is the darshan timing of Manikarneswar Temple?
The temple remains open throughout the day. Early morning and evening are good times to visit for peaceful darshan.
7. How many steps are there to reach Manikarneswar Temple?
Visitors need to climb approximately 100 steps to reach the temple compound.
8. Can tourists take photographs at Manikarneswar Temple?
Yes. Photography is allowed, and visitors can take photographs of the temple and its beautiful natural surroundings.
9. How can I reach Manikarneswar Temple from Guwahati?
You can reach the temple from Guwahati by ferry, ropeway, local transport, or road. The nearest ferry connection links North Guwahati with Fancy Bazar.
10. Is there a ferry service near Manikarneswar Temple?
Yes. The nearest ferry ghat is approximately 300 metres from the temple and connects North Guwahati with the Fancy Bazar Ferry Ghat.
11. Can I reach Manikarneswar Temple by ropeway?
Yes. You can take the Guwahati-North Guwahati ropeway from the Kachari Point terminal. The temple is approximately 500 metres from the North Guwahati ropeway terminal.
12. How far is Manikarneswar Temple from Doul Govinda Temple?
Doul Govinda Temple is approximately 1 km from Manikarneswar Temple. Visitors can easily include both temples in the same trip.
13. What is the best time to visit Manikarneswar Temple?
Early morning and evening are the best times to visit. The weather is generally more comfortable, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.
14. What can I see from Manikarneswar Temple?
From the hilltop, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Brahmaputra River and the surrounding green landscape of North Guwahati.
15. What should I carry when visiting Manikarneswar Temple?
Carry drinking water and wear comfortable footwear because you need to climb around 100 steps to reach the temple.
16. Can I visit Manikarneswar Temple and Doul Govinda Temple on the same trip?
Yes. The two temples are close to each other, so you can conveniently visit both during the same North Guwahati trip.
17. Is Manikarneswar Temple a good place for tourists?
Yes. Apart from its religious and historical importance, the temple offers beautiful natural surroundings and a scenic view of the Brahmaputra River, making it an attractive place for both pilgrims and tourists.
Location on Map
Tags related to Tourist Places in North Guwahati
Location Address
Manikarneswar,মণিকৰ্ণেশ্বৰ
North Guwahati, Pin Code -781030,
District: – Kamrup, Assam, India
Monikarneswar Devalaya Community Hall Management Bank Details QR Scanner
