Umananda Temple is one of the most beautiful and spiritually significant temples in Guwahati, Assam. Located on Peacock Island in the middle of the mighty Brahmaputra River, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts devotees as well as tourists throughout the year.
The temple is popularly known for its peaceful island location, traditional Assamese architecture and beautiful views of the Brahmaputra. Unlike most temples, visitors cannot reach Umananda Temple directly by road. They must take a ferry or boat from Guwahati to reach the island.
Umananda Temple is also an important pilgrimage destination during Maha Shivaratri, when a large number of devotees visit to offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
If you are planning a visit, this guide covers Umananda Temple ferry timings, boarding location, ticket prices, darshan hours, temple history, travel routes and important visitor information.
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Umananda Temple Ferry Timings
Ferry service is the main way to reach Umananda Temple because the shrine is located on an island in the Brahmaputra River.
Published visitor information commonly lists ferry operations between approximately 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. However, actual departure times and service frequency may depend on the ferry operator, river conditions, weather and government arrangements.
| Ferry Information | Details |
|---|---|
| General Ferry Service Window | Approximately 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Boarding Location | Near Sukreswar Mandir, opposite GMDA parking |
| Destination | Umananda Island, Peacock Island |
| Journey Duration | Approximately 10–15 minutes |
| Passenger Fare | Published commercial-service tariff: ₹40 per passenger |
| Return Journey | Confirm the available return ferry before boarding |
Important ferry update: The Assam Inland Water Transport website currently displays a notification stating that Umananda ferry service has shifted to the area near Sukreswar Mandir, opposite GMDA parking. Older travel guides may still mention Kachari Ghat or Uzan Bazar. Confirm the operating boarding point before travelling.
Ferry services can be affected by rainfall, strong currents, water levels and other safety conditions. Always check the latest departure and return arrangements at the ghat.
Where to Board the Umananda Temple Ferry?
Visitors need to reach the designated ferry boarding point in Guwahati before travelling to Peacock Island.
The latest Assam Inland Water Transport notification identifies the Umananda ferry service boarding area as near Sukreswar Mandir, opposite GMDA parking.
Earlier travel information commonly referred to Kachari Ghat and Uzan Bazar. Because the operating location has changed, visitors should not depend entirely on old Google Maps directions or outdated travel articles.
How to Reach the Ferry Boarding Point
- Reach Sukreswar Mandir in Guwahati.
- Locate the GMDA parking area opposite the temple.
- Check the current Umananda ferry boarding arrangements nearby.
- Purchase or verify your ferry ticket.
- Board the designated ferry after following the staff’s instructions.
- Keep your return journey timing in mind before leaving the mainland.
For the latest ferry information and ticketing arrangements, visit the Assam Inland Water Transport website:
Official Ferry Portal: https://www.asiwt.in/
The portal provides online ferry ticketing facilities and service notifications.
Umananda Temple Darshan Timings
Umananda Temple generally opens early in the morning and remains accessible until the evening. Published tourism information lists the temple’s opening time as 5:30 AM and closing time as 6:00 PM.
The visitor schedule may vary because of daily rituals, religious occasions and ferry operations.
| Temple Schedule | Timings |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 5:30 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 5:30 AM onwards |
| Morning Visiting Hours | As per temple arrangements |
| Afternoon Break | May apply during rituals |
| Evening Darshan | As per temple schedule |
| Temple Closing | Around 6:00 PM |
The temple’s published visiting information also shows a midday break in some schedules. Therefore, visitors should confirm the day’s darshan arrangements before planning their ferry journey.
Remember that the ferry service may start later than the temple’s opening time. Reaching the temple at 5:30 AM is not possible through a ferry that starts operating around 7:00 AM.
Umananda Temple Entry Fee and Ferry Ticket Price
Visitors need to arrange ferry transportation to reach the island. The ferry fare is separate from temple darshan.
The Assam Inland Water Transport Regulatory Authority has published a revised tariff for Guwahati Umananda commercial ferry service.
The published commercial-service tariff lists a passenger charge of ₹40.
| Ticket Information | Published Details |
|---|---|
| Commercial Ferry Passenger Fare | ₹40 per passenger |
| Temple General Darshan | No separate paid darshan ticket listed in the tourism information |
| Private Boat | Charges depend on the operator |
| Special Religious Services | Confirm with the temple |
The ₹40 amount is from the published commercial ferry tariff. Confirm whether the fare applies to your selected service and whether a separate return ticket is required.
Do not assume that private boat operators charge the same amount as the government-regulated commercial service.
How to Book Umananda Temple Ferry Tickets Online
The Assam Inland Water Transport Department provides an online ferry ticketing facility.
Visitors can check available routes and booking options through the official portal.
Follow these steps:
- Visit https://www.asiwt.in/.
- Open the online ferry ticket booking section.
- Select your departure date.
- Choose the source and destination locations, where available.
- Review the available ferry service.
- Enter the passenger details requested by the portal.
- Check the fare and booking conditions.
- Complete payment if online booking is available for your selected service.
- Save your ticket or payment confirmation.
The department also provides information about its ferry ticketing mobile application.
Important: Online ticket availability may depend on the route and operating service. If Umananda ferry tickets are not available online for your selected date, check with the authorized ferry counter at the boarding point.
How to Reach Umananda Temple from Guwahati
Umananda Temple is situated on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, near the central part of Guwahati.
Since the temple is surrounded by water, the final part of the journey must be completed by ferry or an authorized boat service.
By Road
Visitors travelling by car, taxi or auto-rickshaw should first reach the current Umananda ferry boarding point near Sukreswar Mandir and GMDA parking.
Local transport is available from different parts of Guwahati.
By Train
Guwahati Railway Station is the main railway connection for visitors arriving from other cities.
After reaching the railway station, visitors can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw or local transport to reach the designated ferry boarding area.
By Air
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the nearest major airport.
From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or use available road transport to reach central Guwahati and continue to the Umananda ferry boarding point.
By Ferry
After reaching the designated boarding point, purchase or verify your ticket and board the ferry to Peacock Island.
The river crossing generally takes around 10–15 minutes, depending on the vessel and river conditions.
History of Umananda Temple
Umananda Temple has a long history associated with the Ahom dynasty and traditional Hindu mythology.
According to the Government of Assam’s Kamrup Metropolitan district information, the temple was constructed in 1694 AD under the instructions of Ahom king Gadadhar Singha.
The construction was carried out by Bar Phukan Garhganya Handique.
The temple is built on a rocky island in the Brahmaputra River, traditionally known as Bhasmachala.
Its walls and surrounding rock surfaces contain traditional stone sculptures and engravings depicting Hindu deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Surya and Goddess Devi. Images associated with the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu are also found in the temple surroundings.
A major earthquake in 1897 damaged a significant portion of the temple. The damaged structure was later reconstructed with support from a wealthy local merchant.
The temple remains an important example of Assam’s religious and architectural heritage.
Why Is Umananda Temple Called Peacock Island?
Umananda Temple is situated on a small river island known as Peacock Island.
The island received this name during British rule because its shape was believed to resemble a peacock.
It is also commonly known as Umananda Island and is surrounded by the flowing waters of the Brahmaputra.
The island is famous for its natural beauty, rocky landscape, greenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Apart from its religious importance, Peacock Island is known for the presence of golden langurs, a rare primate species associated with the region.
Visitors should observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding or disturbing the animals.
Religious Significance of Umananda Temple
Umananda Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Umananda.
According to traditional belief, Lord Shiva meditated on the hillock known as Bhasmachala. When Kamadeva interrupted his meditation, Shiva became angry and reduced Kamadeva to ashes with the power of his third eye.
This is one reason the island is associated with the name Bhasmachala.
Another traditional interpretation connects the name Umananda with Lord Shiva and Goddess Uma. The name is commonly understood as representing the joy of Uma.
The temple is especially significant for devotees of Lord Shiva who visit to offer prayers and participate in religious ceremonies.
Umananda Temple Pooja and Aarti
Devotees visit Umananda Temple for daily worship, prayers and special religious occasions.
Morning and evening prayers are traditionally associated with the temple’s daily worship schedule. However, a detailed, fixed public aarti timetable could not be confirmed through an official current schedule.
Visitors planning to attend a particular ritual should confirm the timing with the temple authorities after reaching the island.
Common Religious Offerings
Devotees may offer traditional items during worship, subject to temple arrangements.
These may include:
- Flowers.
- Bel leaves.
- Fruits.
- Traditional prasad.
- Other offerings accepted by the temple.
Follow the instructions given by temple priests and staff regarding permitted offerings.
Is Online Pooja Booking Available?
A dedicated, verified online pooja booking facility for Umananda Temple could not be confirmed.
The Assam Inland Water Transport portal is for ferry ticketing. It should not be confused with a temple pooja or darshan booking website.
For special rituals, donations and other religious services, contact the temple administration or enquire directly at the temple.
Festivals Celebrated at Umananda Temple
Umananda Temple celebrates several religious occasions throughout the year. Maha Shivaratri is the most important festival associated with the shrine.
1. Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva and attracts a large number of devotees to Umananda Temple.
During the festival, devotees offer prayers, perform traditional worship and participate in religious ceremonies.
Ferry services and access arrangements may be adjusted because of the increased number of visitors.
2. Shiva Chaturdashi
Shiva Chaturdashi is another important religious occasion associated with the temple.
Devotees visit to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
3. Amavasya
Amavasya, or the new moon day, is considered religiously significant by many devotees.
According to local religious beliefs, worship at Umananda Temple on Amavasya, particularly when it falls on a Monday, is considered auspicious.
Places to Visit Near Umananda Temple
Visitors planning a trip to Guwahati can explore several other attractions after completing their visit to Peacock Island.
1. Kamakhya Temple
Kamakhya Temple is one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India. Located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, it attracts devotees from different parts of the country.
The temple is especially famous for the annual Ambubachi Mela.
2. Assam State Museum
The Assam State Museum is a popular attraction for visitors interested in the history, culture and heritage of Assam.
Its collections include traditional artefacts, sculptures, manuscripts and historical objects.
3. Sukreswar Temple
Sukreswar Temple is a Shiva temple located near the Brahmaputra riverfront in Guwahati.
It is also an important landmark for visitors travelling to the current Umananda ferry boarding area.
4. Fancy Bazaar
Fancy Bazaar is one of the well-known shopping areas in Guwahati.
Visitors can explore local markets, traditional Assamese products, clothing, handicrafts and food options.
5. Brahmaputra Riverfront
The Brahmaputra riverfront offers views of the river and the surrounding Guwahati landscape.
Visitors can enjoy the scenery before or after their ferry journey to Peacock Island.
Best Time to Visit Umananda Temple
Umananda Temple can be visited throughout the year, but October to March is generally a comfortable period for sightseeing in Guwahati.
The weather during these months is usually more pleasant than the hot summer and rainy monsoon periods.
Consider the following travel conditions:
October to March: A comfortable period for visiting the island and exploring Guwahati.
April to June: Temperatures can be high, so morning visits are preferable.
July to September: Monsoon rainfall and changing river conditions may affect ferry services. Check operating conditions before travelling.
Maha Shivaratri: A significant religious occasion, but expect larger crowds and possible changes to regular ferry arrangements.
Morning visits are generally suitable for devotees who want to avoid some of the afternoon heat.
Important Tips Before Visiting Umananda Temple
Keep these points in mind before planning your visit:
- Confirm the current ferry boarding point near Sukreswar Mandir.
- Check the latest ferry operating schedule before leaving.
- Confirm the last return ferry from Peacock Island.
- Carry cash for local purchases and ticketing where necessary.
- Wear comfortable footwear because the island has steps and uneven pathways.
- Follow the boat operator’s safety instructions.
- Wear a life jacket where provided or required.
- Avoid leaning over the boat or standing in unsafe areas.
- Do not feed or disturb the golden langurs.
- Carry drinking water, as facilities on the island may be limited.
- Follow the temple’s religious rules and maintain cleanliness.
- Avoid planning your return journey too close to the last ferry departure.
During heavy rain or strong river currents, boat services may be delayed, modified or suspended for safety reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Umananda Temple located?
Umananda Temple is located on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, near Guwahati city in Assam.
2. What are the Umananda Temple darshan timings?
Published tourism information lists the temple’s opening time as 5:30 AM and closing time as 6:00 PM. Actual darshan arrangements may change during rituals and special occasions.
3. What are the Umananda Temple ferry timings?
Published visitor information commonly lists ferry operations around 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Confirm the exact departure and return schedule with Assam Inland Water Transport before travelling.
4. Where can I board the ferry for Umananda Temple?
The latest Assam Inland Water Transport notification identifies the boarding area near Sukreswar Mandir, opposite GMDA parking. Older travel guides may mention Kachari Ghat or Uzan Bazar, so confirm the current location.
5. What is the Umananda Temple ferry ticket price?
The published tariff for Guwahati Umananda commercial ferry service lists ₹40 per passenger. Confirm the applicable fare and return ticket arrangements at the official ticket counter.
6. How long does it take to reach Umananda Temple by ferry?
The river crossing generally takes approximately 10–15 minutes, depending on the vessel and river conditions.
7. Is Umananda Temple darshan free?
General temple darshan information does not list a separate paid darshan ticket. However, visitors must arrange ferry transportation to reach the island. Special services or offerings may have separate charges.
8. Can I book Umananda Temple ferry tickets online?
Assam Inland Water Transport provides online ferry ticketing facilities through its official website and mobile application. Check whether online booking is available for the Umananda route on your selected date.
9. Can I book Umananda Temple pooja online?
A dedicated verified online pooja booking service could not be confirmed. Contact the temple administration or enquire directly at the temple for special pooja arrangements.
10. Who built Umananda Temple?
The temple was constructed in 1694 AD under the instructions of Ahom king Gadadhar Singha. Bar Phukan Garhganya Handique was responsible for its construction.
11. Why is Umananda Island called Peacock Island?
The island received the name Peacock Island during British rule because its shape was believed to resemble a peacock.
12. Which festival is most important at Umananda Temple?
Maha Shivaratri is the most important festival associated with Umananda Temple. A large number of devotees visit the island to worship Lord Shiva.
13. Can I visit Umananda Temple during the monsoon?
Yes, but monsoon weather can affect ferry operations because of rainfall and changing river conditions. Confirm the service status before travelling.
Umananda Temple is one of Guwahati’s most special pilgrimage destinations, combining religious significance with the natural beauty of the Brahmaputra River. Situated on Peacock Island, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its Ahom-era history, traditional stone carvings and Maha Shivaratri celebrations.
Visitors should plan their journey around the ferry schedule because the island can only be reached by boat. The latest Assam Inland Water Transport notification identifies the boarding area near Sukreswar Mandir, opposite GMDA parking.
Before travelling, confirm ferry timings, ticket prices, the last return service and temple darshan hours. With proper planning, you can enjoy a peaceful visit to Umananda Temple and explore one of Guwahati’s most memorable religious landmarks.
