The Dirgheswari temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to the powerful and divine Goddess Durga. Located on the northern banks of River Brahmaputra at Dirgheswari hill, this majestic temple stands as an integral part of Guwahati’s spiritual significance and even that of Assam itself.
Dirgheswari temple proudly stands upon the renowned Dirgeshwari hill, also known as Sita Parbati. This is where great hermit Markanda made his home and flourished in spiritual practice.
The Dirgheswari temple is steeped in mythology – according to legend, it was formed when Lord Shiva danced the ‘Tandav’ with his deceased wife Sati Parvatii’s body draped over his shoulder. As he moved across the Dirgheswari hill, one of her limbs fell into the mountain and a temple was built on that exact spot as an homage to her memory.
During the rule of Ahom King Pramata Singha in the 11th century, a stunning temple was erected. Inside its walls lies numerous carved images from that time period and at its base lays a Ganesh Temple. Additionally, Dirgheswari presents an idyllic picnic area along the riverbank which sees thousands of visitors annually during December and January!
Constructed with blocks of brick, the temple stands atop a hill filled with solid rocks. Nestled underground in a small cave lies the Garbha-griha or inner chamber where Goddess Durga’s idol is enshrined.
A rock inscription at the rear entrance of the Temple preserves Ahom King Swargadeo Siba Singha and Viceroy Tarun Duwarah Barphukan’s names, denoting their royal decree to construct a temple with land grants in Dirgheswari’s name. Furthermore, during his 1756CE tour, King Rajeswar Singha visited the temple and allocated further lands as well as personnel for its upkeep. In addition, he presented an enduring silver Japi or hat used today to cover Devi Durga’s main idol within this sacred space.
Many pictorials carved into rocks were present in the vicinity of the majestic temple, erected by Ahom king Swargadeo Siva Singha centuries ago.
A small water tank situated near the temple houses a variety of aquatic life, such as minuscule fish and even an intrepid turtle.
In addition to the temple, there are various sculptures of Gods and Goddesses carved into the stones of this hill. Sadly, it is yet undiscovered what era these images belong to.
Each day, the local priests reverently conduct ritualistic Puja honoring Goddess Durga. Every year during her greatly anticipated celebration of Durga Puja, sacrificial buffalo offerings are made to pacify and appease the divine matron. The ceremony is observed with intense zeal by devotees all over India!
By Bus
There are also ferry or motorboat services from the southern bank of Brahmaputra. The Temple has located around 4 km from the famous Doul Govinda Mandir.
By Rail
The Kamakhya railway station is conveniently located near the temple, providing a seamless journey to spiritual sites.
By Air
Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the closest airport to your destination.
