Last Updated on 21/01/2026
Kamakhya Temple is one of the most powerful and oldest Shakti shrines in India. It is situated in Guwahati, Assam, on Nilachal Hill. The temple dates back many centuries and is deeply rooted in historical references and mythology. The temple is a sacred spot dedicated to the Goddess Kamakhya, who is known to be the source of power and life.
The unique thing about this temple is that in the sanctum, there is no idol, but a natural yoni-shaped stone. Ambubachi Mela is held every year at the temple, celebrating Goddess Kamakhya’s menstruation cycle.

Why Visit Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple is situated on the Brahmaputra River’s southern bank above the Nilachal Hills. Every year, the temple is visited by millions of devotees from different parts of the world to seek the blessings of Goddess Kamakhya. Many devotees choose a Kamakhya Temple Darshan Tour to visit the temple and seek the holy Goddess’s blessings in a peaceful and organized way.
Prayers made to the goddess are said to have the power to promote fertility, grant wishes, and invoke heavenly favors.
History of Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple is a historic Shakti pith. It is said that the goddess fulfils the devotee’s wishes if one truly worships her. According to Hinduism, the temple is considered to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. For Tantric practices, it is a major center. Many folk tales and legends are associated with this temple’s construction. It is believed that the Kamakhya temple was built in the eighth century.
According to a legend, Narakasura originally constructed the temple. However, it is suggested by historical accounts that in the sixteenth century, the Koch king Maharaja Biswa Singha and his sons Chilarai and Naranarayan played an important role in its development. Later, during Ahom king Swargadeo Rajeswar Singha’s reign, renovations were carried out.
The Story Related to the Temple
When Shiva got to know of the tragic end of Sati, in extreme anger and sorrow, he opened his third eye. After this, he carried Sati’s body and started performing the Tandava dance. Lord Shiva was extremely grieved and carried on his shoulder the dead Sati and roamed the whole universe without any destination or purpose.
To save the world from destruction, Lord Vishnu made fifty-one parts of the body of Sati with the help of his Spinning Wheel. The places where Sati’s body parts fell were turned into religious sites for worshiping her. Out of the fifty-one body parts of Sati, the female sexual organ fell above Kamrup’s Nilachal hill.
It is believed that Kamakhya Temple’s current spot is the place where the yoni of Sati fell, and the temple was built there. The unique thing about this temple is that no idol is worshipped here. Instead, Goddess Sati’s yoni is worshipped, which has been enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum.
Mystery Related to Kamakhya Temple
A mystery related to Kamakhya Temple is the annual Ambubachi Mela that attracts devotees to this temple from far and wide. The Ambubachi Mela is considered to be the goddess’s menstrual period, during which the sacred site remains closed for three days. During this period, the power of creation and worship of holiness takes center stage.
The annual Ambubachi Mela that is held at this temple creates an atmosphere that attracts devoteesfrom different parts of the world. Every year, it is celebrated between June and July during the Assamese month of Ahar.
How to Reach
Kamakhya Temple can be accessed easily from different parts of Guwahati. Auto-rickshaws, local taxis, and app-based cabs such as Uber and Ola are available from city centres, railway stations, and airports. Let’s take a look at the other ways to reach the temple.
By Road
Kamakhya Temple has good connectivity by road. You can take an auto-rickshaw or hire a cab from Guwahati city. Private taxis and regular buses are available from ISBT Guwahati. Depending on traffic, the journey takes around half an hour to forty-five minutes.
By Train
Kamakhya Junction is the nearest railway station, just 5 km away from the Kamakhya temple. From Kamakhya Junction, you can take an auto or hire a taxi to reach the temple.
By Air
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBI), which is 20 km away from this temple, is the closest airport. Taxis and cabs are readily available from this airport to reach this temple. It would take around 45-60 minutes from this airport to reach this temple.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (May to June)
- Summer is marked by warm weather, especially during the day.
- The average temperature is between 30 and 40 degrees celcius.
- You can attend the Ambubachi festival during this time.
Monsoon (July to September)
- Monsoon is marked by cloudy weather and chances of heavy rainfall
- The temperature significantly drops during this time and is between 25°C and 35 °C.
- When visiting the temple or climbing its stairs, exercise caution as the roads are slippery.
Winter (October to March)
- In winter, the weather is pleasant and cool, with an average temperature ranging from 10°C to 25°C.
- Winter is considered to be the peak season, so the temple and other sightseeing spots are overcrowded.
- You’re advised to book your accommodation beforehand if you’re planning to visit during this season.
Interesting Facts about Kamakhya Temple
Let’s take a look at the interesting facts about Kamakhya Temple that make it special.
- Kamakhya Temple is known for its unique phenomenon of the bleeding or “menstruating” Goddess. It is believed that the Goddess’s menstrual cycle occurs during the Ambubachi Mela, and for three days, the temple remains closed.
- In India, the Kamakhya Temple is considered to be the oldest Shakti Peeth. It is considered to be one of the fifty-one holy sites associated with Goddess Sati.
- Inside the temple complex, there is an underground chamber which is known as the “Sanctum Sanctorum” or “Garvagriha.”
- For the occult and followers of tantra, Kamakhya Temple holds immense prominence.
- Alongside the temple, there is a spring that is called “Hemkunda.” The spring has medicinal properties, and if you bathe in the holy water, you can be healed from various diseases.
Kamakhya Temple Darshan Timings
| Darshan type |
Morning timings |
Evening timings |
| General Darshan |
5:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
3:00 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Ambubachi Mela Darshan |
5:30 AM – 1:00 PM |
2:30 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Aarti Darshan |
5:30 AM – 6:30 AM |
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Closed During Yoni Pujan |
6:30 AM – 8:00 AM |
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Morning |
Evening |
Special |
| 5:30 AM |
|
– |
|
Snana of the Pithasthana. |
|
| 1:00 PM |
|
– |
|
The temple door closed for cooked offerings to the goddess, followed by distribution among the devotees. |
|
| 5:30 AM |
|
– |
|
Snana of the Pithasthana. |
|
|
|
| 2:30 PM |
|
– |
|
The temple door reopens for the devotees. |
|
| 6:00 AM |
|
– |
|
Nitya puja & Saradiya Durga Puja. |
|
| 8:00 AM |
|
– |
|
The temple door opens for devotees. |
|
| 5:15 PM |
|
– |
|
Closing of the temple door for the night. |
|
| 9:00 AM |
|
– |
|
Temple door open for devotees. |
|
|
| 7:30 PM |
|
– |
|
Aarati of Goddess. |
|
| 1:00 PM |
|
– |
|
Temple door closed for cooked offerings to the goddess followed by distribution among the devotees.Closing of the temple door at sunset. |
|
|
|
| 7:30 PM |
|
– |
|
Aarati of the Goddess. |
|
Kamakhya Temple Darshan Online Booking Guide
Kamakhya temple offers all devotees Online Darshan Booking facilities. Here is the complete booking process:
- Visit https://www.maakamakhya.org/.
- On your screen, the webpage’s home interface will open. Here, you need to click on the Online Booking button.
- A new interface will open. Read the Important Notice section carefully and click on Proceed.
- Accept all the conditions and instructions of the temple. A login interface will open.
- In case you are a new User, you will have to click on the New User button. After this, a User Registration form will open.
- You will have to enter your PIN Code, Address, Email, Name, Country, State, and Contact Number.
- Enter the captcha and then click on the OTP button. You will get the OTP.
- Click on the Continue button after verifying the OTP. Now, you will get logged in.
- Select the number of people and enter ID proof and some devotee details.
- Now you can head to the payment page. Here, you will have to pay the charges for Special Darshan.
- After you have made the payment, you will get confirmation. Finally, your e-ticket will be generated.
Things to Do in Kamakhya Temple
We bring to you a list of the things you can do in Kamakhya Temple.
Temple Darshan
At Kamakhya Temple, you can seek the blessings of Maa Kamakhya and attend the morning aarti. Many women visit this temple to seek a blessing for fertility.
See Animal Sacrifice
Kamakhya Temple is known for its Tantric practices. On most days, chickens and male goats are offered as part of a ritual. It is a part of the long-standing tradition of this temple.
Explore Temple Complex
After visiting the shrine, you can explore the areas around the temple complex and see the ten Mahavidya shrines. Also, see the statues on the pillars, such as the statue of Lajja Gauri embedded on the outer wall of the temple.
Visit Adjacent Shrines
There are many other shrines within a short walk of the Kamakhya temple. Near the base of Kamakhya is the Navagraha Temple that has nine small shrines. You can also visit Umananda Temple, which is situated on a river island and can be reached by a short boat ride.
Tips for Travellers
- If you’re visiting Kamakhya Temple during Ambubachi or Durga Puja, you’re advised to book your hotel a month in advance. Prices go up and fill up fast during festivals. In normal times, there are many options, but during peak season, confirm your booking before you arrive.
- Around the temple, you will find many people offering “special puja” services. For darshan tickets, they may also insist on paying extra. Always buy any puja or ticket service from the official temple counter. You should not pay unauthorized guides.
- Once inside the road that leads you to the temple, you will have to remove your shoes. For shoe-keepers, keep small change handy.
- The hill steps can be a bit steep. Disabled or elderly people may need assistance.
- During darshan, stand in line quietly. Do not run or push anyone.
- You can click photographs outside, but be considerate of the devotees. If you are coming to the temple for a specific ritual or ritual, arrive early and get a token.
Where to Stay
- You will find budget-friendly lodges and guesthouses near Kamakhya Temple. Hotels like Swastik Inn, Treebo Apollo, and Hotel Shreemoyee Inn are situated within two to three kilometers of the temple.
- You can also plan to stay in central Guwahati. From there, the temple is a short cab ride. You will find many good-quality hotels in the city, such as Radisson Blu, Kiranshree Grand, Novotel, Vivanta by Taj, and Ginger Hotel.
- Smaller heritage homes or guest houses can be found in Fancy Bazaar and Ambari. Hostels and dormitories are available for those who have a limited budget. Affordable accommodation options are also available near the Fancy Bazaar bus stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q-1: Do you need to pay an entry fee?
Ans: For general darshan, an entry fee is not required. However, before entering the temple, you need to get online or from the counter a free entry coupon. For a faster VIP darshan, a special ticket for about ₹500 is needed.
Q-2: What is special about Kamakhya Temple?
Ans: The Kamakhya Temple is a historic Shakti pith. It is said that the goddess fulfils the devotee’s wishes if one truly worships her.
Q-3: Are tantra practices done at Kamakhya Temple?
Ans: For the occult and followers of tantra, Kamakhya Temple holds immense prominence. Shakti sadhana, Aghori practices, and many other rituals are performed here.
Q-4: What festivals are celebrated at the temple?
Ans: The Ambubachi Mela is the most famous festival that is celebrated every year in June. It honors the yearly menstrual cycle of the goddess. Another major celebration is Navaratri/Durga Puja.
Q-5: What are darshan timings?
Ans: The Kamakhya Temple opens at around 8:00 AM and closes at 1:00 PM. Morning rituals begin at around 5:30 AM. The evening aarti is performed at around 7:30 PM. The schedule may change during festivals.
Q-6: Is there any dress code at the temple?
Ans: Since Kamakhya Temple is a sacred site, you should dress modestly. Both women and men should cover their legs and shoulders, and can even wear traditional Indian attire (such as a saree/salwar-kameez) or kurta-pajama. Avoid wearing sleeveless, short tops or revealing clothes.
Q-7: Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Ans: Mobile phones and cameras are strictly prohibited inside the temple. You may click pictures of the temple courtyard or outer architecture.
Q-8: What is the mystery behind Kamakhya Temple?
Ans: The mystery behind Kamakhya Temple is its connection to Tantra. The goddess is believed to menstruate during the Ambubachi Mela. During this time, the temple doors close for around three days. Many secret rituals are done here.
Q-9: Who should visit Kamakhya Temple?
Ans: Kamakhya Temple is ideal for spiritual seekers, people interested in Tantra practices, and Hindu traditions. If you believe in Shakti worship, you should definitely visit this site.
Q-10: What is unique about Kamakhya Temple?
Ans: The unique thing about Kamakhya Temple is that in the sanctum, there is no idol, but a natural yoni-shaped stone. Ambubachi Mela is held every year at the temple, celebrating Goddess Kamakhya’s menstruation cycle.