Kamakhya Devi Temple - Capital of Tantrism

History of Kamakhya Devi Temple

The Kamakhya Devi Temple has a rich and ancient history that traces back to the times of the Mahabharata. According to legends, this temple marks the spot where the womb and the reproductive organ of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her burnt body across the universe in sorrow. This event led to the formation of 51 Shakti Peethas, and Kamakhya Devi Mandir is considered one of the most important among them.

Historically, the temple has seen several phases of destruction and reconstruction. It is believed that the original temple was destroyed in the 12th century by invaders. The current structure, as we see it today, was rebuilt in the 16th century by the Koch king, Naranarayan, after the temple was found in ruins. The king played a crucial role in reviving the temple’s glory, and it became a major center for Tantric worship.

The temple has witnessed various renovations over time, but its core sanctum and spiritual importance have remained unchanged. Its association with Tantric rituals makes it different from other temples in India. This historical connection to Tantrism has given Kamakhya Devi Temple a unique identity, and it continues to be a significant place for seekers of Tantra and devotees of the Goddess.

Throughout history, the temple has been a symbol of divine feminine power, and even today, it remains a major pilgrimage site for devotees across India and the world.

Significance of Kamakhya Devi Temple in Sanatan

Kamakhya Devi Temple holds immense significance in Sanatan Dharma, especially in Shakti worship. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, places where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen. The Kamakhya Devi Mandir marks the spot where her womb fell, making it a powerful symbol of feminine energy, creation, and fertility. This connection to the Goddess makes it a central place of worship for devotees seeking blessings related to childbirth, fertility, and overall prosperity.

In Sanatan Dharma, the concept of Shakti, the divine feminine energy, plays a vital role. Kamakhya Devi represents this Shakti in her purest form, and the temple is known for its deep Tantric traditions. Many saints and devotees believe that Kamakhya Devi embodies the union of Shiva and Shakti, making it a temple where creation itself is celebrated.

Tantra is a major aspect of the significance of this temple. Unlike most other temples, where Vedic rituals dominate, the worship at Kamakhya is deeply rooted in Tantric practices. These rituals aim at awakening and balancing the cosmic energy within oneself. This gives the temple a unique place in Sanatan Dharma, especially among those who follow the Tantric path.

The temple’s annual Ambubachi Mela, celebrating the menstruation of Goddess Kamakhya, further emphasizes the divine feminine aspect. During this festival, the temple is closed for three days, symbolizing the time when the Goddess is believed to undergo her natural menstrual cycle, highlighting the sanctity of womanhood and fertility in Sanatan beliefs.

In essence, Kamakhya Devi Temple is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the deeper philosophical aspects of Sanatan Dharma, where the balance of energies, the power of creation, and the reverence for the feminine divine are celebrated.

Tantra Connection & Stories about Kamakhya Devi Temple

Kamakhya Devi Temple is deeply connected to Tantra, making it one of the most important Tantric shrines in India. Unlike other temples where traditional Vedic rituals dominate, Kamakhya Devi Mandir is a hub for Tantric practices. The temple’s deity, Kamakhya Devi, represents the supreme feminine energy, or Shakti, which is central to Tantra. Here, the focus is on harnessing and balancing cosmic energies, both male and female, to attain spiritual liberation and power.

The temple’s sanctum does not have an idol of the Goddess. Instead, devotees worship a natural underground spring in the shape of a yoni (female genitalia), symbolizing the creative force of the universe. This unique form of worship is what makes Kamakhya Devi Temple stand apart from most other Hindu temples. Tantra, which emphasizes the worship of Shakti in all her forms, finds its roots in this sacred space.

The temple is also linked to the practice of black and white magic. Many Tantriks (practitioners of Tantra) from all over India come here to seek blessings and perform rituals, especially during the annual Ambubachi Mela. This festival celebrates the menstruation of Goddess Kamakhya, representing fertility and the cyclical nature of life. During this time, the temple is closed, and devotees believe the Goddess is resting.

Stories about Kamakhya Devi Temple

There are many fascinating stories and legends surrounding the Kamakhya Devi Temple. One of the most prominent is the story of Goddess Sati. According to Hindu mythology, after Sati self-immolated in protest of her father Daksha’s disrespect toward her husband, Lord Shiva carried her body across the universe in grief. Lord Vishnu, in an effort to calm Shiva, cut Sati’s body into 51 parts. The places where these parts fell became Shakti Peethas, and Kamakhya is believed to be the place where her womb fell, marking it as a symbol of fertility and power.

Another famous story is related to the demon Narakasura. It is said that Narakasura, a powerful demon king, fell in love with Goddess Kamakhya and wanted to marry her. The Goddess, not interested in him, set an impossible condition—he must build a staircase from the foot of Nilachal Hill to the temple in one night. Narakasura almost completed the task, but the Goddess tricked him by creating the illusion of dawn. Believing he had failed, Narakasura abandoned the task. The incomplete staircase, called Mekhelauja Path, still exists today.

These stories, along with the temple’s Tantric significance, give Kamakhya Devi Temple an air of mystery, power, and spiritual depth. Whether you’re drawn by the legends, the Tantric practices, or the divine feminine energy, Kamakhya Devi Mandir continues to be a major spiritual destination in India.

How to Reach Kamakhya Devi Temple

Reaching Kamakhya Devi Temple is quite easy as it is located in Guwahati, Assam, which is well connected by air, rail, and road. Here’s how you can reach Kamakhya Devi Mandir:

By Air:

The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, about 20 km away from the temple. You can take a flight to this airport from most major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. After landing, you can hire a taxi or take a cab to reach the temple, which takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.

By Rail:

Kamakhya Railway Station is located just 6 km from the temple, and it is well connected to various cities in India. You can also reach Guwahati Railway Station, which is about 8 km away from Kamakhya Devi Temple. From both stations, you can easily hire an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or use public transport to reach the temple. Guwahati station has more frequent train services if you are coming from other states.

By Road:

Guwahati is connected by national highways to all the major cities in Assam and nearby states. You can take a bus, hire a taxi, or drive to Guwahati. From the Guwahati city center, the temple is about 7-8 km away. You can take a taxi or local bus services to reach the temple.

Additionally, shared autos and buses are available from different parts of the city, making it easy to access the temple without much hassle.

By Local Transport:

Once you’re in Guwahati, reaching Kamakhya Devi Temple is very convenient. Local transport options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are widely available. You can even opt for online cab services like Ola or Uber.

The roads leading to the temple are well-maintained, but you should know that the temple is situated on the Nilachal Hills, so you may need to climb a few steps after the vehicle drops you off. However, the breathtaking view from the top makes it worth the effort.

Other article about nort-east region- 

• Gangtok- A detailed Travel Guide & some tips
• Tawang(2024) – Travel Guide, Best Places, Weather, Attractions.
• Siliguri To Gangtok

Official Website of Kamakhya Devi Temple

For more detailed information, you can visit the official website of Kamakhya Devi Temple at www.maakamakhya.org. The website provides important details regarding temple timings, festivals, rituals, and other essential updates for devotees planning their visit.

It is a helpful resource for booking special pujas, understanding the temple’s historical significance, and staying updated on upcoming events like the Ambubachi Mela.

Ambubachi Festival at Kamakhya Devi Temple

The Ambubachi Festival is one of the most important events celebrated at Kamakhya Devi Temple. It marks the annual menstruation period of Goddess Kamakhya, symbolizing fertility and the earth’s reproductive cycle. This unique festival draws lakhs of devotees, sadhus, and Tantriks from across India, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in Assam.

Significance of Ambubachi Mela

The festival usually takes place in the month of June during the monsoon season. It is believed that during these three days, Goddess Kamakhya goes through her menstrual cycle, and the temple remains closed to devotees. This period is considered sacred, representing the divine feminine power and the natural process of creation.

The closure of the temple signifies the Goddess’s resting phase, and no daily worship or rituals are performed during this time. Devotees believe that the earth’s fertility is rejuvenated during this period, making it an important time for farmers and those seeking blessings for fertility and prosperity.

Rituals and Celebrations

During Ambubachi, the temple doors are closed for three days, and on the fourth day, the temple is reopened with grand celebrations. Devotees wait eagerly for the darshan of the Goddess after these three days. The reopening of the temple is accompanied by special rituals and pujas, symbolizing the renewal of the Goddess’s power.

During the festival, devotees receive a piece of cloth called “Prasad,” which is believed to have been soaked with the divine menstrual fluids of the Goddess. This Prasad is highly revered and kept by devotees for blessings.

Gathering of Tantriks and Sadhus

The Ambubachi Mela is also a major event for Tantriks, sadhus, and ascetics from all over India, who gather at Kamakhya Devi Mandir to perform special Tantric rituals and worship. The festival highlights the connection of the temple to Tantra, with many devotees and practitioners seeking spiritual power and enlightenment during this period.

This festival is a blend of spirituality, faith, and cultural richness, making it a unique and significant event for devotees of Kamakhya Devi and those interested in Tantric practices. If you plan to visit the temple during Ambubachi Mela, you can witness the grandeur of the festival and experience the powerful energy of this sacred place.

Places to Visit at Nilachal Hills

Nilachal Hills, where the Kamakhya Devi Temple is located, is a place of immense spiritual and scenic beauty. Besides visiting the Kamakhya Devi Mandir, there are several other attractions on the Nilachal Hills that you can explore during your visit. Let me walk you through some of these important spots.

1. Kamakhya Devi Temple

Of course, the Kamakhya Devi Temple is the main attraction on Nilachal Hills. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, it is one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India. The temple’s unique Tantric significance and powerful spiritual energy make it a must-visit for devotees and spiritual seekers.

2. Bhubaneswari Temple

Located above the Kamakhya Devi Temple, the Bhubaneswari Temple offers breathtaking views of the Brahmaputra River and Guwahati city. Dedicated to Goddess Bhubaneswari, another form of Shakti, this temple is known for its peaceful surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking quiet meditation or simply wanting to enjoy the panoramic views.

3. Umananda Temple

Though not exactly on Nilachal Hills, the Umananda Temple is located nearby on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River, which you can visit after exploring the Nilachal Hill area. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers a beautiful ferry ride across the river to reach the island. The serene atmosphere here makes it a perfect spot to connect with nature and spirituality.

4. Bagala Devi Temple

The Bagala Devi Temple, located near Kamakhya, is dedicated to Goddess Bagala, another form of Shakti. The temple is important for Tantric worshippers and holds significance for those seeking victory over enemies or relief from evil influences. Many devotees visit this temple after offering prayers at Kamakhya.

5. Trishul Dhwaj

Trishul Dhwaj is a holy spot near the Kamakhya Temple complex where a large Trishul (trident) is worshipped. The trident is symbolic of Lord Shiva’s power, and many devotees come here to offer prayers for strength and protection. This place is often visited by pilgrims after visiting the main Kamakhya Devi Mandir.

6. Temples of the Ten Mahavidyas

On Nilachal Hills, you will also find temples dedicated to the Ten Mahavidyas (ten forms of the Divine Mother) like Tara, Kali, Bagala, Chinnamasta, and Bhuvaneshwari. These temples hold a special place for Tantriks and devotees who follow Shakti worship. Visiting these temples gives a deeper insight into the powerful energies worshipped in Tantra.

7. Pandu Hill

Another important hill near Nilachal Hills is Pandu Hill, where you can visit Navagraha Temple. This temple is dedicated to the nine planets, and many people come here to perform rituals to pacify planetary doshas (astrological influences). It’s a peaceful place to relax and offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

8. Mekhelauja Path

The Mekhelauja Path is an incomplete staircase built by the demon king Narakasura in his attempt to win Goddess Kamakhya’s hand in marriage. According to legend, this path was left incomplete due to the Goddess tricking Narakasura into believing it was dawn. This ancient pathway still exists and holds historical and mythical significance, attracting many visitors.

Nilachal Hills offers not only spiritual upliftment but also some of the most beautiful scenic spots in Guwahati. Whether you are here for religious reasons or just to soak in the natural beauty, these places will surely make your visit memorable.

Conclusion

Visiting Kamakhya Devi Temple is not just a spiritual journey, but an experience of the deep-rooted traditions of Sanatan Dharma and the mystical world of Tantra. The temple stands as a powerful symbol of the divine feminine, attracting devotees from all over India and beyond. From its historical significance as one of the most important Shakti Peethas to its connection with ancient Tantric practices, Kamakhya Devi Mandir holds a unique place in Hinduism.

Whether you come to seek blessings, participate in the Ambubachi Mela, or explore the serene beauty of Nilachal Hills, Kamakhya offers something for everyone. Its sacredness, the rich mythology, and the surrounding temples make it a must-visit destination for both spiritual seekers and tourists. As you walk through the sacred grounds, you can feel the energy that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.

A visit to Kamakhya Devi Temple will leave you with a sense of peace, devotion, and a deeper connection to the divine power of Shakti.