Sukreswar Shiva Temple

Sukreswar Shiva Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Guwahati, Assam, India. The temple is situated on a hill on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River and is one of the most revered Shiva temples in the region. The temple is believed to have been built during the 18th century AD by Ahom King Pramatta Singha.

The temple has a unique architecture, with a dome-shaped structure and four gates, each facing a different direction. The temple has a main sanctum sanctorum where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of a lingam. The lingam is said to have been self-manifested, and it is believed that worshipping here fulfills one's desires.

Apart from Lord Shiva, the temple also houses several other deities, including Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Hanuman. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere for devotees to offer their prayers.

The temple is also popular among tourists, who visit the temple to admire its unique architecture and to enjoy the scenic views of the Brahmaputra River from the hilltop. The temple is also a popular spot for taking part in various religious ceremonies and festivals. The most popular festival celebrated at the temple is Shivratri, which is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm.

Overall, Sukreswar Shiva Temple is an important religious site in Assam and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hinduism, architecture, and culture.

The history of Sukreswar Shiva Temple dates back to the 18th century, during the reign of Ahom King Pramatta Singha. According to legend, the king was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and wanted to build a grand temple dedicated to the deity. He chose the location of the temple on a hill overlooking the Brahmaputra River and began the construction of the temple in the early 1700s.

The temple's unique architecture and design were a reflection of the king's vision and his love for Lord Shiva. The dome-shaped structure and the four gates facing different directions were meant to represent the four cardinal directions and to ensure that the temple was accessible to all devotees, regardless of their origin or religion.

Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and restorations, but its original design and architecture have been preserved. Today, the temple is considered one of the most significant religious sites in Assam and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.

Apart from its religious significance, Sukreswar Shiva Temple is also an important cultural and historical landmark in Assam. The temple's association with the Ahom Kings and its unique architecture make it an essential part of Assam's rich heritage and history.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple holds significant religious and cultural importance in the state of Assam, India. Here are some of its significances:

1. Hindu pilgrimage site: The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees, particularly those who worship Lord Shiva. The lingam of Lord Shiva at the temple is believed to be self-manifested, and devotees visit the temple to seek the blessings of the deity.
2. Unique architecture: The temple's unique architecture, with its dome-shaped structure and four gates facing different directions, is a reflection of the king's vision and love for Lord Shiva. The temple's design and construction are considered an excellent example of traditional Assamese architecture.
3. Cultural significance: The temple is an essential part of Assam's rich cultural heritage and history. The temple's association with the Ahom Kings and its unique architecture make it an essential cultural landmark in the state.
4. Festival celebrations: The temple is a hub of religious festivals, and the most significant festival celebrated here is Shivratri, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. Other festivals celebrated at the temple include Durga Puja, Diwali, and Navaratri.
5. Scenic beauty: The temple is situated on a hill overlooking the Brahmaputra River and is surrounded by lush greenery. The temple's scenic location and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for meditation and spiritual retreat.

Overall, Sukreswar Shiva Temple holds significant religious, cultural, and historical importance in Assam and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hinduism, architecture, and culture.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple's architecture is unique and reflects the traditional Assamese style. The temple is built on a hillock overlooking the Brahmaputra river in Guwahati, Assam. Here are some of the distinctive architectural features of the temple:

1. Dome-shaped structure: The temple has a unique dome-shaped structure that is made of bricks and cement. The dome is adorned with a golden kalasha (pot) at the top.
2. Four gates: The temple has four gates, each facing a different direction. The gates are designed in the typical Assamese style, with intricate carvings and designs.
3. Sanctum sanctorum: The temple's sanctum sanctorum houses the main deity, Lord Shiva, in the form of a lingam. The lingam is made of stone and is believed to be self-manifested.
4. Mandapa: The temple has a mandapa or a pillared hall that is used for prayers and offerings. The mandapa is designed in the traditional Assamese style, with intricate carvings and designs on the pillars.
5. Garbhagriha: The garbhagriha is the innermost chamber of the temple where the main deity is housed. It is a small, dark chamber with a narrow entrance that is meant to symbolize the womb of the mother.
6. Decorative carvings: The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and designs that are typical of Assamese architecture. The carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology and folklore.

Overall, Sukreswar Shiva Temple's unique architecture and design make it an essential part of Assam's cultural and architectural heritage. The temple's beauty and historical significance attract devotees and tourists alike.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple is a popular Hindu temple in Guwahati, Assam, and hosts several festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the significant festivals celebrated at the temple:

1. Shivratri: This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion at the temple. Devotees fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva on this day. The temple is decorated with lights, and cultural programs and devotional songs are organized.
2. Durga Puja: Durga Puja is a popular festival in Assam, and the Sukreswar Shiva Temple is no exception. The temple is decorated with lights, and a Durga idol is installed in the temple premises. Devotees offer prayers to the goddess and seek her blessings.
3. Diwali: Diwali is a festival of lights, and the temple is decorated with colorful lights and diyas. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva and seek his blessings.
4. Navaratri: Navaratri is a nine-day festival that is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Assam. The temple is decorated with lights, and cultural programs and devotional songs are organized.

Apart from these festivals, the temple also hosts several other festivals throughout the year, including the Bihu festival, which is an important festival in Assam. The temple's festive atmosphere, cultural programs, and devotional songs attract devotees and tourists alike.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple in Guwahati, Assam, is open for devotees and visitors throughout the year. The temple's visiting hours are as follows:

Morning: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM Evening: 2:30 PM to 9:00 PM

The temple timings may change during festivals and special occasions. It is always advisable to check with the temple authorities or the local tourist office before planning a visit to the temple.

Devotees and visitors are advised to follow the temple's dress code and remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. Photography is allowed inside the temple, but it is always better to check with the temple authorities before taking photographs.

The best time to visit Sukreswar Shiva Temple is during the early morning or evening when the temple is less crowded, and visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and offer prayers to Lord Shiva.

Like many Hindu temples, Sukreswar Shiva Temple in Guwahati, Assam, has a dress code that visitors are expected to follow. The dress code is in place to maintain the sanctity of the temple and show respect to the deity.

Here are some guidelines for the dress code at Sukreswar Shiva Temple:

1. Modest clothing: Visitors are expected to dress modestly and conservatively. Clothing that is revealing or provocative should be avoided.
2. Traditional clothing: Visitors are encouraged to wear traditional Indian clothing, such as saris, salwar kameez, or dhotis. These are considered appropriate for temple visits.
3. Footwear: Visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. It is advisable to carry a bag or pouch to keep the footwear safe.
4. Headgear: Headgear such as hats, caps, or sunglasses should be removed before entering the temple premises.
5. Jewelry: Visitors are advised to avoid wearing excessive jewelry, as it can be a distraction and show disrespect to the deity.

It is always better to check with the temple authorities or the local tourist office for specific guidelines regarding the dress code at Sukreswar Shiva Temple.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple in Guwahati, Assam, is one of the popular Hindu temples in the region and offers several poojas and rituals to the devotees. Here are some of the significant poojas and rituals performed at the temple:

1. Maha Shivaratri: This is a significant festival celebrated at Sukreswar Shiva Temple. Devotees fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva on this day. The temple is decorated with lights, and cultural programs and devotional songs are organized.
2. Rudrabhishek: This is a pooja performed to please Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. It is believed to remove all negative energies and bring peace and prosperity to the devotees.
3. Shodashopachara Pooja: This is a comprehensive pooja that involves sixteen steps and is performed to show devotion to the deity.
4. Navagraha Pooja: This is a pooja performed to seek the blessings of the nine planets and to remove the ill effects of any planetary afflictions.
5. Abhishekam: This is a ritual performed to bathe the deity with various sacred items such as milk, honey, and ghee, to show devotion and seek blessings.

Apart from these poojas and rituals, the temple also performs several other ceremonies and prayers throughout the year. It is always advisable to check with the temple authorities or the local tourist office before planning a visit to the temple to know the timing and details of the poojas and rituals.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple is located in the heart of Guwahati city in Assam, and there are several accommodation options available near the temple. Here are some of the popular accommodation options near Sukreswar Shiva Temple:

1. Hotel Millennium: This is a budget hotel located just 1 km from the temple. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.
2. Hotel Prag Continental: This is a mid-range hotel located 2 km from the temple. The hotel offers spacious rooms with amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.
3. Hotel Dynasty: This is a luxury hotel located 3 km from the temple. The hotel offers elegant rooms with amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
4. Hotel Nandan: This is a budget hotel located 5 km from the temple. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.
5. Vivanta Guwahati: This is a luxury hotel located 7 km from the temple. The hotel offers spacious rooms with amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.

These are just some of the popular accommodation options near Sukreswar Shiva Temple. Visitors can also explore other budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels located in and around the city. It is always advisable to book the accommodation in advance, especially during peak season or festivals.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple is located in the heart of Guwahati city in Assam and is surrounded by several tourist attractions. Here are some of the popular attractions near Sukreswar Shiva Temple:

1. Kamakhya Temple: This is one of the most popular temples in Guwahati and is located just 5 km from Sukreswar Shiva Temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and is known for its unique architecture and traditions.
2. Umananda Temple: This is a small temple located on the Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is accessible by ferry from Sukreswar Ghat, which is located just a few minutes' walk from Sukreswar Shiva Temple.
3. Assam State Museum: This is a popular museum located just 3 km from the temple. The museum showcases the history, culture, and art of Assam and is a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.
4. Navagraha Temple: This is a temple dedicated to the nine planets and is located just 1 km from Sukreswar Shiva Temple. The temple is known for its unique architecture and is a popular spot for astrology enthusiasts.
5. Guwahati Zoo: This is a popular zoo located just 5 km from the temple. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and rhinos, among others.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple is a popular Hindu temple located in Guwahati, Assam, India. Here are some things to do when you visit the Sukreswar Shiva Temple:

1. Offer prayers - The main reason people visit the Sukreswar Shiva Temple is to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its serene atmosphere and is a great place to seek blessings.
2. Take a dip in the Brahmaputra River - The Sukreswar Shiva Temple is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, and it's a great place to take a dip in the holy river. It is believed that taking a dip in the river washes away all sins.
3. Attend the Aarti - The Aarti is a Hindu ritual of worship where lamps are lit and songs are sung in praise of the deity. The Sukreswar Shiva Temple has a daily Aarti that takes place in the evening, and it is a great experience to witness it.
4. Explore the temple complex - The Sukreswar Shiva Temple complex has several smaller temples, and it's a great place to explore and learn about Hindu mythology and culture.
5. Enjoy the view - The temple is located on a hill and provides a panoramic view of the Brahmaputra River and Guwahati city. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the view.
6. Attend festivals - The Sukreswar Shiva Temple celebrates several Hindu festivals throughout the year, including Shivratri and Navratri. Attending these festivals is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of Assam.

The best time to visit Sukreswar Shiva Temple in Guwahati, Assam is during the winter season, which lasts from November to February. During this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, should be avoided as the heavy rainfall can cause flooding and landslides in the region. The summer season, which lasts from March to May, can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing.

Additionally, the Sukreswar Shiva Temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, such as Shivratri and Navratri. If you want to experience the temple's festivities, it's best to plan your visit during these times. However, keep in mind that these festivals can also attract large crowds, so plan accordingly.

Sukreswar Shiva Temple is located in Guwahati, Assam, India. Here's how to reach the temple:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Guwahati is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sukreswar Shiva Temple.
2. By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sukreswar Shiva Temple.
3. By Bus: Guwahati is well-connected to major cities in India via a network of state and private buses. You can take a bus to Guwahati and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Sukreswar Shiva Temple.
4. By Taxi/Car: You can also hire a taxi or take your own car to reach Sukreswar Shiva Temple. Guwahati is well-connected to major cities in Assam and other states via road.

Once you reach Guwahati, you can easily reach Sukreswar Shiva Temple via local buses or taxis. The temple is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, near Fancy Bazaar and MG Road, and is easily accessible from all parts of the city.