The North-Eastern region of India is known for its natural beauty and diverse topography. The region consists of seven states, namely Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura. Known as “Paradise Unexplored”, it is also a land of spirituality. The entire region is inhabited by a huge number of tribal groups, who has their distinct culture, traditions and rituals. It offers a glimpse of the tribal culture that has been dominating the regions since time unknown. There are number of small and big Hindu temples of different Gods and Goddesses. These temples feature distinctive and unique architecture, which makes these temples worth visiting. Most of these pilgrimage sites and temples are visited by devotees worldwide. Here is a list of some of the famous Hindu pilgrimages in North-East India.
Kamakhya Temple, Assam
One of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages in India is the Kamakhya temple, which is located in the North-Eastern state of Assam. It is perched on the hilltop of the Nilachal Hills on the western part of the city of Guwahati, which is the “Gateway to North-East India”. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India and is associated with the legend of Daksha Yagna and Lord Shiva. It is an ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, an incarnation of Adi-Shakti, which was earlier destroyed and was rebuilt during the 17th century by King Nara Narayana of Koch Dynasty. It is believed that the genitals or the yoni of Aadi Shakti fell in this place, when the body of Sati was cut into pieces by the Sudarshan Chakra of Lord Vishnu. Also known as the temple of menstruating goddess, it is one of the most important pilgrimages for Tantric worshippers. The temple celebrates Ambubachi Mela every year with grandeur, and it is believed that Goddess undergoes menstrual period during this time of the year. It is a major Hindu pilgrimage in this part of the country and attracts a horde of devotees worldwide.
Shri Govindajee Temple, Manipur
Located in the capital city, Imphal in the North-Eastern state of Manipur is Shri Govindajee Temple. It is an architectural marvel, attracting a huge crowd of devotees across the region. A huge temple situated close to the palace of the erstwhile Manipuri rulers, it is a significant religious centre of vaishnavite faith. It is made using brick and Burma teak with two gilded tombs on the top. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the idol inside the temple is carved out of Jackfruit tree. This temple is also a major attraction of the state attracting a vast crowd of devotees worldwide.
Nartiang Durga Temple, Meghalaya
One of the 51 Shakti Peeths, Nartiang Durga Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage in the North-Eastern state of Meghalaya. A lesser known pilgrimage in the region, it is an ancient temple which dates back to some 500 years. The temple lies in the Nartiang village of Jaintia Hill district and is considered to be one of the holiest places in the region. It is believed that the left thigh of Goddess Sati fell in this part after her corpse was cut into pieces by Lord Vishnu with his Sudarshan Chakra. Human sacrifice was once practiced in this temple, which was abolished by the British and today, goats are sacrificed in the honor of the Goddess. Durga Puja is a major festival, which is celebrated with grandeur in this ancient temple.
Tripura Sundari Temple, Tripura
One of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages in North-East India, Tripura Sundari temple is located in the state of Tripura. It is one of the 51 ‘Shakti Peeths’ in India and it is believed that 'right foot' of Goddess Sati fell at the place where the present temple has been constructed. It is a popular pilgrimage destination among the Hindus across the country and is visited by horde of devotees. Also known as Kurma Pith as the temple resembles a tortoise. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and people from all over the region visits this temple to pay homage to the Goddess. Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur and during this time the temple remains crowded by devotees from all over the globe.
These are few popular Hindu pilgrimages in North East India; however, there are several temples, which are worth visiting, share with you all in upcoming posts.
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