Name: Guwahati
Rating: 4.0

Umananda Island, Guwahati Overview

The smallest river island in the world, Umananda Island is a place with legends aplenty, a place where man and the wilderness co-habit in peace and serenity. Umananda Island lies at the heart of the Mighty Brahmaputra River which flows through the middle of the city of Guwahati. An island with many legends associated with it, it's pristine and calm environ has not been destroyed by the presence of human beings as yet. It was known as Peacock Island among the British Colonists who named it so based on its shape. The Island is home to a very rare and endangered species called _ãÄGolden Langurs_ã_ who are considered to be highly sacred among the people of the Himalayas.

The legend goes that it is the very same place where Lord Kamdev (Lord of Love) was burnt into ashes by the third eye of Lord Shiva when the former tried to disrupt his meditation thereby giving it its alternative name Bhasmchal. The major attraction of the island is the Umananda Devi Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiv and sees a large influx of devotees during religious festivals.

Best Time To Visit Umananda Island

The best time to visit the island is from October till May. The climate during the winter months is pleasant with the need of a layer of woolen especially during night time. Post February, temperatures see a rise though still comfortable. Avoid visiting the island during monsoons as access to the island can be denied due to the rising water levels of the River Brahmaputra as well as due to flash floods.

Stay Near Umananda Island

Guwahati is the capital city of Assam and has accommodation options for all budget sizes. Main cluster of hotels can be found near the Guwahati Railway Station and near Paltan Bazaar.

Sightseeing Around Umananda Island

Umananda Devi Temple is a must-visit on a trip to this island. The temple built by an Ahom King of Assam in the 16th century is a special place and place of high religious significance. Even though the temple complex was destroyed by a major earthquake in the 18th century, it was restored somewhat by a merchant. The temple displays various artistry of the region.

Food at Umananda Island

Try out some delightful Assamese and Bengali cuisines in Guwahati before heading out for a trip to Umananda Island. Its also a great place to taste cuisine from other parts of North-East India.

Restaurants Near Umananda Island

Paradise, Cracklin Mustard, Naga Kitchen and Terra Maya

Sample Itinerary For Umananda Island

Leave around 8am from Kachari Ghat for the Island. Upon reaching visit the Umananda Temple, spent time walking around the island and taking in the environ and calmness of the place. Leave around noon for Guwahati.

Tips For Visiting Umananda Island

The Island's biodiversity is rich and fragile so avoid littering at any cost. Also, the boat ride to and from Umananda Island is a special experience providing various opportunities for capturing birdlife in your cameras. However, please be aware that the island is extremely sensitive and quite ecologically balanced, make sure you don't litter.

How to Reach Umananda Island

Air: Flights are available for Guwahati from all domestic airports in India, from Guwahati you can catch a ferry to the island until sunset.
Rail: Guwahati is well connected to all major rail heads in India.
Road: Take a bus or a cab till Kachari Ghat from where you will get a ferries to the Island.