Guwahati Aswaklanta Temple, Assam

Address

Guwahati Aswaklanta Temple, Assam

Doul Govinda Rd, North Guwahati,

Kamrup District,

Assam 781031

Moolavar

Lord Vishnu

Introduction

• Location: The Aswaklanta Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in Guwahati City, in the Kamrup District of Assam, India. The temple is situated along the banks of the Brahmaputra River, offering a serene and majestic view of the river and the city in the background.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Background: The Aswaklanta Temple was built by Ahom King Shiva Singha in 1720. However, it was severely damaged in the 1897 earthquake that struck Assam. The temple was subsequently repaired in 1901 with the patronage of Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India.
• Sacrificial Site: Before the temple was constructed, the site housed a Kunda, which was a sacrificial area. Over time, the Kunda was eroded and washed away by the mighty Brahmaputra River, leaving the temple in its place.

Legends and Folklore

• Lord Krishna’s Journey: According to one legend, Lord Krishna, while riding his horse in search of the demon Narakasur, stopped at this location as his horse became tired. The term “Aswa” means horse, and “Klanta” means tired in Assamese. This is how the place came to be named Aswaklanta, symbolizing the tiredness of Lord Krishna’s horse.
• Arjuna’s Horses: Another popular legend associated with the temple involves the Kurukshetra War. It is believed that the horses of Arjuna were stationed at this location to prevent them from entering the battlefield, as part of a conspiracy to ensure the death of his son Abhimanyu. This plan, known as Abhikranta in Assamese, contributed to the place’s name, Aswaklanta.

Special Features

• Location and Architecture: The temple is situated on an uphill site offering a breathtaking view of the Brahmaputra River and Guwahati city. The temple features two significant images: one of Lord Janardana and the other of Lord Anantasayi Vishnu.
• Anantasayi Vishnu Statue: The image of Anantasayi Vishnu is a remarkable example of ancient art, dating back to the 11th century. The artistry and craftsmanship of the statue are of high significance in the context of Indian temple art.
• Stone Inscriptions: The walls of the temple are adorned with numerous stone inscriptions, adding to its historical and cultural value.
• Disappeared Kunda: The temple is located near the site of the ancient Kunda, a place once used for sacrificial rites. However, this area was eroded by the Brahmaputra River and no longer exists.

Century/Period

1720

Managed By

Department of Archaeology (DOA)

Nearest Bus Station

Kadamtal

Nearest Railway Station

Agthori junction, Guwahati

Nearest Airport

Guwahati

Location on Map

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