Guwahati Dirgheshwari Mandir- Assam

Address

Guwahati Dirgheshwari Mandir- Assam

Dhirgheswri, Guwahati,

Assam 781030

Amman

Dirgheswari

Introduction

• Location: The Dirgheswari Mandir is located on the northern banks of the river Brahmaputra in Guwahati, Assam, India. It is a revered Shakti temple and a significant site for Durga worship.
• Historical Significance: The temple is believed to have been built by Ahom King Swargadeo Siva Singha during his reign from 1714 CE to 1744 CE. The construction of the temple was overseen by Tarun Duwarah Barphukan, the Ahom viceroy of Guwahati and Lower Assam. The temple was constructed using bricks on top of a hill, which is rich in solid rock formations.

Puranic Significance

• Sage Markandeya’s Penance: According to legend, Sage Markandeya, one of the immortals in Hindu tradition, visited this sacred location and performed intense penance to Goddess Durga. Moved by his devotion, the Goddess appeared before him and granted him her blessings. This event solidified Dirgheswari as an important place of Durga worship.
• Construction by Ahom King: While the exact origins of the temple in ancient times are unclear, the present Dirgheswari Mandir was built during the Ahom rule under the guidance of King Swargadeo Siva Singha. The temple was constructed atop a hill made of solid rocks, with the Garbha-griha (inner sanctum) located underground in a small cave where the idol of Goddess Durga resides.
• Royal Inscriptions: A rock inscription at the back entrance of the temple commemorates the royal decree issued by Swargadeo Siva Singha and Tarun Duwarah Barphukan, marking the foundation of the temple and the land grants made in its name.

Special Features

• Rock Engravings: The temple is surrounded by numerous ancient images of gods and goddesses engraved in the rocks of the hill. While the exact period of these engravings is uncertain, they add to the spiritual and historical significance of the site. One prominent engraving is a large image of Lord Ganesha at the temple entrance, as it is customary to offer prayers to Lord Ganesha before any religious rituals.
• Footprints of Goddess Durga: Near the temple, there are two foot impressions carved in the rocks, believed to be the footprints of Goddess Durga, further elevating the temple’s sacredness.
• Boat-Shaped Stone Structure: Another fascinating feature is a stone structure resembling a boat, which is believed by locals to have been used by Apsaras (nymphs) for water sports in a nearby pond.
• Water Tank: A small water tank near the temple houses small fishes and a turtle, contributing to the serene environment of the site.

Archaeological Recognition

• ASI Recognition: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has recognized Dirgheswari Mandir as an important historical site. Efforts have been made to preserve the temple’s structure, ensuring that this cultural and religious heritage continues to be protected for future generations.

Century/Period

1714 CE-1744 CE

Managed By

Department of Archaeology (DOA)

Nearest Bus Station

Dhirgheswri

Nearest Railway Station

Guwahati

Nearest Airport

Guwahati

Location on Map

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