The Navagraha Temple of Guwahati

The Navagraha Temple is popularly called as  temple of nine celestial entities. The Navagraha temple located on Chitrachal hill of Guwahati, Assam. This temple dedicated to nine planets which are present in the form of Shiva Lingams. The temple is also known to be the place of  prime celestial entity Surya or Sun. The Navagraha temple is popular for Graha Dosha Nivarana pooja.

Entrance of Navagraha temple

History Of Navagraha Temple

The history of Navagraha temple dates back to 1752 A.D. The temple was constructed under the supervision of the King Rajeswar Singha in 1752 A.D. The top portion of the temple was revived from the damages of a massive earthquake. However, the inner sanctum remained unaffected by the disaster. In the honour of devotees A tank called Silpukhuri was built to provide water to the devotees who come to worship at the temple. 

The temple showcases Lord Shiva attired in different avatars  representing the nine celestial bodies (Surya, Chandra, Mangala, Budha, Brihaspati, Shukra, Shani, Rahu and Ketu). The navagraha are arranged in circular shape. The temple’s structure resembles that of a beehive. The temple’s roof is dome shaped.

The Navagrahas in the form of Shiva Lingams

Importance of Navagraha Temple

The description Navagrahas or the nine planets are: 

1. Surya or Sun – Surya consists of one wheel chariot headed by seven horses. Surya is appears to be having straight lock of hair wears an armour and his chest is covered in kavacha. Also ring of light appears above the head of Surya.
2. Chandra or Moon – Moon is decorated in white colour attire. Moon is surrounded by aura of light and is embellished with varieties of flower garlands.
3. Mangala or Mars – Mangala is dressed in red clothings seated on Simhasana. He appears to be in Abhaya pose holds weapons namely Gada, Sula and Shakti.
4. Budha or Mercury – Budha is represented in yellow coloured garment. Budha is positioned in Abhaya pose and holds three arms holding Khadga, Khetaka and Gada.
5. Brihaspati or Jupiter – Brihaspati is clothed in golden yellow garments. He positioned in Varada pose and holds Kamandalu, Akasmala and danda.
6. Shukra or Venus – Shukra is dressed in white clothings. Shukra has four arms and holds the weapons similar to Brihaspati. Sometimes Shukra is represented with hands holding  Nidhi and Pustaka
7. Shani or Saturn – Sahni is clothed in black garments and is positioned in Varada pose. Shani’s stature is less when compared with other planets. He also appears to be limped in one leg. Shani is represented with two arms holding Danda and Aksamala.
8. Rahu – Rahu owns a silver chariot accompanied y eight horses. He stands tall in Varda pose and also is possessed with four arms which hold Khadga, Khetaka and Sula. Sometimes he appears with two arms holding books.
9. Ketu –  The last and ninth planet represented in dark coloured clothes. He appears to be in Abhaya pose and holds Gada. Sometimes he appears on a chariot accompanied by ten horses also.

Picture depicting Navagraha position

Timings at Navagraha Temple

The timings for visiting Navagraha temple is from 4:00 am to 9:00 pm

Places to Visit near Navagraha Temple

1. Umananda Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at the center of Brahmaputra river on the peacock island. Umananda temple is known to be the smallest river island in the world
2. Kamakhya Temple: Kamakhya temple is one of the popular Shakti Peetha of India. It is situated  on the Nilachal Hills ,Guwahati. The temple holds a special place in terms of religious importance.
3. ISKCON  Guwahati: This structure is in the city limits of 2 kms. Devotees gather to seek blessings from Lord Krishna and Rukmini in this temple.
4. Assam State Zoo : Assam state zoo is a popular tourist attractions and spread across 130 acres of land. This zoo possess endangered species like  white tigers, single horned rhinos, leopards and swamp tapirs.
5. Pandu: As the name indicates, this town is named after King Pandu, father of the famous five Pandavas. The Pandunath temple dedicated to King Pandu is situated at the Tila Hills.

Serene view of Brahmaputra River

How to reach Navagraha Temple Guwahati

By Airport: Guwahati International Airport is located at a distance of 24.4 kms from the Navagraha temple

By Railway: Guwahati Railway station is at distance of 3 kms from the temple premises

By Road: Local buses and auto rickshaws can be hired to reach the temple at an affordable rates.

Planning take a trip down to ancient city Guwahati, do explore the Navagraha temple.The best time to visit temple is between November to March. Relish on variety sweets like ladoo, Rasgulla, Gulab Jamun from best Mithai stores from Maligaon and Fancy Bazar Guwahati. You will be definitely mystified after knowing the importance of navagrahas or nine planets.