About Navagraha Temple
Navagraha Temple is one of the most unique temples in Assam, dedicated to the nine celestial bodies — Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangal (Mars), Budh (Mercury), Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu, and Ketu. The temple houses nine Shiva Lingams, each covered with a colored cloth representing the respective planet. It was built during the Ahom dynasty and has been a center for astrological worship for centuries. Pilgrims visit this temple to perform Navagraha Shanti puja, believed to ward off doshas (planetary afflictions) and bring peace and prosperity.
Temple Timings & Best Time to Visit
Navagraha Temple is open daily for devotees:
Morning Darshan: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Mondays and Saturdays are considered highly auspicious, attracting large crowds for special pujas. The best time to visit is early morning when the temple is quiet and the sunrise view from Chitrasal Hill is breathtaking. Festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Navratri are celebrated with great devotion, making these times spiritually vibrant.
Rituals and Special Pujas
The temple is known for its Navagraha Shanti Puja, performed to reduce the malefic effects of planetary positions. Devotees can also perform Rudrabhishek, Graha Dosh Nivaran Puja, and special havans on request. Priests guide pilgrims through each ritual, ensuring it is performed according to Vedic traditions. Offering flowers, oil, milk, and chanting mantras during the puja is believed to attract positive energy and blessings for health, wealth, and harmony.
How to Reach Navagraha Temple
Navagraha Temple is easily accessible from the heart of Guwahati. Located on Chitrasal Hill (also called Navagraha Hill), it is just a short drive from Panbazar and Uzan Bazaar areas. Devotees can hire an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or use local transport to reach the hilltop. A short flight of steps leads to the temple entrance. The journey is scenic and peaceful, with lush greenery surrounding the hill. Parking facilities are available near the base, making it convenient for travelers.
Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions
Best Season: October to March for pleasant weather and clear skies.
Dress Code: Modest, traditional attire is recommended while visiting the temple.
Offerings: Flowers, oil, milk, and red cloth are common offerings for Navagraha puja.
Nearby Temples: Umananda Temple, Sukreswar Temple, and Kamakhya Temple can be visited the same day.
Photography: Allowed outside the temple premises but restricted inside sanctum.