- Where
- Umananda (Peacock) Island, Brahmaputra river, Guwahati
- Distance
- Ferry from Uzan Bazar (Kachari) Ghat, about 10 minutes across
- Timings
- About 5:30 am–6 pm; ferries run roughly 7 am–5 pm
- Entry fee
- Free; government ferry about ₹20–40 return, private boats more
- Permit
- None
- Best time
- October–March; avoid high water in the monsoon
- Time needed
- 1.5–2 hours with the ferry
Book onlineBrahmaputra Sunset Cruise, Guwahati₹799 / person · Cruise ticket, tea and snacks includedUmananda is a Shiva temple on a small rocky island in the middle of the Brahmaputra, right in front of Guwahati. The island is often called Peacock Island, and the ferry ride across is half the reason to go: the river is wide, the city spreads along the bank, and the crossing takes about ten minutes.
What it's like
From the landing, about a hundred steps climb to the temple, which was built under the Ahom kings and rebuilt after an earthquake. The walls carry rock carvings of Hindu deities. Golden langurs, a rare primate, have lived on the island for years and are often seen in the trees. Shivaratri brings the biggest crowds.
Ferry: where to board and what it costs
- Board at Uzan Bazar (Kachari) Ghat, the main ferry point on the Guwahati riverfront.
- Government ferry: about ₹20–40 for the return trip. Private boats charge about ₹200–300 per person.
- Ferries run roughly 7 am to 5 pm and stop in bad weather or high water. Check the last return boat at the ghat.
Best time to go
October to March, when the river is calm and the air is clear. In the monsoon the Brahmaputra runs high and ferries can be suspended. Late afternoon gives the best light on the river; pair it with a sunset cruise from the riverfront.
Tips
- Wear shoes you can slip off easily; footwear is removed at the temple.
- Don't feed the langurs, and keep food out of sight.
- Combine Umananda with Kamakhya Temple and the riverfront in one Guwahati day.
Umananda Temple: questions travellers ask
How do I reach Umananda Temple?
By ferry from Uzan Bazar (Kachari) Ghat on the Guwahati riverfront. The crossing takes about ten minutes, then about a hundred steps lead up to the temple.
What is the Umananda ferry fare?
About ₹20–40 for the return trip on the government ferry. Private boats charge about ₹200–300 per person.
What are Umananda Temple timings?
The temple is open from about 5:30 am to 6 pm. Ferries run roughly 7 am to 5 pm, so plan around the last return boat.
Why is it called Peacock Island?
The name is usually traced to a British officer who thought the island looked like a peacock spreading its feathers.
Can I visit Umananda in the monsoon?
Ferries are often suspended when the Brahmaputra runs high in June to September. October to March is the safest time.
Sources
- The Sentinel: Umananda ferry timing and history
- Trawell: Umananda Temple
- Discover East: ferry services to Umananda
Timings and fees change. Check on the day, or ask us when you book.
