Basistha Temple — Attraction in Assam

Bashishtha (or Vashishtha) Ashram and temple in Guwahati, Assam is an important landmark in the religious map of Assam. As per mythology, the great sage Bashishtha lived here in a cave and performed 'Tapasya' (religious rites) as it is a sacred place having the 'Triveni Sangam' (tri-confluence) of 3 rivers viz. Sandhya, Lalita/Laria and Kanta. Historically, the Ahom kings of Assam built a temple over the cave of Bashishtha. Later, the old temple was destroyed most probably by earthquake (the region is earthquake-prone), and much later a new temple was constructed at the same spot. Now there is a second temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha near the main temple. The place is naturally beautiful with hills all around. Three small mountain springs cascade down the rocky hills just behind the Bashishtha temple. These three springs are called Sandhya, Laria/Lalita and Kanta. They meet below to form the Triveni Sangam, and then flow down as a single stream named Bashishtha Ganga which ultimately flows into the great river Brahmaputra. The Bashishtha temple has a hall (Mandapa) in front and a cylindrical tall tower behind. The sanctum, which is few feet below the floor of the hall, is octagonal and it houses a big rock believed to be the combined form of Sage Bashishtha and Lord Shiva. It also houses a rock believed to be Goddess Tara (a form of Kali), and a Shiva Lingam which usually remain submerged in water. Outside the temple one can see the broken stone pieces of the older temple with a beautiful stone statue of Lord Rama/Vishnu. The second temple situated a step below the main temple houses in its octagonal sanctum a big rock believed to be a Shiva Lingam and two stone statues in high relief - one of Goddess Durga with 10 arms, and the other of Lord Ganesha. This temple, which has a big hall or Mandapa, has some beautiful stucco images of Lord Ganesha in different postures and forms in high relief work. In front of the hall, on one side there is a huge statue of a mouse, the Vahana (vehicle) of Lord Ganesha and the full size statue of the Sage Bashishtha in standing posture on the other side. The whole place has a strong holy flavour, and should be in the list of "must see" in Guwahati tour of everyone,...

The Basistha Temple in Guwahati has received mixed reviews regarding recent improvements. While the approach and entrance are generally considered clean and well-maintained, with a reduction in touts, the condition of the stream and surrounding areas has been criticized for litter and reduced water flow. Monkeys are also noted as a common presence and potential nuisance.

Positive aspects:

Improved cleanliness and order:

Reviews highlight a cleaner entrance and a more organized parking situation (though it's now paid).

Friendly staff:

The priests are generally described as friendly and not demanding money.

Spiritual atmosphere:

The temple's location and surroundings are praised for their serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it a good place for meditation and spiritual reflection.

Historical and cultural significance:

The temple's history as the ashram of the sage Basistha and its location amidst natural beauty add to its appeal.

Natural beauty:

The presence of a river, hills, and greenery around the temple is a major draw for visitors.

Areas needing improvement:

Water quality: Some reviewers have noted a reduction in the stream's flow and a decline in the water's cleanliness, making it unappealing for drinking directly.

Cleanliness of surrounding areas: Litter and waste are mentioned as concerns in areas near the temple and stream.

Monkey nuisance: Monkeys are a common sight and can be a nuisance to visitors.

Development and maintenance: Some reviews suggest that the temple and its surroundings could be better developed and maintained to enhance the visitor experience.

Accessibility: One review notes the lack of a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

Overall:

The Basistha Temple offers a peaceful and spiritually enriching experience, particularly for those seeking a connection with nature and history. However, improvements are needed in areas like cleanliness, water management, and monkey control to enhance the overall visitor experience and maintain the...

The Basistha Temple, nestled amidst lush greenery in Guwahati, India, offers a captivating spiritual retreat. The serene ambiance and the gentle sound of the Bhrahmaputra River flowing nearby create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for meditation and self-reflection.

The temple's historical significance, dating back to the Vedic period, adds to its allure. The architecture, showcasing a blend of Assamese and Hindu styles, is a sight to behold. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the walls depict stories from ancient scriptures, transporting visitors to a bygone era.

The temple's inner sanctum houses the deity Lord Shiva, and the rituals performed by the priests exude devotion and tradition. Witnessing the aarti (prayer ceremony) in the evenings fills the heart with a sense of divine connection.

The well-maintained premises offer a pleasant experience, with neatly landscaped gardens and clean pathways. The temple authorities have taken initiatives to preserve its heritage, making it a delight to explore.

Tourists and devotees alike throng to Basistha Temple, particularly during festivals like Shivratri and Ambubachi Mela. While this adds to the festive spirit, it can lead to overcrowding, making it challenging to have a calm and unhurried visit.

The temple's surroundings provide an opportunity for nature lovers to enjoy picturesque views and take peaceful strolls. The nearby waterfall and the cave known as 'Gupta-Basistha' are additional attractions worth exploring.

To enhance the overall experience, a few amenities could be improved, such as more seating areas for visitors to rest and contemplate.

Despite these minor drawbacks, Basistha Temple is a haven of spirituality, culture, and history. It offers a profound experience for those seeking solace and a chance to connect with the divine. Whether you are a devotee or an explorer, a visit to this temple is sure to leave a lasting impression on your...