Perched atop a serene hill in the western part of Guwahati, near the Gauhati University campus, the Lankeshwar Temple (Assamese: লংকেশ্বৰ দেৱালয়) is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Lankeshwar Temple of Guwahati is believed to be one of the many forms of Shiva, and devotees of the Lord Shiva regard this temple as deeply sacred. Throughout the year, pilgrims and visitors climb the hill to seek divine blessings and experience spiritual calm.
Beyond its religious significance, the Lankeshwar Temple is also a popular spot for tourists, offering a peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of Guwahati.
The Legend of Lankeshwar
Local folklore adds a mystical charm to the temple. According to legend, Lord Shiva himself once protected the surrounding area by roaming at night in disguise, safeguarding it from theft and wrongdoing. However, it is said that some wicked people poured wine upon him during one such vigil. Angered and insulted, Shiva turned into stone.
This stone, known as the Lankeshwar Stone, is believed to be about 20 metres long and 18 metres high. Nearby lies another massive, boat-shaped stone called Shiva’s Bhang Khunda Khubli (শিৱৰ ভাং খুন্দা খুবলি). Popular belief holds that Lord Shiva used this stone to crush bhang (marijuana), further linking the site to Shaivite traditions.
Blending devotion, legend, and natural beauty, the Lankeshwar Temple remains one of Guwahati’s lesser-known yet spiritually rich heritage sites.
