Negheriting Shiva Doul, located in the Golaghat district of Assam, is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is integral to Assam’s cultural heritage and attracts visitors from all over the country. The temple has a rich history that dates back to the 8th-9th century when the Kachari rulers built it. However, it was destroyed due to natural calamities and reconstructed in 1687 by the Ahom king Rajeswar Singha.
History of Negheriting Shiva Doul Temple
Negheriting Temple is an ancient Hindu temple in the Sivasagar district of Assam, India. It is believed to have been built during the reign of the Ahom dynasty in the 18th century.
According to legend, the temple was built by a queen named Bar Raja’s wife, who was a devout worshipper of Lord Shiva. She built the temple to honor her husband, who had been cured of a severe illness by Lord Shiva’s blessings. The temple was later renovated and restored by the Ahom kings, who were patrons of Hinduism and played an important role in the spread of Vaishnavism in Assam.
The temple is built in the traditional Ahom style and is surrounded by a large courtyard. The main temple is a single-storeyed structure with a shikhara (spire) on top. The temple walls are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities. The temple also has a large pond in front of it, which is believed to have healing properties.
Over the years, the Negheriting Shiva Doul Temple has undergone several renovations and restorations to maintain its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. So now it is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva and attracts visitors from all over India.
Must Know: List of Famous temples in Assam
Negheriting Shiva Doul Temple location
Address: Negheriting: Kumar Gaon, Assam 785703, India
Negheriting Shiva Doul Surrounding Temples
The main temple is surrounded by four temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Surya, Lord Ganesh, and Goddess Durga. The main temple has a Banalinga of 3 feet in diameter. The temple is known as “The Panchayatana Temple” because of its unique architecture.
According to legends, the stones used to construct the temple existed on the bank of the river Dihing. The temple was destroyed due to natural calamities, and its remains were found in the deep forest called Gajapanemara. The temple was rebuilt on that foundation by Ahom king Susenpha, but the Dihing River changed its course and destroyed the temple again. Later, a devotee of Lord Shiva found the place called Sheetal Negheri, which was the ruined temple and the Linga in the shallow water of the river Dihing. Ahom king Rajeswar Singha reconstructed the present temple and established the Linga.
Read More:- Sivadol Temple: History, Timing, Route
Negheriting Temple Surrounding Natural Beauty & Cultural Significance
The temple is situated on a hillock and is surrounded by natural beauty. The Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary is 25 km from Golaghat and has many hot springs and waterfalls attracting visitors. The Kaziranga National Park is also located nearby and is home to several species of animals and plants. Elephants, one-horned rhinos, leopards, and tigers are some of the animals you can find here.
The temple is an important cultural centre in Assam known for its unique architecture and customs. The monkeys are one of the temple’s attractions, and a sizable population of this species is there. King Rajeswar Singha appointed the Agamacharji family to maintain the temple and perform the rituals properly. Customs of performing songs and dances called Deonati were prominent there in the temple.
Learn More:- Tamresari Temple: History, Significance, Timing, Rules
What is the best time to visit Negheriting Shiva Doul temple?
According to the information provided, the best time to visit Negheriting Shiva Doul temple is during the winter season. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature remains relaxed and comfortable. Additionally, the temple is especially crowded during the festival of Mahashivratri or Pradosham, which are both auspicious occasions for the worship of Lord Shiva. Therefore, if you want to experience the temple in its full glory and witness the religious fervor of the locals, you can plan your visit during these festivals. However, it is advisable to check the exact dates of these festivals beforehand to ensure everything is okay.
Must Read:- List of Famous temples in Andhra Pradesh
Negheriting Temple Opening and Closing Timing
According to various sources, the temple opens its doors to visitors at 6:00 AM in the morning. It closes at 8:00 PM in the evening, making it accessible to visitors throughout the day. So if you are planning a trip to the temple, it is advisable to check the opening and closing timings beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.
Route for Negheriting Shiva Doul Temple
The Negheriting Shiva Doul Temple is in the Golaghat district of Assam, India. The nearest major city is Jorhat, approximately 52 km away, while the state capital Guwahati is about 275 km away.
If you are traveling from Guwahati, you can reach the temple via National Highway 27 and 715. It takes about 5-6 hours to cover this distance by car. From Jorhat, you can take a taxi or a bus to the temple, which is about 2 hours away.
The temple is on a hill and can be reached by climbing stairs. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and carry enough water while climbing the stairs. The temple’s surroundings are also scenic, and you can enjoy the area’s natural beauty while on your way to the temple.
It is always a good idea to check the road conditions and weather forecast before embarking on your journey to the temple, especially during the monsoon season when landslides and flooding occur.
In conclusion, Negheriting Shiva Doul is a must-visit place for anyone interested in history and culture. The temple’s unique architecture, rich history, and beautiful location make it one of the most important landmarks in Assam. If you are planning a trip to Assam, do not forget to include Negheriting Shiva Doul in your itinerary.
Related Temples:
What is the Somnath temple famous for?
Everything About Bagheswari Temple: History, Timing, Rules
Bhairabi Temple in Assam: History, Significance, Timing, How to Reach
