Situated atop the Nilachal Hills in Guwahati-the capital of India's northeastern state of Assam-the Maa Kamakhya Devi Temple is not merely a religious site but also a major hub for spirituality and Tantric practices.

This temple is revered as one of the 51 *Shakti Peethas* (seats of power) of the Goddess.

On this auspicious occasion of *Chaitra Navratri*, let us explore some fascinating facts associated with this temple and learn how you can reach it to offer your prayers.

**Construction of the Temple in the 16th Century**
The current structure of the Kamakhya Temple stands as a magnificent example of 16th-century architecture. Its most unique feature is the absence of any idol or statue of the Goddess. Within the temple's *Garbhagriha* (sanctum sanctorum), amidst a natural spring, lies a stone slab shaped like a *Yoni* (female reproductive organ), which is worshipped as the embodiment of the Goddess. The intricate carvings adorning the temple's domes and the figures etched into its stone walls make it one of the most beautiful temples in India.

**One of the 51 Shakti Peethas**
According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Vishnu used his *Sudarshan Chakra* to sever the mortal remains of Goddess Sati in order to break Lord Shiva's trance of grief, her body parts fell at 51 different locations. It is believed that Goddess Sati's *Yoni* fell upon the Nilachal Mountain; for this very reason, this site is revered as a symbol of feminine power and fertility.

**The Ambubachi Mela and the Mystery of the Blood**
The most distinctive belief associated with this temple is witnessed during the *Ambubachi Mela*. It is said that during June, the Goddess undergoes her annual menstrual cycle. Consequently, the temple doors remain closed for three days during this period. Furthermore, the waters of the nearby Brahmaputra River are said to turn red. On the fourth day, devotees are given *Ambubachi Vastra* (sacred cloth) as *Prasad* (holy offering), which is considered to be extremely auspicious and miraculous.

**A Hub for Tantric Practices**
The Kamakhya Temple is renowned as a stronghold of *Tantra Vidya* (Tantric wisdom). *Aghoris*, *Sadhus*, and *Tantrics* from far and wide visit this site to perform their spiritual austerities and attain mystical powers (*Siddhis*). It is believed that worship performed here helps dispel obstacles caused by enemies and ward off negative energies.

**Visit the Ten Mahavidyas as well**
In addition to the temple of Goddess Kamakhya, the complex also houses shrines dedicated to the Ten Mahavidyas. The Ten Mahavidyas are Tripurasundari, Kali, Tara, Bhuvaneshwari, Baglamukhi, Chhinnamasta, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Matangi, and Kamala. There are also five temples dedicated to Lord Mahadev located within the premises.