"If you truly want to experience Guwahati, this place is it. Located on top of a hill, this Temple gives you a panoramic view of the city on one side and the Brahmaputra river on the other. North Guwahati is clearly visible from here as well. The road up is steep but nothing too bad like all those years ago when it was a challenge to get to this Temple. One thing to note: be careful of the monkeys!"

Nayan Das

"Perched atop the serene Chitrachal Hill in Guwahati, the beautiful Navagraha Temple isn’t just another ancient shrine — it’s the kind of place where time slows down, your phone signal weakens, and you finally hear the stars whispering. Or maybe that’s just the wind whistling through the banyan trees. Either way, it's magical.

Built in the 18th century by the then Ahom King Rajeswar Singha, this temple is dedicated to the nine celestial influencers — the Navagrahas — who, according to the Hindu astrology, play cosmic chess with our destinies. From the fiery Mars (Mangala) to the mystical Rahu and Ketu, each "graha" has its own seat inside, represented by nine Shivalingas, each covered with a colored cloth to denote its corresponding planet. No flashy LED lights or loudspeakers — just stone, silence, and spirituality.

Fascinating Bits That Are Truly Out of This World:
- The temple is also called "The Temple of Nine Planets" (obviously!) and was once a center for astronomical and astrological studies, housing scholars who observed the stars long before Google Sky.
- Though dedicated to the Navagrahas, the main deity is Lord Shiva, linking the temple to both cosmic science and spiritual strength.
- The original dome was partially damaged by an earthquake in the late 19th century but was later restored by local devotees and the Assam government.
- From its hilltop perch, the temple offers a panoramic view of the Guwahati city and the mighty Brahmaputra River — ideal for those deep, Instagram-worthy "soul searching" shots.

Cosmic Reflection:
A visit to the Navagraha Temple is like stepping into the quiet heart of the universe — with just the right blend of mythology, astrology, and mysticism. Whether you’re appeasing Saturn or simply climbing the hill for that peace of mind your therapist suggested, you’ll leave a tad lighter (and not just from the climb).

Final Verdict:
Less tourist trap, more soul map. A divine spot where earth meets the stars — and your horoscope finally makes sense."

Rajdeep Dutta

"The Navagraha Temple, meaning “Temple of the Nine Celestial Bodies”, is one of the most important and ancient temples in Assam. It is dedicated to the Navagrahas (Nine Planets in Hindu mythology) and plays a major role in astrological and spiritual traditions.

Built in the 18th century by Ahom King Rajeswar Singha, the temple is not just a religious site but also an important center of ancient astronomical study.

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Religious & Astrological Significance:

The temple houses nine Shivalingas, each symbolizing one of the Navagrahas (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu).

Each Linga is covered with a colored cloth representing the corresponding planet.

The Sun God (Surya) is considered the presiding deity of the temple.

Devotees come here to neutralize malefic effects of certain planets in their horoscope through rituals and offerings.

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Architecture & Atmosphere:

The temple is built in traditional Ahom-style architecture using brick and stone.

It has a red domed roof typical of Assamese temples, with a central sanctum housing the Navagraha deities.

Though damaged in the 1897 earthquake, parts of the original structure remain, and the temple continues to exude an ancient, sacred aura.

The view from the hilltop location is mesmerizing, offering a peaceful panorama of the Brahmaputra River and the cityscape of Guwahati.

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Spiritual Experience:

The temple is often filled with the chanting of mantras and rituals by priests performing Navagraha puja.

Many astrologers and pandits sit outside the temple, offering horoscope readings and remedies.

A serene, spiritual energy fills the atmosphere, especially in the early morning hours.

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It's a popular pilgrimage site for those seeking astrological remedies or blessings from the planetary deities.

The temple is particularly crowded on Sundays and during eclipses, believed to be astrologically powerful times.

Both locals and tourists visit for religious, cultural, and even educational purposes.

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Rich in spiritual and astrological significance

Panoramic view from the hill

Calm and peaceful surroundings

Historical and cultural importance

The stairs up the hill might be tiring for some elderly visitors.

Surrounding infrastructure could be better maintained.

Can be crowded during peak times and religious festivals.

Best time to visit: Early morning or around sunset

Carry water and wear comfortable shoes for the climb.

If interested in astrology, consult a temple priest or pandit for a personalized puja or planetary remedy.

Don’t miss the panoramic view of the city from the temple.

The Navagraha Temple is more than just a place of worship — it's a blend of mythology, astrology, history, and peace. Whether you are a believer, a spiritual seeker, or a traveler interested in cultural heritage, this temple is a must-visit destination in Guwahati."

Bhaba Jyoti Nath