Devotees flock to Assam's Kamakhya Temple as annual Ambubachi Mela begins

Huge number of devotees from across the nation have gathered at the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati as the annual Ambubachi Mela begins today, June 22. The commencement of the Mela marks a period of great religious significance, drawing pilgrims from far and wide.

Following the Pravritti ritual of the Ambubachi Mela, the main doors of the temple will remain closed for three days. 

This ritual signifies the beginning of the annual festival, during which the temple is not accessible to worshippers. The Nivritti ritual, scheduled for June 26, will signal the end of this period, and the temple doors will be reopened to the public on the morning of June 26.

In preparation for the Ambubachi Mela at the historic Kamakhya Temple, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) in Guwahati has implemented extensive traffic restrictions to ensure the safety and smooth movement of pilgrims. These measures will be in effect from 5 AM on June 22, 2024, until midnight on June 25, 2024.

Only vehicles with authorized passes from the District Administration will be permitted beyond Maa Kamakhya Foot Hill towards the temple. Exceptions are made for emergency vehicles, including ambulances, fire tenders, and those carrying life-saving drugs, oxygen cylinders, and school buses.

Vehicles with car passes can travel from Pandu Cabin Tiniali up to Bongshi Bagan. Beyond this point, no vehicles will be allowed towards the temple.

Vehicles from Jalukbari will use the service lane of Nilachal Flyover, dropping passengers opposite Gate No. 3 of Railway HQ. They will then U-turn under the flyover to park at Adabari bus stand or Boripara field. Vehicles from Bharalumukh will drop passengers opposite Swagat Hospital (Railway Gate No. 4) and proceed to designated parking areas.
ASTC buses, city buses, and private vehicles will use Nilachal Flyover between Jalukbari Rotary and Machkhowa, avoiding the service lane.

City buses from Jalukbari will drop passengers at Biswakarma Mandir, while those from Bharalumukh will drop passengers at Boripara field. No dropping off at either end of the bridge is permitted.

Two-wheelers, light motor vehicles, and heavy motor vehicles of devotees will park at Adabari Bus Stand or Boripara Field. Parking under Nilachal Flyover is strictly prohibited.

Also read: Assam: Traffic restrictions implemented extensively for Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya temple