The short answer
Peacock Island (Umananda): what visitors should know first
Yes, if you are interested in temples, wildlife or the river. A short ferry from downtown Guwahati reaches the island in minutes. Allow 1–2 hours including the temple, the temple zoo and a stroll through the island's small forest.
Useful facts
Peacock Island (Umananda) facts at a glance
- Location
- Mid-river, Brahmaputra, accessible from North Guwahati or central Guwahati waterfront
- Type
- Landmark
- Time needed
- 2–3 hours including ferry travel
- Best time
- Early morning (7–9 am) to see the island quiet and gibbons active; late afternoon (4–6 pm) is also good
Why it matters
Why Peacock Island (Umananda) is worth your time
Umananda Island is linked to Shiva worship in Hindu tradition, and the temple is said to be 16th-century, though rebuilt many times. It is one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Assam.
The island is also significant as a wildlife habitat. Hollock gibbons, found nowhere else in the world except the forests of Northeast India and Southeast Asia, were native here and throughout the region. Their presence, even in the small captive population on the island, is a reminder of the ecological richness of the Brahmaputra valley and what has been lost to deforestation.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Take a ferry from the North Guwahati riverfront (near Saraighat Bridge area) to Umananda Island, about a 5-minute crossing. The journey itself, standing on a small boat on the Brahmaputra, gives you a sense of the river's width and presence.
Once on the island, visit the Umananda Temple, a simple, well-maintained shrine at the top. The island is small, so views are limited, but the setting—a temple on an island in a great river—is atmospheric. Descend to visit the small zoo-like area where a few Hollock gibbons are kept. These are endangered apes found only in the Eastern Himalayas, and seeing them (even in captivity) is notable.
Walk the small forest trails if you have time, and listen for gibbons calling. If you visit in the evening, stay for the light across the water towards Guwahati.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Ferries run frequent small boats; no fixed schedule, but you rarely wait long
- The temple requires removing footwear; carry socks if concerned
- Dress modestly at the temple
- The island is small; 2 hours is usually enough
- Bring water and a small snack; food options are very limited
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Mid-river, Brahmaputra, accessible from North Guwahati or central Guwahati waterfront
- Time needed
- 2–3 hours including ferry travel
- Best time
- Early morning (7–9 am) to see the island quiet and gibbons active; late afternoon (4–6 pm) is also good
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The ferry ride is short and calm. The island is small, with paths winding uphill to the temple, which involves some stairs but nothing steep. Most older travellers manage it without difficulty.
- Tickets and access
- Ferry rides are inexpensive (typically 10–20 rupees per person each way, verified at the ferry). The island zoo and temple are free or charge nominal entry fees; check locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Peacock Island (Umananda)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The ferry ride is short and calm. The island is small, with paths winding uphill to the temple, which involves some stairs but nothing steep. Most older travellers manage it without difficulty.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How do you get to Umananda Island?
By ferry from the North Guwahati riverfront, roughly 5 minutes. Ferries run frequently throughout the day.
Is the temple on the island?
Yes. The Umananda Temple is at the top of the small island and is accessible to visitors (footwear left outside the sanctum).
Can you see the Hollock gibbons?
Yes. A small zoo-like area on the island keeps a few gibbons for public viewing and research.
How long should I spend on the island?
1.5–2 hours covers the temple, the gibbons and a walk around. The island is small.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
