Located on the northern banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River, about 30 km from Guwahati, Hajo is one of Assam’s most unique spiritual destinations. Known as a land of harmony, Hajo is revered by Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists alike, making it a symbol of religious unity in India.
The town is dotted with ancient temples, mosques, shrines, and serene ghats that narrate stories of mythology, history, and devotion. From the famous Hayagriva Madhava Temple to the Poa Mecca mosque, Hajo offers a spiritual experience unlike any other, set against the natural beauty of Assam.
In this blog, we’ll explore the history of Hajo, its architecture, how to reach, timings, entry fees, and top attractions that make it a must-visit destination.
History of Hajo
Hajo’s history is as diverse as its faiths.
- Mythological Roots: According to Hindu belief, Hajo is associated with several deities. The Hayagriva Madhava Temple is considered one of the oldest temples in Assam, linked to Lord Vishnu’s Hayagriva avatar.
- Buddhist Connection: Buddhists, especially from Tibet and Bhutan, revere Hajo as the site where Lord Buddha attained Nirvana. This makes it an important pilgrimage center for Mahayana Buddhists.
- Islamic Heritage: In the medieval period, Hajo became a center for Islamic faith with the construction of Poa Mecca mosque, believed to contain soil brought from Mecca.
- Ahom Patronage: The Ahom kings of Assam (13th–19th century) patronized temples and religious structures in Hajo, turning it into a hub of spiritual and cultural activities.
- Modern Era: Today, Hajo continues to attract pilgrims of multiple faiths, standing as a testimony to Assam’s inclusiveness and pluralism.
Architecture of Hajo
The architecture of Hajo reflects a fascinating blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic influences.
1. Hayagriva Madhava Temple
- Built during the Pala dynasty (10th–12th century) and renovated by the Ahom kings.
- Constructed on a hill called Monikut, made of stone with sculpted panels.
- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s Hayagriva incarnation (horse-headed form).
- Features intricate stone carvings of Hindu deities and Buddhist motifs.
- The sanctum enshrines an idol of Hayagriva Madhava, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
2. Poa Mecca Mosque
- Built by Sufi saint Ghiyasuddin Auliya in the 17th century.
- Legend says one-fourth of the sanctity of Mecca is present here, hence the name Poa Mecca.
- Simple Islamic architecture with domes, arches, and mihrabs.
- Contains soil brought from Mecca, making it sacred to Muslims.
3. Kedar Temple
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on Hajo Hill.
- Features stone carvings and natural rock formations.
4. Other Shrines
- Ganesh Temple, Madan Kamdev Temple ruins nearby, and several namghars (Assamese prayer halls) add to the religious architecture of Hajo.
How to Reach Hajo
Hajo’s proximity to Guwahati makes it an easily accessible destination.
By Air
- Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (30 km).
- Taxis, app-based cabs, and buses are available from the airport.
By Train
- Nearest railway station: Guwahati Railway Station (25 km), connected to all major Indian cities.
By Road
- Hajo is connected by well-maintained roads via NH27 and NH31.
- Assam State Transport buses, private buses, and cabs are available from Guwahati.
- Travel time: Around 1 hour from Guwahati city center.
Timings and Entry Fees
Hayagriva Madhava Temple
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome).
Poa Mecca Mosque
- Open daily for prayers (5:00 AM – 8:00 PM).
- Entry Fee: Free.
Other Temples and Shrines
- Generally open from sunrise to sunset.
- No entry fee.
Best Time to Visit Hajo
- Winter (October – March): Ideal time with pleasant weather for exploring temples and outdoor activities.
- Festivals:
- Raas Festival (November) at Hayagriva Madhava Temple attracts thousands of pilgrims.
- Urs Festival at Poa Mecca draws devotees from across Assam.
- Avoid Monsoon (June – September): Heavy rains may flood the Brahmaputra plains and hinder travel.
Top Attractions in Hajo
- 1. Hayagriva Madhava Temple – Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.
- 2. Poa Mecca Mosque – Important Islamic pilgrimage site.
- 3. Kedar Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva with natural beauty.
- 4. Ganesh Temple – Popular among local devotees.
- 5. Madan Kamdev Ruins (nearby) – Archaeological site with erotic sculptures, often called the “Khajuraho of Assam.”
- 6. River Brahmaputra Ghats – Serene riverbanks for prayer and relaxation.
- 7. Namghars – Assamese Vaishnavite prayer halls.
Cultural Significance of Hajo
Hajo is celebrated for its unity in diversity:
- Hinduism: Vishnu and Shiva temples make it a vital Hindu pilgrimage.
- Buddhism: The Hayagriva temple’s link to Buddha attracts Tibetan and Bhutanese Buddhists.
- Islam: Poa Mecca is one of the most sacred Islamic sites in Northeast India.
- Festivals: Ras Festival, Urs Festival, and Shivratri highlight the coexistence of faiths.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- 1. Combine Hajo with a Guwahati trip - just 1-hour drive away.
- 2. Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques.
- 3. Carry cash, as digital payments may not be available at shrines.
- 4. Hire a local guide to understand the history and legends.
- 5. Best explored in a day trip from Guwahati.
Conclusion
Hajo is not just a town of temples and mosques – it is a living symbol of India’s secular fabric and spiritual harmony. With its ancient Hayagriva Madhava Temple, sacred Poa Mecca mosque, and serene Brahmaputra ghats, Hajo welcomes pilgrims of all faiths.
For history lovers, spiritual seekers, and travelers in Assam, a visit to Hajo offers peace, diversity, and a deep cultural experience.
