Guwahati, June 26: The annual Ambubachi Mela 2026 concluded on Friday with the reopening of the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam. Thousands of devotees lined up from the early morning to offer prayers after the shrine reopened following its four-day annual ritual.
The temple had remained closed since Monday evening during the observance of Goddess Kamakhya’s sacred menstrual cycle. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that more than eight lakh devotees participated in this year’s festival, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in Northeast India.
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Key Facts
- Event: Ambubachi Mela 2026
- Temple: Kamakhya Temple
- Location: Nilachal Hills, Guwahati, Assam
- Reopening Date: June 26, 2026
- Temple Closure: Since Monday evening for the annual ritual
- Estimated Attendance: Over 8 lakh devotees
- Chief Minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma
- Significance: Celebration of Goddess Kamakhya’s annual menstrual cycle
Kamakhya Temple Reopens After Four-Day Ritual
The Kamakhya Temple reopened on Friday morning after completing the annual Ambubachi ritual. As a result, thousands of devotees gathered before dawn to seek blessings from Goddess Kamakhya.
Temple authorities reopened the shrine after performing the customary ritual bath and special prayers. Moreover, officials kept the temple open until sunset to accommodate the large number of visitors.
Thousands Offer Prayers
Devotees from Assam and other parts of India queued patiently for darshan throughout the day. In addition, pilgrims and saints participated in the religious celebrations.
Temple officials expressed hope that all visitors would have a peaceful and smooth darshan despite the heavy rush.
Chief Minister Highlights Festival’s Importance
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that more than eight lakh devotees attended the Ambubachi Mela this year.
He also described the festival as a unique symbol of Nari Shakti and Assam’s rich civilisational heritage. Furthermore, he noted that the tradition has no parallel anywhere in the world.
One of Assam’s Largest Religious Gatherings
The Ambubachi Mela is among the biggest religious festivals in Assam. Every year, it attracts pilgrims, ascetics, spiritual seekers, and tourists from across India and abroad.
The festival celebrates the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, making it one of the most significant spiritual events at the temple.
Visitor Numbers Continue to Rise
According to official records, 7,72,019 devotees, including 42 foreign nationals, attended the festival in 2025.
In comparison, 7,46,066 people, including 20 international visitors, participated in the 2024 edition. Therefore, attendance has continued to grow over the past two years.
Question & Answer
What happened at the Kamakhya Temple?
The Kamakhya Temple reopened on June 26 after the four-day Ambubachi Mela ritual concluded.
Why was the temple closed?
The temple remained closed for the annual Ambubachi observance, during which Goddess Kamakhya is traditionally believed to undergo her sacred menstrual cycle.
How many devotees attended the festival?
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that more than eight lakh devotees participated in the 2026 Ambubachi Mela.
What is the significance of Ambubachi Mela?
The festival celebrates the divine feminine and honours Goddess Kamakhya’s annual menstrual cycle. It is one of India’s most important Shakti worship festivals.
When did devotees begin visiting the temple?
Devotees started gathering before dawn on June 26 to offer prayers after the temple reopened.
Location Context
The Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam, is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India. Located on the Nilachal Hills, it serves as a major pilgrimage destination and plays a vital role in preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of Northeast India.