Shillong : A temple devoted to goddess Kamakhya is located in Garo Hills of Meghalaya. Though it is not as popular as the one in Guwahati, the temple with its historical significance attracts many religious tourists.
The Kamakhya temple in South West Garo Hills district in Meghalaya attracts devotees irrespective of their faith and religion. They come to seek blessings of Goddess Kamakhya.
The temple is located about 45 km from Tura in West Garo Hills.
Kamakhya is also identified as Kali and Maha Tripura Sundari.
“The people come from far-off places. Here Hindu population is less, but the people come from outside. Tourists also visit the temple,” said Om Prakash Jha, priest, Kamakhya Temple.
It is worth mentioning that the navel of Goddess Kamakhya was found at the Kamakhya temple in Garo hills.
Though the temple is not widely popular like its counterpart in Guwahati, the place has garnered attention as people, who have visited the temple have spread the word about this pilgrimage destination.
“The main problem here is of tourism. People, who come here, have no place to live. So, if Meghalaya and Assam government want, they can develop this temple for tourist same as its counterpart Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, which provides enough facilities for the tourists. But in case of our temple, neither Meghalaya nor Assam government has given any importance to make it a better tourist place,” said Sujit Bezbaruah, a devotee.
Religious tourism in Meghalaya will flourish if such places get widespread promotion.
Many visitors feel that if the place is developed and infrastructure facilities are improved, it will attract both tourist and devotees of goddess Kamakhya. (ANI)