Guwahati, the capital of Assam boast of the smallest river island of Assam. Umananda Island situated in the middle of the river Brahmaputra is the smallest inhabited island in the world. A 10 min ferry ride from the riverbank of Brahmaputra will make one enjoy the beauty of this wonder island that is still far from the maddening crowd. It stands in between north and south Guwahati as the mighty river parts the two banks. Huge trees stand tall covering the rock underneath.

The Umananda temple, one of the main pilgrimage sites of the city was constructed on this island by the Ahom king Gadhadhar Singha. Umananda Island, one of the unique places to visit in the city has many mythological stories to relate. As the shape of the island looks like a peacock feather, the British named it as Peacock Island.

Another name given to this charming island is Bhasmachal ( Bhasma means ashes and chal means place). As the story says that Lord Shiva had burnt Kamdev( the God of love ) on this island.  Umananda was Lord Shiva’s favourite place and he loved spending time with his beloved wife Parvati (Uma). So the name follows as Umananda. Popular folklore mentions that Brahmaputra is the servant of Lord Shiva and he needs to remain satisfied to prevent any disaster. Though the city has witnessed devastating floods but, the floodwater never entered the temple complex. It is believed that if any day the temple is drowned than the whole city will be underwater.

The Golden langurs one of the endangered species can be found only in this region and the foothills of Bhutan. Legend has it that some 35 years ago two young boys had left a pair of golden langurs on this island and they managed to survive. Tourists in large numbers visit this island. Some move to gather experience of the serene atmosphere while some set foot to enjoy the beauty of this region. As nature flourishes here in all its glory, So for Umananda the grass is not greener on the other side.