Mahabhairab Temple, Tezpur

The Mahabhairab Temple, located on a hillock in the northern part of Tezpur, Assam, is one of the most revered Shiva shrines in India. The temple houses one of the largest stone Shiva Lingams, believed to be “ever-growing” and spiritually alive. Surrounded by nature and history.

ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्।
उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात्॥

― Mahabhairab Temple

It serves as a divine and cultural landmark.

Mythological Significance & History

According to legend, the temple was originally built by King Banasura, the mythological ruler of Tezpur and a great devotee of Lord Shiva. Historians and archaeologists suggest that the temple dates back to the 8th–10th century AD, possibly built during the Salasthamba or Pala dynasty.
The original stone structure was damaged during the 1897 Assam earthquake. It was later reconstructed in the early 20th century by saints like Sri Swayambar Bharati (Naga Baba) and developed further by Sri Mahadeo Bharati.

Significance of the Temple

The temple enshrines one of the largest Shiva Lingams in the world.
It is believed to be a living Lingam that grows over time.
The temple is the focal point of the grand Maha Shivaratri festival, attracting thousands of devotees every year.
Special offerings such as Bhang laddoos and the release of pigeons symbolize devotion and freedom.