Kedareswar Temple

Kedareswar Temple is a historic Shiva temple located atop Madanachala Hill in Hajo, Kamrup district, Assam, about 30 km northwest of Guwahati. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Kedarnath, it enshrines a self-manifested lingam and is part of Hajo's sacred pilgrimage circuit alongside Hayagriva Madhava Temple. Built in 1753 during Ahom rule, the stone temple features traditional architecture, inscriptions, and panoramic views of the surrounding plains.

Visitors can expect a small stone temple complex atop Madanachala Hill reached by a flight of stone steps. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva lingam, with a pillared mandapa and Ahom-era stonework and inscriptions. The hilltop setting offers views over Hajo town and surrounding plains. The atmosphere is quiet and devotional, with pilgrims performing darshan and prayers. The temple is typically visited together with the nearby Hayagriva Madhava Temple located on the same hill.

The present stone temple was built in 1753 by Ahom king Rajeswar Singha, as recorded in stone inscriptions at the site. The hill has long been associated with Shaivite worship centered on a self-manifested Shiva lingam. The temple exemplifies Ahom-period temple architecture and patronage in the Kamrup region.

The temple is a revered Shaivite shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva as Kedareswar, identified with Kedarnath. It is an integral part of Hajo's sacred landscape where Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic pilgrimage sites coexist. The temple draws devotees year-round and especially during Maha Shivratri for special prayers and rituals.