The Umananda Shiva temple at Guwahati is located atop the Bhasmachala Hill or the Hill of ashes in an island of the Bhramaputra river.

This hill is associated with the legend of Shiva burning Kaama, or the God of lust to ashes. Tirukkurukkai in Tamilnadu is associated with the same legend and is regarded as one of the eight Veeratta Stalams of Shiva.

The island is also known as Urvasi Island. Located here is the Urvasi Kund - where it is believed that Urvasi the celestial damsel brings nectar for the enjoyment of Kamakhya.

Shiva - Umanda or Bhayananda is worshipped with fanfare on full moon days especially on Mondays. Also celebrated here is the Shiva Chaturdasi.

This temple was built during the reign of the Ahom ruler Gadadhar Singh in late 17th century. It was renewed later in the 20th century following its destruction during an earthquake.

Also in Guwahati is the Hastigiri hill housing a temple to Sukreswara - Shiva believed to have been worshipped by sage Sukra. This temple with a large Shivalingam was built by the Ahom ruler Pramatta Singh in late 18th century CE.