Athkheliya Namghar Golaghat - History, Festivals, How To Reach & Travel Guide

The history of Athkheliya Namghar dates back to the turbulent period between 1670 and 1681, a crucial phase in the Ahom kingdom. During this time, the Ahom throne was ruled by Lora Raja, who ordered the physical mutilation of Ahom princes to prevent them from ascending the throne. Gadapani Konwar, one of the Ahom princes and the husband of the legendary Sati Jaymoti, fled to save his life and took shelter in Nagapahar. While wandering through dense forests, Gadapani reached a hermitage located at the very spot where Athkheliya Namghar stands today.

This hermitage was maintained by a saint, and despite the presence of wild animals and wilderness, a few families lived nearby, facing immense hardships. Gadapani lived here for a long time under the care and protection of the hermit. According to legend, when soldiers of Lora Raja were pursuing Gadapani, a flawless cobweb mysteriously appeared on the path immediately after Gadapani crossed it. Seeing the untouched cobweb, the soldiers believed that no one had passed through and turned back, allowing Gadapani to escape.

In 1681 AD, Gadapani ascended the Ahom throne and came to be known as King Gadadhar Singha. He never forgot the compassion and shelter he received at this sacred place. When he returned to search for the hermit, he could not find him, but the area had by then become well populated. As a mark of gratitude, Gadadhar Singha entrusted the responsibility of maintaining the hermitage to eight families residing there. These families later formed eight clans known as kuri or khel, and collectively they came to be called Athkuriya, which eventually evolved into Athkheliya.

The Eight Khel or Kuri of Athkheliya Namghar

The eight khel or kuri associated with Athkheliya Namghar are an integral part of its identity and religious administration:

1. Bochakuri – Selected specially by the king for various services

2. Bairagikuri – Worked as messengers to other kingdoms and regions

3. Brahmankuri – Consisted of Brahmans settled by Ahom kings for religious duties

4. Nangalkuri – Responsible for agricultural activities and cultivation

5. Solalkuri – Believed to be formed by wise and knowledgeable individuals

6. Kacharikuri – Named after an individual called Kachari

7. Borahikuri – Formed by members of the Borahi tribe who later adopted Vaishnavism

8. Kakatikuri – Comprised of land record keepers known as Kakatis

Religious activities at Athkheliya Namghar are still conducted under the supervision of these eight khels. Even today, offerings are symbolically divided into eight parts in their memory before Naam Kirtan begins.

Athkheliya Namghar gradually became one of the most important pilgrimage centres in Assam. Devotees from all corners of the state and from different parts of India visit this sacred site, especially during the Assamese holy month of Bhada or Bhadra (August to September). During this period, Paal Naam and Soudhyo Prosongo are observed with great devotion, and the Namghar witnesses an overwhelming gathering of nearly 20 to 25 lakh devotees every year.

To accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, several infrastructural developments have taken place over the years. From the early 1900s, the Athkheliya Namghar Development Committee has played a vital role in managing and improving the premises. Facilities such as a permanent Namghar structure, electricity, water supply, rest rooms, a guest house, boundary walls, entrance gateways, and improved road connectivity have been developed systematically. A cultural museum and a bus stand are also being planned to further enhance the pilgrimage experience.

How to Reach Athkheliya Namghar

Athkheliya Namghar is easily accessible by road, rail, and air.

• By Road: The Namghar is located around 18 to 20 km from Golaghat town. Regular buses, taxis, and local transport are available from Golaghat. Buses from Guwahati and other parts of Assam also connect Golaghat town.

• By Rail: The nearest railway station is Furkating Junction, approximately 12.8 km away, which is well connected to major cities of Assam.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport, located around 60 km from Athkheliya Namghar.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Athkheliya Namghar is from September to May, when the weather remains pleasant. Visiting during the Bhada month offers a unique opportunity to witness grand religious festivals and traditional Naam Kirtan.

Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options available in Golaghat town, ranging from budget lodges to comfortable hotels. Visitors can also find resorts and tourist lodges along the Kaziranga route, which is relatively close to Golaghat.

Quick Info Table on Athkheliya Namghar 

FAQs on Athkheliya Namghar