Tilinga Mandir is a popular temple in the Tinsukia district of Assam, about 20 km from Dibrugarh. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its unique and fascinating collection of bells.
The name "Tilinga" literally means "bell" in Assamese, and the temple is famous for the thousands of bells that adorn its premises. Devotees from all over the country visit the temple to offer bells and pray for their wishes to be fulfilled.
The temple's history dates back to the 16th century when a local Ahom king discovered a Shiva Linga in a forest and built a temple around it. Over time, the temple became known for its unique practice of offering bells, and today it has a vast collection of bells of various shapes and sizes.
Visitors to the temple can purchase bells from the shops near the entrance and offer them to Lord Shiva as a form of prayer. The temple also has a large tank where devotees can dip before praying.
The temple has beautiful sculptures and carvings of Hindu deities, making it a popular destination for art and culture enthusiasts. The surrounding natural beauty adds to the temple's overall serene and peaceful ambience.
The Tilinga Mandir hosts an annual fair on Maha Shivaratri, attracting many devotees and visitors from all over the region.
This national park is located about 50 km from Tilinga Mandir and is a paradise for nature lovers. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered white-winged wood duck, feral horses, and river dolphins.
Joypur Rainforest:
Located about 30 km from Tilinga Mandir, the Joypur Rainforest is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. It is known for its dense forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds.
Maguri-Motapung Beel:
This wetland is located about 25 km from Tilinga Mandir and is a popular destination for birdwatchers. It is home to over 150 species of birds, including several migratory birds that visit during winter.
Dibru-Saikhowa Biosphere Reserve:
This biosphere reserve is located about 60 km from Tilinga Mandir and is a must-visit destination for those interested in ecotourism. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species like the hoolock gibbon and slow loris.
Located about 120 km from Tilinga Mandir, this wildlife sanctuary is known for its dense forests and diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and the endangered white-winged wood duck. It is also home to several indigenous tribes, making it a unique cultural destination.