Hajo

Hajo is a historic town in the Kamrup district of Assam, India. It lies on the south bank of the Brahmaputra River, opposite Guwahati, and is commonly reached by road from the city. The site is renowned as a multi-faith sacred landscape that has attracted pilgrims and travelers for centuries.

The town hosts several significant religious sites. The Hayagriva Madhava Temple is a major Hindu shrine within a temple complex that is considered one of the important Vaishnavite centers in the region. The Powa Makkah, also called Powah Madina, is a prominent Muslim shrine in Hajo dating to the 16th–17th century and is often described in local tradition as a Mecca-like site outside Mecca. In addition to these, there are other shrines dedicated to Hindu deities and Shakti, contributing to the area's reputation for religious diversity.

Hajo’s history is reflected in its monuments, ruins, and legends. The town is associated with medieval and earlier Assam history and has been a waypoint for pilgrims along the Brahmaputra trade routes. Archaeological remnants in and around Hajo indicate a long-standing settlement with layered religious and cultural influences that have shaped local traditions.

In contemporary times, Hajo remains a popular day-trip destination for visitors from Guwahati and nearby areas. It is valued for its devotional sites, historic architecture, and the sense of spiritual continuity it provides. The town is connected to the wider region by road, with Guwahati serving as the primary access point for travelers.