Malinithanमालिनीथान

About Malinithan

Malinithan is an archaeological temple site on a hilltop near the town of Likabali in the Lower Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, close to the border with Assam. It overlooks the plains of the Brahmaputra valley. The site holds the remains of a stone temple dedicated to the goddess, along with a large number of carved sculptures. It is the best-known Hindu heritage site in Arunachal Pradesh and is visited both by pilgrims and by people interested in the history of the North-East.

According to local tradition, Lord Krishna carried away Rukmini, daughter of King Bhishmaka of Vidarbha, whom legend links with Bhishmaknagar in Arunachal, and on their way to Dwarka the couple stopped on this hill. Goddess Parvati is said to have welcomed them and offered them garlands of flowers she had made herself, and so she came to be called Malini, the garland-maker, giving the place its name. Historically, the temple is generally dated to the medieval period, though scholars differ on the exact century. The site was excavated by archaeologists in the late 1960s and early 1970s, which revealed the temple base and many sculptures.

Today visitors see the large stone plinth of the old temple and finely worked granite pieces laid out around it, including carved pillars, doorframes and decorative panels. Notable sculptures include Indra riding the elephant Airavata, Surya on his chariot, Nandi the bull, and Ganesha, along with figures of the goddess. A small shrine on the site is used for worship today. The view from the hilltop across the forests and plains is itself a reason to visit.

Malinithan timings & aarti

Usually open from early morning to evening. Check locally before visiting.

Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.

How to reach Malinithan

Festivals at Malinithan

• Durga PujaSep/Oct
• Maha ShivaratriFeb/Mar
• Makar SankrantiJan

Visitor tips

Dress code

Modest clothing is recommended. Remove footwear near the shrine.

Entry

Generally free; check locally whether any archaeological-site fee applies. An Inner Line Permit is required for Indian visitors to Arunachal Pradesh.

• Indian visitors need an Inner Line Permit to enter Arunachal Pradesh, and foreign visitors need a Protected Area Permit; arrange it before travelling.
• Do not climb on or move the carved stones; they are protected archaeological remains.
• Carry water and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the hilltop.
• Facilities near the site are limited; plan meals and stay in Likabali or Silapathar.
• Start early to cover the site and nearby Akashiganga in one day.

Places to visit near Malinithan

• Likabali townNearest town with basic facilities, about 3 km away
• AkashigangaWaterfall and holy spot on the Likabali–Aalo road, about 5 km away
• Silapathar, AssamMarket town and railhead, about 30 km away
• Aalo (Along)Hill town on the Siyom river, about 100 km away

Frequently asked questions