Discover Sivasagar: A Journey Through History And Culture In Assam

A peaceful evening at a beautiful tank at Sivasagar, Assam covered with lily pads.

Sivasagar is a beautiful town located in the northeastern Indian state of Assam. Sivasagar is renowned for its famous Ahom Palaces and monuments built all over the region. These monuments talk about the architecture, history and grandeur which is reflected. Today, Sivasagar is acknowledged for its rich history and heritage which it still prevails. A few of the Sivasagar Picnic Places are highly visited by tourists. Other notable attractions include Sivasagar Shiva Dol, Talatal Ghar, Sivasagar Tank and more. This town attracts visitors who are interested in exploring its history and origins.

Location Of Sivasagar

A temple at Sivasagar, Assam, which reflects the architectural richness of the region

Photo: Mozzworld / Wikimedia Commons

Sivasagar is located in Sivasagar district and is 360 kilometres from Guwahati, Assam. This place was once the capital of the Ahom Kingdom ruling in Assam. his place has an average elevation of 87 metres above sea level.

How To Reach Sivasagar

A flight landing at Jorhat Airport near Sivasagar, a town in Assam.

Photo: RuthAS / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are multiple ways to reach Sivasagar from any part of the city. Sivasagar, being easily accessible, also attracts several foreign tourists. Following are the ways to reach Sivasagar in a hassle-free mode.

By Air: To reach Sivasagar by air, visitors shall land at the nearest airport of Jorhat. This airport is just 75 kilometres from Sivasagar. After landing, visitors can take a taxi and reach the town of Sivasagar.

By Railway: Sivasagar Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the town. There are trains which connect Sivasagar to Guwahati and other regions of Assam. Visitors can also take a train to Jorhat Railway Station and travel via cab to Sivasagar

By Road: Sivasagar can be easily reached via highways which connect the town to other cities of Assam. There are state buses which connect Sivasagar to Jorhat, Dispur and Guwahati. Private buses are also available for those travelling to the town from other states of India.

Places To Visit In And Around Sivasagar

There are multiple places and picnic spots near Sivasagar which promise fun and a relaxed time. Each place is unique and offers a diverse experience. Listed below are a few places to visit in Sivasagar.

1. Siva Dol

A garden and exteriors of Siva Dol, one of the revered temples in Sivasagar

Photo: Shrikant Bansod / Wikimedia Commons

Siva Dol is a famous monument structure in Sivasagar. This place comprises three major temples of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga. Altogether, they are named as Vishnudol, Devidol and Sivadol, respectively. These temples are located on the banks of the Sivasagar tank. There are gardens outside the temple for visitors to relax and admire the beauty of the region. The temples were built in 1734 by the queen of Ahom King, Swargadeo. There are golden domes in the temple. Sivadol is built in the style of Shikhara Architecture and witnesses large crowds during the month of Mahashivratri.

Timings: 7 AM – 1 PM
Highlights: Golden Domes, Three Temples, Mahashivratri, Gardens

2. Sivasagar Tank

A boat floating in the crystal blue waters of Sivasagar Tank, a sacred pond in Assam

Photo: anas shaikh / Wikimedia Commons

This tank is believed to be the sacred pond in the town of Sivasagar in Assam. The tank is also known as Borpukhuri Tank and is one of the largest tanks in Assam. At the banks of this tank lies Sivadol, a famous Sivasagar Temple which is also a major landmark of the town. Many migratory birds reside in the region near the tank, thus, birdwatching activity is highly performed during the months of winter. Many floral plants and lilypads can also be seen in the tank. Sivasagar Tank is highly admired by both locals and tourists of Assam.

Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Highlights: Birdwatching, Sacred Pond, Temples, Floral Plants, Lily Pads

3. Rang Ghar

Rang Ghar, one of the most visited tourist places and ancient monuments in Sivasagar

Photo: Riku Gogoi / Wikimedia Commons

Rang Ghar is an ancient two-storeyed monument in Sivasagar. This building once served as the royal sports pavilion for the Ahom Kings. At this place, Ahom Kings and other nobles used to be regular spectators for games like buffalo fights and horse riding. Rang Ghar is three kilometres away from the city centre. This place lies in proximity to Rangpur Palace which is a seven-storeyed royal complex. Rang Ghar is believed to be one of the oldest amphitheatres not only in Assam but also in Asia. There are gardens outside Rang Ghar.

Timings: 7 AM – 4:30 PM
Highlights: Ancient Monument, Two-storeyed, Oldest Amphitheatre

4. Talatal Ghar

Worn-out texture of a chamber in Talatal Ghar, an ancient monument in Sivasagar.

Photo: Joli Rumi / Wikimedia Commons

Talatal Ghar is an 18th Century Monument built in Sivasagar. It is typically a military base. This place is believed to be the largest monument built during the Ahom Era. There are a total of 7 storeys at this monument. Four storeys can be seen on the ground and the other 3 chambers are underground, there are two tunnels at Talatal Ghar too. Presently, this monument lies in ruins but the richness of its architecture is still reflected. Big cannons are kept at Talatal Ghar. The place is good for family outings.

Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
Highlights: Four-storeyed, Military Base, Family Outing

5. Assam Tai Museum

Steps to the entrance of an informative complex in Sivasagar, Assam Tai Museum

Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikimedia Commons

Assam Tai Museum is located in an easily accessible area of Sivasagar. This museum was established in the year 1992 and has an extraordinary collection of artefacts, scriptures and sculptures. Other things which are showcased include wooden textiles, pottery, fishing apparatus, sewing instruments, baskets, clothing, manuscripts and metal wares. This museum was dedicated to the Ahom Kingdom. Visitors can also learn about different cultures and their influence on the native land of Assam. This place is ideal for a day outing. There is an entry fee of INR 10-20 for visitors.

Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
Highlights: Extraordinary collection, ancient manuscripts, Ahom Kingdom

Where To Stay

A tourist opening the door of a room in a budget-friendly hotel in Sivasagar.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

There are multiple options for tourists to stay in Sivasagar. These options range from budget-friendly hotels to luxury boutique hotels. A few of the notable hotels to stay at are The White IBIS, Hotel Brahmaputra, Hotel Brindavan, Alpine Resort, Hotel Piccolo and Hotel Deo Volente. These hotels have all modern amenities and offer excellent services to their guests.

Where To Eat

A lovely breakfast tea served to visitors at a restaurant in Sivasagar.

Photo: Nayan j Nath / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are multiple dining options in the town of Sivasagar. These restaurants cater to the tastes and preferences of every individual. A few of the recommended restaurants to dine at include Heritage Jaysagar, Foodvilla, US Pizza, Villa Restro Cafe, and What The Food Cafe. These restaurants and cafes are multi-cuisine and offer a variety of dishes.

Best Time To Visit

A peaceful evening at a region near Sivasagar town in Assam

Photo: দিব্য দত্ত / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The best time to visit Sivasagar is during the summer months. The weather of Sivasagar, Assam is comparatively cool and pleasant during both summer and winter months. One of the most important festivals of the town is Mahashivratri so it is also suggested to visit this town during the month of Mahashivratri. Monsoons can be avoided because they limit outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Other Factors To Consider

Worn-out structure of one of the monuments in Sivasagar Town in Assam

Photo: Joli Rumi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are a few factors to be considered for a hassle-free trip to the destination. Ensuring these factors offer a comfortable experience and fun time.

Average Cost Of The Trip

The average cost of a Sivasagar trip in Assam typically ranges from ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 per person for a 3-4 day itinerary. This estimate includes accommodation, local transportation, meals, and entry fees to historical sites like Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, and Sivasagar Lake. Luxury options and extended stays may increase expenses. Travellers on a budget can reduce costs by opting for economical lodging and public transport. Seasonal variations may also affect the overall trip cost.

Tips For The Travellers

  • Many of the monuments are in ruins. It is advisable to visit with a guide to avoid any constraints or harming the monuments.
  • Parking lots may be available at a few of the places so it is recommended to check with the local authorities and then proceed.
  • Opening hours and closing hours may also depend on several festivals. It is recommended to inquire with local authorities about the timings of tourist spots in Sivasagar.
  • the native language of the region is Assamese. Some locals understand Bengali and Hindi too. It is recommended to learn a few Assamese phrases to enhance your experience.

Sivasagar is a beautiful place known for its scenic beauty and historic places. This place attracts all types of visitors including history lovers, architecture admirers, religious people and nature lovers. This town is surrounded by hills, terrains and lush greenery. With multiple places to visit, eat and stay, a trip to Sivasagar is highly recommended. A few of the Sivasagar temples and several picnic spots near Sivasagar attract tourists from borders and beyond. Today, this place is a growing hub of trade and commerce. Book a trip with TripXL to admire the culture and heritage which is still reflected in the town.

Cover Photo: Hiranmoy.boruah / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Sivasagar is extremely famous for its Ahom Monuments and Palaces. This town in Assam is also famous for its ancient temples and tanks.
Jorhat Airport is the nearest airport to Sivasagar. This airport is at a distance of 75 kilometres from the town.
Queen Ambika Alias Madambika built the famous Siva Dol in Sivasagar in the year 1734 AD. It is believed that this temple is the highest temple of Assam.
Sivasagar Tank is also known as Borpukhuri Tank regionally. It was dug by Ahoms in the 18th Century and is renowned globally.
There are three main temples in Sivasagar. They belong to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Goddess Durga respectively.

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