Sibsagar

About 363 km from Guwahati, Sibsagar is situated close to the site of Charaiadeo the ancient capital of the Ahom Kings (1229 AD) who ruled Assam for six centuries. Their rule was consolidated by their domineering presence in the Assam valley and their stiff resistance to the Mughal incursions. In time their weakened position gave the British the advantage to wrest their kingdom in 1826. A large watertank, established by Queen Madambika in 1734 AD, dominates the city. Strung around it are three temples, the most important of which is the Shivadol (quite possibly the tallest Shiv temple in the country) which is the focal point of the Shivratri Puja. Vishnudol and Devidol are the other two temples. Other notable tanks built by the Ahoms are the Joysagar, Gaurisagar and Rudrasagar.

Charaiadeo, 28 km away has a number of burial vaults of kings and noblemen, and has a striking resemblance to Egypt’s pyramids. Another capital of the Ahoms was Gargaon (15th Century), 13 km away from Sibsagar. The original palace has disappeared but Kareng Ghar, the newer place built by King Rajeshwar Singha is very much in evidence. It’s a seven storied structure with two floors above the ground and rests are underground. It also has a couple of secret tunnels. At Rangpur (6 km) is another palace, the Talatal Ghar, built by King Rudra Singha in 1699 AD.

The Ahom Museum contains relics from the period of Ahom rule. Amongst these are a plethora of swords, clothes, manuscripts and sundry artifacts.

Tourist Attractions

Shivadol Temple, Brick Palaces, Sibsagar Lake.

Getting There

By Air : The nearest airport is at Rewriah, Jorhat- 55 kms.

By Rail : The nearest railhead is Simaluguri- 16 kms.

By Road : Sibsagar is linked with rest parts of the state by well maintained road network.