Sivasagar, also spelt Sibsagar, was the capital of the Ahom kingdom, which ruled Assam for about six centuries. Two days is enough to cover the main monuments at a relaxed pace.
Day 1: the royal tank and Rang Ghar
Start at the Sivasagar tank, a very large man-made lake in the middle of town. On its bank stand the Shivadol, Vishnudol and Devidol temples; the Shivadol has one of the tallest Shiva temple towers in India. Visit in the morning or around sunset, when the light is best.
In the afternoon, go to Rang Ghar, a royal sports pavilion from the 18th century, often called one of Asia's oldest surviving amphitheatres. The roof is shaped like an upturned boat.
Day 2: Talatal Ghar and the countryside
Talatal Ghar is a large Ahom palace with several floors above ground and others below, and it is known for its tunnels. Nearby you can see Kareng Ghar (Garhgaon Palace). If you have time, visit a tea estate or the Joysagar tank, which is another large Ahom-era reservoir.
Getting there
Sivasagar is roughly 360 km from Guwahati and about 60 km from Jorhat airport, the nearest. It also fits well between Majuli and Kaziranga on a longer Assam trip. See our Jorhat and Dibrugarh pages for onward travel.
Where to stay
Staying near the Sivasagar tank keeps the temples within walking distance. Luit Homes lists hotels and homestays in Sivasagar that you can book online with a small advance.
More travel guides
- Best Time to Visit North East India, Month by Month
- Homestay or Hotel? How to Choose in North East India
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) for North East India: A Simple Guide
- Kaziranga Safari Guide: Zones, Timing and Where to Stay
- 7-Day Assam and Meghalaya Itinerary