About Sivasagar Sivadol
The Sivadol stands on the bank of the Borpukhuri, the huge man-made tank that gives the town of Sivasagar ("ocean of Shiva") its name, in Upper Assam. Sivasagar was the capital of the Ahom kingdom for long periods, and the Sivadol is its most important Hindu temple. It is the centrepiece of a group of three shrines, with the Vishnudol and Devidol (dedicated to the goddess Durga) standing beside it. The temple is in active worship and is also protected as a monument of national importance.
The tank and the three temples were commissioned by Bar Raja Ambika, the chief queen of the Ahom king Swargadeo Siva Singha, in the 1730s; the temples are dated to 1734. Their construction reflects the deep embrace of Hindu, and especially Shaiva and Shakta, worship by the Ahom court in the 18th century. The tank was raised with embankments so that its water stands above the surrounding land, and it is said to keep a steady level through the year. The temple area has also seen history unfold: a battle against the Moamoria rebels was fought near the tank in the later 18th century.
The Sivadol is built of brick and stone. Its main tower rises to about 104 feet and is often described as one of the tallest Shiva temple towers in India; it is crowned by a gilded finial. Four smaller towers cluster at its base, and the entrance hall has the curved, hut-like do-chala roof typical of Ahom architecture. The outer walls carry relief carvings of deities, floral bands and scenes, and the sanctum holds the Shiva linga. Walk around the tank to see the Vishnudol and Devidol and enjoy the wintering birds on the water.
Sivasagar Sivadol timings & aarti
Usually open from about 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with the sanctum closed for some time around midday. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning puja | Early morning (approx.) |
| Evening aarti | Around sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Sivasagar Sivadol
By air
Jorhat (Rowriah) airport is about 60 km away; Dibrugarh airport is about 80 km away.
By train
Simaluguri Junction is about 18 km away and is the main railhead for Sivasagar.
By road
The temple is in the heart of Sivasagar town. Buses and taxis connect Sivasagar with Jorhat, Dibrugarh and Guwahati (about 360 km).
Festivals at Sivasagar Sivadol
- Maha ShivaratriFeb/Mar
- Rongali BihuApr
- Shravan MondaysJul/Aug
- Durga Puja (at the Devidol)Sep/Oct
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest traditional clothing is recommended; remove footwear before entering.
- Entry
- Free.
- Visit early in the morning or near sunset for soft light on the tower and the tank.
- Maha Shivaratri brings huge crowds; plan for long queues.
- Photography of the exterior is generally allowed; ask before photographing inside.
- Set aside a full day to see the other Ahom monuments around Sivasagar.
- Carry rain gear between May and September.
Places to visit near Sivasagar Sivadol
- Rang GharAhom royal pavilion for watching games, about 4 km away
- Talatal GharMulti-storey Ahom palace complex, about 5 km away
- Joysagar tank and JoydolAnother great Ahom tank and temple, about 5 km away
- Charaideo MaidamsUNESCO-listed Ahom royal burial mounds, about 28 km away
Frequently asked questions
Who built the Sivadol in Sivasagar?
It was commissioned by Bar Raja Ambika, chief queen of the Ahom king Siva Singha, and is dated to 1734.
How tall is the Sivadol?
The main tower rises to about 104 feet and is often said to be among the tallest Shiva temple towers in India.
What are the Sivadol timings?
It is usually open from early morning to about 8 PM, with a midday closing of the sanctum. Times may vary; check locally.
How to reach Sivasagar Sivadol?
The nearest railhead is Simaluguri, about 18 km away, and the nearest airport is Jorhat, about 60 km away.
What is the aarti time at Sivasagar Sivadol?
Morning puja: Early morning (approx.); Evening aarti: Around sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Sivasagar Sivadol?
Modest traditional clothing is recommended; remove footwear before entering.
Visited recently and noticed something has changed? Suggest an update — Sevaks help keep every temple guide accurate.
