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Sivasagar, also known as Sibsagar, is a city located in the Indian state of Assam. It is the headquarters of the Sivasagar district and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The city is situated in the eastern part of Assam and is surrounded by the Brahmaputra River to the north and the Dikhow River to the south. Sivasagar is a place of great historical and cultural significance, with a number of ancient monuments, temples, and palaces that reflect the city’s glorious past.
Sivasagar’s History
Sivasagar, formerly known as Rangpur, served as the capital of the Ahom Kingdom from 1699 to 1788. The Ahoms governed Assam for six centuries until the Burmese invasion in 1819, leading to the downfall of their kingdom. The British liberated the province in 1825 but faced ongoing anarchy, resulting in complete annexation in 1826. For administrative convenience, it was divided into three sub-divisions.
Originally named “Kalansupar” after “Kalansu Gohain,” residing in a village where the current Sivasagar tank stands, the town was initially bounded by Cherekapar, Kathpar, Joyrapar, and Dhuliapar. During the Ahom rule’s end, it was known as Shivpur, changing to Sibsagar after the 1826 treaty of Yandaboo under British governance.
In the British era, the district comprised Sibsagar, Jorhat, and Golaghat sub-divisions. In 1912, the district headquarters moved to Jorhat, leaving Sibsagar as a sub-divisional headquarters. This continued until 1983 when, on July 1st, Sibsagar and Golaghat sub-divisions were declared as new districts by the Government of Assam, marking the end of Sivasagar’s tenure as the Ahom capital in the 18th century, during which it was called Rangpur, and several temples from that period still stand today.
Sivasagar’s Weather
Sivasagar, located in the eastern part of Assam, has a tropical monsoon climate with hot and humid summers and cool and dry winters. The city receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. The best time to visit Sivasagar is during the winter months of October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the city is at its most beautiful. As of December 4, 2023, the current temperature in Sivasagar is 73°F, with misty conditions.
Sivasagar’s Economy
Sivasagar, a city in the eastern part of Assam, has a diverse economy that is driven by various industries and sectors. The main industries in Sivasagar include the oil industry, tea industry, and tourism industry. The majority of the population in the city is agrarian, and the city is known for its agricultural activities, including rice cultivation, tea plantations, and vegetable farming.
Sivasagar district is surrounded by the Naga Hills and Arunachal Pradesh to the south and southeast.. The district is mostly flat alluvial plain with hillocks on the south-eastern and southern areas near the Naga Hills. The alluvial soil in the district is highly fertile, which contributes to the agricultural success in the region.
In addition to agriculture, Sivasagar is also an important center for tea and oil industries. The tea industry in Sivasagar is known for its high-quality Assam tea, which is cultivated in the surrounding gardens. The oil industry in the city is driven by the presence of oil and natural gas reserves in the region, which are extracted and processed by companies like the Assam Petroleum Industries Corporation Limited (APICL) and the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
Sivasagar is also a popular tourist destination, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The city is home to several ancient monuments, temples, and palaces, which attract tourists from around the world. The Sivasagar district is bordered by the Naga Hills and Arunachal Pradesh in the south and south-east, and the district is known for its agricultural activities, including rice cultivation, tea plantations, and vegetable farming.
Sivasagar’s economy is driven by a diverse range of industries and sectors, including agriculture, tea, oil, and tourism. The city’s strategic location and rich resources make it an important economic hub in the region, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the overall growth of the region.
Sivasagar’s Culture
Sivasagar has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Assamese, Ahom, and Bengali cultures. The city is known for its traditional dance, music, and festivals, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. The people of Sivasagar are known for their hospitality and warmth, and the city is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions.
Sivasagar Tourism Places
Sivasagar, a historic town in the eastern part of Assam, is a popular destination for sightseeing, offering a variety of attractions that showcase the city’s rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Some of the key tourist places in Sivasagar include:
- Talatal Ghar: A three-storied structure, including an underground level, this monument is known for its lovely architecture and design. It is one of the oldest surviving amphitheaters in Asia and dates back to 1746 A.D. when the Ahoms ruled the region.
- Rang Ghar: Often referred to as the ‘Colosseum of the East,’ Rang Ghar is an important edifice reflecting the architectural precision and grandeur of the Ahom dynasty. It is located near Rangpur Palace, at a distance of 3 km from Sivasagar town.
- Ahom Museum: This museum displays artifacts such as royal armor, clothes, and manuscripts that belonged to the rulers of the Ahom dynasty. It is situated on the banks of Sivasagar Lake.
- Charaideo Maidams: These are massive structures completed in a record 45 days in 1697. Along with the tanks and temples that span an area of nearly 320 acres, there are also temples on the banks of the water body, such as Jeydol, Shiv Temple, Devi Ghar, and Nati Gosain Temple .
- Jaysagar Tank and Temples: This artificial reservoir near Sivasagar town is spread over 150 acres, and there are temples scattered all around it, dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Durga.
- Kareng Ghar & Talatal Ghar: These are ancient structures that showcase the architectural prowess of the Ahom dynasty.
- Rudrasagar Tank and Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located near the Rudrasagar Tank.
- Sivasagar Art Gallery: This gallery showcases a collection of artifacts and artwork, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Tai Museum: Located at the west bank of Sivasagar Tank, this museum displays ancient items that showcase the history and culture of the region.
- Uttoron Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and works of the famous Assamese poet and writer Mahapandit Uttoron.
- Jorabari Satra: A historic satra that reflects the religious and cultural practices of the region.
- Nityananda Dev Than: A famous Shiva Temple located on the shores of the Sibsagar Lake, dedicated to Lord Shiva, Shivadol was built by Bar Raja Ambika, queen of Ahom King Swargadeo Siba Singha.
- Khatpar Satra: A famous Shiva Temple located near the Khatpar River.
Sivasagar is a city of great historical and cultural significance, known for its rich history, ancient monuments, and natural beauty. The city’s economy is based on agriculture, tea, and oil, and it is a popular tourist destination with a number of attractions that reflect its glorious past.
FAQ’s on Sivasagar
Why is Sivasagar famous?
Sivasagar, in eastern Assam, is a popular tourist spot known for its history and culture. Top attractions include the Jaysagar Tank with temples, the Talatal Ghar monument, and the Rang Ghar, known as the 'Colosseum of the East.' Other sites like Rudrasagar Temple, Ahom Museum, and Jorabari Satra add to the city's charm. The unique cultural heritage, reflected in diverse ethnic tribes and traditions, makes Sivasagar an appealing destination.
Which rivers are in Sivasagar?
Sivasagar, in eastern Assam, is famous for its history, culture, and natural beauty. Key attractions include ancient monuments like Rang Ghar and cultural diversity with unique traditions. The city's surrounded by rivers, like the Brahmaputra, adding to its charm. Sivasagar is also known for its tea industry, producing high-quality Assam tea. Its rich history, diverse culture, and scenic landscapes make it a popular spot for tourists.
Why should we visit Sivasagar?
Sivasagar, in eastern Assam, is a great place to visit for history, culture, and nature. Explore ancient sites like Rang Ghar, enjoy diverse traditions, and soak in the scenic beauty near rivers like Brahmaputra. Don't miss the chance to learn about Assam tea in the city's gardens and savor unique local dishes. In a nutshell, Sivasagar offers a mix of history, culture, and natural charm, making it a must-visit spot in Assam.
Who made Rang Ghar?
The Rang Ghar in Sivasagar, Assam, is a special historical building. It was made during the time of Swargadeo Rudra Singha, who ruled from 1696 to 1714. This place is one of the oldest amphitheaters in Asia and is known for its unique design and grandness. Back in the Ahom rule, it was used for royal events and sports. Today, it's an important spot for people who want to explore Sivasagar's history and culture. It's a must-visit for tourists.
Who built Rang Ghar in Sivasagar?
The Rang Ghar in Sivasagar, Assam, was built by two important Ahom rulers, Rudra Singha and Pramatta Singha. Construction started in 1696 but, made of wood and bamboo, it deteriorated quickly. So, Rudra Singha's son, Pramatta Singha, rebuilt it with stone and brick from 1744 to 1751. The Rang Ghar, also known as Asia's first sports pavilion, was a place for the royal family and people to enjoy games, especially during the Rongali Bihu festival.
