Exploring Sivasagar: A Memorable Visit to Sivadol
On January 13th, 2025, my friends Anjali, Urmila, Priyanka, Reena, and I embarked on an unforgettable journey to the historic town of Sivasagar in Assam. Known for its rich cultural heritage and glorious Ahom-era monuments, this trip was more than just a getaway—it was an experience that deepened our bond and enriched our understanding of history. Among the many treasures of Sivasagar, our visit to Sivadol stood out as a highlight.
The Start of Our Journey
The day began with excitement as we boarded a train to Simaluguri Junction Sivasagar. Traveling by train always has its charm—the rhythmic clatter of the wheels, the scenic countryside views, and the animated chatter among friends make the journey as delightful as the destination. Anjali brought along motor paneer curry , Urmila along a thermos of hot tea, while Priyanka had packed homemade snacks, laru pitha me with rooti luchi,Reena brought many chocolate with laughter and stories, the hours on the train flew by.
As we approached Sivasagar, the lush greenery and serene atmosphere immediately captured our hearts. The town’s name itself, meaning “Ocean of Shiva,” hinted at the spiritual and historical significance it holds. We couldn’t wait to explore.
Sivadol: A Marvel of History and Devotion
Our first stop was the iconic Sivadol temple complex, nestled by the serene Sivasagar Tank (also known as Borpukhuri). Built in 1734 by Queen Ambika, wife of Ahom King Swargadeo Siba Singha, Sivadol is a testament to the architectural brilliance and spiritual fervor of the Ahom dynasty. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the tallest Shiva temples in India, with its spire reaching an impressive height of 104 feet.
As we entered the temple premises, we were greeted by the soothing sound of temple bells and the aroma of incense. The grand structure, adorned with intricate carvings depicting various deities and mythical scenes, left us in awe. I, who has a keen interest in architecture, couldn’t stop marveling at the craftsmanship and symmetry of the design. Urmila Reena, on the other hand, was drawn to the spiritual energy of the place and took a moment to offer her prayers.
The Sivadol complex also houses two smaller temples: Vishnudol, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and Devidol, dedicated to Goddess Durga. Each temple has its own unique charm and significance, adding to the holistic spiritual experience of the site.
Walking around Sivadol, we couldn’t help but admire its intricate carvings. Each panel seemed to tell a story, from depictions of Hindu mythology to floral motifs that reflected the artisans’ creativity. Priyanka, our photography enthusiast, captured every detail with her camera, ensuring we had plenty of memories to look back on.
The Spiritual Essence of Sivadol
What struck us most about Shivadol was its serene atmosphere. Despite being a popular destination, the temple complex retained a sense of peace and tranquility. Devotees and visitors moved quietly, their reverence evident in their expressions. I, who had brought a small notebook, jotted down my thoughts about the spiritual energy of the place.
During our visit, we learned about the temple’s unique tradition of celebrating Mahashivaratri. The festival draws thousands of devotees from all over Assam and beyond. Local guides explained how the temple becomes a hub of activity during the festival, with cultural performances, rituals, and the lighting of oil lamps creating a magical ambiance. Though we weren’t there for Mahashivaratri, the stories made us wish to return someday to witness the grand celebration.
A Walk Around Sivasagar Tank
After exploring the temples, we decided to take a leisurely walk around the Sivasagar Tank. This man-made water reservoir, constructed simultaneously with Sivadol, is a masterpiece of engineering and sustainability. The calm waters reflected the clear blue sky, creating a picture-perfect setting. Urmila and Priyanka, our photography enthusiast, captured some stunning shots of the landscape and our group.
The tank is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection. We found a shady spot under a tree, where we sat and shared stories about our childhood and dreams for the future. The tranquility of the surroundings made the moment even more special.
Moments of Reflection and Gratitude
As we sat by the tank, we couldn’t help but reflect on the significance of the place. Sivadol is not just an architectural marvel; it is a living symbol of devotion, history, and culture. Each stone seemed to echo the prayers of countless devotees over the centuries. The temple’s enduring presence reminded us of the timeless connection between spirituality and art.
Anjali summed up our feelings perfectly when she said, “This place makes you feel small in the best possible way. It reminds you that you’re part of something much bigger.” Her words resonated with all of us, and we took a moment to silently express our gratitude for the opportunity to be there.
Exploring Local Culture and Cuisine
No trip is complete without indulging in the local culture and cuisine, and Sivasagar didn’t disappoint. After our visit to Sivadol, we headed to a nearby market to explore. The vibrant stalls offered a variety of traditional Assamese items, including handwoven mekhela chadors, bamboo artifacts, and beautiful jewelry. Anjali picked up a few souvenirs for her family, while Urmila couldn’t resist buying a handwoven scarf.
For lunch, we chose a local eatery known for its authentic Assamese thali. The meal was a delightful spread of rice, dal, fish curry, bamboo shoot pickle, and pitha for dessert. The flavors were unique and delicious, giving us a true taste of Assam’s culinary heritage. priyanka, who loves cooking, was inspired to try recreating some of the dishes at home.
Reflections and Bonding
As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves sitting by the Sivasagar Tank, watching the sun set behind the temples. The golden hues of the evening sky reflected on the water, creating a magical ambiance. It was a moment of reflection—about the history we had witnessed, the stories we had shared, and the memories we had created.
This trip to Sivasagar, particularly our visit to Sivadol, was more than just a travel experience. It was a journey into the past, a celebration of friendship, and a reminder of the beauty and diversity of our country. Each one of us took something unique from the trip: Anjali cherished the spiritual aspect, I admired the architecture, Priyanka captured the beauty through her lens, Urmila found culinary inspiration, and Reena along with I simply felt grateful for the opportunity to experience it all with my closest friends.
A Memorable Farewell
As the sun began to set, we reluctantly prepared to leave Shivadol. The golden rays of the sun illuminated the temple, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch into eternity. It was a sight that would stay with us forever. Before leaving, we lit small oil lamps at the temple as a gesture of respect and hope for future journeys.
This visit to Sivadol was more than just a part of our trip to Sivasagar; it was an experience that touched our hearts and enriched our souls. It was a reminder of the beauty of heritage, the power of devotion, and the joy of exploring new places with dear friends.
If you ever find yourself in Assam, make sure to visit Shivadol. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone looking for a serene getaway, Shivadol has something to offer everyone. For us, it was a day of discovery, bonding, and gratitude—a day we will cherish forever.
Concluding Remarks
If you’re planning a trip to Assam, make sure Sivasagar is on your itinerary. The town’s rich history, stunning architecture, and serene landscapes make it a must-visit destination. And if you’re visiting with friends, the experience becomes all the more memorable.
As we boarded the train back home, tired but content, we promised ourselves to plan more such trips in the future. After all, life is about creating memories, and this journey to Sivasagar will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Until our next adventure, happy travels!
Well done ✅