Up for an expedition?

As you stroll through Sivasagar, you must stop in awe at the magnificent Rang Ghar, Asia's oldest amphitheatre, where kings once sat to watch elephant fights and sports events. A short drive will take you to the Kareng Ghar, a royal palace with seven floors and secret underground passages that would make a perfect set for an adventure movie. But the real showstopper is the massive Sivasagar tank, with beautiful temples like Vishnu Dol, Siva Dol, and Devi Dol gracing its banks.

If you want to see something extraordinary, take a short trip to Charaideo Moidam, which is about 30 kilometres from the city. People call these burial mounds the "Pyramids of Assam" – they're the site where Ahom kings and queens were laid to rest. And if you love birds, you're in for a treat at Panidehing Wildlife Sanctuary, just 22 kilometres from town. Visit in winter, and you may see hundreds of migratory birds making it their temporary home.

The best part? You can explore most of Sivasagar on foot, walking at your own pace, sitting by the peaceful tanks, or just soaking in the calm that's so hard to find in big cities.

Tour of a tea garden, anyone?

Ever wondered where your morning cup of Assam tea comes from? In Sivasagar, you can actually walk through the answer! The town is home to some of Assam's most beautiful tea gardens. Think of it as nature's artistry, dotted with colourful scenes of tea pluckers in their traditional garb. And the most amazing part? Here, you can be more than just a tea drinker. Many tea estates welcome you to experience the journey of tea from bush to cup. Watch skilled pluckers select just the right leaves, follow the leaves through the fascinating process of becoming the tea you love, and yes – taste some of the finest Assam tea right where it's born! Some estates have turned their old colonial bungalows into stays for tourists. So, if you want to spend more time in the tea estates, you can stay in the Heritage Tea Bungalows.

Into the cultural and culinary scene

Now, let's dive into the heart and soul of Sivasagar. The rhythm of life here follows three main Bihu celebrations, each telling its own story of the farming calendar. In the springtime, the whole town celebrates Bohag Bihu (or Poi-Chankein, as the locals call it). It is celebrated just before the paddy planting begins. Fast forward to October, and you'll find yourself in the middle of Kaati Bihu, marking the harvest time. Come winter, Magh Bihu fills the air with the aroma of traditional delicacies as people celebrate the end of the harvest season.

Speaking of food – oh, you're in for a treat! Forget heavy spices, for Sivasagar's culinary scene is all about subtle flavours and fresh local herbs. Every meal starts with rice, and you must try the local favourites. Dip into a tangy Tenga (sour curry) bowl, savour the unique Khar (alkaline preparation), or munch on crispy Pokori while sipping the finest Assam tea. For a truly local experience, try Poitabhat (fermented rice) with Pitika (mashed vegetables) – it's comfort food at its best! Don't leave without tasting Jolpan (a traditional breakfast snack) or the sweet Pitha and Laru (traditional sweets).

Make the most of your visit

Want to know when to pack your bags for Sivasagar? Then, the answer is during the winter months of October to March. That's when the weather puts on its best show, perfect for exploring those magnificent monuments without breaking a sweat. October and November are magical when clear skies make those architectural details pop, and the weather feels like a gentle hug.

Sivasagar is like a treasure waiting to be found. From intriguing archaeological wonders to rhythmic traditions, this town promises to leave a mark on your heart. Plan a trip to Sivasagar and discover the timeless allure that lies within.