Sivasagar was the capital of the mighty Ahoms. who ruled Assam for more than 600 years till the advent of the British. The town, dedicated to Lord Shiva - its name literally meaning "the ocean of Shiva" - is strewn with tell-tale ruins of a powerful empire.
The most remarkable landscape of the town is the 200 years old Shivasagar tank. Although situated in the middle of the town the water level of the lake is above the level of the town. On its banks are three temples- the Shiva Dol, the Vishnu Dol and the Devi Dol - all three built by Queen Madambika, wife of Shiva Singha in the year 1734. The Shiva Dol (104 ft. high) is believed to be the tallest Shiva Temple in India.

A Seven Storied Palace having three stories underground known as Talatal Ghar and the upper stories known as Kareng Ghar built by King Rudra Singha (1696-1714) is only 4 kms. from Sivasagar Town. There were 2 underground tunnels from the Talatal Ghar connecting Dikhow river and Gargaon palace which were later blocked by the East India Company.

RANGHAR

A 2 storied amphitheater built in 1746 from which Ahom Royalties watched elephant fights and other sporting events is situated just at the periphery of the town. It was built by King Pramatta Singha (1744-1751).

JOYSAGAR TANK AND TEMPLES:

The biggest man-excavated tank covering an area of 318 acres was built by King Rudra Singha in memory of his mother (Joymoti), a patriotic martyr in 1697 at Rongpur. On its banks there are five Dols which were built in 1698. Most important of these is Joy Dol which portrays the best architectural pattern of Ahom dynasty.

GAURISAGAR TANK AND TEMPLE:

The Gaurisagar tank and temple was built by Queen Phuleswari Devi (1722-1791) and was dedicated to Goddess Durga. Gaurisagar is 12 kms. from Sivasagar.

CHARAIDEO:

The original capital of the Ahom Kings built by King Sukapha, the founder of the Ahom Dynasty, in 1253 AD, is 28 kms. east of Sivasagar Town. It is famous for the numerous "Maidams" or Mausoleums of Kings and other members of the Royal families.