Sibsagar, often written as Sivasagar, is the capital of the Indian region of the same name, located in the northern state of Assam. Translated to literally mean ‘the ocean of Shiva’, the port is an interesting stop on many of our Brahmaputra river cruises and an important place of spirituality.

So, what can you expect when MV Mahabaahu arrives? Here are three things you might get up to.

Visit The Shiva Temple

Aniruddha Buragohain [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons 

Sibsagar is home to the highest temple in India dedicated to Shiva, one of the most important deities in the Hindu religion. Created by the Ahom kings, it is a popular site of pilgrimage in the country and features a dome made from pure gold. Inside, carvings of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses can be found and there are intricately sculptured pillars to admire.

Close to the Shiva Dol, the Vishnu Dol and Devi Dol complete a trilogy of revered temples. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Durga respectively, they are also well worth a visit.

Feel Like Royalty At Rang Ghar

Rang Ghar, meaning ‘House of Entertainment’, is Sibsagar’s answer to the Colosseum. Situated just outside the city, it was built in the 18th century by Ahom King Swargadeo Pramatta Singha as an amphitheatre to stage a variety of events. As the Ahoms didn’t use cement or mortar, this sports pavilion was constructed using a paste made from rice and eggs, something worth keeping in mind when you admire the workmanship.

As well as elephant and buffalo fights, the arena would have also hosted cultural music and dance performances that took place during the three parts of the annual Bihu Festival. When you enter to appreciate the sweeping arches and floral adornments, you’ll climb a steep staircase to the platform where royalty and foreign dignitaries would have sat during the ceremonies.

Sample Tea At A Traditional Assam Estate

Something that Assam is famous for around the world is tea production, and you’ll be lucky enough to visit a working estate during your Brahmaputra River cruise to learn more about how it’s produced. A local Assamese family will welcome you into their home for a delicious meal and a tour of the garden to see the different stages of the process.

The family has more than 100 years’ experience picking and creating black and orthodox tea. You’ll be taught about the crush, tear, curl (CTC) method of production and, of course, have the chance to try the celebrated final product.

If you would like to discover more about our river cruises in India, you can call the team on 0800 954 0064. Plus, if you sign up to our mailing list, you receive regular emails about our offers.