Siva Dol

Siva Dol is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located on the bank of the Sivasagar Tank (Borpukhuri) in Sivasagar town, Assam. Built in 1734 by Ahom Queen Ambika, consort of Swargadeo Siva Singha, it is noted as the tallest Shiva temple in Northeast India at about 104 feet. The temple is part of a trio with Vishnu Dol and Devi Dol and exemplifies Ahom architecture with its distinctive dome and golden kalasha.

Visitors can expect a large Shiva temple complex situated on the southern bank of the Sivasagar Tank with two smaller adjacent temples, Vishnu Dol and Devi Dol. The central Siva Dol features a high curvilinear shikhara topped with a golden dome, surrounded by a walled compound. Inside is the sanctum with a Shiva linga. The surroundings include the large man-made tank, ghats, open grounds, and stalls selling offerings. The site is active for worship and sightseeing.

Siva Dol was constructed in 1734 by Bar Raja Ambika, the chief queen of Ahom ruler Swargadeo Siva Singha (reigned 1714-1744). It was built on the bank of the Sivasagar Tank, excavated in 1733-1734. The temple represents the mature phase of Ahom architecture and the Ahom dynasty's patronage of Hinduism, particularly Shaivism, during the 18th century. It remains the most prominent surviving Ahom-era temple in Sivasagar, the former capital of the Ahom Kingdom.

The temple is a major Shaivite pilgrimage centre in Assam and a focal point of religious life in Sivasagar. It is centrally important during Maha Shivratri when devotees gather for special pujas and rituals. Together with Vishnu Dol and Devi Dol, it reflects the Ahom period's syncretic religious culture and continues to host daily worship and annual festivals.