Sibsagar, 369 km from Guwahati, is the old capital of the Ahom Kings who ruled Assam for 600 years. Today, Sibsagar is a rapidly developing town in commercial, industrial and educational activities. It is also an important centre for the tea and oil industries. But evidence of its royal past is overwhelming.

The town is built around the Sibsagar tank, dug over 200 years ago. Although situated in the heart of the town, the tank is above town level. On its banks are located some of the famous temples of Sibsagar. The Shivdol, constructed in the year 1734, is believed to be the highest Hindu temple in India. A great number of old Sataras of the Vaishava cult, Muslim Dargahs, Buddhist and Sakta shrines were found around Sibsagar. Besides, there are more than 500 tanks, vaults, earthen forts and castles belonging to the Ahom, Manipuri, Jaintia Shan and Kachari kings in this sub-division. The huge artificial lake, created by Queen Madambika in 1734, lies in the centre of the town.  
About 6 km from the centre are the ruins of the 18th century Palaces of Kareng Ghar and Talatal Ghar, 13 km east is the Gargaon Palace, and about 20 km along the road to Jorhat is the Gaurisagar tank and three more temples. The tombs of the Ahom kings lie at Charaideo Hill, 28 km east of town.