The Charaideo Maidams, also known as the "Pyramids of Assam", are a collection of burial mounds located in the Charaideo district of Assam, India, about 30 kilometers from the town of Sivasagar. These mounds are the tombs of the Ahom kings and queens, who ruled Assam for over 600 years, from 1228 to 1826 CE.
The maidams are made of earth and brick, and vary in size and shape. The largest maidam is that of Suhungmung, the first Ahom king to be cremated. The maidams are an important historical and archaeological site, and offer a glimpse into the lives and rituals of the Ahom people.
Getting There:
The nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport (DIB), located about 100 kilometers from Charaideo. From Dibrugarh, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Charaideo. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
Sivasagar town is well-connected by buses to other major cities in Assam and neighboring states. You can take a bus from Sivasagar to Charaideo, which is a shorter journey of about 30 minutes.
Timings and Entry Fees:
The Charaideo Maidams are open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, seven days a week. The entry fee is INR 20 for Indian citizens and INR 250 for foreign tourists.
Things to Do:
- Explore the maidams: The main attraction of Charaideo is of course the maidams themselves. You can walk around the site and admire the different sized mounds, some of which are quite large and impressive.
- Learn about the Ahom kingdom: The maidams are a reminder of the Ahom kingdom, which was once a powerful kingdom in Assam. There are information boards at the site that provide information about the Ahom kings and queens and their burial practices.
- Visit the nearby temples: There are a number of temples located near the Charaideo Maidams, including the Charaideo Dehing Namghar and the Garakhiya Dol. These temples are worth a visit if you have time.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Charaideo Maidams is during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is pleasant and cool. The monsoon season (June to September) can be quite hot and humid, and some of the paths around the maidams can become muddy.
Where to Stay:
There are a few hotels and guesthouses located in Sivasagar town. However, if you are looking for a more luxurious stay, you may want to consider staying in Dibrugarh, which has a wider range of accommodation options.