Delve into the heart of Assam at Rang Ghar, Sivasagar – a place that is not just a tourist attraction but a symbol of Assam's rich cultural heritage. Located in the historic town of Sivasagar, Rang Ghar is one of the oldest surviving amphitheaters in Asia and holds great historical significance.
Rang Ghar, which translates to 'House of Entertainment', was constructed during the reign of Swargadeo Pramatta Singha in 1746 AD. It was used by the Ahom kings and nobles to witness various events such as buffalo fights and other traditional sports, particularly during the biennial festival of Bihu. The structure is often referred to as the Colosseum of the East, and has been an integral part of Assam's heritage for centuries.
The two-storied building is oval in shape and was built using a type of rice and eggs mortar which is characteristic of Ahom construction. The architecture of Rang Ghar reveals influences of both Mughal and Southeast Asian designs, a testament to the diverse cultural interactions of the time.
For decades, Rang Ghar was somewhat overlooked as a tourist destination, but with increased efforts by the Government of Assam to promote its historical sites, it started gaining prominence. The monument has been part of initiatives to boost cultural tourism in the state.
In recent years, the Assam Tourism Development Corporation has worked to improve the infrastructure around Rang Ghar to make it more accessible to tourists from across the world. Today, it stands proudly as a beacon of Assamese culture and attracts tourists, historians, and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Tourism at Rang Ghar is witnessing a change with the adoption of digital tools to enhance visitor experiences. The latest trend is the inclusion of QR codes and augmented reality (AR) to provide a more interactive and informative tour. Visitors can now scan codes or use their smartphones to learn about the history and architecture of Rang Ghar in a more engaging way.
Moreover, the popularity of eco-friendly tourism practices is on the rise, and the area surrounding Rang Ghar is no exception. Sustainable tourism practices are being encouraged, and visitors are made aware of the importance of preserving such a historic site.
When visiting Rang Ghar, tourists are advised to respect the site's historical importance and contribute to its preservation by following the guidelines provided at the monument. The best time to visit Sivasagar and Rang Ghar is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.
Engage in the history that Rang Ghar has to offer, witness the silent stories of past ages etched in its walls, and take part in the living history that shapes Assam’s present and future.
