Nestled in the historic town of Sivasagar in Assam, the Joy Dol Temple stands as a timeless testimony to the architectural brilliance of the Ahom dynasty and the deep spiritual heritage of the region. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is more than just a religious site; it's a serene cultural landmark set beside the beautiful Joy Sagar Tank, one of India's largest man-made tanks. Whether you’re a devotee, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, Joy Dol offers a rich blend of faith, history, and scenic beauty.
About
Joy Dol, also known as the Kesavanarayan Temple, is a historic Hindu temple situated in Sivasagar, Assam. It was built during the Ahom dynasty period and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is a prominent heritage site and reflects the architectural brilliance of the Ahom rulers.
Temple Description:
Joy Dol is a beautiful 18th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built during the Ahom dynasty. The temple is an excellent example of Ahom architecture, with intricate sculptural work and terracotta panels depicting scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Temple Speciality:
Built in 1698 by Queen Ambika, wife of King Rudra Singha.
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, making it an important site for Vaishnavites.
Notable for its arched roof and octagonal dome.
Surrounded by lush gardens and located beside the Joy Sagar Tank, one of the largest man-made tanks in India.
The temple stands on a raised platform and has excellent symmetry in design.
Temple Address:
Joy Dol Temple, Near Joysagar Tank, Sivasagar – 785640, Assam, India
Temple Coordinates (Longitude and Latitude):
26.9905° N, 94.6104° E
Location:
Town/City: Sivasagar
State: Assam
Country: India
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Temple Sevas (Services)
Daily Vishnu Pooja
Aarti rituals in the morning and evening
Special poojas during Janmashtami, Rama Navami, and Bihu
Traveling Facilities
Well connected by road from Sivasagar and surrounding areas
Taxis and auto-rickshaws available from railway station and town center
State-run and private buses from nearby cities like Jorhat, Dibrugarh
Food Facilities
Local eateries and tea stalls near the temple
Assamese thali and traditional cuisine available in nearby restaurants
Stay Facilities
Hotels and guest houses in Sivasagar town
Budget to mid-range options available within 3–5 km radius
Nearby Railway Station
Sivasagar Town Railway Station (~3 km)
Simaluguri Junction (~16 km) – better connectivity to major cities
Nearby Airport
Jorhat Airport (Rowriah Airport) – ~75 km
Dibrugarh Airport (Mohanbari) – ~90 km
Nearby Bus Station
ASTC Bus Stand, Sivasagar – well connected to Guwahati, Jorhat, Dibrugarh
Bus Routes to Temple
Regular ASTC and private buses from Guwahati, Jorhat, Dibrugarh
From Sivasagar town, autos/taxis to Joysagar Tank area
Train Routes to Temple
Trains to Sivasagar Town Station or Simaluguri Junction from major cities like Guwahati, Dibrugarh
Auto/taxi to temple from the station
Airways to Temple
Fly to Jorhat or Dibrugarh
Then hire taxi or board a bus to Sivasagar
Nearby Cities
Jorhat (~55 km)
Dibrugarh (~80 km)
Guwahati (~370 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places
Shiva Dol (one of the tallest Shiva temples in India)
Devi Dol
Ahom Museum
Rang Ghar (Asia’s oldest amphitheater)
Talatal Ghar
Kareng Ghar
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March (pleasant weather)
During Bihu or Janmashtami for a festive atmosphere
Shopping – Famous For?
Assamese silk (Muga and Pat)
Traditional handloom and handicrafts
Local tea from Assam plantations
Bamboo and cane products
The Joy Dol Temple is more than a spiritual destination it's a walk through the cultural and historical richness of Assam. With its peaceful setting by the Joy Sagar Tank, the temple is ideal for visitors seeking tranquility, devotion, and heritage. Whether you're on a spiritual quest or a cultural tour of Sivasagar, Joy Dol is an unmissable gem that blends ancient art, vibrant rituals, and natural beauty into a divine experience.
