Though the capital of the Ahom kingdom moved many times, Charaideo remained the symbolic center. It contains sacred burial grounds of Ahom kings and queens and is also the place of ancestral Gods of the Ahoms. 42 tombs (Maidams) of Ahom kings and queens at Charaideo hillocks are comparable to the Pyramids of Egypt and are objects of wonder revealing the excellent architecture and skill of the sculptors and masons of Assam of the medieval days.

Charaideo Tai-Ahom word, means "a prominent city on the hill top" (Che =a city, rai = prominent, doi =hill) Early name of Cheraidoi was "Bihaga:dripa:ha:r" of Borahi rulers. Austric king Sungsaumara was the first ruler of this region. Virochan, Chandrahash, Vikramadityapha, Bicharpatipha, Pokhra were Borahi rulers of this region. The Borahi rulers founded two capitals close to Charaideo @ Chera:idoi @ Bihagadripahar called "Sona:pur" and "Ba:npur". The Ta:i-A:hom first king Chaolung Siukapha A.D. 1228-1256 ruled this area and founded his capital at this place also curved out the country of Mung-dun-chun-kham, a country full of garden of gold (Assam) stationing at this place whose descedants ruled this country up to A.D. 1838 till termination of their government by the British Government. Chera:doi was a part of old Pagarjotic, Uparipattan, Pragjytisha, Kamrupa, Saumarpitha, Dimalang etc. Charaideo @ "Chera:idoi" is known as "Jerusalem of the East" for its location of Moidams i.e., Vaults of the Ta:i-A:hom kings, the Queens and the nobles.

Architecturally it comprises a massive underground vault with one or more chambers having domical superstructure and covered by a heap of earthen mound and externally it appears a hemispherical mound. At the top of the mound a small open pavilion chow-chali is provided. An octagonal dwarf wall encloses whole maidam . The Ahoms preferred to place the departed family members at Charaideo where the first king Sukapha was laid to rest. The historical chronicles inform that wives, attendants, pet animals and huge quantity of valuables were buried with the departed kings.

Lack of any preservation scheme from the government is another reason for the slow extinction of the remains of the temples as earth cutting of the Maidams and hillocks by ignorant illegal settlers are causing irreparable damages to the Maidams. Even the Archeological Survey of India (ASI), in its bid to "explore and unearth the mystery of Maidams", has badly damaged a big Maidam and the action can be termed nothing less than gross criminal negligence.

The actual number of Maidam has exceeded 150 but only 30 Maidams are protected by the Archeological Survey of India and Assam State Archeology Department, and the remaining Maidams are unprotected. Most of these unprotected Maidams are encroached by people and so going to be damaged. The biggest unprotected Maidam is the Bali Maidam near Nimonagarh. This Maidam is called Bali Maidam, because while British plundered it, they got obstruction from excess sands (Bali) in the surrounding of the Maidam.

The site has had some archeological works but also has suffered from robbers. There have been calls for the site to be UNESCO World Heritage listed. Charaideo is still revered and continoues to be a place of worship for the Ahoms. Charaideo was also belived to be the abode of God "LANKURI" identified with lord "SHIVA".

How to Reach Charaideo Maidams

To reach Charaideo Maidams from Sonari town, the site is easily accessible by road with a short and convenient journey. You can hire a local taxi or use available public transport to reach the Maidams from the town center.

If you are traveling from other parts of Assam, you can arrive first at Sivasagar, Dibrugarh Airport, or Simulguri Railway Station, and then continue onward to Sonari or directly to the Maidams.

By Road From Sonari to Charaideo Maidams

From Sonari Town: Charaideo Maidams are located close to Sonari, making it a quick drive by taxi or shared vehicle.

By Local Transport: Shared autos and small passenger vehicles are often available from Sonari heading towards Charaideo.

By Taxi: Hiring a private taxi from Sonari offers the most comfortable and direct route to the Maidams.

From Sivasagar Town to Charaideo Maidams

By Bus: Buses heading towards Sonari from Sivasagar can drop you at the nearest point to Charaideo.

By Taxi: Private taxis from Sivasagar also provide an easy connection to both Sonari and Charaideo.

Quick Info Table on Charaideo Maidams

Quick Info – Charaideo Maidams	Details
Location	Charaideo district, Assam
Nearest Town	Sivasagar (30 km)
UNESCO Status	Inscribed in 2024 (Cultural Category)
Founded By	Chaolung Sukaphaa (13th century)
Total Maidams	150+ (30 protected)
Famous As	Pyramids of Assam
Best Time to Visit	October – March
Nearest Airport	Jorhat Airport (75 km)
Major Attraction	Ahom Royal Burial Mounds
Ideal Visit Duration	2–3 hours

FAQs on Charaideo Maidams

1. What are the Charaideo Maidams?
Charaideo Maidams are ancient royal burial mounds of the Ahom dynasty, known for their pyramidal architecture and historical significance.

2. Why are Charaideo Maidams compared to Egyptian pyramids?
Their domed earthen mounds, underground vaults, and monumental design resemble pyramid-style burial systems, earning them the nickname Pyramids of Assam.

3. Is Charaideo a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, in 2024 Charaideo Maidams were inscribed as a cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site and became the first such site from Northeast India.

4. How many Maidams exist in Charaideo?
Over 150 Maidams exist, though only around 30 are officially protected by ASI and the Assam State Archaeology Department.

5. What is the best time to visit Charaideo Maidams?
October to March is ideal due to comfortable weather and clear visibility.

6. How far is Charaideo from Sivasagar?
The site is approximately 30 km east of Sivasagar town.

7. What is the historical importance of Charaideo?
Charaideo was the first capital of the Ahom kingdom and remained the sacred center of royal ancestry and Tai-Ahom culture.

8. Who built the first Maidam in Charaideo?
The founder of the Ahom dynasty, Chaolung Sukaphaa, established Charaideo and built the earliest burial mounds.

9. Are tourists allowed inside the Maidams?
No. For preservation, entry into the inner vaults is restricted, though visitors can explore the surrounding areas.

10. What can I expect to see at Charaideo Maidams?
Scenic hillocks dotted with hemispherical mounds, preserved ASI sites, ancient architecture, Tai-Ahom heritage, and cultural significance.