Panch Peer Dargah, Dhubri - A Symbol Of Harmony, Faith, And Sufi Legacy

Located on the scenic banks of the Brahmaputra River in Dhubri district of Assam, the Panch Peer Dargah is one of the most significant Sufi shrines in Northeast India. Revered by people of all religions and communities, this sacred site stands as a powerful symbol of communal harmony, spiritual devotion, and historical depth.

Panch Peer Dargah is a revered shrine (mazaar sharif) of five Sufi saints located in Dhubri town, in the Dhubri district of Assam. This dargah is built over the tombs of five Sufi saints — Shah Akbar, Shah Baghmar, Shah Sufi, Shah Saran, and Shah Kamal, whose resting places are preserved near Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Gurdwara in Dhubri. The dargah was established in 1662. Since it is constructed over the tombs of five saints or "pirs", it came to be known as Panch Peer Dargah or "Dargah of Five Saints".

Background of Panch Peer Dargah, Dhubri

In 1662, during the reign of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, the Mughals invaded Assam under the leadership of Mir Jumla. He easily captured the forts between Manah and Guwahati. Subsequently, the Mughals took control of Pandu, Guwahati, and Kajali’s forts, almost without any resistance. In January 1663, a treaty was signed between the Mughals and the Ahoms at Ghiladhari Ghat. As per the treaty, the Ahom king ceded western Assam to the Mughals and agreed to pay war reparations in the form of 90 elephants and 3 lakh rupees. Additionally, the king had to send his only son Ramani Gabharu and his niece (daughter of the Tipam Raja) to the Mughal emperor’s harem.

As a result, Lower Assam came under Mughal rule for a brief period. However, during the reign of Ahom Swargadeo Chakradhwaj Singha, the forts of Itakhuli and Guwahati were reclaimed by the Ahoms on 2nd November 1667. Within two months, the Ahoms regained most of the lost territories, though the Goalpara region remained under Mughal control. Later, taking advantage of the weakening Mughal Empire, the Nawab of Bengal annexed the Goalpara area. It was only in 1874, after the British government incorporated Bengal and Assam under its rule, that Assam regained the Goalpara region. Due to prolonged Islamic rule, the language and culture of Goalpara began reflecting significant Bengali influence.

History of Panch Peer Dargah, Dhubri

Interior view of Panch Peer Dargah

The influence of Bengal’s Sufi culture is evident in the Goalpara region. Panch Peer Dargah was part of undivided Goalpara district (now Dhubri district) and is built over the tombs of five Sufi saints — Shah Akbar, Shah Baghmar, Shah Sufi, Shah Saran, and Shah Kamal — preserved near Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Gurdwara (Dam Dama Sahib). The dargah was built in 1662.

It is believed that these five Sufi saints lived together at this location. After their deaths, their disciples and followers buried them here. According to some local beliefs, Shah Akbar was the spiritual leader of the group and the only one who resided in this specific place. Some people say that only Shah Akbar’s tomb is actually located here, while the other four saints traveled to other regions to preach the message of Islam.

Location of Panch Peer Dargah, Dhubri

Panch Peer Dargah is located in Ward No. 1, Boro Bazar area of Dhubri town. Dhubri is connected by rail with Siliguri and Katihar, though a change of train is required at Fakiragram Junction. Regular buses operate from Dhubri town to the dargah. The nearest airport is Rupsi Airport.

Tourism at Panch Peer Dargah, Dhubri

Panch Peer Dargah is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dhubri town. It is considered a sacred site by followers of Islam, and people from other faiths also visit it as a place of reverence. Built in 1662, the dargah holds deep historical significance. People from various parts of India and abroad visit the shrine. Devotees light candles, offer chadar (cloth) at the tomb, and many come in the hope that their prayers will be answered.