The name Sri Surya Pahar literally means "Hill of the Sun" and refers to ancient sun worship traditions that once flourished here, making it the only known site in Northeast India where a Surya Mandir exists.

What makes Sri Surya Pahar truly unique is its rare coexistence of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain religious relics within the same landscape. Scattered across the hills are hundreds of rock-cut Shiva Lingas, votive stupas, Jain Tirthankaras, carved Vishnu panels, Mahisasuramardini images, terracotta plaques, water reservoirs and ancient temple foundations. Archaeological excavations carried out by ASI since 1984 revealed Panchayatana temple complexes, caves, sculpted bricks and evidence of a thriving civilization dating from the post-Gupta period between the 6th and 12th centuries. Some Buddhist stupas here follow early Hinayana traditions, suggesting that Buddhism reached Assam much earlier than many parts of India.

Local belief holds that nearly one lakh Shiva Lingas were once carved across these hills by sage Vyasa in an attempt to create a second Kashi. Though no scientific count exists, hundreds remain visible today, ranging from tiny carvings to large monoliths, many gently caressed by flowing hill streams. The site is often compared to Ellora or Badami due to its multi-faith legacy, though on a more modest scale. Jain influence is evident from statues of Adinath seated in meditation with bull motifs at the base, believed to date back to the 9th century AD. Buddhist presence is marked by over 25 votive stupas and the remains of monastic structures.

Sri Surya Pahar also offers stunning natural beauty. From the hilltops, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River and the confluence of the Dudhnoi and Krishna rivers near Ujir's Char village. The serene landscape, combined with centuries-old sacred relics, creates a peaceful environment for spiritual seekers, heritage lovers and history enthusiasts alike. An ancient Hanuman Temple located nearby houses old idols and remains another attraction for pilgrims. Every year in January, the three-day Sri Sri Surya Mela begins on Maghi Purnima and draws thousands of devotees, tourists and cultural enthusiasts from across Assam and beyond.

How to Reach Sri Surya Pahar

By Rail: Goalpara Railway Station is the closest railhead and is connected with major cities across India. Trains such as the New Delhi Guwahati Sampark Kranti Express stop here. Bongaigaon Junction is another nearby railway station.

By Road: Goalpara is well connected via NH-17 and other state highways from Guwahati, Dhubri and Shillong. From Goalpara town, Sri Surya Pahar is about 12 to 13 km away and can be easily reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw or local bus.

Best Time to Visit Sri Surya Pahar

The best time to visit Sri Surya Pahar is from October to February, when the weather remains pleasant and ideal for exploring the hill terrain and archaeological remains. Summers can be warm and humid, while the monsoon season makes the paths slippery. January is especially popular due to the Sri Sri Surya Mela, which brings spiritual vibrancy and cultural festivities to the site.

Where to Stay Near Sri Surya Pahar

For staying near Sri Surya Pahar, you'll find more options in the nearby city of Goalpara, as direct accommodations right at the site are limited; popular hotels include Hotel Moon Moon, Hotel Royal Park, Siddhartha Hotel, and Hotel Nirvana, offering budget to mid-range comfort, with options often found on TripAdvisor, Expedia, or TourMyIndia. Consider booking in advance, especially during peak season, and remember that hotels like Hotel Himalaya or Sona Hotel are located further away in Sidli but are noted as options near the general area.

Entry Timings and Visitor Information

Sri Surya Pahar, near Goalpara, Assam, generally follows the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) museum hours, typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though some sources suggest the site & museum might open as early as 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM, so confirm with local authorities, but 9-5 is a safe bet for site entry and museum visits.

The on-site archaeological museum displays 93 out of 173 excavated antiquities in three galleries, including stone sculptures, terracotta plaques, decorative fragments and religious icons, providing visitors deeper insight into the historical evolution of the region.

Cultural and Religious Importance

Sri Surya Pahar stands as one of the most culturally significant heritage zones in Assam because it reflects centuries of peaceful coexistence between Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. The site features relics of Shaivite, Vaishnavite, Shakta, Ganapatya and Saura traditions along with Buddhist and Jain symbols, making it the only place in Northeast India where a Sun Temple coexists with multiple faith structures.

Some scholars believe Sri Surya Pahar may have been part of ancient Pragjyotishpura, a powerful city mentioned in classical texts and associated with King Bhaskaravarman. Its proximity to the Brahmaputra suggests that it was once an important administrative and trading center. Archaeological discoveries also indicate that further excavations could significantly reshape our understanding of early Assamese civilization.

Sri Surya Pahar remains a treasure trove of historical mysteries, religious harmony and archaeological wonders. Whether you are a pilgrim, heritage traveler, photographer or explorer, this sacred hill complex offers a rare opportunity to experience Assam's ancient spiritual landscape in its most authentic form.

Contact Details 

ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM SRI SURYAPAHAR -

Asstt. Archaeologist,
In-charge:Archaeological Museum, Sri Suryapahar
P.O. Dubapara, District - Goalpara (Assam)
Mobile. No. +91 9706030693
E-mail: srisuryapaharmuseum.asi@gmail.com

Quick Info Table on Sri Surya Pahar, Goalpara

Mostly Searched FAQs on Sri Surya Pahar, Goalpara

1. What is Sri Surya Pahar famous for?

Sri Surya Pahar is famous for its rare archaeological remains including Hindu, Buddhist and Jain sculptures, rock-cut Shiva Lingas, votive stupas and the only Sun Temple in Northeast India.

2. Where is Sri Surya Pahar located?

Sri Surya Pahar is located about 12 to 13 km southeast of Goalpara town in western Assam on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River.

3. What is the best time to visit Sri Surya Pahar?

The best time to visit Sri Surya Pahar is from October to February when the climate is pleasant for sightseeing and exploration.

4. What are the entry timings of Sri Surya Pahar?

Sri Surya Pahar generally follows ASI museum timings from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though some sources mention 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

5. Is there any entry fee at Sri Surya Pahar?

Entry to Sri Surya Pahar and its archaeological museum is free of charge.

6. How far is Sri Surya Pahar from Goalpara town?

Sri Surya Pahar is located approximately 12 to 13 km from Goalpara town.

7. Are there hotels near Sri Surya Pahar?

Yes, accommodation options are available in Goalpara including Hotel Moon Moon, Hotel Royal Park, Siddhartha Hotel and Hotel Nirvana.

8. Which religions are represented at Sri Surya Pahar?

Sri Surya Pahar reflects Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions, making it a rare multi-faith archaeological site in Assam.

9. What festival is celebrated at Sri Surya Pahar?

Sri Sri Surya Mela is celebrated every January starting on Maghi Purnima and attracts thousands of visitors.

10. Why is Sri Surya Pahar historically important?

Sri Surya Pahar is historically important due to its archaeological remains dating from the 6th to 12th centuries and its possible connection to ancient Pragjyotishpura.