Ahom Moidams: The Sacred Mound-Burials of Assam
Ahom Moidams
Moidams, the mound-burial system of the Ahom Dynasty, represent a royal cemetery established by the Tai-Ahom people in northeastern India. Located at the foothills of the Patkai Ranges in eastern Assam, the site holds sacred significance for the Tai-Ahom and reflects their unique funerary traditions.
Under the leadership of Prince Siu-Ka-Pha, the Tai-Ahom migrated to present-day Assam in the 13th century and chose Charaideo as their first capital and the site for this royal necropolis. Over 600 years (13th to 19th centuries CE), they constructed Moidams, meaning “home for spirit,” harmonizing with the natural landscape of hills, forests, and water. The sacred geography was further enhanced by planting holy trees and creating water bodies, blending spiritual and natural elements.
Mound-Burial System
The Charaideo necropolis houses 90 Moidams, situated on elevated terrain. These burial mounds, or Ga-Moidams, are constructed by building an earthen mound over a hollow vault (Tak) made of brick, stone, or earth, topped by a shrine at the center of an octagonal wall (Garh), symbolizing the Tai universe. At the summit, the Mungklang shrine represents a golden ladder, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth.
The vaults enshrine the buried or cremated remains of kings and other royals, accompanied by grave goods such as food, horses, elephants, and occasionally queens and servants. Over time, the Moidams have evolved in materials and design, reflecting changes in the burial traditions of the Tai-Ahom dynasty.
The UNESCO World Heritage List
Moidams, the mound-burial system of the Ahom Dynasty, stand as enduring evidence of 700 years of Tai-Ahom royal funerary architecture and customs, reflecting their cultural traditions from the 13th to 19th centuries CE. The archaeological remains of these Moidams showcase the architectural designs, layouts, and expressions of Tai-Ahom beliefs and traditions.
The 700-year-old Moidams, the Ahom dynasty burial mounds in Assam, were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2024. According to UNESCO, “Moidams are vaulted chambers (chow-chali), often double-storied, with an arched passage for entry. They hold the remains of kings, royals, and grave goods like food. Over time, these mounds become covered in vegetation that resembles small hillocks.
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Structure
Structurally, a Moidam comprises vaults with one or more chambers, topped by a domical superstructure. This is covered by a large hemispherical earthen mound that rises prominently above the ground, crowned with an open pavilion at the peak, known as Chow Chali. The entire Moidam is enclosed by an octagonal dwarf wall.
Burial was the primary funerary practice of the Tai people, the original ancestors of the Ahom community, contrasting with the Hindu custom of cremation. After adopting Hinduism, the Ahom kings began cremating their remains but continued the tradition of burying the ashes. The Ahom community in Assam considers the excavation of Moidams a disrespect to their traditions, as these burial mounds are closely tied to ancestor worship and the sacred festival of Me-Dam-Me-Phi.
Inside the Moidams are underground vaults or chambers, each serving a specific purpose. One chamber houses the body of the departed king along with essential items for the afterlife, while others accommodate the servants, caretakers, horses, and elephants. Over time, the height of the Moidams has diminished due to natural calamities.
Historically, it was customary to bury at least 10 living individuals with the deceased king to serve him in the afterlife. However, this practice was abolished by King Rudra Singha.
The Ahom dynasty
The Ahom dynasty (1228–1826) ruled the Ahom Kingdom in present-day Assam, India, for nearly 598 years. Founded by Sukaphaa, a Shan prince from Mong Mao (modern-day Yunnan, China), who crossed the Patkai mountains to reach Assam, the dynasty’s reign came to an end with the Burmese invasion of Assam and its subsequent annexation by the British East India Company after the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826.
How to Reach Ahom Moidams
The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati), which is well connected to major cities in India such as New Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Alternatively, you can fly to Jorhat Airport, which is closer to the Charaideo region (about 40 km away).
Guwahati Railway Station: This is the main railway station in Assam and is connected to several major cities across India. From Guwahati, you can take a train to Jorhat or other nearby towns. Jorhat Railway Station: You can also take a direct train to Jorhat if you prefer a closer option to the Ahom historical sites.
