The Golden Pagoda Namsai, also known as Kongmu Kham in the Tai-Khamti language, is a Burmese-style Buddhist temple that opened in 2010. It is located on a 20-hectare complex in the Namsai District of Arunachal Pradesh, India and at a distance of 68 km from the nearest railway station, Tinsukia, Assam. The pagoda stands magnificently with a majestic main shrine that houses a striking Buddha statue and exquisite paintings depicting various scenes from the life of Lord Buddha. The site is a beacon for spirituality and a symbol of peace and harmony, attracting many visitors who admire its beauty and partake in cultural events and Buddhist practices.
Golden Pagoda Namsai History
The Pagoda was built by over 300 Myanmar architects and skilled masons. It has an installation of 13 crowns atop the Stupas, with Lord Buddha’s relics from India, Thailand, and Myanmar. It also consists of the Kala Buddha of Nalanda archive. There is also a centre for cultural research of the Tai Khamti-Singpho tribes, a library, and a monastery/monk’s hostel adjacent to the temple.
The temple’s origin has a long history. In 1995-96, Chowna Mein went to Thailand with Ven Phramaha Somboon Temduang, who took him to Wat Aranjikavas. Together, they met chief monk Prakhu Pabhavana (Kit-thun-thon), who donated the Lord Buddha statue, which was later installed at the main shrine of the Golden Pagoda complex.
It took Chowna Mein 12 years to find a suitable site to construct the Pagoda.
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Golden Pagoda Namsai Location & Timings
Situated on the banks of River Teang, Kongmu Kham at Tengapani is a sight to behold. The splendid golden pagoda built in the Thai/Burmese style sits majestically amidst a beautiful landscaped garden surrounded by lush greenery and exudes peace and serenity.
Golden Pagoda Namsai Activities
The fairs and festivals in Arunachal Pradesh are an acceptable way to understand the state’s rich culture and traditional practices. An extension of the lives of the state’s people, the Arunachal Pradesh fairs and festivals are characterised by a lot of colour. The Tai Khamti are one of the major tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, inhabiting the lush green district of Namsai. The word ‘Khamti’ means a land full of gold. They have a distinct, rich, and unparalleled cultural heritage that has remained unexplored.
Religion, mythology, and classical literature are the basis of most Tai Khamtis’ performing arts. Unlike some dance forms of Arunachal Pradesh, the Khamti dance is a dance-drama that reflects the rich culture of the Buddhists in the territory.
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Places To Visit Near Golden Pagoda Namsai
Here is some information about the endearing Golden Pagoda Namsai and places to visit that will help you plan a fantastic trip.
1. Parshruram Kund
Image Credit: Anupom_sarmah for Wikimedia Commons
Parshuram Kund was established as a Hindu pilgrimage site in 1970 by Hindu missionaries from Assam. The truth is that Parshuram never came to Arunachal. The Kund was initially established by the pilgrims from Assam in the 70s and was promoted as a tourist place; the actual Parshuram Kund mentioned in Mahabharata sits silently in the southern part of India as per the scriptures. Thousands of pilgrims visit the place in winter every year, especially on Makar Sankranti day, for a holy dip in the sacred kund, which is believed to wash away one’s sins. There is a mythological story behind this beautiful place, as told by the local people.
Location: Brahmaputra plateau, Arunachal Pradesh
Distance: From Golden Pagoda Namsai: 65 km
2. Empong Monastery
Image Credit: Dibyendu Ash for Wikimedia Commons
Empong monastery is considered by the local people as ‘Ti Met’ (holy place) as it is believed that the statue installed there has special powers. The story goes that a long time ago, an innocent villager sometimes used the statue of Lord Buddha as a guard to keep an eye on the rice grains drying in the sun and drive the birds away. It was noticed that whenever this was done, no birds came near to feed on the rice grains, and the rice stock remained intact.
A visitor to the village noticed this, considered it miraculous working of the statue, brought it back and installed it in the Empong monastery. Believers visit the place to fulfil their wishes, and hundreds flock there yearly during the Sangken Festival. The sleepy village of Empong under Chongkham Circle has another draw to it. Childless couples are believed to come to the monastery to pray for their wishes and have fulfilled it.
Location: Empong, Arunachal Pradesh
Distance: From Golden Pagoda Namsai: 30 km
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3. Digboi Lake
In Tinsukia district of Assam, there is a town called Digboi. Spending time near the picturesque lake of Digboi and watching the birds on a bright day is the best thing you can do here. There are, however, several other tourist spots here that can be visited. The oldest oil refinery in Asia is situated in the area, a must-visit place for travellers. Also, there is an 18-hole golf course, which attracts several tourists. The temperature cools to an extent in the monsoon, and the area dawns a lush green cover. The winter can be cold, but the early spring is quite enjoyable. The best time to visit the area is October to March.
Location: Digboi, Assam
Distance: From Golden Pagoda Namsai: 89 km
4. Lathao Bridge
The Lathao Bridge is a significant yet less-known tourist attraction located in the picturesque town of Namsai in Arunachal Pradesh, one of the northeastern states of India. The bridge, which spans the serene Lathao River, is an infrastructural feat and a gateway to the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Lathao Bridge is a critical infrastructure that supports tourism in the region by improving accessibility to various tourist attractions in Namsai and neighbouring areas. It ensures that visitors can reach their destinations safely and conveniently, enabling them to explore the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and religious sites of Arunachal Pradesh.
Location: Lathao, Arunachal Pradesh
Distance: From Golden Pagoda Namsai: 8.3 km
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Golden Pagoda Namsai Travel Route
Image Credit: Nborkakoty for Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Mohanbari (Dibrugarh), in Assam, 123 km from Namsai. Cabs can be rented on arrival from Mohanbari to travel to Namsai.
By Train: The nearest railway station is the ‘New Tinsukia Junction’ in Assam, just 79.7 kms from Namsai. Cabs and buses can be availed from Tinsukia to travel to Namsai.
By Road: Namsai is well connected with the neighbouring towns of Assam. Daily day and night bus services are available from Namsai to Tinsukia, Guwahati, Siliguri, and Itanagar. Cabs or Taxis can also be rented.
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Now that you have all the information you need about the Golden Pagoda Namsai, the next step in your planning is to get to the destination. Book your tickets for a wonderful trip to Arunachal Pradesh. It is a must-visit destination for spirituality enthusiasts.
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Cover Image Credit: Jim Ankan Deka for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Golden Pagoda Namsai
What is the average temperature in Arunachal Pradesh?
The average temperature ranges between 22-36 degrees in summer and 10-25 degrees in winter. You can enjoy this place to the fullest during this time.
What is the best time to visit the Golden Pagoda in Namsai?
The ideal time to visit the Kongmu Kham (Golden Pagoda) in Namsai is during the post-monsoon months and the winter season, which spans from October to April.
What attire is appropriate while visiting the pagoda?
Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully, as it is a place of worship. Covering the shoulders and legs is advisable, and it is customary to remove shoes before entering the temple premises.
Is there an entry fee for visiting the Golden Pagoda in Namsai?
As of the last information available, there is no entry fee for visiting Chongkham Monastery, making it accessible for everyone interested in exploring its beauty and spiritual ambience.
What facilities are available for tourists near the pagoda?
Basic facilities like toilets and water are generally available. As for accommodation and dining, visitors can find options in nearby Namsai town.
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