Things to do in Namsai

Discover Serenity at the Golden Pagoda

The Golden Pagoda, also referred to as Kongmu Kham in the local Tai-Khamti language, is a stunning Burmese-inspired Buddhist temple. It is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in North East India. located on the banks of River Teang, the pagoda stands beautifully amidst a panoramic landscaped garden, surrounded by lush greenery.

A visit to Golden Pagoda must be on the top list of things to do in Namsai. The highlight of this place is its grand Buddha statues, magnificent architecture, intricate designs, ornate golden exteriors, lovely walkways and impressive lawns. This place captivates visitors with its spiritual ambience and tranquillity.

Seek Blessings at the Empong Monastery

Empong Monastery is a holy place in Namsai. It is believed that the Buddha statue installed here has miraculous powers. Several childless couples come to the monastery to pray for their wishes to be fulfilled.

The monastery is nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Himalayan foothills, attracting visitors with its picturesque surroundings. The monastery also offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and Buddhist traditions. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the monastery and experience a sense of tranquillity and spirituality at this monastery.

Enjoy a Day Trip to Chongkham

An amazing road trip from Namsai is Chongkham. Located on the foothills of the Mishmi Hills, Chongkham is a beautiful quaint little town. It serves as a gateway to the Manabhum and Tengapani reserve forests.

An interesting fact is that Chongkham was once touted as Asia’s richest village. Today, people visit Chongkham to see beautiful pagodas, picturesque river islands, quaint villages of the Khampti and Singpho tribes, and a museum that depicts their lifestyle, culture and traditions. A trip to this enchanting town will surely be a great addition to your itinerary.

Celebrate Dambuk-Orange Festival

The Dambuk Orange Festival is a unique festival celebrated in Dambuk town, in the Lower Dibang Valley district. A 2-hour drive from Namsai takes you to this town to celebrate this vibrant festival that offers a delightful blend of music, adventure, and cultural experiences.

If you plan a trip around December month, you will get to experience the charm of this festival. This one-of-a-kind festival features vibrant musical performances by renowned artists from across the country, traditional dance performances, local handicraft exhibitions and a plethora of adrenaline-pumping adventure activities ranging from off-road biking and river rafting to paragliding and zip-lining. Besides, you will find indigenous food stalls that add a touch of authenticity to the festival.

Furthermore, the captivating landscape of Dambuk adds to the excitement, making it a must-do activity for music and adventure lovers.

Take a Holy Dip at the Parshuram Kund

Parshuram is a sacred pilgrimage site for the Hindus along the Lohit River. Situated in the Lohit district, this place is 2 hours drive away from Namsai.

The Parshuram Kund is steeped in legend and draws thousands of devotees and tourists from across the borders, seeking spiritual rejuvenation and a connection with ancient mythology. It is believed to be the place where Lord Parshuram (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) got rid of all his sins which he committed at his father’s command by taking a dip in the Kund’s holy waters. This place is thronged by pilgrims from far and wide, especially on Makar Sankranti day to seek blessings at this sacred site and for a holy dip in the kund.

It is also a great place to unwind as it is surrounded by gushing Brahmaputra, lush greenery and scenic landscapes.

Explore the Rich Biodiversity of Namdapha National Park

Exploring Namdapha National Park must be on the top list of things to do in Namsai for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. It is located a few kilometres from Namsai but can easily be covered on a day trip.

Namdapha National Park is a part of biodiversity hotspot and the only national park in the World to have four Feline species of big cat namely the Tiger (Panthera Tigris), Snow Leopard (Panthera Uncia), Leopard (Panthera Pardus) and Clouded Leopard (Neofelis Nebulosa). Besides, the park has impressive bird diversity, boasting over 400 species.

Interesting fact: Nampdapha National Park is on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site watchlist.

Go on a Culture Tour

Namsai is a cultural hub known for its unique combination of vibrant cultures inhabited by diverse tribal communities such as the Tai Khamptis, Singphos, Deoris, Lisus, and others. Each of these communities brings their own culture and tradition in the form of their lifestyle, food, festivals, dances and music.

It is an interesting experience to explore these diverse cultures and learn their way of life. Several monasteries, museums, and pilgrimage sites in Namsai offer a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of tribal communities in the region.

Take a day tour of Digboi

Another scenic drive 1.5 hours away from Namsai is Digboi, in the Tinsukia district of Assam. This offbeat town boasts several attractions like the oldest oil refinery in Asia, an 18-hole golf course, serene Digboi Lake and an instructive and well-maintained Digboi oil centenary museum.

Nestled at the foothills of the Dehing Patkai Range, this place is breathtakingly beautiful and the picturesque lake of Digboi with its glittering water adds to the already existing charm of this town. You can spend your leisure time at the lake and enjoy birdwatching on a bright day. Or, you can spend time admiring the influence of British colonialism in the Victorian-style architecture of bungalows, golf course and clubs.

Drive up to Pangsau Pass

The Pangsau Pass or Pan Saung Pass is a mountain pass, situated at an altitude of 3727 feet (1136 metres) above sea level, atop the Patkai hills on the India-Myanmar border. It serves as a gateway to Myanmar.

A 2-hour scenic drive from Namsai takes you to the captivating Pangsau Pass. The entire route is absolutely breathtaking and must be added to your list of top things to do in Namsai. The pass is named after the nearest Burmese village.

From Pangsau Pass, you can get sweeping views of the Lake of No Return on the Myanmar side.

Go on a Culinary Tour

When in Namsai, you must savour the flavours of local cuisine. The culinary delights of Namsai reflect the diverse cultural influences present in the region. You must try traditional dishes from the Tai Khampti and Singpho cuisines that comprise unique rice dishes and spicy curries. Try Zan (rice beer), Thukpa (noodle soup), and various bamboo shoot preparations for an exceptional gastronomic experience.