Nestled in the serene landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, the Chongkham Buddhist Temple, also known as Gautama Buddha Vihar, is a hidden gem that embodies spiritual peace, cultural richness, and architectural beauty. Located in the small yet culturally vibrant town of Chongkham in Namsai district, this temple is a beacon of Theravāda Buddhism and a must-visit destination for seekers of tranquility, heritage, and nature. Whether you're a spiritual traveler, a cultural explorer, or a nature lover, this guide will provide all the essential information to make your journey seamless and fulfilling.
About the Temple
Chongkham Buddhist Temple, also known as Gautama Buddha Vihar, is a tranquil and culturally significant Theravāda Buddhist monastery located in Chongkham, within Namsai district, Arunachal Pradesh. Built in traditional Thai architectural style, this temple is a center of devotion, meditation, and spiritual learning, especially for the Tai-Khamti Buddhist community. The peaceful ambiance and beautiful setting make it a revered pilgrimage site.
Description
The temple is built in traditional Thai architectural style, featuring golden roofs, intricate carvings, and serene surroundings. It is a peaceful site with a large statue of Gautama Buddha, promoting meditation and spiritual learning.
Specialities
Follows Theravāda Buddhism, with daily rituals and spiritual sessions.
Features a grand statue of Lord Gautama Buddha.
Known for ornate Thai-style architecture with golden spires and intricate carvings.
Celebrates major Buddhist festivals like Vesak (Buddha Jayanti).
Promotes Buddhist education, meditation, and cultural exchange.
Address & Location
Full Address: Gautama Buddha Vihar, Chongkham, Namsai District, Arunachal Pradesh, India – 792102
Latitude & Longitude: 27.5835° N, 96.2008° E
Temple Timings
Open daily: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Sevas and Services
Daily Buddhist chanting and prayers
Meditation sessions
Dhamma discourses
Special observances during Poya days and festivals
Traveling Facilities
Private taxis, jeeps, and buses available from Assam towns like Tinsukia and Dibrugarh
Local transport like auto-rickshaws available in Chongkham and Namsai
Well-maintained roads connect Chongkham to Assam and nearby towns
Food Facilities
Simple vegetarian meals available within monastery or nearby eateries
Local restaurants offer Thai, Khamti, Assamese, and Indian cuisine
Community meals (Dana) offered during special occasions
Stay Facilities
Monastery guesthouses with basic amenities for pilgrims
Hotels and homestays in Namsai and Chongkham
Luxury and mid-range hotels available in Tinsukia (~70 km away)
Nearby Railway Station
Tinsukia Junction (Assam) – approx. 70 km
Connected to major Indian cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, and Delhi
Nearest Airport
Dibrugarh Airport (Mohanbari, Assam) – approx. 85 km
Regular flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati
Nearby Bus Station
Namsai Bus Station (~20 km)
Local bus stand at Chongkham for inter-town transport
Bus Routes to Temple
Buses from Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, and Tezu to Chongkham via Namsai
APSTS (Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services) runs regular services
Train Routes to Temple
Board train to Tinsukia Junction
From Tinsukia, take a taxi, shared cab, or local bus to Chongkham
Air Travel to Temple
Fly to Dibrugarh Airport
Hire a cab to Chongkham (approx. 2.5-hour journey)
Nearby Cities
Namsai – 20 km
Tinsukia (Assam) – 70 km
Tezu – 100 km
Dibrugarh – 85 km
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Golden Pagoda (Kongmu Kham), Namsai – Grand Theravāda Buddhist monument
Parashuram Kund – Hindu pilgrimage site by the Lohit River
Tezu Botanical Garden
Lohit View Point
Empong Monastery, Lathao Buddhist sites
Preferable Visiting Season
November to February: Cool, dry, and pleasant weather
Avoid monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall
Shopping – What to Buy?
Tai-Khamti handwoven fabrics
Bamboo and cane handicrafts
Local herbal medicines, pickles, and organic goods
Buddhist souvenirs, statues, and prayer items
Cultural Etiquette
Wear modest clothing (no sleeveless or short dresses)
Remove footwear before entering the temple
Be silent/respectful in meditation areas
Do not touch sacred objects or statues
Ask before taking photos of people or monks
Local Languages
Tai-Khamti, Assamese, Hindi, English
English is understood around temples and tourist spots
Emergency Services
Nearest Hospital: Namsai District Hospital
Police: Chongkham Police Station
Tourist Helpline (Arunachal): 0360-2214745
Sample Travel Itinerary
Day 1:
Fly to Dibrugarh Airport
Travel to Chongkham (~2.5 hrs)
Temple visit in the evening
Day 2:
Morning meditation
Day trip to Golden Pagoda, local monasteries, and handicraft villages
Evening at Chongkham for prayers
Day 3:
Visit nearby attractions like Parashuram Kund or Tezu Viewpoint
Departure via Dibrugarh or Tinsukia
