About
Gorsam Chorten is a sacred Buddhist stupa located in Zemithang village, near the India–Bhutan border in Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh. It is believed to be built in the 13th century by a Bhutanese Lama named Lama Prathar, and modeled after the Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal. It is one of the most revered stupas in Northeast India.
Description
The stupa stands about 28 meters tall and is constructed from stone and clay. Its striking resemblance to Nepal's Boudhanath Stupa makes it a significant spiritual site. The stupa is surrounded by mani walls and prayer wheels, typical of Tibetan Buddhist architecture.
Speciality
Modeled on Nepal’s famous Boudhanath Stupa
Hosts the annual Gorsam Kora Festival, attracting pilgrims from Arunachal Pradesh, Bhutan, and Tibet
Believed to offer spiritual merit equivalent to visiting the original stupa
Address
Zemithang Village, Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh, India – 790104
Location (Latitude & Longitude)
27.8552° N, 91.5228° E
Timings
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sevas (Religious Activities)
Circumambulation (Kora) of the stupa
Lighting of butter lamps
Chanting and prayer rituals
Major sevas during Gorsam Kora Festival
How to Reach
By Bus
Local buses and shared taxis are available from Tawang to Zemithang
Buses to Tawang available from Tezpur, Bomdila, and Guwahati
By Train
Nearest major station: Guwahati Railway Station (approx. 520 km)
Secondary station: Tezpur Railway Station (approx. 330 km)
From there, take road transport to Tawang and onward to Zemithang
By Air
Nearest major airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati
Nearest regional airport: Salonibari Airport, Tezpur
Limited helicopter services available from Guwahati to Tawang (seasonal)
Facilities for Visitors
Travel Facilities
Shared Sumos (taxis) and local buses connect Tawang and Zemithang
Roads are scenic but winding; private vehicles preferred
Food Facilities
Local eateries in Zemithang with Monpa and Tibetan cuisine
More food options in Tawang
Stay Facilities
Homestays in Zemithang offer simple accommodation and cultural experience
Hotels in Tawang:
Hotel Tawang View
Dondrub Homestay
Tawang Holiday Inn
Gakyi Khang Zhang Hotel
Nearby Destinations & Cultural Sites
Nearby Cities
Tawang (92 km)
Dirang, Bomdila
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Tawang Monastery – Largest in India
Taktsang Gompa – Cliffside monastery
Pankang Teng Tso Lake, Sela Pass, and Nuranang Falls
Cultural & Shopping Highlights
Local Specialties
Handwoven woolen garments
Prayer flags, wheels, and Tibetan artifacts
Thangka paintings and local handicrafts
Local honey, herbal teas, and souvenirs
Best Time to Visit
March to May: Pleasant weather and ideal for Gorsam Kora Festival
September to November: Clear skies and scenic beauty
Avoid June–August: Monsoon season causes landslides
Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowfall and subzero temperatures, but beautiful landscapes
Gorsam Kora Festival
Held in March or early April (Lunar calendar)
Pilgrims from India, Bhutan, and Tibet gather for the circumambulation (Kora)
Prayer offerings, butter lamps, and spiritual performances
Considered highly meritorious in the Buddhist faith
Summary Table
Gorsam Chorten is more than just a monument; it's a gateway to centuries-old traditions, an embodiment of peace, and a living connection between India, Bhutan, and Tibet. Its remote setting, spiritual magnetism, and cultural richness make it a hidden gem that deserves a place on every traveler’s and pilgrim’s bucket list. Whether you're attending the vibrant Gorsam Kora Festival, marveling at the architectural brilliance, or soaking in the tranquil Himalayan surroundings, your visit to this sacred stupa will leave you spiritually enriched and culturally awakened.
