Riwotala Monastery (Padum Pukhuri) Tezu, Lohit District - Arunachal Pradesh

The picturesque Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh, Riwotala Monastery, also known as Padum Pukhuri, is a gem of peace, culture, and spiritual depth. Revered by followers of Tibetan Buddhism and nestled among the tranquil hills of Tezu, this monastery is a harmonious blend of scenic natural beauty, rich Buddhist heritage, and cultural unity. With its towering prayer flags, meditative ambiance, and surrounding mist-kissed landscapes, Riwotala serves as a sacred retreat for spiritual seekers and curious travelers alike.

About the Monastery

Riwotala Monastery, also referred to as Padum Pukhuri, is a serene and sacred Buddhist site perched atop a scenic hill near Tezu town. It holds immense significance among the Tibetan Buddhist community and is known for its spiritual ambiance, traditional rituals, and panoramic natural beauty.

Description

The monastery is inspired by the legendary Riwoche Monastery in Tibet. It features exquisite Tibetan architecture, colorful prayer flags, and giant prayer wheels, offering a peaceful retreat to visitors and monks alike. The adjacent Padum Pukhuri lake enhances its tranquil setting.

Speciality

Spiritual resemblance to the mythical Mt. Riwoche.

Rich Buddhist traditions blending with Mishmi tribal culture.

Venue for Losar, Buddha Purnima, and Lhabab Duchen.

Overlooks the lush Lohit Valley, making it ideal for meditation and spiritual renewal.

Monastery Timings

Daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Best time to visit: Morning hours for prayers and scenic views.

Sevas and Rituals

Daily morning and evening prayer sessions

Lighting butter lamps for blessings

Teaching and chanting sessions led by monks

Festival rituals during major Buddhist events

Visitor Etiquette

Do’s:

Dress modestly

Walk clockwise around sacred objects

Remove shoes before entering sanctum

Maintain silence

Don’ts:

Do not touch ritual items

Do not point feet at sacred images

Avoid loud conversations and mobile usage

Travel Information

Travel Facilities

Well-connected via road from Tinsukia, Roing, and Itanagar

Shared taxis, jeeps, and autos available locally

Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for Indian citizens

Food Facilities

Local eateries and tea stalls available in Tezu

Traditional dishes like Thukpa, Momos, and rice with bamboo shoot curry

Basic, hygienic food near the monastery

Stay Facilities

Guesthouses and budget hotels available in Tezu

No accommodation within the monastery

Government Circuit House and private lodges

Connectivity

Mode	Nearest Point	Distance	Notes
Rail	Tinsukia Station (Assam)	~160 km	Trains to Guwahati, Dibrugarh
Air	Tezu Airport	~5 km	Limited regional connectivity
	Dibrugarh Airport (Assam)	~180 km	Major airport with broad access
Bus	Tezu Bus Station	~3 km	Buses from Tinsukia, Roing

Route Options to Reach Monastery

Bus Routes:

Tinsukia → Parsuramkund → Tezu

Itanagar → Roing → Tezu

Train Routes:

Take a train to Tinsukia Railway Station

Hire taxi or take a shared jeep to Tezu

Airways:

Fly to Dibrugarh or Tezu Airport

Proceed to monastery via taxi (15–20 mins from Tezu)

Nearby Attractions

Cities Nearby:

Tinsukia – 160 km

Roing – 110 km

Dibrugarh – 180 km

Nearby Temples & Places:

Parashuram Kund – 45 km, Hindu pilgrimage site

Dong Valley – First sunrise point of India

Glow Lake – Alpine lake accessible via trekking

Walong War Memorial – Historical WWII landmark

Shopping – Local Specialties

Mishmi tribal textiles – Handwoven shawls and bags

Tibetan prayer items – Prayer wheels, incense, Thangka art

Bamboo & cane crafts

Natural herbal oils from local tribal remedies

Best Time to Visit

November to March – Ideal climate, festive season

Avoid monsoon (June–September) due to landslides

Photo Opportunities

Sunrise view over Padum Pukhuri Lake

Monastery prayer flags and architecture

Hilltop shots of Tezu Valley

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrive at Tezu

Visit Riwotala Monastery

Enjoy lake view and participate in evening prayers

Explore local markets and food

Day 2:

Early morning drive to Parashuram Kund

Optional trek to Glow Lake or visit Dong Valley

Return for shopping and cultural interaction

A visit to Riwotala Monastery (Padum Pukhuri) offers far more than a traditional temple tour—it's an immersion into a sacred way of life, preserved with deep respect by the local Buddhist and tribal communities. From tranquil meditation halls and breathtaking views to heartfelt rituals and handcrafted treasures, every moment spent here connects you to something timeless and transcendent.

Whether you're a devout pilgrim, a cultural explorer, or a nature lover, Riwotala welcomes you with open arms and spiritual calm. Plan wisely, respect local customs, and you’ll leave not just with photographs—but with a soul nourished by the peaceful rhythm of Buddhist life.