Parshuram Kund

Hidden in the Lohit district of eastern Arunachal Pradesh, Parshuram Kund is both a site of deep religious significance and a destination of striking natural beauty. Here, the Lohit River — known locally as Luit — carves its way through lush hills and rocky gorges, creating a serene pool believed to wash away lifetimes of sin.

This is not a place you stumble upon — it’s a journey’s end, a remote pilgrimage site that requires intent and effort to reach. For the devout, it’s an act of faith; for the traveller, it’s a rare chance to stand at the meeting point of myth, nature, and Himalayan wilderness.

Orientation

Parshuram Kund lies about 50 km from Tezu, the administrative centre of Lohit district. The Kund is a natural pool formed by the Lohit River, which descends from the high mountains of eastern Arunachal before joining the mighty Brahmaputra.

The area is rich in biodiversity — forests of bamboo, cane, and tropical hardwoods shelter birds, butterflies, and small mammals. The climate is generally pleasant in winter, but summers can be humid, and the river’s monsoon flow can be fierce.

The original temple dedicated to Lord Parshuram, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, was separated from the kund due to a major earthquake in 1952. Today, the pilgrimage focuses on the sacred waters themselves.

The Legend of Parshuram

According to Hindu mythology, Parshuram, burdened with the sin of matricide after obeying a command from his father, was advised by sages to bathe in the waters where the Lohit River meets the mountains. It is believed that here, his axe (parshu) fell from his hands, and the holy waters washed away his sin.

For devotees, bathing in Parshuram Kund during Makar Sankranti (mid-January) is considered an act of spiritual cleansing. The annual fair draws pilgrims from across the North East, as well as Assam, West Bengal, Nepal, and Bhutan. It’s one of the most significant religious gatherings in Arunachal Pradesh.

The Makar Sankranti Mela

Every year, the riverbanks come alive with the Makar Sankranti Mela. Pilgrims take the ritual dip in the icy waters, shop at the stalls set up by local vendors, and share in community meals. The fair is both a religious occasion and a social one — a rare time when remote tribal communities, plains people, and visitors from far afield come together.

NBTT can arrange special guided visits during the festival, ensuring safe transport, local accommodation, and a smooth permit process.

Getting There – The Journey

Reaching Parshuram Kund requires road travel through Assam and Arunachal:

• Nearest Airport – Dibrugarh (approx. 200 km), with regular flights from Kolkata, Guwahati, and other cities. Tezu also has an airport (50 km), but flights are infrequent.

• Nearest Railheads – Tinsukia (150 km / approx. 4 hrs drive) is the most convenient. Dibrugarh is another 50 km further but offers more train options.

• By Road – From Tezu, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive. The last stretch takes you across a bridge spanning the Lohit River, with the kund located a short walk away.

We recommend using Tezu as a base for a day trip, or combining the visit with a broader exploration of eastern Arunachal.

Attractions Around the Kund

The primary draw is the kund itself — a still, deep pool framed by boulders and forested hills. Even outside of festival time, the site is deeply atmospheric, with the sound of the Lohit’s rapids upstream and an air of meditative quiet.

Nearby, the Lohit River offers scenic views, especially from the bridge. In the small cluster of shops and homes near the kund, you’ll find simple snacks, tea stalls, and basic supplies. For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding forests offer opportunities for birdwatching and short nature walks.

Where to Stay – Simple but Comfortable

Accommodation at Parshuram Kund is limited. Conditions are modest.

More comfortable options can be found in:

• Tezu – A small selection of hotels and government guesthouses.

• Tinsukia or Dibrugarh – Wider choice of mid-range hotels, suitable if you’re combining your visit with other destinations in Assam.

Best Time to Visit

• January (Makar Sankranti) – For the religious fair and dip in the holy waters.

• October to March – Pleasant weather, ideal for combining the visit with wildlife and cultural tours in Lohit and nearby districts.

• Avoid the Monsoon (June–September) – Heavy rains make travel unpredictable.

Permits

As with all parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Indian citizens require an Inner Line Permit (ILP), and foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit Parshuram Kund. We can arrange these in advance to ensure a seamless journey.