By Guddu Pandey 
Starting the Journey: Duliajan City to Parshuram Kund (A.P.)
Our journey began at 6:15 AM from Duliajan City, located in Dibrugarh District, Assam. We chose a shorter route, allowing us to reach the Arunachal Pradesh border in 1 hour and 30 minutes. At 7:40 AM, we stopped for a short break and completed the Inner Line Permit (ILP) process.
To obtain an ILP, you need to present any valid ID proof, such as a PAN Card, Voter ID, or Aadhaar Card—photocopies are not required. The fee per person is ₹50, with an additional vehicle charge based on the type of vehicle. For our Swift Dzire, the fee was ₹100. The entire process was quick, taking only 10–20 minutes.
Tip: Carry your original ID and ensure all necessary vehicle documents are in order.
Breakfast at Namsai
After completing the ILP formalities, we resumed our journey and reached Namsai after 1.5 hours of driving. This quaint town offered limited food options, with only a few small tea stalls available. We had a light breakfast at one of these roadside stalls before hitting the road again.
Recommendation: Pack some snacks beforehand, as there are limited eateries on this route.
Stopped at This Petrol Pump for a Short Break
Approximately an hour into the drive, we stopped at the only operational Indian Oil petrol pump before Parshuram Kund. We noticed a Bharat Petroleum pump under construction further down the route. It’s advisable to refuel here, as there are no other petrol pumps nearby.
Travel Tip: Ensure your fuel tank is full before proceeding, especially if you’re planning to explore further areas.
Bridge Photoshoot
Our next stop was a picturesque bridge, perfect for a quick photoshoot. The stunning views of the surrounding landscapes provided a refreshing break during the journey.
Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the Arunachal countryside.
Arrival at Parshuram Kund
At 10:45 AM, we reached Parshuram Kund. Upon arrival, we parked in the designated area, which is well-organized and spacious. The welcoming sights of the Kund and the surrounding natural beauty were mesmerizing.
Parshuram Kund Highlights
- Central Point and Stairs:
The Kund’s central point offers a serene view of the surroundings. From here, a staircase with approximately 500 steps leads down to the Kund. As of December 8, 2024, the stairs are undergoing rapid construction, with railings being installed for safety.Note: While descending is easy, ascending can be challenging for elderly individuals or those with health concerns. - The Kund’s Spiritual Aura:
The Kund is considered sacred and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. Its peaceful ambiance makes it a must-visit destination.
Wild Oranges: A Local Delight
On our way back, we came across an elderly woman selling wild oranges. These oranges are known for their tangy flavor and freshness. We purchased four bags, each costing ₹100 and containing around 25–26 oranges.
Don’t miss this local specialty—it’s a unique treat and supports local sellers.
Lunch Stop at Woisali Dhaba
Around lunchtime, we stopped at Woisali Dhaba, located near the entrance to the Golden Pagoda. The total bill for our meal was ₹650, which included:
- 8 Rotis
- 3 Plates of rice
- 1 large bowl of vegetable soup
- 2 mixed vegetable curries
- 2 spicy chutneys
- 2 plates of chana dal (1 tadka, 1 plain)
- 1 plate of fried aloo
- 4 bottles of 500 ml packaged water
The food was delicious and provided a hearty break before continuing our journey.
Exploring the Golden Pagoda
Post-lunch, we visited the Golden Pagoda, a renowned Buddhist site with stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings. This is an excellent spot to unwind and reflect after a long drive. Check out what I explored at the Golden Pagoda.
Local Market Visit
On our return journey, we stopped at a bustling Sunday market to buy fresh vegetables for home. The prices were highly reasonable, and the variety was impressive.
Market Tip: Bargain for the best prices, as vendors are usually open to negotiation.
Returning Home
We concluded our trip by reaching home at 7:30 PM, carrying memories of a beautiful day filled with adventure, spirituality, and local flavours.
Important Travel Tips for Parshuram Kund
- Start Early: Begin your journey early morning and enjoy more time at each destination.
- Carry Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for a hassle-free trip.
- Prepare for Stairs: Wear comfortable shoes and pace yourself, especially when ascending the stairs at Parshuram Kund.
- Support Local Sellers: Purchase local products like wild bananas, oranges, veggies to support the locals.
- Fuel Up: Refuel your vehicle at the Indian Oil pump, as options are limited on this route.
By following this guide, you can enjoy a seamless and memorable journey to Parshuram Kund, experiencing the beauty and culture of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.