Your Guide to What to See and Do in Bomdila

Tucked away in the eastern ranges of the Himalayas, the beautiful town of Bomdila offers everything a nature lover could ask for. Its untouched natural splendor, marvelous landscapes, and panoramic views of the snow-clad mountains make it a photographer’s delight as well. Add to that apple orchards, orchid sanctuaries and several hiking trails, and you have a holiday destination that you can never have enough of.

Why Bomdila?

Located in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh at a height of about 8000 feet, this quaint town has a rich Tibetan culture and heritage, and is home to several Buddhist tribes. Escape the crowds of the popular hill towns and unwind amidst the best of natural beauty at this monk heaven!

What to See:

1. Bomdila Monastery

bomdila-monastery

One of the prime attractions in Bomdila, the Bomdila Monastery (also known as the Gentse Gaden Rabgyel Ling or GRL Monastery) attracts pilgrims and tourists in large numbers. Known to be a replica of the Tsona Gontse Monastery in Tibet, this monastery houses Buddhist monks and llamas, and is a prominent centre of Mahayana Buddhism. It consists of three parts with the Upper Gompa being the most important, featuring a school for young monks, a prayer hall, and a Buddha temple. The oldest of these, the Middle Gompa, houses the Blue Medicine Buddha who is believed to cure diseases. The Lower Gompa has a vast prayer hall.

2. Apple Orchards

Spread over vast areas of land, apple orchards are a must-see attraction in Bomdila. Stroll through these beautiful apple-laden gardens and take home some fresh produce at extremely low prices. Plan your visit around winters when the trees are in full bloom, making for a charming sight.

bomdila-landscape

3. Craft Center & Ethnographic Museum

Explore the rich culture and local handicrafts of Bomdila and shop for uniquely designed souvenirs. Its traditional masks, Buddhist wall hangings, silk paintings, and hand woven carpets are a must-see, with dragon designs being the most popular.

4. Orchid Research and Development Centres

Known as the ‘orchid paradise’ of India, Arunachal Pradesh presents the ideal climate for the growth of orchids. A number of Orchid Conservation Centres have therefore been set up for the protection and preservation of orchids in their natural habitat. Located at Sessa, Tipi and Dirang, these centres are sure to enthrall you with over 500 exotic species of orchids on display, including several rare varieties.

What to do:

1. Check out Bomdila’s Viewpoints

With its scenic environs and surrounding snow-clad mountains, Bomdila offers breathtaking views all around. Hike up R. R. Hill, the highest point of Bomdila, from where one can view the roads leading to Bhutan and Tawang. Bomdila View Point is also a must visit for stunning views of the Nechipu Pass, the West Kameng Valley, and the majestic mountains in the distance.

bomdila-viewpoint

2. Go Bird Watching at Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary

Home to over 400 exotic species of birds, this wildlife sanctuary is a great place for avian enthusiasts and photographers. For the best views and captures, take your binoculars and high-speed cameras along. You will find over 100 species of butterflies here and a wide range of wild animals such as the Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Red Panda, Asiatic Black Bear, and the endangered Capped Langur. Located at a distance of 50 kilometers from Bomdila, this protected area also has several streams and gushing waterfalls formed by the Kameng River, making for a delightful day out.

eaglenest-wildlife

Book Your Stay at Eaglenest Residency

3. Trek in and around Bomdila

Owing to its hilly terrain, Bomdila offers a number of trekking trails for adventure junkies. Besides the hiking paths within the city, the Bomdila- Tawang, Bomdila-Seppa, and the Bomdila-Daimara areas also have a number of fascinating and challenging trekking routes.

What to Eat:

Momos: Owing to Tibetan influence, the primary cuisine in Bomdila is Tibetan, best savoured at local cafes and roadside vendors. Even though momos are now available in most cities across the country, the ones in Bomdila are a must try for their authentic flavours. These steamed or fried dumplings are available with cabbage, pork or meat fillings.

Thukpa: A traditional noodle soup with vegetables, eggs or minced meat.

thukpa

Apong: A kind of rice beer available in different flavours.

When to Go:

The best time to visit Bomdila is during the summer and monsoon months, from March to October, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Due to frequent rains, this small town is at its scenic best during monsoons. Winters in Bomdila, from November to February, are quite chilly.

Getting There:

By Air:

Tezpur in Assam is the nearest airport. Located at a distance of 160 kilometers from Bomdila, this airport is connected to all major cities of India.

Book Your Flight to Tezpur

By Road:

Bomdila is easily accessible from Guwahati (338 kms) and Tezpur (153 kms) with well-connected roads and mesmerising views on the way. However, being a hilly route with a number of hairpin bends, it is advisable to go with an experienced driver or take one of the Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Company or Assam State Transport Company buses.

By Train:

Rangapara railway station in Assam (144 kilometers from Bomdila) is the nearest railway station, with frequent trains to a number of locations.

Getting Around:

Being a small town, one can easily cover most of Bomdila’s must see places on foot. For longer distances, hire a cab.

What to Pack:

Cotton clothing for the day and a light jacket for the night if you’re visiting in summers.
Warm clothing, gloves, and muffler if you’re visiting in winters.
Umbrella is a must during monsoons.
Shoes for walking and hiking.
Medication for those prone to motion sickness on hilly roads

Unexplored and untouched, the scenic beauty of Bomdila is sure to take your breath away.