Bomdila: Discover This Hidden Gem of Arunachal Pradesh

Hey guys, today we will talk about a place you might have never heard of in your lifetime. We are talking about Bomdila. It is a small picturesque town in the heart of Arunachal Pradesh. This beautiful place has a stunning landscape, rich heritage and a vibrant culture, all these things attract tourists from around the world. For those who are willing to surrender to a calm and tranquil life, Bomdila is a place for them. Here you will find snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, winding roads and fresh air, all these things are hard to get in city life. So, without further ado, let’s delve into Bomdila travel guide.

The Journey to Bomdila: An Adventure in Itself

Reaching Bomdila is itself an amazing thing. The nearest airport is in Tezpur which is 160 km away. From the airport, book a taxi or a bus to reach Bomdila. During the journey to Bomdila by taxi or bus, you will witness winding roads, small and peaceful villages, forests, and the Eastern Himalayas. You will also see an amazing waterfall while travelling towards Bomdila. 

Bomdila is situated at a height of 2217 meters, once you reach here, you feel like you have entered in some other world. The place is quite, away from the city noise, and much away from the modern life

A Glimpse into Bomdila’s Fascinating History

When we talk about Bomdila, it is not all about scenic beauty but has a deep history as well. It is home to the Monpa tribe, they are the natives of this place. You will also witness the Tibetan influence, every monastery, and architecture resembles the Tibetan art style.

Places to Visit in Bomdila

Bomdila is a small town for sure but has a lot of places where tourists can go and make memories. This place offers things that anyone can enjoy.

1. Bomdila Monastery

Gentse Gaden Rabgyel Lling Monastery, better known as Bomdila Monastery is an icon landmark here. It was built in 1965, it is not just a place for worship but a centre for Buddhist learning as well. When you enter the monastery, you will feel the calmness, just sit there and listen to the chants of the monks.

2. Bomdila Viewpoint

For a perfect Instagram picture, Bomdila viewpoint is the spot. This place provides a complete view of the town along with the breathtaking snow-covered mountains in the backdrop. Whether you come at the time of sunrise or sunset, the place offers a visual treat all the time. 

3. Craft Centre and Ethnographic Museum

This is a priceless museum to enter in Bomdila. Whether you are interested in local culture and craftsmanship or not you must this place for sure. Here you will see traditional Monpa crafts, paintings, and artefacts. All these things provide information about the rich history and culture of the region. The intricate wood carvings, handwoven carpets, and traditional attire displayed here reflect the cultural diversity of Bomdila and its neighbouring areas.

4. Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary

If you want to see lots of birds and capture them in your camera and memories, the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place for you. It is home to a rich flora and fauna and many endangered species. This place has more than 450 bird species therefore, you should come here with binoculars and a camera to capture the birds and the beauty of this place.

A Taste of Local Culture, Food and Festivals of Bomdila

Tibetan Buddhism has highly influenced the culture of Bomdila, the reason being that it is near Tibet. 

Losar Festival

If you want to know about the Bomdila’s culture then try to be a part of the Losar Festival. It is the Tibetan New Year, which falls between the months of February and March. During the Losar festival, the whole town is decorated in colours, with traditional dances and religious rituals. If you want to feel the vibe, then come during the festival.

Culinary Delights

If you really want to explore any place, then do not forget to eat local dishes. Here you will find a blend of Tibetan and Monpa food. You can start with momos with spicey local chutney, and Thukpa, a hot noodle soup that suits the cold weather of Bomdila. Then you can try Zan. It’s a type of porridge made from millet or buckwheat and is a staple in the Monpa diet.

Where to Stay: Bomdila Hotels and Homestays Options

You will find a good range of stay options in Bomdila. From Budget hotels to homestays all are available in Bomdila. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, staying in a homestay is highly recommended. The homestays here are cozy, and comfortable, and offer a chance to experience the warm hospitality of the Monpa people. Plus, it’s a great way to learn more about their traditions and way of life.

For those who prefer more conventional lodging, there are also hotels and guesthouses that provide modern amenities. Whether you choose a homestay or a hotel, the serene surroundings will make your stay in Bomdila unforgettable.

Top Activities in Bomdila

Bomdila offers a variety of activities for travellers, ranging from peaceful monastery visits to more adventurous treks. Here are some of the best things to do while you’re in town:

Trekking

Bomdila offers various trekking trails, these trails will take you through traditional villages, forests, and amazing landscapes. These trekking trails are for everyone, whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner does not matter. If you love adventure and nature, then trekking is a good idea, moreover, you will experience the raw beauty of this place while trekking.

Monastery Visits

We have mentioned the main monastery that is Bomdila earlier, apart from that, you can also visit other small monasteries as well. These monasteries offer a peaceful environment which is perfect for meditation, and relaxation. You may interact with monks, they will share with you the history and wise pieces of advice. 

Bird Watching

As told you earlier, the place hosts more than 450 species of birds. Therefore, go out with a camera and binoculars and do the bird-watching activity. You can spot new species of birds in the town as well. 

Practical Tips for Visiting Bomdila

Before you pack your bags, here are a few practical tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable:

• Permits: Since Bomdila is in a protected area, Indian tourists will need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), and foreign tourists require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). These permits can be easily obtained online or from designated state government offices.
• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Bomdila is between October and April when the Bomdila weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Try to avoid the monsoon season as heavy rains can make travel challenging.
• What to Pack: Don’t forget to pack warm clothing, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and of course, a good camera to capture all those Instagram-worthy moments.
• Respect Local Customs: Bomdila has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before photographing people or religious sites, and dress modestly when visiting monasteries.

Final Thoughts

This place is not just a beautiful town but also provides a way to live life. The culture, history and nature altogether provide an enriching experience to every tourist. Whether you are an adventure lover or want to calm your mind, Bomdila is a place to come and lose yourself in the divine. 

So, if you are looking for a destination that offers tranquillity, adventure, and a deep cultural connection, pack your bags and head to Bomdila. Trust us, this hidden gem in Arunachal Pradesh is waiting to be discovered, and it promises to be an unforgettable journey! For more information and travel information, keep visiting Trip Trek Tales.

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