Last Updated on January 5, 2021 by asoulwindow
Table of Contents
Bomdila Sightseeing – Top 34 Tourist Places Of Arunachal Pradesh
Bomdila is not just any tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Bomdila is a very important place due to several reasons. It is present near the India and China border making it a strategically important location in India. Most people heading to Tawang stop and stay in Bomdila before they make the long journey on snowy (in winter) roads. Bomdila to Tawang makes for a beautiful journey. Bomdila sightseeing is full of surprises.
Located at a height of 8,500 feet above the sea level, Bomdila has very pleasant climate. There are many places to visit in Bomdila. I traveled with Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout. Sange recently won North East Young hero Awards and it was also shared by honorable chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh Shri Pema Khandu. Bomdila to Tawang via sela pass is a scenic route.
About Bomdila
Tall mountains enveloped in snow, fluttering colorful Buddhist flags, picturesque valleys, verdant jungles, soothing atmosphere, crisp air, absence of pollution, clear blue skies, offbeat trekking routes, friendly people etc make Bomdila a visual and sensory delight. Bomdila sightseeing will leave you delighted!
Bomdila is protected from the modern excesses and yet not totally primitive. It is moderately urban and has all modern frills. What it thankfully lacks is the excesses we associate with crowded urban spaces. Bomdila has an All India Radio relay station of its own. It is known as Akashvani Bomdila.
- Bomdila Monastery – Places to visit in Bomdila
What makes Bomdila monastery stand out is that it is believed to be a replica of the Tsona Gontse Monastery in South Tibet. It is the largest monastery in Bomdila. Identifying with the Mahayana Buddhism, the Bomdila monastery comprises of 3 different gompas called as Upper Gompa, Middle Gompa and lower Gompa. Needless to say, these Gompas are built in respective levels in this charming hilly town. The monastery premises also include a huge prayer hall apart from residential complexes for monks and a special Buddha Temple. It sure is one of the important tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh.
Bomdila Monastery is also known as Gentse Gaden Rabgyel Lling. Hence Bomdila Monastery is also known by the name GRL Buddhist Monastery. Bomdila Monastery is highly revered as it is known as a major destination for Mahayana Buddhism’s Lamaistic faith. This is also why is Bomdila famous!
The Bomdilla Monastery was built by the 12th reincarnate of Tsona Rinpoche. Bomdila Monastery was inaugurated in the year 1965 and blessed by H.H. Dalai Lama 14th himself. Many Mandalas are stored in rooms here. The butter and sand mandalas are displayed to general public on major festivals such as Losar, the Tibetan New Year.
Upper Gompa – Bomdila Sightseeing
The upper Gompa is located on a steep hill. It was located at walking distance from the home-stay we were staying at. We just took some staircases followed by an uphill walk to arrive at the Upper Gompa. The beautiful architecture and the huge sense of space caught my attention.
It is a huge campus which includes a prayer hall, residential complexes, a garden, a school for monks, a room for various mandalas, wax paintings and of course a Buddha temple. What’s more? They even had a helipad right in front of the Upper Gompa.
Sand and butter mandala – You can learn about various facets of Buddhism here. My favorite was a secret floor in an adjoining building where the beautiful Mandalas and paintings were stored. I was amazed at all the colorful paintings made with nothing but butter. I wondered how it remains in shape and not melted.
The local monk who took us here told me that thanks to the cold climate of Bomdila, the butter mandalas never melt. Makes sense! The massive sand mandala took my breath away. I couldn’t help but admire the kind of dedication and skill it must have taken to come up with an art piece as excellent as this.
These sand and butter mandalas are displayed to the general public during Monpa festivals such as Losar. You will be amused to know that the monks themselves destroy these mandalas once the festivities are over. It is meant to symbolize how impermanent life is itself.
This room is always locked. You need to request the local monk to be able to see the displays here. Carry a flashlight or mobile torch with you as sometimes there is no electricity here. Please do not touch any of the butter mandalas. These are very delicate. The sand mandala is stored in a glass chamber. Please do not try to tamper it or touch it. A small movement can destroy the shape of the mandala. This place is located right next to the monk school.
Meet the resident monks –It was interesting to see the monks going about their daily chores in the residential complex. Their freshly washed red robes drying in the balcony right next to the monastery caught my attention. I even started a conversation with a local monk who shared interesting information about this Gompa. The resident monks here are very friendly to talk to, just like the other inhabitants of Bomdila. Do not miss this top Bomdila tourist place.
Middle Gompa – Must See Place in Bomdila
The middle Gompa is special because it is one of the oldest surviving Gompas of Bomdila. People from Buddhism faith come here to pray and meditate. The Blue Medicine Buddha present in the Middle Gompa is venerated by the healers.
Lower Gompa – Things to do in Bomdila
It is a very small Gompa located right next to the Craft Center and Ethnographic Museum. You will not take more than 15 minutes to visit the lower Gompa. The notable features of this Gompa are the Tibetan architecture and the prayer hall.
It was empty when we visited as it was getting dark and the Gompa was about to close. It is advisable to club both places at one go. Both the places are located at walking distance from each other. It is a sacred place to followers of Buddhism. It is a must visit place when in Bomdila.
It is situated at the end of Bomdila market or Bazaar street.
Craft Center and Ethnographic Museum, Bomdila
You will enjoy the Craft Center and Ethnographic Museum if a deep cultural experience excites you. Not only can you see local craftsmen and women weaving Monpa dresses, carpets and what not but you will also be able to enjoy a little banter with the local people. You can see the local artists working on making hand woven carpets and rugs like we did.
The carpets with motifs of dragon are their specialty. Traditional masks, handicrafts, wall hangings, decorative pieces and wooden artefacts are also made here. You can visit the workshop and even see how things are being made. The workers are friendly, welcoming and allow you to see them at work.
If you fancy, you can even buy these products at a very reasonable price. Buying souvenirs directly from the artists is any day more meaningful than buying from a clinical store.
My favorite memory from this place was forging a friendship with cute little stray dog puppies.
Soul Window Tip: Wear good clothes before you visit this place. The backdrops here are absolutely gorgeous and you can end up with a nice profile picture of yourself like I did.
Chilipam Monastery, Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh
Chilipam Monastery has a beautiful architecture. It is set in a beautiful location and offers sweeping panoramic views of Himalayan valleys and mountains. You can also observe the monk kids as there is a school for young Buddhist monks located here. There is also a lovely garden here where you can sit back and admire the various ornamental trees. The local name of the Chilipam monastery is ‘Sang Ngag Choekhar Dargyeling Monastery’. The monastery has impressive interiors.
Chilipam Monastery is closed during the lunch time. A restaurant with limited snack and drinks is also present here. You can also visit a waterfall nearby if you have some spare time. The waterfall is around 4 kilometers away from the monastery in the direction of Jigaon. You must explore such offbeat places to visit in Bomdila. Chilipam Monastery is one of the offbeat tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh.
How To Reach Chilipam monastery
You can stop at the Chilipam monastery as you drive from Dirang to Bomdila. It lies on the way. It is 1 hour drive away from Tenga, also in Arunachal Pradesh. It is located just 12 kilometers away from Rupa village. Ample parking space is available at the monastery.
Routes
If you are heading to Bomdila, then you can take this route to reach Chilipam monastery: Guwahati- Orang- Kalakthang- Jigaon – Chilipam- Rupa. The other route is: Guwahati- Tezpur – Bhalukpong – Tenga – Rupa.
Loo Guide: Clean toilets for both men and women are available within the precincts of the monastery.
Bomdila War memorial and view point, Bomdila War
You must make out time to visit this place in Bomdila. Bomdila War memorial and view point is devoted to the very courageous Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the safety of the country and its people. Bomdila history is very eventful!
You must stop at Bomdila War memorial to pay your homage to the brave soldiers of India. We owe our safety to them. This is also what Bomdila is known for.
Battle Of Bomdila
The battle of Bomdila took place at this very location. You can also see the peaks from which the Chinese clandestinely arrived in Bomdila and Dirang during Indo-Sino war of 1962. The men of steel that Indian army has, they gave a tough fight to the invading Chinese army. Never once did Indian army flinch or lose their courage in the battle of Bomdila. Just spending few hours here in silence is poignant in itself.
There is also a small trekking trail, from where you can see the trenches and bunkers from the 1962 war. This place has been recently opened for the tourists by the Indian Army. No wonder, Bomdila is famous already!
Bomdila Market -Offbeat Arunachal Pradesh
Bomdila market is a sensory delight! No wonder, I kept going back to Bomdila market every now and then during my brief 2 days long stay in Bomdila. It is a must visit place in Bomdila. Evening is the best time to be in Bomdila market. Is Bomdila worth visiting, did you ask? Of course, it is!
Bomdila View Point Sightseeing
You must visit the Bomdila View Point for absolutely gorgeous views of Bomdila towns. The bird’s eye view will allow you to enjoy the views of Himalayan range of the East, Bomdila town and of course the sweeping views of the Kameng Valley.
Bomdila pass aka Bomdila Darra
You can soak in the views of Gorichen peak and Kangto peak from Bomdila Pass.
Apart from the statue of Guru Kunzang Thuk-Thik , the well known Bomdilla Pass offers spectacular views of Gorichen and Kangto peaks on a clear day. These are the highest peaks of Arunachal Pradesh. You can also make a pit stop here for a quick break.
Just drive up till here and enjoy the views with friends and family. Carry some easy snacks and finger food and bottled drinks. Isn’t Tawang Bomdila route exciting?
Apple orchards – Bomdila Sightseeing
I had the most fresh and sweetest of apple right in my home-stay in Bomdila. The apples I ate were very tiny and dark red in color. Despite the small size, it was bursting with flavours. I even packed some for my road trip from Bomdila to Tawang via Sela Pass. But then why settle at just tasting the apples when you can actually visit an Apple Orchard.
If you are visiting Bomdila during the fruiting season, you will be impressed to see the apple plantations abundant with apples. It is a sight to behold. And with permission, you can even pluck an apple or two and enjoy the organic produce right at the field. Stealing apples from orchards is so 90s. Why not offer to pay and enjoy. It helps the local economy as well. The best part is that apples are available at dirt cheap prices here.
Even if you are visiting during the flowering season you will not be disappointed. The apple flowers bloom in large numbers and add much color and life to the landscape. It looks stunning, in fact.
Enjoy nature without compromising on your creature comforts only in Bomdila.
Dress like a Monpa in Bomdila
I enjoyed dressing like a local Monpa and posing against the beautiful backdrop of Bomdila Monastery. The Monpa jacket made a cool style statement. I also wore two different styles of Monpa caps. The women’s dresses were equally good looking.
It is a very unique dress and you must try wearing Monpa dress when in Bomdila. The Monpa dresses were arranged by the owners of home-stay on request by Sange.
Party with locals
We partied the night away on the first day of our arrival in Bomdilla itself. The local people of Arunachal are very friendly, cheerful and always ready to shake a leg at a Hindi Bollywood song. We had an amazing time dancing all night over some local alcohol and food. It was a memorable night at the home-stay.
Go on long walks in Bomdila
The empty roads of Bomdilla and green pastures make it a pleasure for pedestrians. Long walks along the hills of Bomdilla will expose you with things you didn’t know existed. I saw many exotic vegetables and local spices and condiments while walking in the Bomdilla market. You can also take a walk at the higher parts of Bomdilla if enjoying bird’s eye view of places is your thing!
Visit a local school in Chug Village
I also visited a local school where Sange contributes regularly by proving free stationery and other facilities to school kids. Sange Tsering also got the exteriors of entire school painted with help of his associates. It was nice to see an impromptu song and dance on the song ‘Tashi Delek’ by school kids. I also met the teacher at the remote Arunachal school. He lived all alone and belonged to my home state Uttar Pradesh in North India. The interactions I had with innocent kids left me with lasting memories. This school is located in Chug village.
Eat local vegan and vegetarian Food – Arunachal Pradesh
Main Dishes and exotic curries – The local vegetarian and vegan food of Arunachal Pradesh is delicious and nutritious. We had a wide variety of food to choose from. I was most delighted to be served Ema Dhatshi, the national dish of Bhutan. It is a chilly based simple recipe made with cheese. I had it almost daily during my trip to Bhutan and often during Arunachal trip. You can also find momos, noodles, fried rice and North Indian food at many places.
We also had Churpi Sabzi which was made with thin rice noodles, local yak cheese aka Churpi, mushrooms, beans and pepper. This local yak cheese curry had a soupy texture. Churpi is not vegan but vegetarian.
Exotic fruits and vegetables in Bomdila – Mann Raba is an exotic leafy vegetable I saw in Bomdila market for the first time. Mann is the name of leafy vegetable and Raba is the roots part.
I also sampled a very special local apple which was very sweet and crunchy. The local kiwis were equally delicious. Do try the oranges of Arunachal Pradesh as well.
Snacks of Arunachal Pradesh – We also had Kakung, a dry corn snacks or the local cornflakes which is often served with drinks. I loved the dry corn called Kakung which paired well with the strong local aara (alcohol). Also try khapsey. It is made during Losar festival which falls in either February or March. It is identical to shakarpara made in North India. It is the milder version though. Mom of Sange Tsering gifted us a box full of khapsey when we were leaving the lovely Dirang Boutque Cottages.
Desert – My favorite Arunachali desert was the delicious ‘Draessi’ or the local rice kheer. The mildly sweet Draessi we had was subtle, thick, sticky and came with lots of dry fruits.
Try local drinks of Arunachal – Alcoholic & Non Alcoholic
You must try the local Butter tea which I had in Nepal also. It is a bit salty and literally, not everyone’s cup of tea! The local alcohol aara is very strong and has a distinct flavor. Have small quantity in the traditional container like I did.
If you are lucky you may also get your hands on Arunachali rice beer called Poka. I had it in many places such as Basar, Ziro, Majuli and Orange festival in Dambuk. Poka is also known as Apong. Poka is a very popular drink with the sweet Galo people.
Enjoy a bonfire at home-stay in Bomdila
Owing to its altitude, the weather of Bomdilla is slightly colder than the adjacent Dirang Valley. This makes it an apt location to enjoy a bonfire. Throw in some potatoes, paneer chunks and vegetables too in the aftermath of fire for a quick smoked snack. Vegetarian and vegan food makes my world go round. The local people have a chimney like bonfire place in every home and home-stay. These local bonfires reminded me of the ones I saw during the Everest base camp trek in Nepal. Enjoy Bomdila weather with some warmth.
Cycling in Bomdila
Cycling in Bomdilla is enjoyable for the same reason as walking. The empty roads, lack of pollution/dust and absence of heavy traffic makes Bomdilla a right candidate for cycling. And who knows what you might bump into as you pedal your way into the nooks and crannies of Bomdilla.
R. R. Hill – Places to near near Bomdila
Local people and tourists visit R.R. Hills to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Bomdilla from here. R.R. Hills is the highest point in Bomdila. Apart from the stunning views of Eastern Himalayas, you can even see the road to Bhutan border and road leading up to Tawang from R.R. Hills. Do visit here with friends and family. It is a good idea to reach here by private taxi, preferably an SUV. October to May is a good time to be at R.R. Hill as the sky is mostly clear during these months, resulting in best views.
Shopping in Bomdila market – Offbeat Arunachal
Bomdilla is the place to be if you want a wide variety of local handicrafts/vegetables/edible items/woolens or crockery at a very reasonable price. People watching in the Bomdilla market is an added bonus of course. I am not much of a shopper but I could not resist buying a pair of local woolen socks and cut key-rings for friends and family. The crockery, which my friends picked was cheaper than its counterparts in other Buddhist terrains such as Sikkim and Ladakh. So make sure you pick some.
I was amazed by the local lentils, spices, condiments, vegetables, fruits and other grocery items. I picked up some dry bamboo shoots as it lasts longer. Do not forget to visit the Bomdila market when visiting Bomdilla. You can also get mobile chargers, SD cards, batteries etc here. There are very few ATMs in Bomdilla, so it is always wise to carry some cash with you.
You can also shop for local textiles, wood work and handicrafts at the above mentioned Craft Center and Ethnographic Museum.
Hikes and treks in Bomdila Arunachal
There are many hiking trails in and around Bomdilla. Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout will help you get there. A trek here is pleasant thanks to the sweeping views and good weather. Lack of pollution is added cherry on the cake.
Visit a secret monastery in Bomdila – Oracle reading
You can also visit a secret monastery for oracle reading. The advantage of traveling with a local company is that you get to visit gems which regular tourists can not. Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout helped us see an offbeat monastery on the hilltop. It is no ordinary monastery. The oracle reader here told us about our future by just reading our faces. The hike is an easy one and offers the best panoramic views of Bomdilla. Such secret tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh always leave me fulfilled!
Birdwatching in Bomdila
If you are an avid birdwatcher, you can spot scores of rare and common indigenous birds in Bomdila. Rich in avian life, Bomdila is emerging as a birding magnet off late. Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout can offer help in connecting you with an expert birding guide.
Dirang Dzong and other places to see
Dirang is a lovely little town near Bomdilla. Bomdila to Dirang is a popular route. Dirang is slightly warmer than Bomdilla owing to its altitude. I had a memorable time enjoying warm company of hosts at Dirang Boutique Cottages, long leisurely walks by the serpentine river and exploring the hitherto unknown monasteries and view points of Dirang valley.
Do not miss Dirang. Dirang lies on the way to Tawang via Bomdilla and Sela Pass respectively. The distance between Bomdilla and Dirang is just 42 kilometers and it takes around 1 hour 10 minutes. Bomdila tourism is booming and people are noticing offbeat gems like Dirang as well. The highlight of Dirang is an ancient Dirang Dzong. Bomdila to Dirang is an easy route.
Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, West Kameng District
Located in the West Kameng region of Arunachal Pradesh, Sessa Orchid Sanctuary was established in the year 1979. The various orchid species present in the protected sanctuary are studied by the authorities be means of field explorations.
Spread across 100 square kilometers, Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is an inseparable part of Kameng protected Area Complex aka KPAC. Did you know that you can even trek here on marked trails and observe the various species of orchids in their natural habitat. The rugged terrains, untamed nature, beautiful valleys, deep gorges and high peaks are just some added bonus.
Eagle nest wildlife sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh
Located in the West Kameng region of Arunachal Pradesh, which is also the eastern most Indian state, Eagle nest wildlife sanctuary is a protected region. The altitude range here is dynamic what with ranges spanning between 1,640 feet to 10,663 feet. Interesting! Isn’t it?
Lying between the Pakhui Tiger Reserve and Sessa Orchid Sanctuary , Eagle nest wildlife sanctuary is very popular with bird watchers and bird photographers alike. Most wildlife enthusiasts love this sanctuary for its easy accessibility, the ease of spotting bird and the presence of a large variety of exotic bird species. Some of the bird species found in Eagle nest wildlife sanctuary are wards trogon, Blyth’s tragopan, black necked cranes, parrotbills, plovers, nightjars etc.
It is also known as the home for exotic butterfly called the Bhutan Glory and the endangered Red Panda. And heard of Puffball mushroom smoke, anyone? Yes, it happens here.
The Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is located towards the north east of Eagle nest wildlife sanctuary. The Pakhui Tiger Reserve is also located towards the eastern side.
Samtu Village in West Kameng Arunachal
We visited a beautiful village which is adopted by Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout. Sange, besides running a successful tour company is North East India also does many social services such as contributing in local school or proving facilities like proper water supply to this village. We visited during winter and the landscape of the village took my breath away. The almost red terrains of landscape juxtaposed with brown exteriors of local homes built with stone made for a pretty picture.
We even enjoyed archery with locals which again reminded me of my time in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Both Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan have similar cultures and habits. Even the food is sometimes different.
We also visited a home where we were treated with popcorn and local tea. They also gave us a tour of the house. It was interesting to see how locals live in this least visited part of India. It is located on the way to Tawang and you need to take a cab from Bomdila to get here. Sange will help you in that. Samtu village is located just 40 kilometers away from Dirang. Distance between Bomdila and Samtu village is 47 kilometers and it takes around 1 hour 23 minutes to cover the distance via NH13. Do not miss it!
Tipi Orchid Reserve – Bhalukpong to Bomdila route
Falling on the road from Bhalukpong in Assam to Dirang and Bomdila in Arunachal Pradesh, the Tipi Orchid Reserve is a must visit. Also known as the Orchids Research and Development Centre, it is home to an astounding 50,000 different types of exotic flowers, mostly orchids. The Orchid Glass House here attracts both locals and tourists alike.
As many as 20 common and rare endangered species of orchids are displayed in this Orchidarium. No wonder, the main entrance has a ‘Temple of Orchids’ signboard. Start early from Assam, in case you are planning to include Tipi Orchid Reserve in your Bomdila itinerary. Do not miss it!
Sangti Valley – Places to visit near Bomdila
Sangti valley has been gaining popularity off late, thanks to its pristine landscapes and good weather. Most travelers who are on their way to Tawang via Sela Pass make a stop at Sangti valley apart from Bomdilla and Dirang. Do not miss it!
The historical 17th-century Lhagyala Monastery at Morshing village
Located 70 kilometers away from Bomdila, the ancient Lhagyala Monastery will transport you into a bygone era. Perched on a hilltop near Morshing village, Lhagyala Monastery will amaze you with its ancient manuscripts, statues and a mystical aura. I even saw a huge red colored wooden penis which reminds me of the Phallic symbols of Chimi Lhakhang in Bhutan. It was one of my most exciting destinations in North East India. Trust Sange Tsering to take you to unheard of places.
Guru Kunzang Thuk-Thik in Bomdilla Pass
You can visit the eight foot tall statue of Buddhist leader Guru Kunzang Thuk-Thik in Bomdilla Pass. It is located in West Kameng area of Arunachal Pradesh. Guru Kunzang Thuk-Thik is revered by Tibetans as the reincarnation of Guru Padmasambhava aka Guru Rinpoche. It is said that the statue of Guru Kunzang Thuk-Thik blesses everyone who passes through Bomdilla Pass.
Buddha Park, Bomdila – Tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh
You can also take a quick tour of Buddha Park in Bomdila to get into the skin of the local culture and lifestyle. You will also get opportunities to mingle with the locals. You can just observe though if you are an introvert and people shy.
Bomdila to Tawang via Sela pass
The route between Tawang to Bomdila is picturesque. The entire route we took was Guwahati – Nagaon – Kaziranga National Park – Bhalukpong – Dirang – Bomdila – Sela Pass – Jaswant Garh War Memorial– Tawang and back. I went in winter in the month of January. We came across snow carpeted roads only after Sela pass till Tawang. It was a beautiful sight. The best of important tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh fall in this classic route.
During Summers Tawang to Bomdila and vice the versa route is mostly dry and easy to drive on. Most tourists who go to Tawang make a stop at Bomdila and Dirang, both of which are a destination in themselves. Guwahati to Bomdila is an easy drive on baby bottom smooth roads. The nice hotels in Bomdila make it an easy place to stay at.
Best Tour Company in Arunachal Pradesh
In remote places like Arunachal Pradesh, it is advised to go with a local insider who knows the terrain and people well. Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout knows all 7 sister states of North East India well. He never says no to any destination and will show you what few other tour companies can. Do contact Holiday Scout for any further details on best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh and North East India.
Best Time To Visit Bomdila
Bomdila weather – I visited Bomdila during winter in the month of January. Though I didn’t see any snow in Bomdila or Dirang but I came across with lots of snow after Sela Pass, as I was on my way to Tawang. If you visit in summer, you will not see any snow. I do not enjoy walking on snow so much, but it does make the landscape look unreal. I thought I was in other planet. Bomdila weather is pleasant round the year. Bomdila temperature dips a bit in winter but it is still enjoyable.
How To Reach Bomdila Arunachal Pradesh
Where is Bomdila located? – Please read to know how to visit Bomdila? I arrived at Bomdilla from Dirang via Bhalukpong and Kaziranga National Park. I was on a road trip. Bhalukpong to Bomdila is the most popular route. You can also club in other important tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh and neighboring states.
Below are your options if you want to know how to reach Bomdila
By Road: You can reach Bomdila from Assam. From Guwahati, I arrived at Kaziranga National Park via Nagaon. After a successful wildlife safari, we headed to Dirang via Bhalukpong, the state border in Assam.
By Rail: The closest railway station to Bomdila is Rangapara North Railway Station in Sonitpur district of Assam. It is located 145 kilometers away from Bomdila. You can also catch a train to the Dhekiajuli road station in adjoining state of Assam. Distance between Dhekiajuli to Bomdila is 180 kilometers (5 hours and 20 minutes).
You can also arrive at Tezpur Railway Station which is 153 kilometers away from Bomdila.
By Air: Tezpur airport is the closest airport from Bomdila. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Guwahati is where I started my journey from. I however made stop at Kaziranga National Park.
Cabs: You can get shared cabs or taxi to Bomdila from Tezpur, Guwahati and Bhalukpong in Assam. The best alternative is however to book a private cab to enjoy a smooth ride.
Distances from Bomdila: Excursion Ideas
If you are wondering where is Bomdila located, well it is near Bhalukpong in Assam and Dirang and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
Distance between Bomdila and Tawang is 176 kilometers via NH13. Time taken: 6 hours
Distance between Bomdila and Guwahati is 270 kilometers via NH15. Time taken: 7 hours, 36 minutes
Distance between Bomdila and Dirang is 42 kilometers via NH13. Time taken: 1 hour
Distance between Bomdila and Sangti Valley is 50 kilometers via NH 13. Time taken: 1 hour 30 minutes.
Distance between Bomdila and Sela Pass is 104 kilometers via NH13. Time taken: 3 hours
Distance between Bomdila and Naharlagun is 284 kilometers via NH 15 and Chariduar-Tawang road. Time taken: 8 hours 20 minutes.
Distance between Bomdila and Shergaon is 40 kilometers via NH 13 and Trans Himalaya Highway. Time taken: 1 hour 18 minutes
Distance between Bomdila and Bhalukpong is 96 kilometers via Chariduar-Tawang road. Time taken: 3 hours 30 minutes.
Distance between Bomdila and Kaziranga National Park is 204 kilometers via Chariduar-Tawang road. Time taken: 6 hours.
Distance between Bomdila and Naharlagun is 284 kilometers via NH 15 and Chariduar-Tawang road. Time taken: 8 hours 20 minutes.
Hotels in Bomdila – Where to Stay in Bomdilla
There are many budget hotels in Bomdila. I stayed in an inexpensive home-stay arranged by Holiday Scout. The hotels in Bomdila Arunachal are well maintained thanks to high tourist influx due to the popular Bomdila Tawang route. Take a pick from the places to stay in Bomdila. Choose from Bomdila tourist lodge, home stay or luxury hotels. Bomdila Hotels are nice and comfortable.
What To Eat In Bomdilla
You can easily get any vegetarian and vegan dishes all across Arunachal. These are delicious and healthy dishes. Pls see the vegan and vegetarian guide above for details. From momos to different varieties of local saag (greens), from North Indian Poori Bhaji to bread pakora, you will get everything in Bomdila and elsewhere in Arunachal.
ILP or Inner Line Permit
Both Indians and foreigners need to secure an ILP or inner line permit to enter Arunachal Pradesh in North East India. Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout can help in easily procuring the same even before you start the trip. As I entered Arunachal Pradesh from Bhalukpong in Assam, I was stopped by the security forces at the state border to check the inner line permit. So always keep the ILP ready before you enter Arunachal.
Conclusion on Bomdila
Bomdila is a charming little Buddhist paradise in Arunachal Pradesh, India which is loved by tourists and pilgrims alike. Bomdila is also an important place from security point of view thanks to its proximity with India and China border. Bomdila is a great destination in itself and is best enjoyed with family and friends. Pleasant Bomdila temperature makes it a desirable destination around the year.
There are many awesome things to do in Bomdila. Enjoy these Bomdila tourist places at your own pace. Bomdila sightseeing is very rewarding and fulfilling. Bomdila tourism is booming and how! Also, enjoy the ride from Bomdila to Tawang via Sela Pass. The tourist places of Arunachal Pradesh are one of its kind in India.
Related travel blogs on North East India
I have written many travel guides to various places in Arunachal Pradesh. Please click on below links to read the travel guides. Thank me later!
- Free Blogs on Arunachal Pradesh
Offbeat Basar Confluence for Galo Culture
Mechuka – Adventure and more
Tallest Shivling in Ziro Valley – Hinduism in North East India
Dirang Boutique Cottages – Paradise like affordable stay
Orange Music Festival Dambuk – Dance music and more
2) Free Blogs on North East India
Manipur
Loktak Lake Guide, Manipur – Pristine boat ride and beautiful phumdis
Ukhrul hill station in Manipur
Assam – Places to see
Majuli Island – Largest river island of the world.
Dwijing Festival Bodoland – Offbeat travel at its best
Manas National Park – For wildlife
Kaziranga National Park for one horned Rhinocerous.
Nagaland
Hornbill Festival, Kisama, Nagaland
The view from my Soul Window is offbeat!
Top Travel Blogger from India