Bomdila, the administrative headquarters of West Kameng District, is a pretty town set amongst the mighty
Himalayas, 100 km west of
Bhalukpong, in
Arunachal Pradesh. The place is famous for its scenic environs, ancient Buddhist monasteries and the wide stretches of apple orchards and is an ideal getaway in summer.
Bomdila has had settlements since medieval times, when the region was under the Tibetan rule. The tribal rulers from Bhutan ruled the town from time to time. Bomdila came under the rule of the British in 1873. After India’s independence in 1947, Bomdila remained a territory of disagreement with China – they invaded the region in 1962, but withdrew its troops later.
Must visit places in Bomdila include the Buddhist Monasteries called ‘
Gompas’, which show a strong influence of Tibetan and Buddhist culture. A stroll through the wide stretches of Apple orchards will be an enchanting experience. An excursion to
Dirang valley and the famous Sela pass (4,300m), on the way to Tawang, is a thrilling journey through some magnificent mountainous terrain. Bomdila also boasts some exciting trekking and hiking trails. The Craft Centre at Bomdila and the Ethnographic Museum are other spots worth visiting.
Domestic tourists have to obtain the Inner Line Permit from the Deputy Commissioner of the concerned districts while foreigners need to obtain the Restricted Area Permit from the Ministry of External Affairs to tour in the state. April to October constitute the tourist season.
Nearest airport and railway station are at Tezpur (160 km). Regular bus services connect Bomdila with Tezpur and Tawang.
