Bomdila
About the city
The journey to Bomdila is quite as exciting as the town itself. As you drive up here via Tezpur, you wind past gentle, wooded slopes, the fragrance of pine hanging heavily in the air. The landscape changes dramatically as gnarled gorges give way to plains that undulate into hills.The Bharali river rushes down the mountains, providing some splendid angling opportunities for mahseer. Tipi, an orchid conservation centre further uphill, is a glasshouse with a fantastic collection of exotic orchid species and hybrids. The Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary across the river Kameng is another interesting stop where you can linger awhile.
After Tipi, the road climbs sharply to get to Bomdila. The town is surrounded by lush apple orchards that stretch far and wide. Bomdila itself is tiny, but it is spread over a wide ridge that straddles a mountain. There is a panoramic view of the Himalayas and its frosty peaks and the pretty Kameng valley with its orchards.
A number of treks and hikes into the mountains start at Bomdila. From simple little walking trails to more strenuous treks, Bomdila is at the hub of hiking activity in the Kameng region.
Bomdila, like other towns in the area, has a strong Buddhist and Tibetan influence. There are a fair number of gompas here and the town has quaint little eating-places where you can savour traditional Tibetan cuisine plus the all time favourite momos and thoopas.
The Craft Centre at Bomdila turns out a range of superbly designed dragon carpets that are on sale. Also produced at the centre are traditional thangka wall hangings, paintings and masks. Most of these are intricately crafted with minute details and varied themes.