Evening prayers at Bomdila's upper gompa

Bomdila's main monastery complex stands on the hill above the town, a large Tibetan-style gompa with a prayer hall, monks' residences and a wide courtyard. It was established in the second half of the twentieth century by monks of the Gelug tradition, and it serves as a centre of learning for young monks from across West Kameng. Its gilded roofs and white walls are visible from much of the town.

Go in the late afternoon, when monks gather for evening prayers. Visitors are generally welcome to sit quietly at the back of the hall. The chanting, drums and horns fill the room, and butter lamps flicker beside the altar. Do not photograph monks during prayers without permission, keep your voice low, and remove shoes at the hall door when asked.

After prayers, walk around the courtyard clockwise and look out across the valley. On clear evenings the ridges fade into blue layers towards the plains. The walk down to the market takes 20–30 minutes on the road; carry a torch if you stay until dark. Combine the visit with tea and momos in town before an early night.