Agriculture in and around Bomdila is adapted to the harsh mountain terrain through extensive terrace farming. The region is famous for its horticulture, particularly its apple orchards, which are a major source of income. Other temperate fruits such as kiwi, plum, walnut, and orange are also cultivated successfully.
Staple crops include maize, millet, barley, and buckwheat, which are essential for the local diet and for brewing traditional beverages. Vegetables like cabbage, potatoes, and beans are grown for local consumption.
Animal husbandry is a critical component of the agricultural economy. Locals rear yaks, sheep, and mountain goats for dairy, meat, and wool, which feeds directly into the local textile and handicraft industries. Organic farming practices are common, largely by default due to traditional farming methods and the high cost of importing chemical fertilizers.
