Experience the Beauty of East India: Best Places to Visit
East India, with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historical significance, offers a myriad of travel experiences. From the serene beauty of the hills to the bustling urban life, this region is a treasure trove for travelers. In this blog post, we will explore the best places to visit in East India, ensuring you have an unforgettable journey.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling, often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills,” is a must-visit destination in East India. Nestled in the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is renowned for its stunning tea gardens, colonial architecture, and the breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique toy train ride through picturesque landscapes.
Things to Do:
Visit the Tiger Hill for a mesmerizing sunrise view over the Himalayas.
Explore the lush tea estates and sample some world-famous Darjeeling tea.
Take a ride on the Darjeeling Ropeway for a panoramic view of the valleys and hills.
Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. Known for its literary heritage, vibrant festivals, and historic landmarks, Kolkata offers a rich cultural experience. The city is home to iconic structures like the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and the Indian Museum.
Things to Do:
Explore the grandeur of the Victoria Memorial and its museum.
Take a leisurely walk along the iconic Howrah Bridge.
Visit the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India.
Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a charming hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Often called the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong boasts of rolling hills, pristine lakes, and vibrant local culture. The city’s music scene is also quite popular, with numerous music festivals held throughout the year.
Things to Do:
Visit the Umiam Lake for boating and picturesque views.
Explore the Shillong Peak for a panoramic view of the city.
Wander through the lively markets and sample local delicacies.
Puri, Odisha
Puri, located on the eastern coast of India, is a significant pilgrimage destination and a popular beach town. The city is famous for the Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Puri’s Golden Beach, with its soft sands and serene waters, is perfect for relaxation.
Things to Do:
Pay your respects at the Jagannath Temple.
Enjoy the sun and sand at Puri Beach.
Attend the annual Rath Yatra festival, a grand procession dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is a picturesque destination set amidst the Eastern Himalayas. Known for its clean streets, lush greenery, and Buddhist monasteries, Gangtok is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The city offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga peak and numerous trekking trails.
Things to Do:
Visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim.
Take a cable car ride for a bird’s eye view of Gangtok.
Explore the Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake located at an altitude of 12,400 feet.
Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is known as the “City of Temples” due to its numerous ancient temples with stunning architecture. The city has a rich history dating back to over 3,000 years and is a significant cultural and economic hub in East India.
Things to Do:
Visit the Lingaraj Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Explore the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, ancient Jain rock-cut shelters.
Take a stroll through the Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang, located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, is a remote yet breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and spiritual significance. The town is home to the Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India and an important center of Tibetan Buddhism.
Things to Do:
Visit the Tawang Monastery and immerse yourself in its serene ambiance.
Explore the beautiful Sela Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass with stunning views.
Discover the war memorial dedicated to the soldiers of the 1962 Indo-China war.
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The park’s diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species, makes it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Things to Do:
Embark on a jeep safari to spot the majestic one-horned rhinos.
Enjoy bird watching with over 500 species of birds in the park.
Take an elephant ride for a unique perspective of the park’s landscape.
Imphal, Manipur
Imphal, the capital of Manipur, is a city with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city is known for its historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and beautiful landscapes. Imphal offers a glimpse into the rich traditions and customs of the Manipuri people.
Things to Do:
Visit the Kangla Fort, an ancient palace with significant historical importance.
Explore the bustling Ima Keithel market, run entirely by women.
Take a serene boat ride on Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India.
Majuli, Assam
Majuli, the world’s largest river island, is located on the Brahmaputra River in Assam. Known for its vibrant culture and unique ecosystem, Majuli is a place of immense natural beauty. The island is a hub for Assamese neo-Vaishnavite culture and home to several satras (monasteries).
Things to Do:
Visit the Kamalabari Satra to experience the rich cultural heritage.
Explore the island’s unique biodiversity with a guided nature tour.
Participate in the local festivals and witness traditional dance performances.
Conclusion
East India is a region of unparalleled beauty and cultural richness, offering a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Whether you are drawn to the serene hills, bustling cities, or tranquil beaches, East India has something for everyone. As you plan your trip, remember to include these best places to visit in East India in your itinerary for an unforgettable journey.
For a seamless travel experience, consider booking your trip with Lovely Tours and Travels Bangalore. Our expertise and commitment to excellence ensure you have a memorable and hassle-free journey. Visit our website at Lovely Tours and Travels for more information and customized travel packages.
Embark on your adventure with Lovely Tours and Travels and explore the hidden gems of East India. Whether it’s the majestic hills of Darjeeling or the cultural vibrance of Kolkata, we are here to make your travel dreams come true.