Eastern India Travel Guide

Explore Eastern India with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the must-see attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Eastern India

Eastern India is a region of diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes. It encompasses the states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and the seven northeastern states. From the bustling city of Kolkata to the serene tea gardens of Darjeeling, Eastern India has something for every traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern India

Here are some of the top places to visit in Eastern India:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
  • Ajanta Caves, Bihar
  • Jagannath Temple, Odisha
  • Tagore’s House, Kolkata
  • Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bihar
  • Sun Temple, Konark

Natural Attractions of Eastern India: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, West Bengal
  • Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal
  • Chilika Lake, Odisha
  • Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
  • Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya
  • Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern India

Eastern India offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in India. Here are some popular ones:

  • Sandakphu Trek, West Bengal
  • Singalila Trek, Sikkim
  • Chadar Trek, Jammu and Kashmir
  • Jaintia Hills Trek, Meghalaya
  • Rhino Trek, Kaziranga National Park

Best Things to Do in Eastern India: Activities and Tours

  • Attend Durga Puja festival in Kolkata
  • River rafting in Arunachal Pradesh
  • Hot air balloon ride in Darjeeling
  • Explore the tea gardens in Assam
  • Try bamboo rafting in Meghalaya

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern India

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Eastern India:

Day Destination
Day 1-2 Kolkata
Day 3 Darjeeling
Day 4-5 Gangtok
Day 6 Puri
Day 7 Bhubaneswar

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern India

Eastern India has a diverse cuisine that ranges from spicy to sweet. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Litti Chokha, Bihar
  • Macher Jhol, West Bengal
  • Rasgulla, West Bengal
  • Chhena Poda, Odisha
  • Thukpa, Sikkim

Local Beverages

  • Tea in Darjeeling and Assam
  • Rice beer in Meghalaya
  • Apong (rice beer) in Arunachal Pradesh
  • Chaang (fermented millet beer) in Sikkim

Where to Stay in Eastern India: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern India has a range of accommodation options catering to all budgets. Here are some recommendations:

  • The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata
  • Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling
  • Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino, Gangtok
  • Toshali Sands Resort, Puri
  • Trident, Bhubaneswar

What to Buy in Eastern India: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Eastern India is known for its handicrafts, textiles, and tea. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Silk sarees from West Bengal
  • Tea from Darjeeling and Assam
  • Pattachitra paintings from Odisha
  • Bamboo and cane handicrafts from Meghalaya

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern India

Eastern India is a culturally diverse region with unique customs and traditions. Here are some things to know:

  • Durga Puja is the biggest festival in Kolkata
  • Respect local traditions while visiting temples and monasteries
  • Do not enter temples wearing shoes
  • Do not photograph people without permission

Best Time to Visit Eastern India

The best time to visit Eastern India is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. However, each state has its own peak season, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern India

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Eastern India:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly while visiting religious places
  • Explore the local cuisine
  • Try to learn some common phrases in the local language

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Enter religious places wearing shoes
  • Eat street food without checking its hygiene

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern India

Eastern India is generally safe for travelers. However, it’s important to take precautions while traveling in remote or unfamiliar areas.

Health in Eastern India

It’s recommended to take standard health precautions while traveling in Eastern India, including getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. Drink bottled water and avoid consuming untreated water.

Getting to Eastern India: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eastern India is well connected by air, rail, and road. Here are some options:

Airports Near Eastern India

  • Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata
  • Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati
  • Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar

Bus Stations Near Eastern India

  • Esplanade Bus Terminal, Kolkata
  • Baramunda Bus Station, Bhubaneswar

Other Options

  • Train services from major Indian cities, including New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai

How to Get Around in Eastern India

Public transport, cab services, and rental cars are available in most cities of Eastern India. However, trekking and hiking routes are best explored by foot.

Where to Go Next from Eastern India: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Eastern India:

  • Bhutan
  • Sikkim
  • Nepal
  • Assam

Conclusion

Eastern India is a region of diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes that offer a unique experience to every traveler. Follow this guide to experience the best of Eastern India.

Jagannath Temple, Puri Jagannath Temple, Puri Victoria Memorial, Kolkata Victoria Memorial, Kolkata Kangchenjunga from Gangtok, Sikkim Kangchenjunga from Gangtok, Sikkim Sculpture of Ganesha in Ganesha Gumpha, Udayagiri Caves, near Bhubaneswar, Odisha Sculpture of Ganesha in Ganesha Gumpha, Udayagiri Caves, near Bhubaneswar, Odisha Radhashyam Temple, Bishnupur (Rarh) Radhashyam Temple, Bishnupur (Rarh) ''Roshogolla'', the sweet meal associated with Kolkata and the Bengali cuisine ''Roshogolla'', the sweet meal associated with Kolkata and the Bengali cuisine


    Chhattisgarh
    Jharkhand
    Odisha
    Sikkim
    Southeast Bengal
    West Bengal