Tripura Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Tripura? This guide covers everything you need to know about the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs in this state in North-Eastern India.


Introduction to Tripura

Tucked away in North-Eastern India, Tripura is a small state with an abundance of cultural and natural attractions. The state is bordered by Bangladesh to the north, south, and west, while Assam and Mizoram surround it in the east. Tripura is known for its rolling hills, verdant forests, and tea plantations. It also has a rich cultural heritage with a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist influences.

List of Places to Visit in Tripura

If you’re traveling to Tripura, these are the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ujjayanta Palace - This grand palace was built in the 19th century and served as the royal residence until Tripura merged with India in 1949. Today, the palace houses a museum showcasing the state’s history and culture.
  • Neermahal - Located in the middle of a lake, Neermahal is a stunning palace built in a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. It is the only palace built on a lake in India, making it a unique attraction.
  • Tripura State Museum - This museum showcases an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts, as well as traditional textiles and handicrafts.

Natural Attractions of Tripura: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary - This sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the slow loris, clouded leopard, and spectacled monkey. You can also go boating on the sanctuary’s lake or take a nature walk along its trails.
  • Jampui Hills - This range of hills is known for its stunning views and is a popular spot for hiking and trekking. You can also visit several viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Dumboor Lake - This vast lake is an ideal spot for boating and fishing. The lake is also home to several small islands, and you can take a boat tour to see them.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tripura

Tripura is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with plenty of trails and routes to explore. Some popular hiking and biking routes include:

  • Jampui Hills Trek - This trek takes you through the scenic Jampui Hills and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary Trek - This trek takes you through the lush forests of the sanctuary and allows you to spot plenty of wildlife.
  • Sipahijala Wildlife Sanctuary Mountain Biking - This mountain biking experience takes you through the sanctuary’s hilly terrain and offers an adrenaline rush.

Best Things to Do in Tripura: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, here are some other activities and tours you can enjoy in Tripura:

  • Tea Plantation Tour - Take a guided tour of one of Tripura’s tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
  • Birdwatching - With an abundance of bird species, Tripura is a paradise for birdwatchers. Some popular spots for birdwatching include Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Cultural Tours - Take a guided tour of Tripura’s temples, palaces, and museums to learn about the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tripura

If you’re planning to spend a week in Tripura, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Agartala, the state capital. Visit Ujjayanta Palace and Tripura State Museum.
2 Visit Neermahal, a stunning palace located in the middle of a lake.
3 Take a hiking/biking tour of Jampui Hills.
4 Relax by the Dumboor Lake and indulge in some boating and fishing.
5 Visit Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and go birdwatching.
6 Take a cultural tour of the temples and palaces in the city.
7 Spend the day shopping for souvenirs and local produce before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Tripura

No trip to Tripura is complete without trying its delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mui Borok - This is a traditional Tripuri dish made of fish and bamboo shoot. It is usually eaten with rice.
  • Chakhwi - This is a pork curry made with green chilies and bamboo shoot.
  • Samosas with Mutton Curry - This is a popular street food in Tripura.

Local Beverages

  • Chhang - Also known as Tokai, this is a local rice beer made by fermenting Millet rice. It is a staple beverage in Tripura.
  • Kwai - This is a betel nut preparation that is a popular after-meal digestive.

Where to Stay in Tripura: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tripura has plenty of options for budget and luxury travelers alike. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Sonar Tori - This is a luxury hotel located in Agartala with elegant rooms and a rooftop restaurant.
  • Prantik Hotel - This is a budget-friendly hotel in Agartala with comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
  • Whispering Palms Tourist Resort - Located near Dumboor Lake, this guesthouse offers stunning views of the lake and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Tripura: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home, consider buying:

  • Bamboo products - Tripura is known for its bamboo crafts, including baskets, trays, and furniture.
  • Traditional textiles - You can buy hand-woven shawls and saris from the local markets.
  • Tea - Tripura produces some of the finest tea in the country. You can buy tea leaves or tea bags from the local tea plantations.

Local Culture and Customs of Tripura

Tripura has a rich cultural heritage that is a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist influences. The Tripuri people are known for their hospitality, and guests are usually welcomed with a warm smile. When visiting temples or palaces, it is recommended to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.

Best Time to Visit Tripura

The best time to visit Tripura is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. The monsoon season, from June to September, can be unpredictable and may disrupt your travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tripura

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Always greet locals with a smile.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly in public places.
  • Point your feet at others, as it is considered impolite.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tripura

Tripura is generally a safe state to visit, but it is recommended to take the usual precautions, such as not carrying too much cash and staying aware of your surroundings. It is also a good idea to check travel advisories before your trip.

Health in Tripura

It is recommended to get vaccinated for typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus before traveling to Tripura. However, the state does not have any specific health risks, and the medical facilities are adequate.

Getting to Tripura: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tripura

The nearest airport to Tripura is the Agartala Airport, which is connected to major cities in India.

Bus Stations Near Tripura

Tripura is well-connected by road to nearby cities and states, with regular buses operated by state and private operators.

Other Options

You can also take a train to the nearest railway station, Kumarghat Railway Station, and then take a taxi or bus to Tripura.

How to Get Around in Tripura

Local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are the most common modes of transportation in Tripura. You can also hire a car or a motorcycle from local rental agencies.

Where to Go Next from Tripura: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to extend your trip, here are some nearby destinations you can explore:

  • Shillong - The capital city of Meghalaya is known for its stunning waterfalls, rolling hills, and unique culture.
  • Silchar - A city in Assam, Silchar is known for its tea plantations and is a gateway to Manipur and Mizoram.
  • Imphal - The capital city of Manipur is known for its history and culture, including the famous Manipuri dance.

Conclusion

Tripura is a hidden gem in North-Eastern India with plenty of attractions for travelers of all kinds. Whether you want to explore its natural beauty, immerse yourself in its rich culture, or indulge in its delicious cuisine, Tripura has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

The rock-cut sculptures of Unakoti The rock-cut sculptures of Unakoti Tripura Sundari Temple Tripura Sundari Temple


    Agartala
    Dharmanagar
    Matabari
    Udaipur