Plains Travel Guide (India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Plains

Plains is a beautiful region in India, located in South Asia. It is an ideal destination for tourists looking for a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious food. The region is known for its lush green landscapes and stunning natural beauty. Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff, Plains has something to offer to everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Plains

With a rich cultural and historical heritage, Plains has a plethora of attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places in Plains:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Victoria Memorial Hall: A magnificent building in the heart of Kolkata, the Victoria Memorial Hall is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum displays artifacts and exhibits that showcase the life and times of the British Raj in India.
Bishnupur Temples: Known for its beautiful terracotta temples, Bishnupur is a small town in West Bengal that is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. The temples date back to the 17th and 18th centuries and are a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram: Founded by Sri Aurobindo and his disciple The Mother, this ashram in Pondicherry is a spiritual center dedicated to the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother.

Natural Attractions of Plains: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sundarbans National Park: The largest mangrove forest in the world, Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for nature lovers. The park is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, the saltwater crocodile, and a variety of bird species.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Also known as the ‘Toy Train,’ the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a scenic ride through the hills and tea plantations of Darjeeling.
Rohtang Pass: Located in Himachal Pradesh, the Rohtang Pass is a stunning location that offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. It is a popular destination for trekking and skiing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Plains

Plains offer a range of hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best:

The Singalila Ridge Trek: Located in Darjeeling, this trek offers a beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and the rolling hills of Sikkim.
Dzukou Valley Trek: Located in Nagaland, this trek offers a scenic view of the Dzukou Valley, which is known for its beautiful flowers and natural beauty.
Cycling Tour of Pondicherry: A leisurely cycling tour of Pondicherry is a great way to explore the town’s beautiful colonial buildings and tree-lined boulevards.

Best Things to Do in Plains: Activities and Tours

Plains offer a range of activities and tours for travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Plains:

Backwaters of Kerala: A houseboat tour of the backwaters of Kerala is an experience like no other. The tranquil waterways offer a glimpse of the life of the locals and their unique culture.
Taste of Kolkata Food Tour: Kolkata is known for its delicious cuisine, and a food tour is the best way to explore the city’s food scene. From spicy chaat to sweet rasgullas, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Taj Mahal Tour: The Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic landmarks in India, and a tour of this magnificent structure is a must-do for all travelers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Plains

Here is an ideal week-long itinerary for a trip to Plains:

Day 1	Arrive in Kolkata and visit Victoria Memorial Hall
Day 2	Explore the temples of Bishnupur
Day 3	Take a houseboat tour of the backwaters of Kerala
Day 4	Trek through the Singalila Ridge
Day 5	Take a cycling tour of Pondicherry
Day 6	Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra
Day 7	Relax on the beaches of Goa

Food and Drink Scene of Plains

Plains offer a unique culinary experience that is a blend of different cultures and traditions. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Plains:

Must-Try Dishes

Kati Roll: A popular street food in Kolkata, the Kati Roll is a delicious wrap filled with spiced chicken or mutton.
Masala Dosa: A crispy crepe made with fermented rice and lentil batter and filled with a spicy potato filling. Masala dosa is a popular breakfast item in South India.
Momo: A Tibetan delicacy, momo is a steamed dumpling filled with vegetables or meat and served with a spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

Chai: A hot, milky tea that is infused with spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. Chai is a popular beverage in India and is served throughout the day.
Lassi: A yogurt-based drink that is flavored with fruit or spices. Lassi is a popular beverage in North India and is a perfect drink to cool off on a hot day.

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

Plains offer a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Plains:

The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata: A luxurious hotel in the heart of Kolkata, The Oberoi Grand offers a blend of colonial charm and modern amenities.
Moustache Hostel, Varanasi: A budget-friendly hostel in Varanasi, Moustache Hostel offers clean and comfortable accommodation for backpackers.
The French Quarters Guesthouse, Pondicherry: Located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry, this guesthouse offers a combination of French and Indian architecture and a peaceful setting for a relaxing stay.

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

Plains offer a range of unique souvenirs and local products that make excellent gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best things to buy in Plains:

Saris: India is famous for its beautiful sarees, and Plains offer a range of unique designs and materials.
Tea: Darjeeling is known for its world-famous tea, and a pack of Darjeeling tea makes an excellent souvenir.
Handicrafts: From terracotta figures to wooden carvings, Plains offer a range of beautiful handicrafts that are unique to the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Plains

Plains are known for their rich cultural heritage, and it is essential for visitors to respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some insights into the local culture and customs of Plains:

Religion: India is a religiously diverse country, and Plains are no exception. The majority of the population follows Hinduism, Islam, or Christianity.
Etiquette: It is essential to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering a religious place or someone’s home.
Language: Hindi is the official language of India, but Plains have their unique languages such as Bengali, Assamese, and Oriya.

Best Time to Visit Plains

The best time to visit Plains is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the region’s attractions. The monsoon season from June to September can be challenging for travelers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Plains

Here are some do’s and don’ts that visitors to Plains should keep in mind:

Do:

Try the local cuisine: Indian cuisine is diverse and delicious, and trying the local food is a must-do for all visitors to Plains.
Learn some basic Hindi: Knowing a few basic Hindi phrases can help visitors communicate better with locals.

Don’t:

Ignore dress codes: It is essential to dress modestly and respect the local dress codes.
Touch someone’s head or feet: In Indian culture, the head is considered sacred and should not be touched by anyone other than close family members.

Safety and Health

Plains are relatively safe for travelers, but it is essential to take some precautions to avoid any unpleasant incidents. Here are some safety and health tips for travelers to Plains:

Safety in Plains

Avoid walking alone at night: It is essential to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Beware of pickpockets: Pickpocketing can be a problem in crowded places, so it is essential to keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Plains

Stay hydrated: Plains can be hot and humid, so it is essential to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Take precautions against mosquito bites: Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria are prevalent in India, so it is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites.

Getting to Plains: Transportation Options and Logistics

Plains are well-connected to the rest of India by air, rail, and road. Here are some transportation options and logistics for getting to Plains:

Airports Near Plains

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport: Located in Kolkata, this is the nearest international airport to Plains.
Biju Patnaik International Airport: Located in Bhubaneswar, this airport offers domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Plains

Esplanade Bus Terminus, Kolkata: The primary bus terminus in Kolkata, from where buses to other parts of India are available.
Baramunda Bus Stand, Bhubaneswar: The primary bus terminus in Bhubaneswar, from where state and national buses are available.

Other Options

Trains: Plains are well-connected to the rest of India by rail, and there are several major railway stations in the region.
Taxis and Auto-rickshaws: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available in the major towns and cities of Plains.

How to Get Around in Plains

Plains offer a range of transportation options for getting around the region. Here are some of the best ways to get around Plains:

Taxis and Auto-rickshaws: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available in the major towns and cities of Plains and are a convenient mode of transportation.
Trains: Trains are an inexpensive and efficient way to travel between towns and cities in Plains.
Buses: Buses are the cheapest way to travel in Plains and connect to the region’s major towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Plains: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Plains are located in a region of India that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the nearby destinations that visitors can explore:

Varanasi: Believed to be one of India’s oldest cities, Varanasi is a spiritual center on the banks of the Ganges river.
Agra: Home of the Taj Mahal, Agra is a city steeped in history and culture.
Darjeeling: Known for its tea plantations and stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, Darjeeling is a charming town that is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Plains are a fascinating destination in India that offers a blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff, Plains have something to offer to everyone. With this ultimate guide to Plains, visitors can plan their trip and make the most of their stay in the region.