Tucked away in the far northeast corner of India, Tripura is a captivating state that often escapes the tourist radar. But for those who make the journey, it reveals a mystical blend of ancient temples, lush green valleys, royal palaces, tribal cultures, and serene lakes. A land of kings and folklore, of forest trails and colorful festivals—Tripura is an underrated jewel for those seeking authentic, crowd-free travel experiences.
🏯 Ujjayanta Palace – Echoes of Royal Elegance
Begin your exploration in the state capital, Agartala, where the magnificent Ujjayanta Palace stands tall. Once the royal residence of Tripura’s rulers, the palace now houses a museum that showcases the art, culture, and tribal diversity of the state.
Set against the backdrop of Mughal-style gardens and ponds, its white domes and detailed interiors offer a taste of royal life from a bygone era. Walk through its corridors, admire traditional musical instruments, tribal attires, and ancient manuscripts, and take in the grandeur of Tripura’s past.
🪷 Neermahal – A Lake Palace That Floats Like a Dream
A trip to Tripura is incomplete without visiting Neermahal, the “Water Palace” located in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake. Built in 1930 by King Bir Bikram Kishore Debbarma, this architectural marvel blends Hindu and Mughal styles.
You’ll need to hop on a boat to reach the palace—gliding across calm waters while flocks of birds fly overhead. At night, the palace lights reflect on the lake, creating a magical scene that leaves visitors in awe. It’s one of the few such palaces in India and a must-see for romantics and history lovers alike.
🛕 Unakoti – A Mysterious Hill of Carved Faces
For those with a love for ancient secrets and artistic wonders, Unakoti is an unforgettable stop. Deep in the jungle, you’ll find gigantic rock-cut sculptures and stone carvings, some as tall as 30 feet, believed to date back to the 7th–9th centuries.
Mythology says these were once gods turned to stone by Lord Shiva. Trek through the dense greenery to find Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava, a massive face etched into stone, surrounded by dozens of other deities. It’s a pilgrimage site, but also an open-air art gallery that speaks of devotion, mystery, and time.
🌳 Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary – A Day with Nature and Birds
Just 25 km from Agartala lies the serene Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, perfect for families and nature lovers. Spread across 18 square kilometers, it’s home to rare birds, clouded leopards, and the famed spectacled monkey.
Enjoy boating on the lake, visit the zoo, or explore the botanical gardens. If you’re into birdwatching, bring your binoculars—this sanctuary is known for migratory and native bird species that flutter through the trees from dawn till dusk.
🏞 Jampui Hills – The Queen of Tripura’s Highlands
The Jampui Hills, located in North Tripura, offer misty mornings, orange orchards, and breathtaking sunrises. At an altitude of around 1,000 meters, this is Tripura’s highest point and a favorite among photographers, trekkers, and peace seekers.
Plan your visit during November, when the famous Orange & Tourism Festival is held. The hills are covered in blooming orange trees, and local tribes host cultural performances that give you a glimpse into their traditions and lifestyle.
🌸 Dumboor Lake – Tranquility in Every Ripple
Shaped like a drum (which is what “Dumboor” means), this picturesque lake in Amarpur is surrounded by 48 small islands. With its emerald waters and serene surroundings, it’s a great spot for boating, birdwatching, and simply unwinding.
Close to the lake is Tirthamukh, where thousands gather during Makar Sankranti to take a holy dip. Whether spiritual or scenic, this place has something for every kind of traveler.
🧘♀️ Pilak – Ancient Ruins and Spiritual Resonance
In South Tripura, Pilak is an archaeological treasure trove. Here, Hindu and Buddhist sculptures carved between the 8th and 12th centuries lie hidden among forests and fields.
The Buddha heads, terracotta plaques, and stone carvings are beautifully preserved and give insight into the religious harmony that existed here. Pilak is still an emerging destination, ideal for those who love offbeat history and quiet landscapes.
🌆 Agartala – More Than Just the Capital
While most tourists pass quickly through Agartala, it has more to offer than just the Ujjayanta Palace. Visit the Heritage Park for a green escape inside the city, or explore Jagannath Bari, a colorful temple with intricate sculptures and peaceful vibes.
The ISKCON Temple, with its white spires and clean campus, is another place worth a quiet visit. For shopping and souvenirs, head to the Purbasha Emporium, where you can buy traditional bamboo crafts, handloom fabrics, and local art.
🌿 Heritage Meets Tribal Culture
Tripura is home to 19 recognized tribes, each with its own language, dance, music, and customs. From the Reang to the Tripuri, tribal communities here live in harmony with nature and are incredibly welcoming to visitors.
Plan your trip around a local festival like Garia Puja or Kharchi Festival to witness dances, music, and rituals that celebrate the earth, rain, ancestors, and deities. It’s a vivid, soulful experience that brings you closer to the heartbeat of Tripura.
🍲 What to Eat in Tripura – A Flavourful Fusion
Tripura’s cuisine is simple, healthy, and rooted in local ingredients. Must-try dishes include:
- Mui Borok – a traditional fermented fish dish served with bamboo shoots and vegetables
- Bhangui – a rice-based dish cooked with ghee and bay leaves
- Panch Phoron Tarkari – vegetables cooked with five spices
- Wahan Mosdeng – pork salad with onion, green chilies, and herbs
- Don’t forget the delicious banana leaf-cooked tribal meals, often served during festivals
Vegetarians will also find plenty of fresh greens, lentils, and flavorful local fare to enjoy.
🧳 Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Tripura
Best time to visit: October to March is ideal, especially for nature lovers and festival-goers
Getting there: Agartala has its own airport with connections to major Indian cities. Roads from Assam are well-maintained for bus and cab travel
Local transport: Autos and taxis are available in towns. For rural and interior travel, plan ahead or hire a guide
Permits: Indian citizens don’t need permits, but foreigners should check for any Inner Line Permit (ILP) requirements before travel
Languages spoken: Bengali, Kokborok, and English in tourist areas
Tripura isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling of discovery, a breath of clean air, a walk into forgotten stories
If you’ve already visited popular tourist states and are now craving a deeper, more meaningful journey, Tripura welcomes you with open arms and untold tales. Whether you’re a history buff, nature photographer, solo traveler, or culture enthusiast, this small state will surprise you with its depth, diversity, and warmth.