Tucked away in India’s northeast, Tripura may be small in size, but it’s brimming with cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and stories etched in stone and tradition

Perfect for travelers who love offbeat paths, authentic local experiences, and serene natural settings

Agartala – The Royal and Cultural Capital

Start your journey in Agartala, Tripura’s capital, which reflects a mix of royalty, colonial legacy, and local vibrancy

Top places to explore

• Ujjayanta Palace – a magnificent Indo-Saracenic palace surrounded by Mughal-style gardens, now a museum
• Heritage Park – scenic green space with sculptures and a walking trail
• ISKCON Temple – peaceful spot with beautiful architecture
• Tripura Government Museum – for insights into tribal culture and local history

Food tip: Try Mui Borok, the traditional cuisine of Tripura. Don’t miss bamboo shoot curry and fish dishes

Unakoti – Where Myth Meets Rock Art

A must-visit site, Unakoti is one of India’s most mysterious and majestic rock-carving locations

Things to see

• Gigantic rock-cut sculptures and bas-reliefs carved into hillsides
• The towering Shiva head sculpture known as “Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava”
• Lush jungle trails and a mystical vibe that make it feel like an ancient hidden city

Ideal for cultural explorers, photographers, and history buffs

Neermahal – The Lake Palace of Tripura

Set in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake, Neermahal (meaning “Water Palace”) is a dreamy blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture

Things to do

• Take a boat ride to the palace for sunrise or sunset views
• Explore the palace corridors, once used by royalty for summer stays
• Attend Neermahal Water Festival if you’re lucky – filled with boat races and music

A great destination for couples, architecture lovers, and those who enjoy scenic lakes

Jampui Hills – The Abode of Eternal Spring

Nestled in the north of Tripura, Jampui Hills is a paradise of misty peaks, orange orchards, and serene views

What to explore

• Trekking trails through orange plantations and pine forests
• Visit during Orange Festival (November) for local culture, cuisine, and panoramic views
• Watch sunrises and sunsets from Betlingchhip, the state’s highest peak

Perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and eco-tourists

Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary – Nature and Birds Unite

Just 25 km from Agartala, this sanctuary combines a zoo, botanical gardens, and a scenic lake

Things to do

• Spot spectacled monkeys, migratory birds, and deer
• Enjoy boating in the tranquil lake
• Visit the clouded leopard enclosure and butterfly park

Great for family trips and wildlife enthusiasts

Pilak – A Journey into Ancient Civilizations

Located in the south of Tripura, Pilak is an archaeological site with a mix of Hindu and Buddhist relics dating back to the 8th–9th century

Places to explore

• Stone and terracotta sculptures amid scenic rural settings
• Ancient Buddhist stupas and Hindu deities like Vishnu and Shiva
• Combine it with a visit to Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary nearby

Ideal for spiritual seekers, archeology lovers, and history fans

Chabimura – The Cliffside Carvings

Located along the Gomati River, Chabimura is known for its unique rock carvings on vertical cliffs covered in jungle

Don’t miss

• The massive Durga carving on the rock face
• Boat rides through the calm river surrounded by dense forest
• Trekking trails for adventurers

Best for thrill-seekers and those who love discovering hidden natural wonders

Folk Festivals and Tribal Culture in Tripura

Tripura is home to 19 tribes, each with its own traditions, dances, and festivals

Festivals worth experiencing

• Garia Puja – a tribal spring festival full of music, food, and dance
• Kharchi Puja – honors 14 deities with a vibrant procession and rituals
• Orange Festival in Jampui Hills – celebrates the harvest with cultural shows and food stalls

Tip: Stay in eco-tourism huts or homestays to experience authentic tribal hospitality

Unique Travel Trails in Tripura

1. Palace to Temple Trail

• Begin with Ujjayanta Palace, visit Tripura Sundari Temple, and end with Neermahal

2. Heritage Rock Route

• Unakoti → Pilak → Chabimura – perfect for history and mythology lovers

3. Hills and Forest Adventure

• Plan a scenic route covering Jampui Hills, Sepahijala Sanctuary, and Trishna Reserve

4. Rural and Cultural Immersion

• Stay in tribal villages, attend local dance festivals, and try ethnic dishes

Best Time to Visit Tripura

• October to March – cool weather, great for sightseeing and hill trips
• April to June – good for offbeat summer getaways, though warmer
• Monsoon (July to September) – lush and green, perfect for nature lovers but some regions may be tricky to access

Travel Tips for Exploring Tripura

• Inner Line Permit is not required for Indian citizens
• Best entry points: Agartala Airport (connected to Kolkata, Guwahati) and rail links via Assam
• Pack light clothes, comfortable shoes, and mosquito repellent for rural trips
• Hire local guides at heritage sites for deeper insights
• Try local food with caution if you’re not used to bamboo shoots or fermented ingredients

Tripura – A Timeless Journey Off the Beaten Path

Tripura offers everything a true traveler craves — stunning nature, ancient art, spiritual depth, and vibrant cultures that are still untouched by mass tourism