East India has always been a major tourist spot attracting travelers not only from the country but from states all across the globe. And the reason behind the same is obvious, which is its majestic beauty and diverse culture. The land is filled with beautiful mountains, forests, and welcoming natives which add to the grace of the region.
However, in this cast region, some places are a must-see. This guide talks about 15 such places that you must include in your go-to list for your next trip.
Exploring Eastern India: Discover the Top 15 Must-See Destinations
1. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is sometimes referred to as the queen of hills and its breathtaking scenery truly justifies the name. The town has been here since the British Raj and it beautifully preserves the essence of the past with the adoption of recent traditions as well.
Additionally, the climate of the region makes it more beautiful and welcoming. You can see some old monasteries, tea houses, cafes, and a bunch of tea plantations as well.
Highlights: Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling offers scenic landscapes, tea gardens, and colonial charm.
Activities:
- Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train).
- Visit Tiger Hill for sunrise views of Kanchenjunga.
- Explore tea estates like Happy Valley.
Best Time to Visit: March to May, October to December.
Tips: Carry warm clothes as temperatures can drop, especially in the evenings.
2. Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok is one of the most popular hill stations and is quite close to Darjeeling. The climate here is quite pleasant throughout the year and thus, you may visit it at any time. It is quite a famous destination among trekkers.
From Nathula Pass to Tsomgo Lake to Mt. Kanchenjunga, you can enjoy magnificent views from here.
Highlights: A vibrant city with a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Activities:
- Explore Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass.
- Visit Rumtek Monastery and MG Marg for shopping.
- Trekking and paragliding for adventure lovers.
Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to December.
Tips: Check permits for Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake in advance.
3. Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata, West Bengal’s capital and a beautiful city to enjoy the essence of life. It is often called the city of joy as well and you can truly feel the same when visiting here. It looks lively and happening. Here, you can see beautiful buildings and lanes of the British era. Additionally, it is one of the best places to see India’s artistic and creative side as well.
So, if you’re looking to visit somewhere majestic and luxurious, this is the place.
Highlights: A cultural hub with colonial architecture, historical sites, and vibrant festivals.
Activities:
- Visit Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and Dakshineswar Temple.
- Explore street food at Park Street and College Street Book Market.
- Take a river cruise on the Hooghly.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Tips: Use Kolkata Metro for convenient city travel.
4. Daringbadi, Odisha
Want to take some time off from the monotonous city life? Then Daringbadi can be an ideal destination to visit. Known as the Kashmir of Odisha, it offers a perfect blend of culture, greenery, and tourism at the same time.
You can see beautiful forests, waterfalls, and pepper gardens, and have interesting conversations with the local tribe called Kutia Kondhas of Daringbadi. Treks and safaris are other interesting activities you may engage in.
Highlights: Known as the “Kashmir of Odisha,” it’s a hill station with pine forests and coffee plantations.
Activities:
- Trekking through lush green valleys.
- Visit Hill View Park and Coffee Gardens.
- Experience tribal culture and crafts.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Tips: Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
5. Dooars, West Bengal
The floodplains of North East India around Bhutan are known as Dooars by the natives of the region. The name originated from the word ‘door’ as Dooars also serves as an entryway to Bhutan. It has a lush range of beautiful forestry, gardens, and several known wildlife sanctuaries like Mahananda, Chapramari, and so on.
Highlights: A gateway to the Eastern Himalayas, offering wildlife sanctuaries and tea gardens.
Activities:
- Jeep safaris in Gorumara National Park.
- Explore Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Visit Buxa Fort and take nature walks.
Best Time to Visit: September to May.
Tips: Book safaris in advance for better chances of wildlife sightings.
6. Konark, Orissa
The renowned Sun Temple of Konark attracts several tourists from all over the globe. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site as well.
In addition to that, you can see Chandrabhaga beach, beautiful folk dances, and artistic handicrafts while visiting the city. Konarks serve the grandeur of Odiya culture.
Highlights: Famous for the Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Activities:
- Explore the intricate carvings of the Sun Temple.
- Visit Chandrabhaga Beach nearby.
- Attend the Konark Dance Festival (December).
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Tips: Hire a guide to understand the historical significance of the Sun Temple.
7. Bhubaneswar, Orissa
As the sun began its descent, the sky transformed into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. Birds flew back to their nests, their silhouettes contrasting against the fiery backdrop.
The world seemed to pause, basking in the twilight serenity. Such sunsets remind us of nature’s timeless artistry, inspiring moments of reflection and gratitude for the beauty that surrounds us every day.
Highlights: Known as the “Temple City of India” with a rich cultural heritage.
Activities:
- Visit Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshwar Temple, and Dhauli Shanti Stupa.
- Explore Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves.
- Shop for traditional handicrafts at Ekamra Haat.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Tips: Dress modestly when visiting temples.
8. Chilika Lake, Odisha
If you’re someone who wants to embrace nature closely, then Chilika Lake must be on your travel list. You may ask why. Well, nature serves the best here, you can enjoy a wide variety of migratory birds, dolphins, and several other beautiful creatures.
The lake is Asia’s largest Saltwater lagoon.
Highlights: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, famous for birdwatching and dolphin spotting.
Activities:
- Take a boat ride to see Irrawaddy dolphins.
- Visit Nalabana Island for birdwatching.
- Explore Kalijai Island and its temple.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Tips: Early morning boat rides are ideal for birdwatching.
9. Giridih, Jharkhand
Giridih is quite famous as a Jain tourist spot because of the Parasnath Hills. This is the place where some of the Jain Tirinthkaras found salvation.
In addition to that, the amazing greenery and wide variety of trees, hills, and more add to the beauty of the region. The site is also important because of the availability of some minerals.
Highlights: A serene destination known for its temples and waterfalls.
Activities:
- Trek to Parasnath Hill, a Jain pilgrimage site.
- Visit Usri Falls and Khandoli Dam.
- Explore Madhuban and Jain temples.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for trekking and hiking.
10. Deoghar, Jharkhand
Deoghar is a holy site located in the state of Jharkhand in Eastern India. This place holds quite a significant value among Hindus because of several temples like Baba Baidyanath, Naulakha Temple, and more.
Highlights: A spiritual hub, home to the famous Baidyanath Temple.
Activities:
- Attend morning prayers at Baidyanath Temple.
- Visit Nandan Pahar and Satsang Ashram.
- Explore Naulakha Mandir.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Tips: Start temple visits early to avoid long queues.
11. Nalanda, Bihar
Nalanda, nestled in Bihar, stands as one of India’s most cherished tourist destinations. With a monastery tracing its origins to the 5th century, it offers a deep dive into the country’s ancient history. The monastery used to be a knowledge hub and cultural center of the region with renowned scholars and gurus.
It still is visited by tourists willing to peek into the art and heritage of those times.
Highlights: Ancient ruins of Nalanda University, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Activities:
- Explore the ruins and Nalanda Archaeological Museum.
- Visit nearby Rajgir for hot springs and the Japanese Peace Pagoda.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
Tips: Hire a guide to understand the significance of the ancient university.
Nalanda Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Bodhgaya Rajgir Nalanda Trip Itinerary
12. Gaya, Bihar
Surrounded by hills on three sides, Gaya is quite a popular tourist spot among travelers because of its historical and religious importance. It has some important Hindu shrines like Mangla Gauri, Vishnupad Temple, and so on.
Additionally, it is a major Buddhist pilgrimage as it is where Gautam Buddha attained supreme knowledge.
Highlights: A sacred city for Hindus and Buddhists, home to the Mahabodhi Temple.
Activities:
- Visit Bodh Gaya to see the Bodhi Tree and Mahabodhi Temple.
- Explore Vishnupad Temple and the Falgu River.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Tips: Combine your visit with Nalanda and Rajgir for a complete cultural experience.
13. Guwahati, Assam
For someone who loves nature and adventure, Guhawati is an ideal spot. Kamakhya Devi temple is one of the most popular Hindu temples in the region. In addition to that, you can see beautiful tea gardens, wildlife, and much more.
Also, you may engage in adventure activities like ziplining, mountaineering, etc.
Highlights: The gateway to Northeast India, known for Kamakhya Temple and the Brahmaputra River.
Activities:
- Take a river cruise on the Brahmaputra.
- Visit Kamakhya Temple and Umananda Island.
- Shop for Assam silk and tea.
Best Time to Visit: October to April.
Tips: Plan a visit during the Ambubachi Mela for a unique cultural experience.
14. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is a famous tourist destination in Arunachal Pradesh and Eastern India as well. The natural beauty of Tawang is worth spending every penny.
Here, you can see nature through beautiful lakes like Madhuri, and Pangateng Tso; passes like Sela and Bumla; waterfalls, and monasteries as well.
Highlights: A serene town with stunning landscapes and monasteries.
Activities:
- Visit Tawang Monastery, the largest in India.
- Explore Shonga-tser Lake (Madhuri Lake).
- Trek to Bum La Pass on the India-China border.
Best Time to Visit: March to October.
Tips: Carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop drastically.
15. Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh
With beautiful attractions like RR Hills, apple orchards, and middle Gompa, Bomdila is a treat to the eyes. Moreover, it offers much more than just scenic beauty. Here, you can witness culture in their craft centers and handicraft objects like carpets, hangings, etc.
Highlights: A quaint hill station with Buddhist monasteries and panoramic views.
Activities:
- Visit Bomdila Monastery and Apple Orchards.
- Trekking in the surrounding hills.
- Explore local markets for handicrafts.
Best Time to Visit: October to April.
Tips: Ideal for a peaceful getaway in the lap of nature.
Further Insights:
- Top 20 Interesting Facts About the North East India
- 10 Famous Places for Family Holidays in North India
- North India’s Top 15 Most Popular Lakes
- 10 Must-Visit Scenic Spots Near India’s Border
- Karting in India, here’s everything you should know
- Best Time to See Wildlife in India
- Top 7 Popular Fishing Spots in India
- India’s Top 10 Lesser-Known Heritage Wonders
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why should I explore Eastern India?
Eastern India offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and unique traditions, making it a diverse travel destination.
2. Which are the must-visit places in Eastern India?
Top destinations include Darjeeling (West Bengal), Gangtok (Sikkim), Konark (Odisha), Chilika Lake (Odisha), and Nalanda (Bihar).
3. What is special about Darjeeling?
Darjeeling is famous for its tea gardens, stunning views of Kanchenjunga, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and vibrant bazaars.
4. Why visit Gangtok in Sikkim?
Gangtok offers breathtaking mountain views, monasteries like Rumtek and Enchey, and adventure activities like trekking and paragliding.
5. What can I see in Konark, Odisha?
Konark is home to the iconic Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate carvings and historical significance.
6. What makes Chilika Lake unique?
Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, known for birdwatching, fishing, and spotting Irrawaddy dolphins.
7. Why is Nalanda important?
Nalanda is an ancient center of learning, with ruins of its university, monasteries, and temples that date back to the 5th century.
8. What are the adventure options in Eastern India?
Adventure seekers can enjoy trekking in the Dooars, rafting in Teesta River, and exploring the caves of Meghalaya.
9. Are there spiritual places to visit in Eastern India?
Yes, places like Bodh Gaya (Bihar), Kamakhya Temple (Assam), and Udayagiri Caves (Odisha) are significant spiritual sites.
10. What is the best time to visit Eastern India?
The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
11. What should I pack for a trip to Eastern India?
Pack lightweight clothes, sturdy footwear, a jacket for hill stations, and essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent.
12. How can I travel around Eastern India?
Eastern India is well-connected by railways, domestic flights, and road networks. Local transport like taxis and buses are widely available.
