As the most populous country in South Asia, India has a great deal to offer tourists and travelers alike. You may get a taste of almost everything because of the country's large and diverse topography, which ranges from stunning beach coastlines to the breathtaking heights of the Himalayan Mountains. With its welcoming people, delectable cuisine, and awe-inspiring sights, India's culture is something that everyone should take the time to experience at least once in their lifetime. Of course, it is nearly impossible to visit every city and state in the country in a short period; nonetheless, to get you started on your fantastic Indian tour. Here are 9 sites to visit in Eastern India that will provide you with an enriching vacation that you will never forget.
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Places To Include in Your East India Travel Bucket List
1. Darjeeling
The term 'Darjeeling' should be recognizable to you because it is the home of the world-renowned "champagne of teas," Darjeeling, which is produced in this town in East India. There is nothing quite like a freshly made cup straight from the source! Darjeeling is home to countless tea estates that prize a delicate and intricate harvesting method to develop your favorite minty fragrant tea.
Besides being known for its strong tea business, Darjeeling is also noted for its rich and diversified culture, influenced mostly by Tibet, Nepali, and Bihari ethnic traditions. Make sure to take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, sometimes known as the "Toy Train," for a gorgeous ride through the Himalayan foothills while you're there.
2. Sundarban National Park- West Bengal
"Sundarban" is the Bengali term for "beautiful forest," a suitable description for the wetland reserve and tiger sanctuary located along the Ganges Delta in West Bengal, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Sundarbans National Park is a wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site that is teeming with wildlife, vegetation, and fauna – making it the ideal destination for nature lovers to witness this natural beauty firsthand! There are around 400 Royal Bengal Tigers in the park, home to India's national icon, which tourists may observe from the many watchtowers and village expeditions that dot the landscape.
3. Nalanda University- Bihar
Visitors visiting the remains of the Nalanda Mahavihara, the longest-running Buddhist monastery in the country's history, can take a step back in time and experience the past. In addition to an archaeological museum and memorial hall, which date back to the 5th century, the monastery's grounds currently feature a memorial hall where visitors may learn about the monastery's historical significance while also admiring some of the works created during its heyday.
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4. City Of Joy- Kolkata
Without a stop in West Bengal's City of Joy, an itinerary in Eastern India would be incomplete. It was previously known as Calcutta, and it is the cultural and economic capital of India. It is the second-largest city in the country and represents a perfect fusion of modernity and its colonial heritage.
The stately Marble Palace, a renowned mansion with stunning 19th-century style, and the Victoria Memorial, which contains over 25 galleries and displays honoring British control in the country, are two of the most popular tourist sites in the city. Another must-see destination in Kolkata is the Chowringhee Market, one of the city's busiest neighborhoods and home to a plethora of shops and ethnic restaurants.
5. Bishnupur
Bishnupur is a little town in West Bengal that is both quaint and attractive. It is located in the Bankura District. The town, which dates back to the reign of the local Malla Kingdom during the Gupta period, is renowned for its well-preserved terracotta temples, which have survived the period of Indian colonialism and are still standing today.
In addition to the many beautiful temples to see in the area, two of the most popular are the Madan Mohan Temple, built by King Durjana Dev Singh in the late 17th century, and the massive Shyam Rai Temple, which celebrates the brilliant vernacular Pancharatna style.
Both temples are located in the heart of the city. The intricate architecture and temple designs of Bishnupur are an immediate tribute to the exceptional quality of the region's artistic talents and the city's rich history and traditional culture, which are all evident throughout the city.
6. Chilika Lake- Orissa
The Orissa Salt Water Lagoon, which covers 1100 square kilometers and is a renowned tourist destination for nature enthusiasts, is Asia's largest salt-water lagoon. A unique habitat characterized by sandy ridges and brackish water, Chilka Lake is a magnet for a wide variety of migratory and aquatic birds that flock to its shores in large numbers.
For us, it is the ideal spot to take in the seductive beauty of this tranquil lagoon, as well as an excellent location for bird-watching. At the Satapada observation point, you may be able to see some bottlenose dolphins as well as the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. If you plan to visit Chilika Lake, make sure to go during the winter months because the migratory birds congregate there!
7. Konark Sun Temple, Puri
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Konark Sun Temple, which is universally regarded as one of the world's most beautiful architectural marvels. The colossal monument is a magnificent sight to behold, with labyrinthine constructions and finely carved stone patterns that are designed to exhibit the beauties of Central Indian architecture. The Sun Temple is associated with a fascinating legend. It possessed a gravitational pull that caused naval fleets in the surrounding area to be disturbed and warships to assemble at the temple site.
8. Puri
The pilgrimage town of Orissa is one of the hidden beauties of India's east coast, and it is a must-see for everyone visiting the region. It's easy to get lost in the charm of Puri, which is rich in traditional art and culture; take a stroll about town, and you'll come across residents selling their fantastic appliqué art items or artists sculpting sand art on the picturesque shores.
Throughout the year, religious events are hosted by the temples, which attract over one million people in attendance! A visit to Puri's famous Jagannath Temple will undoubtedly be an eye-opening experience if you want to get a distinct perspective on the local cultural and religious traditions. In the year 12th century, this temple was built as a dedication to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. It has since gained a reputation for being exceedingly spiritual, as it is one of the four famous Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India (places where the Hindu people believed that they could receive cleansing for their sins).
9. Bhubaneswar
Among the most fascinating places to visit in Eastern India to get a feel for the culture is Bhubaneswar, the state capital of Odisha, which is a great place to start. This location, which combines the rich history of the empire with the busy metropolis, allows you to get the best of both worlds in one place. While the Bindu Sarovar lake, the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, and the Odisha State Museum are among the most prominent sites in the state, taking a stroll down the hawker streets will allow you to become absorbed in the simple local culture is also a must.
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