Tripura travel guide

Tripura, a land of diverse culture adorned by mountains and valleys all around, Tripura is one of the most beautiful states in North East India. Around 30% of the people living here belong to tribal communities; this explains the rich cultural diversity that is visible in the state. Tripura is the 3rd smallest state in India and it has got its name from the reputed Tripura Sundari Temple located here. This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeta temples.

Tripura is surrounded by the neighbouring country of Bangladesh and states like Assam and Mizoram on all its four sides. Bengali (70% of the people speak this) and Korborok (tribal language) are the official languages of the state. Close to 84% of the people in the state are Hindus. Tripura is home to around 19 scheduled tribal communities.

Since Goddess Durga is the main deity worshipped here, Navaratri is the most important festival celebrated here. During festivals and other special occasions, tribes perform brilliant folk dances along with Indian classical dance forms. When you come visit Tripura, you cannot afford to miss the royal palaces and architectural marvels in the form of ancient temples.

• Visit glorious Agaratala to witness the Ujjayanta Palace and Gedu Mia's Mosque.
• Don't miss visiting Neermahal palace amidst mighty Rudrasagar lake.
• Visit Jampui the charming one and only hill station of Tripura.
• Visit Tripura Museum to explore the intersting artefacts.
• Spend a day in between scenic, flora and fauna at Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary and Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Visit 'Kunjaban Palace', the official residence of Governor of Tripura.
• Spent an evening at picturesque Lake Domboor watching folk of migratory birds.
• Visit Dharmanagar, to witness the historic ruins of Tripura kingdom.
• Plan your trip during Durga Puja to witness the innovative idols and festive spirit.

It is best to visit the Tripura is from October to March. During these months the climate is pleasant and extremely beautiful. Since the majority of people are of Bengali tribes Durga Puja is celebrated with great zeal here. You can plan to visit during this time.

Tripura is a land of many cultures. Though tribes dominate population here, there are lot of other religions and communities that have played an immense role in shaping up different aspects of Tripura, including its cuisine. Non-vegetarian food is mostly loved by people in Tripura; however, there are few strict vegetarians as well, belonging to the neo-Vaishnavism sect.

Berma is one of the staple foods of Tripura. Dried fish is fermented nicely to make this. Generally, Tripuri food is considered to be very healthy as there is very little oil used to make these. MuiBorok is the name given to authentic Tripuri cuisine. Meat, fish stews, pork, bamboo shoots and rice beer are some of the common dishes prepared in Tripura.

Dishes exclusive to Tripura

• Hilsa – Boiled fish with green chillies and mustard seeds
• Chuak – Rice beer reserved for special occasions and functions
• Kosoi – Bwtwi – Special combination of vegetables (mostly beans) &Berma fish
• MosdengSerma – famous chutney using Berma fish, tomato, garlic & green chillies

Apart from these, one can see Chinese & Bengali cuisines served in most of the restaurants in Tripura.

All the North Eastern states in India are known for their excellent collections of handicrafts and artefacts. Tripura is no exception to this rule. When you visit the state, some of the things that you would love to take back home as souvenirs are intricately carved wooden handicrafts, items made from bamboo, cane, clay& palm leaves and exquisite handlooms. You will also find excellent quality of terracotta jewellery in almost all the local markets of Tripura.

If you are looking to buy handlooms, handicrafts and silk woven products from government-owned stores, you must visit Purbasha. You will find an impressive collection of silk scarves and stoles here. The prices at this store are quite steep; however, the quality of the products is worth every penny. At other places like the local bazaars, you can exercise your bargaining skills to the maximum possible extent to get good deals on your favourite products. The capital city of Agartala is where you need to head to, in order to buy some of the best handlooms and handicrafts in Tripura.