Top Places to visit in East India

Known For : Nathula Pass MG Road, Gangtok Tsomgo Lake

Extremely alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital city of the Sikkim can also give you a spectacular view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, at a distant skyline. The pristine hill station nestled in mountains and clouds is also a base for a whole lot of trekkers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. The mesmerising prismatic beauty and the beautiful winding hill roads are even more breathtaking if seen from a bird’s eye view in a cable car.

Best Time: Throughout the year

34 Gangtok Attractions

Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Shillong Peak

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya and often referred to as the 'Scotland of the East', is a picturesque hill station surrounded by pine trees and stands at an altitude of 1496 meters. Its name originates from Lei Shyllong, an idol worshipped at Shillong Peak. Known for its captivating beauty, pleasant climate, and rich tribal heritage, it's a year-round travel destination.

Best Time: September to May

33 Shillong Attractions

Known For : Tiger Hill Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Batasia Loop

Jaw-dropping locales, mesmerising sunrises, the untouched beauty of the hills, the old-world charm of the past, and the welcoming smiles of the local people all add up to make Darjeeling one of the most beautiful hill stations in Eastern part of India. Spread over a steep mountain ridge, nestled amidst acres of lush green tea plantations, Darjeeling stands at the height of 2,050 meters above sea level, thus boasting of cool climes all year round. This scenic hill station is the perfect getaway for a romantic honeymoon and is just around 700 kilometres away from Kolkata.

Best Time: February to March, September to December

31 Darjeeling Attractions

Known For : Gurudongmar Lake Yumthang Valley Lachen

North Sikkim, sharing boundaries with China and Nepal, is an enchanting yet largely uninhabited region known for its stunning landscapes and harsh conditions. The town of Mangan, located at an altitude of 956 meters, is the district's headquarters and acts as a base for trekking in the area. The region is celebrated for the Gurudongmar Lake, one of India's highest lakes with religious significance, and its historically rich monasteries.

Best Time: April to June, October to December

13 North Sikkim Attractions

Known For : Tarin Fish Farm Kile Pakho Ziro Music Festival

Ziro, nestled in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, is a mesmerizing valley known for its lush paddy fields and the world-famous Ziro Music Festival. Enveloped by misty mountains, the region is home to the Apatani tribe, whose unique agricultural practices and sustainable way of living have been nominated for a UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The valley's captivating landscapes, rich tribal culture, and the rhythmic beats of its annual music festival make Ziro a must-visit destination in Northeast India.

Best Time: September - November ; March - May

9 Ziro Attractions

Home to the largest population of the one-horned rhino on earth, Kaziranga National Park is one of India’s national treasures in terms of flora and fauna. Located in the state of Assam in North-Eastern India, its total area is shared by the districts of Nagaon, Golaghat and Karbi Anglong placing it roughly at the centre of the state. Approximately around five hours by road from Guwahati, Kaziranga National Park stands tall as the epitome of successful wildlife conservation in India. In 1985, it was awarded the status of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Best Time: October to June

Known For : Kamalabari Satra Dakhinpat Satra Garmur

Majuli, the world's largest river island located in the Brahmaputra, is just 20 km from Jorhat and 347 km from Guwahati. Recognized as one of India's most surreal places and a contender for UNESCO's World Heritage Sites, this island is the cultural capital of Assam, inhabited mostly by tribals and renowned for its unique festivities, especially the vibrant Raas festival. This pristine, pollution-free destination attracts global tourists with its rich tribal culture and lush green landscapes.

Best Time: October - April

5 Majuli Attractions

Known For : Tawang Monastery Sela Pass Madhuri Lake

Tawang, nestled in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, is renowned for its magnificent Tawang Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in India. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, the region offers breathtaking landscapes and is steeped in rich Tibetan culture. Beyond its spiritual significance, Tawang is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with its pristine lakes, alpine meadows, and diverse flora and fauna.

Best Time: March - June; September - October

13 Tawang Attractions

Known For : Mahabodhi Temple Great Buddha Statue Tibetan Refugee Market

One of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists, Bodhgaya is a village in the state of Bihar. It was here under the Bodhi tree that Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The place is bustling with pilgrims all through the year who come to pay their homage in the monasteries, shrines and temples. It also attracts tourists from India and abroad owing to its magnificent Buddha statue, the Mahabodhi Temple and the Bodhi tree.

Best Time: October to March

26 Bodh Gaya Attractions

Known For : Victoria Memorial Fort William Kolkata Belur Math

Kolkata, India's second-largest city and the capital of West Bengal, is a vibrant blend of old colonial-era charm and modern hipster culture, known for its artistic, cultural, and intellectual contributions. Dubbed the City of Joy, it presents a kaleidoscope of stark contradictions, bustling streets, and an unyielding spirit of its middle-class. This 350-year-old metropolis thrives on its rich heritage while embracing the dynamism of the present.

Best Time: October to March

79 Kolkata Attractions

Known For : Mahanada Wildlife Sanctuary Sumsing and Suntalekhola Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary

Dooars, situated at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in North-East India, is renowned for its lush green forests, vibrant wildlife, and meandering streams. This region serves as the gateway to Bhutan and boasts of scenic landscapes interspersed with tea gardens and picturesque valleys. Rich in biodiversity, Dooars is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering national parks, sanctuaries, and an array of flora and fauna.

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 Dooars Attractions

Known For : Gopalpur Beach Ramha (Chilika) Gopalpur Lighthouse

Gopalpur, situated on the coast of Odisha, is a serene beach town known for its pristine sandy shores and azure waters. Once a bustling sea port, it's now a quiet retreat offering visitors a chance to unwind amidst its old-world charm and the rhythmic lapping of the Bay of Bengal waves. The town's historical remnants, coupled with its palm-fringed beaches, make Gopalpur a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.

Best Time: November to February

9 Gopalpur Attractions

Known For : Sun Temple, Konark Chandrabhaga Beach ASI Museum

Konark, located in Odisha, is renowned for its 13th-century Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, often dubbed as the 'Black Pagoda' due to its dark hue. The temple is an architectural marvel, adorned with intricate carvings, depicting the grandeur of ancient Indian artistry, and is designed in the form of a colossal chariot with twelve pairs of stone-carved wheels. Apart from its historical significance, Konark also hosts the annual dance festival, attracting global performers and tourists, celebrating Odisha's rich cultural heritage.

Best Time: September to March

5 Konark Attractions

Known For : Mirik Lake Pashupati Nagar Orange Orchards

Mirik, nestled in the serene hills of West Bengal, is best known for its captivating Sumendu Lake, surrounded by a beautifully manicured garden and pine trees. The town offers picturesque views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga and vast stretches of lush tea gardens. Besides its natural beauty, visitors often indulge in boating in the lake, horse riding, and exploring nearby monasteries and orange orchards.

Best Time: March to July

9 Mirik Attractions

Nameri National Park, located in Assam, is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its rich variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered white-winged wood duck. The park, spanning over 200 square kilometers, is a haven for bird watchers with over 300 species of birds documented. Apart from bird watching, the park offers thrilling activities like river rafting in the Jia Bhoroli river and trekking through its dense forests.

Best Time: November to April

Known For : Vantawng Falls Chhingpuii Thlan Thenzawl

Serchhip, situated in Mizoram, is known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant Mizo culture. It boasts the highest literacy rate in India and offers visitors a chance to experience the rich traditions of the local tribes. The region is also home to the Vantawng Falls, one of Mizoram's most stunning natural attractions.

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 Serchhip Attractions

Known For : Talatal Ghar Rang Ghar Ahom Museum

Sibsagar, located in Assam, is a historical town renowned for its ancient monuments and Ahom Kingdom legacy. The town's centerpiece is the Sibsagar Lake, flanked by significant structures like the Sivadol, Vishnudol, and Devidol temples. These remnants of the Ahom dynasty narrate tales of the region's rich past and architectural prowess.

Best Time: October to March

9 Sibsagar Attractions

Known For : Tura Peak Siju Caves Balpakram National Park

Tura, nestled in the West Garo Hills of Meghalaya, is a captivating hill town enveloped by lush valleys and verdant hills. Known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, it acts as a gateway to the Balpakram National Park, a habitat rich in wildlife. Tura's Nokrek Peak, the highest in the Garo Hills, offers panoramic views and is a major attraction for both trekkers and nature lovers.

Best Time: Throughout the year

9 Tura Attractions

Known For : Mawlyngbna Mawjymbuin Cave Nohalikalai Falls

Mawsynram, situated in the Indian state of Meghalaya, holds the distinction of being the wettest place on Earth, receiving the highest annual rainfall. This village is characterized by its lush, rolling hills, verdant landscapes, and numerous living root bridges crafted by the Khasi tribe. Visitors are often captivated by the Mawjymbuin Cave, which houses a naturally formed Shivalinga, further elevating the region's mystical allure.

Best Time: June - August; November - February

7 Mawsynram Attractions

Known For : Durtlang Hills Reiek Vantawng Falls

Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram in Northeast India, is perched on high ridges with panoramic views of the surrounding verdant valleys. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant Mizo traditions, and landmarks like the Mizoram State Museum, which showcases the region's history and ethnic diversity. The serene and picturesque setting, combined with the warm hospitality of the Mizo people, makes Aizawl a unique and inviting destination for travelers.

Best Time: Throughout the year

15 Aizawl Attractions

Known For : Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Museum Ambotia Shiva Mandir Tea Gardens in Kurseong

Kurseong, located in West Bengal, is a picturesque hill station often referred to as the 'Land of White Orchids' due to its abundant growth of these flowers. Nestled amidst the verdant tea gardens, the town offers breathtaking views of the mighty Himalayan peaks and is known for its pleasant climate year-round. Its colonial-era architecture, churches, and the renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, make Kurseong a delightful destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Best Time: April to May, August to October

9 Kurseong Attractions

Known For : Marine Station/Aquarium of Zoological Survey of India New Digha Beach Udaipur Beach

Digha, situated in West Bengal, is a popular beach town known for its serene beauty and extensive sandy beaches. Often referred to as the 'Brighton of the East', Digha attracts tourists with its mesmerizing sunrises, local seafood delicacies, and beach activities. The town is an ideal getaway for those seeking tranquility and the joys of the Bay of Bengal's coastline.

Best Time: July to March

9 Digha Attractions

Known For : Raghurajpur Artist Village Sri Jagannath Puri Temple Puri Beach Markandeswara Temple

Puri, located in Orissa (now known as Odisha), is a revered pilgrimage destination and is home to the iconic Jagannath Temple. Besides its spiritual significance, Puri boasts a vast stretch of sandy beach along the Bay of Bengal, making it a popular seaside destination. The annual Rath Yatra, or chariot festival, in Puri is a grand spectacle that attracts devotees and tourists from around the world.

Best Time: July to March

29 Puri Attractions

Known For : Majuli Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary Dhekiakhowa Bor Namghar

Jorhat, situated in Assam, serves as a significant cultural and commercial hub in the northeastern region of India. It's known for its sprawling tea estates and the prestigious Tocklai Tea Research Centre, which plays a pivotal role in the tea industry. Additionally, Jorhat acts as a gateway to the World Heritage Site, Majuli, the largest river island in the world.

Best Time: October to March

21 Jorhat Attractions