East India, India Travel Guide

Explore East India: A Journey Through Cultural Riches, Natural Beauty, and Historical Wonders.

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East India, a region of diverse cultures, traditions, and landscapes, is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. From the lush tea gardens of Assam to the vibrant festivals of West Bengal, East India offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Start your journey with Kolkata, the cultural capital of India. Known for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and the famous Howrah Bridge, Kolkata is a city that never sleeps. Don’t miss the Victoria Memorial, a stunning relic of British India, and the Indian Museum, one of the oldest in the country. Move on to the serene landscapes of Sikkim and Darjeeling. Known for their breathtaking views of the Himalayas, these destinations are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Enjoy a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim for a dose of spirituality. Assam, with its sprawling tea gardens and the mighty Brahmaputra River, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros, is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Odisha, another gem of East India, is famous for its ancient temples and beautiful coastline. The Sun Temple in Konark and the Jagannath Temple in Puri are architectural marvels that attract pilgrims from all over the world. The beaches of Puri and Gopalpur are perfect for a relaxing getaway. Bihar, with its historical significance and spiritual heritage, is a fascinating destination. Visit Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, and explore the ancient ruins of Nalanda University. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a place of pilgrimage and peace.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring East India.

When visiting Kolkata, try the local street food like puchkas (pani puri) and kathi rolls.
In Darjeeling, wake up early to catch the sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill.
Book safaris in Kaziranga National Park in advance, as they can get fully booked quickly.
Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries in Odisha and Bihar.
Carry warm clothing when traveling to Sikkim and Darjeeling, as temperatures can drop significantly.

Top City Travel Guides in East India

The cities of East India, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Kolkata

Varanasi

Darjeeling

Lucknow

Gangtok

Destinations in East India

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Himalayan Mountains

Puri

Digha

Explore East India: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in East India

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Dassam Falls

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Dassam Falls, where nature's splendor meets adventure in Jharkhand.

4.4

Odisha Tour Places

Discover the enchanting beauty and rich culture of Odisha, where ancient temples meet stunning landscapes and vibrant traditions.

4.5

Shree Jagannatha Temple Puri

Discover the spiritual heart of Odisha at the Shree Jagannatha Temple, a magnificent monument of faith, art, and ancient traditions.

4.7

Baisi Pahacha

Ascend the sacred Baisi Pahacha at Jagannath Temple, Puri, and experience a spiritual journey through history, legend, and devotion.

4.5

Best landmarks in East India

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Gateway Of India Mumbai

Explore the Gateway of India, a breathtaking landmark in Mumbai that embodies the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

4.6

India Gate

Explore India Gate, a monumental tribute in New Delhi honoring soldiers, surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant city life.

4.6

Taj Mahal

Explore the enchanting beauty and rich history of the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a timeless symbol of love in Agra, India.

4.6

Konark Sun Temple

Explore the architectural splendor and rich heritage of the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Odisha, India.

4.7

Best restaurants in East India

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

The Black Pearl Marathahalli |best barbeque restaurant in marathahalli

Discover exquisite barbecue delights at The Black Pearl Marathahalli - Bengaluru's premier buffet restaurant offering an exceptional dining experience.

4.1

Haldiram's Thaat Baat Restaurant

Experience authentic Indian flavors at Haldiram's Thaat Baat Restaurant – where tradition meets modernity in every dish.

4.2

Parikrama The Revolving Restaurant

Experience fine dining at Parikrama The Revolving Restaurant with stunning views of New Delhi's skyline and diverse culinary delights.

4.1

Haldiram's

Discover the flavors of India at Haldiram's in Nagpur - a family-friendly restaurant offering delicious meals and delightful sweets.

4.2

Best bars in East India

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Peter Cat

Experience the rich flavors of North Indian cuisine at Peter Cat, a renowned restaurant in Kolkata's Park Street area, famous for its delectable kebabs.

4.2

Hard Rock Cafe

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of music and American cuisine at Hard Rock Cafe Kolkata, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

4.4

On The Rocks - Restobar & Lounge - Mahal

Experience the vibrant nightlife and exquisite dining at On The Rocks, Nagpur's premier restobar & lounge with stunning views.

4.9

Refinery 091

Discover the vibrant ambiance and exquisite flavors at Refinery 091, Kolkata's top pub and restaurant, perfect for social gatherings and celebrations.

4.4

Best nightclubs in East India

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Nolimmits Lounge & Club

Discover Bengaluru's dynamic nightlife at Nolimmits Lounge & Club, a top destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.

3.9

The East India Company - The Restro Lounge

Experience luxury dining at The East India Company in Nagpur, offering exquisite global cuisine and a vibrant lounge atmosphere.

4.2

Prism Club & Kitchen

Discover the vibrant energy of Prism Club & Kitchen, Hyderabad's premier nightlife destination for exquisite dining and unforgettable experiences.

4.0

Club One Peg Down - OPD

Discover the pulse of Bhubaneswar's nightlife at Club One Peg Down - OPD, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.

4.4

Best shops in East India

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Phoenix Marketcity

Explore Phoenix Marketcity, Bengaluru's premier shopping mall, blending retail, dining, and entertainment under one roof for an unforgettable experience.

4.5

DLF Mall of India

Explore the vibrant DLF Mall of India, where shopping meets entertainment in a stunning architectural marvel in Noida.

4.6

Nexus Select CityWalk

Discover the ultimate shopping and entertainment destination at Nexus Select CityWalk in New Delhi, where every visit is a delightful experience.

4.6

The Great India Place

Discover the ultimate shopping and entertainment experience at The Great India Place in Noida, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

4.4

Explore East India on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in East India, mapped for you.

East India Essentials

East India is accessible via several international airports such as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, and Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. Domestic flights connect these cities to other parts of India. Train travel is also a popular and scenic option, with major railway stations in Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati. Long-distance buses and private taxis are available for intercity travel.
In East India, the main modes of transportation within cities include buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. Kolkata features a metro system, while other cities have bus networks and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber. For a more local experience, cycle rickshaws are available in many towns. Trains and long-distance buses are ideal for traveling between cities and states. Renting a car is another option, although navigating the roads can be challenging for first-time visitors.
The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas and small establishments. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns, but it’s a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to remote areas.
East India is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be wary of pickpockets in crowded places. Some areas with higher crime rates include certain neighborhoods in Kolkata, such as parts of Park Street and Howrah. Always keep your belongings secure and stay aware of your surroundings. Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi and avoid sharing personal information.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Hospitals and clinics are available in major cities and towns. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available. Always keep a list of emergency contacts, including the nearest embassy or consulate.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering temples and cover your head when required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' by joining your palms together. A handshake is also common, especially in urban areas. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Avoid eating with your left hand as it is considered unclean.
To experience East India like a local, visit the bustling markets and bazaars where you can buy traditional crafts, spices, and textiles. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture. Don’t miss trying street food, especially in Kolkata. Attend local festivals like Durga Puja in West Bengal or Rath Yatra in Odisha. For a unique experience, consider a boat ride on the Ganges River or exploring the Sundarbans mangrove forests.

When is the best time to visit East India?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for East India

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in East India. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloনমস্কার
  [Nomoskar]
- Goodbyeবিদায়
  [Bidai]
- Yesহ্যাঁ
  [Hya]
- Noনা
  [Na]
- Please/You're welcomeদয়া করে/স্বাগতম
  [Doya kore/Swagatam]
- Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [Dhonnobad]
- Excuse me/Sorryমাফ করবেন/দুঃখিত
  [Maf korben/Dukhito]
- How are you?আপনি কেমন আছেন?
  [Apni kemon achen?]
- Fine. And you?ভাল। এবং আপনি?
  [Bhalo. Ebong apni?]
- Do you speak English?আপনি ইংরেজি বলতে পারেন?
  [Apni Ingreji bolte paren?]
- I don't understandআমি বুঝি না
  [Ami bujhi na]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseমেনু দেখানো হবে, দয়া করে
  [Menu dekhano hobe, doya kore]
- I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
  [Ami mangsho khai na]
- Cheers!চিয়ার্স!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseআমি পেমেন্ট করতে চাই, দয়া করে
  [Ami payment korte chai, doya kore]
- Help!সাহায্য করুন!
  [Sahajjo korun!]
- Go away!চলে যাও!
  [Chole jao!]
- Call the Police!পুলিশ ডাকুন!
  [Polish dakun!]
- Call a doctor!ডাক্তর ডাকুন!
  [Doktor dakun!]
- I'm lostআমি হারিয়ে গেছি
  [Ami hariye gechi]
- I'm illআমি অসুস্থ
  [Ami osustho]
- I'd like to buy...আমি কিনতে চাই...
  [Ami kinte chai...]
- I'm just lookingআমি শুধু দেখছি
  [Ami shudhu dekhchi]
- How much is it?এটার দাম কত?
  [Etar dam koto?]
- That's too expensiveএটা খুব দামী
  [Eta khub dami]
- Can you lower the price?আপনি কি দাম কমাতে পারেন?
  [Apni ki dam komate paren?]
- What time is it?এখন কত বাজে?
  [Ekhon koto baje?]
- It's one o'clockএখন একটি বাজে
  [Ekhon akta baje]
- Half past (10)দশটার অর্ধেক
  [Dosh tar arddhek]
- Morningসকাল
  [Shokal]
- Afternoonদুপুর
  [Dupur]
- Eveningসন্ধ্যা
  [Shondhya]
- Yesterdayগতকাল
  [Gotokal]
- Todayআজ
  [Aaj]
- Tomorrowকাল
  [Kal]
- 1১
  [1]
- 2২
  [2]
- 3৩
  [3]
- 4৪
  [4]
- 5৫
  [5]
- 6৬
  [6]
- 7৭
  [7]
- 8৮
  [8]
- 9৯
  [9]
- 10১০
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?কোথায় একটি ...?
  [Kothay akta ...?]
- What's the address?ঠিকানা কী?
  [Thikana ki?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?আপনি কি আমাকে দেখাতে পারেন (ম্যাপে)?
  [Apni ki amake dekhate paren (map-e)?]
- When's the next (bus)?পরবর্তী (বাস) কখন?
  [Poroborti (bas) kokhon?]
- A ticket (to ....)একটি টিকেট (.... এর জন্য)
  [Ekti ticket (... er jonno)]

History of East India

East India, comprising West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand, has been a cradle of ancient civilizations. The region was home to the powerful Magadha Empire that emerged around 600 BCE, which later evolved into the Maurya and Gupta Empires. These empires played a significant role in shaping Indian culture, politics, and religion, with Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) serving as a prominent capital city.
East India is a significant region for both Buddhism and Jainism. The ancient city of Bodh Gaya in Bihar is where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha around the 6th century BCE. Similarly, the Jain Tirthankara, Mahavira, was born in Vaishali, Bihar. These religious movements left an indelible mark on the culture, architecture, and spiritual landscape of East India.
During the medieval period, East India witnessed the rise of several noteworthy dynasties, including the Pala Empire (8th-12th centuries) and the Sena Dynasty. The Palas were great patrons of Buddhism and supported the construction of monasteries like Nalanda and Vikramashila, which became renowned centers of learning. The region also saw the flourishing of art, literature, and architecture during this period.
East India played a crucial role during the British colonial period. The city of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) in West Bengal served as the capital of British India until 1911. The region witnessed significant events such as the Bengal Renaissance, which was a cultural, social, and intellectual movement that greatly influenced modern Indian thought. The struggle for Indian independence also had deep roots in East India, with notable figures like Subhas Chandra Bose and the activities of the Indian National Congress leaving a lasting legacy.
After India gained independence in 1947, East India underwent substantial socio-economic transformations. The region faced challenges such as partition-related displacement and economic restructuring. However, states like West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand have made significant strides in education, industry, and agriculture. Kolkata remains a cultural hub, while Bhubaneswar and Patna have emerged as important urban centers in the region.
East India is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. The region celebrates a diverse array of festivals, such as Durga Puja in West Bengal, Chhath Puja in Bihar, and Rath Yatra in Odisha, each with its unique rituals and traditions. The traditional music, dance forms like Odissi and Chhau, and the exquisite handloom textiles from this region reflect the deep cultural roots and artistic expressions of its people.
The culinary landscape of East India is as diverse as its history. Each state boasts a distinct cuisine, with West Bengal famous for its fish dishes and sweets like rasgulla, Odisha known for its temple food and pithas, Bihar for its litti chokha and sweets like khaja, and Jharkhand for its tribal cuisine. The food in this region is a delightful amalgamation of flavors, reflecting its agricultural abundance and cultural diversity.