No one goes to Agartala and Tripura, so if you go, you will be in special company.
I stayed in a homestay outside the city, and the people’s jaws dropped as I walked by. Surprisingly, I had good fun here and will show you the things you can see and what you can avoid.
Planning a trip to India at some point? Check out my free ebook to help you save time and money, and avoid headaches. After +4 years in India, I’ve made plenty of mistakes, and this guide shares what I’ve learned so you can have a smoother trip.
How to Reach Agartala
By Flight: The easiest way to reach Agartala is by flying into Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport. Direct flights are available from major cities like Kolkata and Guwahati. The airport is about 12 kilometers from the city center, and taxis are readily available for the transfer.
By Train: Agartala Railway Station is well-connected with trains from Guwahati and Kolkata. From Guwahati, the journey takes about 12-14 hours, and from Kolkata, it’s around 30-32 hours. Once at the station, auto-rickshaws and taxis are available to take you to your destination.
By Sumo Taxi: For a more scenic route, you can take a Sumo taxi from nearby cities or towns like Silchar. These shared taxis are a popular option for travelers looking to experience the journey and local scenery. They are typically available at bus and taxi stands.
Read the full post with more tips on how I’ve gotten around India to see almost every state (and counting).
Things To Do in Agartala
Ujjayanta Palace
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Costs: INR 10 for entry
- Ben’s Tips: The palace is beautiful from the outside and inside. I got in trouble for making a video here, so be cautious with your camera.
Ujjayanta Palace is a stunning white palace that now houses the Tripura State Museum, showcasing the art, culture, and traditions of Tripura and Northeast India. The architecture is magnificent with high domes and carved wooden ceilings, making it a top attraction in Agartala.
Heritage Park
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Costs: Entry is free
- Ben’s Tips: It’s a great spot to relax and plan the rest of your trip. Check out the mini replicas of main attractions like Unnakoti, which can help you decide where to go next.
Heritage Park in Agartala is a serene and informative spot, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The park features shady paths that are ideal for escaping the midday sun. One of the highlights is the Agarwood tree, which the city is named after. This tree is famous for its fragrant wood, used in perfumes and incense.
The park also has mini replicas of Tripura’s main attractions, including the impressive rock-cut sculptures of Unnakoti. These replicas give you a preview and help plan your visits. Whether you’re looking to relax or gather ideas for your itinerary, Heritage Park offers a peaceful setting to do both.
Jagannath Temple
- Timings: 4:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Costs: No entry fee
- Ben’s Tips: One of my favorite places because the statues are colorful and violent. Great for those interested in unique religious art.
The Jagannath Temple, located within the Ujjayanta Palace grounds, is famous for its vibrant and somewhat intense statues and murals. The architecture blends Islamic and Hindu styles, and the annual Ratha Yatra festival here is a major event.
Here are my top travel hacks for India after +5 years.
Tripura Foods to Try
Tripura offers a unique culinary experience with flavors and ingredients distinct from other parts of India. Here are some must-try foods when visiting the region:
- Mui Borok: A staple in Tripuri homes, Mui Borok is a fermented fish dish mixed with vegetables. It’s slightly tangy and very flavorful, somewhat akin to the bold flavors of Southeast Asian fish paste dishes but with a spicier twist.
- Gudok: This dry fish-based dish is often cooked with bamboo shoots, green papaya, and various herbs. It’s typically steamed or boiled, providing a complex flavor similar to kimchi but with a distinctive fishy note.
- Wahan Mosdeng: Made from pork cooked with bamboo shoots, green chilies, and local herbs, this dish is spicy and aromatic. Think of it as a spicy pulled pork but with the unique crunch and flavor of bamboo shoots, much like some Thai or Vietnamese pork dishes.
- Chakwi: A lightly spiced dish that combines bamboo shoots with rice flour and chicken or fish, Chakwi is often served with rice. It’s similar to a mild chicken and rice casserole, with the added texture and flavor of bamboo shoots.
- Bangui Rice and Fish Stew: This dish includes sticky rice and a simple fish stew, providing a comforting and fresh flavor. It is similar to a simple chicken and rice soup, but with fish as the protein, it has a lighter and more delicate flavor.
Here are 30+ more authentic Indian dishes to consider trying.
Places To Eat
1 & Only Agartala
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Average Price for Two: ₹2500
- Location: Central Agartala
- Book a table or learn more their official website
The Fish Finger is highly recommended for its taste and texture, and the Gulaab Jamun is a favorite dessert among diners, offering a sweet and satisfying end to your meal. These dishes highlight the restaurant’s ability to deliver both flavor and quality.
1 & Only Agartala features an extensive menu that includes Continental, Chinese, and Indian cuisines. This variety ensures something for everyone, whether you’re craving spicy Indian curries or more familiar Continental dishes.
The restaurant has a cozy and comfortable ambiance, perfect for a relaxed dining experience. The staff are polite and attentive, enhancing the overall experience. However, be prepared for a bit of a wait, as the preparation time can be lengthy, so it’s best to visit when you have time to spare.
It is a great choice for food enthusiasts visiting the city. The diverse menu and warm ambiance make it a pleasant spot for a meal. While the wait times for food can be long, the quality and taste generally make up for it. It’s a solid option for those who enjoy a good meal in Agartala.
Babuna Tea and Snacks
- Timings: 8am – 10pm
- Costs: 50-200 INR
- Ben’s Tips: Good chai and my bun maska was okay.
It was a humble spot with little signage, so I walked right past it. The chai was full of delicious spices, and I went with the plain bun maska. However, it’s not as good as a typical bun maska I’ve had in Hyderabad, etc. Instead, their specialty is a chicken bun maska, and I’d go with that next time.
I answered the weird question, do Indian restaurants sprinkle cow urine on the food?
Places To Stay in Agartala
Homestay with Debashis and Family
- Amenities: There were good Wi-Fi speeds (+200 Mbps), a desk to work at, a firm bed, and hard pillows. Meals were provided, and the hosts were very friendly.
- Location: Outside the main city area to the south. 20 minutes by rickshaw to the city center.
I had a great stay here. The family was incredibly welcoming, and the kid even called me ‘uncle.’ They were accommodating when I got sick, providing a coconut and adjusting my meals. Just be aware of the conservative rules, such as no unmarried couples and no alcohol outside the room. This is common in this area.
Hotel Polo Towers Agartala
- Hours: Check-in: 12:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
- Average Price for Two: $75+ per night
- Location: Center of Agartala, near Ujjayanta Palace
Hotel Polo Towers is Tripura’s only 5-star hotel and is well-loved for its luxurious accommodations and excellent service. The rooms are spacious, and amenities include an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and a fitness center.
The ambiance is upscale yet comfortable, making it suitable for both business and leisure travelers. The staff are known for their attentiveness and hospitality, ensuring a pleasant stay for all guests.
Digital nomads will want to know the wifi speeds can vary based on room, so if you’re set on staying here as to see your room first. Go into it and check the wifi speed before agreeing. If it’s bad, ask for another room and ask to be by a router.
Hotel Polo Towers stands out in Agartala for its high standards of comfort and service. While the price is higher than other local options, the quality and amenities offered make it worth the extra cost. If you’re looking for a premium stay in Agartala, this is the place to be.
Here’s how to easily check the star rating on your hotel room to be sure you’re not going to stay in a dump.
Day Trips Nearby Agartala
Neermahal (Water Palace)
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Costs: 50 INR for boat, 50 INR for palace
- Ben’s Tips: Take a bus from the main station in Agartala instead of getting on at the outskirts to avoid standing. Sit in front of the boat for the best views and videos.
This is the main reason to visit Tripura. The palace is on a lake and you reach it via a short ferry ride. It’s a bit crowded but worth it for the beautiful views and photo opportunities.
Unnakoti
- Timings: (Please add)
- Costs: (Please add)
- Ben’s Tips: Take a train to Kumarghat station and then 20 km in a taxi.
Unnakoti is known for its ancient rock carvings and sculptures and is Tripura’s version of Angkor Wat with amazing rock-cut sculptures.. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but worth the trip for history and art enthusiasts.
Jampui Hills
- Travel: From Agartala, you can reach Jampui Hills by bus or taxi, which takes 4-5 hours. A bus ticket costs approximately INR 200-300, while a taxi might cost around INR 2000-2500.
- Trekking: Several routes are available, from easy day treks to more challenging two-day hikes. A guided trekking tour costs about INR 1000-1500 per day. You especially want to see Betlingchhip Peak.
- Accommodation: Basic accommodation and homestays are available in the hill villages, costing around INR 1000 per night.
Jampui Hills, known as the “Eternal Hills of Spring,” offers a refreshing escape with pleasant weather year-round. They are comparable to the scenic beauty of Coorg in Karnataka but are less commercialized and more tranquil.
In the United States, they resemble the Great Smoky Mountains with their rolling hills and rich biodiversity. Jampui Hills resemble Germany’s Black Forest in Europe, known for its dense woods and charming villages. This serene landscape and cultural richness make Jampui Hills a unique destination.
The hills offer panoramic views of the valleys, orchards, and orange plantations. During the trek, you’ll pass through lush forests and charming tribal villages.
The area is rich in biodiversity, with various species of birds and butterflies, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
Interact with the local tribes and experience their unique culture and hospitality.
If you fly into Delhi, here are some solo day trips to consider before heading to Tripura.
FAQs
Is it safe to travel to Agartala?
Yes, Agartala is generally safe for tourists. Just take standard precautions and realize that not many tourists come here so you will stand out.
What is the best time to visit Agartala?
The best time to visit is between October and February when the weather is pleasant. I went in March and it was hot in the 30s Celsius (80s – 90s Farenheit) so if you’re not used to hot temps then avoid the summer.
Are there good internet facilities in Agartala?
Yes, some places, like my homestay had good wifi with 5G speeds over 200 mbps. However, speeds can vary and in rural areas it will be slow.
What should I be aware of as a foreign tourist in Agartala?
Be mindful of the conservative nature of the area, especially if you’re an unmarried couple. Also, alcohol availability is restricted.