Agartala is the capital of Tripura, once a princely state, now a bit of India jutting into Bangladesh. Green and bamboo-rich Agartala has a mainly Bengali population in the plains while Mizos live in the hills. The town’s prime attraction is the Ujjayanta Palace in the centre of the town. Built in 1901, it has magnificent tiled floors, curved wooden ceilings and lovely doors. Kamalasagar pond is a pilgrimage and tourist spot, 27 km from Agartala.

Udaipur, 55 km from Agartala, was the former capital of Tripura. The town has a clutch of lakes – Jagannath Dighi, Amar Sagar, Rudrasagar, Mahadev Dighi and Kalyan Sagar. Rudrasagar lies next to Neermahal, a beautiful lake palace and Tripura’s most famous building. There also are the ruins of an older palace and the ancient Bhubaneshwari Temple. About 3 km from Udaipur is the ancient shrine of Tripurasundari.

Imposing entrance of Ujjayanta Palace, Agartala
Imposing entrance of Ujjayanta Palace, Agartala
Puneet K. Paliwal

The Jampui Hills, around 86 km from Agartala, are one of the main hill ranges of Tripura – home to Mizo villages, orange and lemon orchards, ornamental trees, exotic orchids and varied birdlife. Village tours and trekking are organised. The Orange Festival is a big draw.

WHERE TO STAY AND EAT

Welcome Palace Hotel (Tel: 0381-2384940; Tariff: ₹799-3,599) and Ginger Agartala (Tel: 2411333; Tariff: ₹2,960-5,999) are the best options here.

When to go October to March Location Situated near the Bangladesh border, Agartala is 600 km S of Guwahati Air Nearest airport: Agartala Rail Nearest rail: Agartala