Eastern India is known for its rich culture, storybook landscapes and diverse array of activities. Join us as we explore the best things to do in Eastern India, from visiting ancient temples and monuments to trekking through picturesque mountain ranges and sampling local cuisines. Read on for the hidden gems and must-see attractions of this fascinating region as we help you plan your next adventure…
Tour Ancient Temples
Temple hopping is one of the most popular things to do in Eastern India. The region has a bounty of ancient temples and monuments, each with its own unique story and architectural style which offers visitors a glimpse into Eastern India’s past. One of the most famous temples is the UNESCO listed Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God (depicted in Hindu mythology as a red man with three eyes and four arms, riding in a chariot drawn by seven mares) and is a perfect example of the Kalinga architecture of this region. Another popular destination for temple hopping is Bishnupur in West Bengal. Home to over a thousand temples, it has earned the nickname of the ‘Temple City of India.’ The temples here are built using laterite stones and are adorned with ancient carvings and sculptures which have stood the test of time.
Head into the Hills
Eastern India is a hiker’s paradise, with an array of trails to explore ranging from serene strolls to lung-busting treks. The Eastern Ghats – a chain of mountains that run parallel to the east coast of India – is particularly popular among keen walkers, offering far-reaching views, challenging climbs and diverse flora and fauna, including around 290 bird species, nearly 4,000 insects and the largest population of Asiatic elephants in the world. The Darjeeling Himalayan range is another popular destination for hiking. This famous tea-growing region is a land of undulating green hills blanketed in neat tea gardens where we can arrange for you to tour plantations and try some of the world’s best brews – the perfect pick me up after a tiring day of hiking. Hiking in Eastern India is about more than just beautiful nature, too. With many trails passing through small villages, you can experience the culture and lifestyle of local communities and stay in traditional guesthouses.
Explore Downstream
If sweaty hikes aren’t your cup of (Darjeeling) tea, experience the region's culture and natural beauty on a river cruise on the Brahmaputra River in Assam. The Brahmaputra River, which flows through China, India and Bangladesh, is one of the largest and most significant rivers in Asia. During the cruise, you’ll pass traditional villages, learn about the area’s wildlife and – if you’re luck – spot the rare Gangetic dolphin, which is found in the Brahmaputra and its tributaries. Cruises usually take place on traditional boats, such as the local bhotias and dhows and range from day trips to multi-day tours. Some trips can also include a visit to the famous Majuli Island, which is the largest river island in the world and is home to many traditional Assamese villages and ancient satras (Vaishnavite monasteries). River cruises in Eastern India are not only an opportunity to soak in the beauty of the region but also to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the local communities as you take tours of traditional villages, attend cultural performances and sample local cuisine. It's a unique experience that will give visitors a deeper understanding of the region and its people and should be on anyone’s list of things to do in Eastern India.
Get the Adrenaline Pumping
If you’re more interested in adrenaline inducing activities, there are plenty of adventurous things to do in Eastern India. One of the most popular adventure activities in Eastern India is white water rafting and the Brahmaputra River in Assam and the Teesta River in West Bengal offer excellent white water rafting trips. Another popular adventure activity in Eastern India is paragliding. The Darjeeling region in West Bengal offers some of the best paragliding opportunities in the country. On a tandem flight, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas while soaring through the sky with the birds. And for those who love to climb, Eastern India offers excellent rock climbing opportunities in the Eastern Ghats and the Darjeeling Himalayan range. There are several climbing routes and on a guided rock climbing trip you can explore the beautiful mountain ranges while learning new techniques.