Agartala, once home to the Manikya Kings, is the ideal blend of natural beauty and varied and rich heritage. Agartala isn't just about flowers and valleys; it's also about the cultural diversity of the people who live here, as well as historical and religious structures. Tripura's capital manages to establish its own culture and identity by combining the stories of all persons who live here and giving it their own color. It is the state's most developed area, yet it is still a long way from the metros, thus it has the best of both worlds.
Since the Indo-Bangladesh border is approximately 2 kilometres away, Agartala reflects the lovely culture and language of the neighbouring country. Bamboo goods, hand-woven garments, and beautiful textiles are some of the city's most well-known native art and craft. Despite the abundance of things to do in Agartala, it is a must-see for individuals who want to escape the monotony of daily life and submerge themselves in rich history, culture, and stunning surroundings.

A Historical Montage

One of the early rulers was Patardan, who governed Agartala around 1900 B.C.. Loknath Jivandharan, Drikpati, Chitrarath, and Dharmapha were among the other noteworthy leaders. Before the Manikya Dynasty, these rulers ruled. The Mughals also ruled the state, which was seized over by the British in 1808. Tripura's capital was not always in this city. Maharaj Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the state's final king, declared it the capital city in 1849. This move was made to allow Tripura to communicate easily with the British authorities in Bengal. The same ruler is also credited with founding Agartala, the modern metropolis it is today.
During India's independence, citizens of the country formed the 'Ganamukti Parishad.' It was intended for the state to be renamed the Kingdom of India. Maharani Kanchanprava Devi, the queen at the time, signed a treaty that merged the state with the free country. Tripura was once a Union Territory, and it was just recently elevated to the status of a state in 1972.

Take Pleasure in the Arts and Culture 

The Garia and Lebang Boomani dances are among the indigenous folk dances of Tripura/Agartala. Garia is conducted during seed-planting season, whereas Lebang (named after a type of bug) is performed just before the monsoon season to commemorate the annual arrival of insects looking for sown seeds. Locals enjoy making artefacts out of bamboo and crane, which is a famous craft in India and elsewhere. Mats, bags, baskets, and other items are among their creations. Bamboos are still used to build dwellings by several native tribes in the city. Another popular craft in the city is intricately carved jewellery.
Tipra Bharot is the name given to Tripuri folk music. Traditions, festivals, farming, romance, and wedding songs are all featured in their folk music. Agartala's culture is greatly influenced by Bengali culture due to its proximity to Bangladesh. Durga and Saraswati Pujas are celebrated with zeal by the villagers. Kharchi (sin purification) and Garia Puja are two more local celebrations (ethnic tribe carnival). Numerous temples and Buddhist pilgrimage sites can be found throughout the city.

Things to do at Agartala 

• Trekking in Jampui Hills: The Jampui Hills are the highest point in the state and border Mizoram. It's a lovely spot with pleasant weather all year, and it's now known for its orange groves, which produce some of the best oranges in the area. Jampui Hills also has a lovely trekking track that is not too difficult and can be done by anyone visiting Agartala. The trip leads hikers through meandering streams, valleys, and hills, giving them a view of the area's amazing natural beauty.
• Immerse yourself in this architectural marvel: Ujjayanta Palace was constructed more than a century ago and had to be rebuilt after being damaged by an earthquake. From 1972 to 2012, the Palace was used to house the Tripura Legislative Assembly. The palace was turned into the Tripura Government Museum in 2011 and is now one of the region's largest museums. One of the greatest things to do in the city is to visit the palace and take a walk of the museum to see its architectural beauty.
• Make Friends With Nature: A visit to the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary is strongly recommended if you are a wildlife aficionado. The sanctuary is residence to a variety of wild animals, such as the Clouded Leopard and the crab-eating mongoose. There are also various sorts of plants and fauna to discover. Winter is a fantastic season to visit the refuge because the animals are more visible. A Forest Bungalow is available for travellers to stay the night.
• Feel the vibes of Bengali culture: Agartala is within 2 kilometres from Bangladeshi territory. Only understanding Bengali will get you by in Agartala. The Bengali-style design of the Ummaneshwar Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, was created in Agartala. This temple may be found close to Ujjayanta Palace. The best aspect of seeing Agartala is that all of the sights are within walking distance of one another. The temple is the finest spot to visit for spirituality because it is not too crowded.

Places to visit 

• Tripura Sundari Temple: It is one of the oldest temples in Agartala, with a heritage of 500 years and is one of the most intriguing places to attend in Agartala. It is situated in Udaipur, about 55 kilometres from Agartala. This temple is built on the foundation of being one of India's 51 Shakti peeths. It is the temple where Sati's right foot's toe landed. The majority of visitors come here to worship. Another unique aspect about this temple is that it is shaped like a tortoise, earning it the nickname Kurma peeth. It was built in the year 1501 and is where people slaughter animals.
• Neermahal Palace: The "Lake Palace of Agartala," also known as Neermahal, is considered to be the largest palace in the Indian Subcontinent. The neighboring lakes and meadows contribute to the palace's attractiveness. Enjoying an evening here might be enthralling since you can participate in the sound and light performance. The show allows viewers to learn about the palace's and its owners' cultural past. There are a variety of sports activities available on the lakes that encircle the palace. The boat race, which is highly popular here, attracts the majority of visitors.
• Gandacherra Wildlife Sanctuary: This beautiful sanctuary is home to a variety of rare birds and animals. Some lakes surround the refuge, and you can go kayaking on them if you desire. Bison, tiger, and wild horses are just a few of the mammals that may be found here. You might even see some migrating birds, which frequently visit during the winter. If one of your hobbies is studying wildlife, this is the finest site to see a variety of wild animals.
• Jagannath Temple: This temple, constructed by the Maharaja of Agartala, is well-known among the locals. It was built in the nineteenth century. It can be found on the grounds of the Ujjayanta palace. Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are honoured in this temple. You can take stunning shots of this temple while relaxing in the soothing ambience if you choose. This temple's base is octagonal. The tourists are drawn to this temple because of its pyramidal architecture.
• Raima Valley: Raima Valley in Agartala is the finest location to go if you want to listen to the birds chirp and feel the wind snuggle your face. The entire valley is covered in trees and plantations, making it an ideal location for vacationing and resting in the lap of Mother Nature. Because it is not polluted, this location has maintained its purity and attractiveness. Greenery can be detected in the air due to the abundance of greenery in the area.

Cuisine of Agartala— An Experience Worth Sharing

Agartala is a fantastic spot for foodies, with many of alternatives for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Fish, rice, mutton, pork, and chicken are all common ingredients in the local cuisine. Because of its near proximity to Bangladesh, Bengali cuisine has a great influence on the local cuisine. Moi Borok, Agartala's native food, is a must-try when visiting the city. Agartala has a plethora of restaurants and eateries where you may experience a wide range of cuisines.

Shopping— New Experience Guaranteed!

Agartala is the ideal destination to buy locally woven and handcrafted things for travellers that enjoy shopping. Furniture, table lamps, mats, and other objects made of bamboo and cane are quite popular, and travellers can take them home with them. Items made of clay and palm leaves are equally popular. These goods are made with the help of the state's native people. Visitors can shop for souvenirs at Purbasa, which is the state government emporium. They can also obtain amazing prices on their belongings at a number of private retailers.

How to reach?

• By Air: Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, Agartala's regional airport, serves the city. It's around 12 kilometers from the city center and has flights to nearby towns like Kolkata and Guwahati, as well as larger cities across the country like Delhi and Mumbai. Visitors can fly to Agartala on a linking or direct flight. Cabs and buses can be booked to go to the city from the airport.
• By Rail: Agartala Railway Station is situated 5 kilometers from the city and, after Guwahati, is the second city in the north-eastern region of the country to be linked by rail. The railway station is necessary for creating rail connections with neighboring cities, districts, and states. Travelers can take cabs or buses to their desired destination from the station.
• By Road: NH 44 is the state's lifeblood, connecting different sections of the state with neighboring states and cities. The bus system in Agartala is well-developed. Private and public bus companies offer luxury coaches that link the city to other sections of the state as well as adjacent cities and states on a routine basis.