About East India
East India is a region of ancient civilizations, sacred rivers, rich cultural traditions, and timeless heritage. Shaped by the fertile plains of the Ganga and the coastal influence of the Bay of Bengal, the region has played a vital role in India’s spiritual, political, and cultural history.
Home to historic kingdoms, renowned centers of learning, and iconic temples, East India reflects a deep connection between faith, art, and everyday life. Colonial-era cities, temple towns, and tribal heartlands together form a diverse cultural landscape.
From pilgrimage journeys and heritage walks to forest trails and river-based experiences, East India offers travelers a soulful and immersive way to explore India’s roots.
Why East India is Important
East India preserves classical traditions, festivals, and art forms such as Durga Puja, Chhau dance, Odissi dance, and tribal crafts.
Sacred destinations like Jagannath Puri, Bodh Gaya, Konark Sun Temple, and Rajgir make East India a major spiritual and historical hub.
The region features fertile river plains, coastal belts, forested plateaus, and mangrove ecosystems such as the Sundarbans.
From ancient temples and Buddhist sites to colonial architecture in Kolkata, East India reflects centuries of artistic evolution.
Festivals like Durga Puja, Rath Yatra, and Chhath Puja continue to shape the region’s cultural identity.
Agriculture, fisheries, handicrafts, and major urban centers such as Kolkata contribute significantly to the regional economy.
Top Tourist Attractions in Each East Indian State
Geography, History and Culture
East India is dominated by fertile river plains, coastal regions, forested plateaus, and mangrove ecosystems.
The Ganga river system and Bay of Bengal coastline play a crucial role in agriculture, culture, and trade.
Ancient kingdoms such as Magadha and Kalinga flourished here, along with world-renowned centers of learning like Nalanda.
The region also witnessed major colonial developments, especially in Kolkata.
East India is known for classical music, folk dances, literature, handicrafts, and spiritually rooted lifestyles.
Traditional textiles, temple arts, and regional cuisines reflect the region’s diversity.
Things to Do in East India
Culture & Cuisine
- Festivals: Durga Puja, Rath Yatra, Chhath Puja
- Local cuisine: Macher Jhol, Pakhala Bhata, Litti Chokha
- Handicrafts: Pattachitra, Dokra Art, Terracotta, Handloom Textiles
Nature and Wildlife
- Sundarbans Mangrove Reserve (West Bengal)
- Simlipal National Park (Odisha)
- Betla National Park (Jharkhand)
- River plains, coastal ecosystems, and forested plateaus
Popular Tourist Circuits / Routes
- Odisha Heritage Circuit: Bhubaneswar – Konark – Puri
- Buddhist Circuit: Bodh Gaya – Nalanda – Rajgir
- Bengal Culture Trail: Kolkata – Shantiniketan – Sundarbans
Best Time to Visit
October to March is ideal for sightseeing and festivals. Coastal travel is best during winter, while summers are suitable for cultural city exploration.
Travel Tips and Safety
- Carry light cotton clothing for summer and warm layers in winter
- Respect temple customs and local traditions
- Use guided tours for forest and wildlife areas
- Try local cuisine from reputed eateries