TRIPURA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

Places of Interest

Agartala

The main attractions in Agartala are Ujjayanta Palace, State Museum, Tribal Museum, Sukanta Academy, M.B.B. College, Laxminarayan Temple, Uma Maheswar Temple, Jagannath Temple, Benuban Bihar, Gedu Mian Mosque, Malanch Niwas, Rabindra Kanan, Purbasha, Handicrafts Designing Centre, Fourteen Goddess Temple, Portuguese Church etc.

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Ujjayanta Palace

This royal house, which stands in the Capital city Agartala covering one sq.Km. area was built by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya during 1899-1901.It is a two storied mansion, having a mixed type of architecture with three high domes, the central one being 86’ high. The magnificent tile floor, curved wooden ceiling and beautifully crafted doors are particularly notable. The palace is set with huge Mughal style gardens, beautified by pools and gardens and tiled floors. Flood lighting and fountains have also added to its beauty. The magnificent tiles floors, ceiling of the Chinese room crafted by artisans brought from China, of the palace which now houses the State Legislative Assembly, may give some idea of the opulence and splendour of the original setting of the building. It has recently been adorned with a spectacular musical fountain at its foreyard.

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Kunjaban Palace

A picturesque hillock that Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya Bahadur constructed ( 1909 -1923 ) as his country palace for private retreat, now serves as the Raj Bahavan, official residence of the Tripura Governor. Rabindra Nath Tagore stayed there in his seventh and last visit to the state. Poet Rabindranath Tagore stayed in the eastern apartment of this palace during his 7th and last visit to the state in 1926. This palace was the mute witness to many of the great poet’s creations including a number of popular songs. There are well laid gardens and lawns inside the palace which is the official residence of the Governor of Tripura now. The southern side of the garden has been made open for the public and has been named as ‘Rabindra Kanan’

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Malancha Niwas

The Bungalow adjacent to Kunjaban palace situated on a hillock was originally a kaccha house where Tagore stayed during his visit in 1919. The pucca construction was subsequently built and given the name of Malancha Niwas.

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Unakoti

170km away from Agartala. There is a profusion of rock-cut images, belonging to 11-12th century A.D., intricate and finely executed. This is as such, and open air art gallery .It is Shaiba pilgrimage and dates back to 7th – 9th centuries if not earlier. The marvelous rock carvings, murals with their primitive beauty, waterfalls are not to be missed. Unakoti means one less than a crore and it is said that these many rock cut carvings are available here. As per Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva was going to Kashi along with one crore gods and goddesses he made a night halt at this location. He asked all the gods and goddesses to wake up before sun rise and proceed for Kashi. It is said that in the morning, except Shiva himself, no one else could get up so set out for Kashi himself cursing the others to become stone images as a result we have one less than a crore stone images and carvings at Unakoti.These carvings are located at a beautifully landscaped forest area with green vegetation all around which add to the beauty of the carvings. The images found at Unakoti are of two types namely rock-carved figures and stone images. Among the rock cut carvings, the central Shiva head and gigantic Ganesha figures deserve special mention. The central Shiva head known as ‘Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava’ is about 30 feet high including an embroidered head-dress which itself is 10 feet high. On each side of the head-dress of the central Shiva, there are two full size female figures – one of Durga standing on a lion and another female figure on the other side. In addition three enormous images of Nandi Bull are found half buried in the ground. There are various other stone as well as rock cut images at Unakoti. Every year a big fair popularly known as ‘Ashokastami Mela’ is held in the month of April which is visited by thousands of pilgrims.

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Pilak

Treasure house of Hindu and Buddhist Sculpture. It dates back to 8th and 9th centuries. Beautiful images scattered in an area of about 10 Sq.Km. have been found. The images, terracotta plaques and sealing found here reflect survival of heterodox creeds and sects representing both Hinduism and Buddhism. Colossal stone images of Avolokiteshwar and Narasimha have been found here. A good number of gold coins, rock-cut inscription, seals of burn clay, images of Buddha obtained in excavation indicate the place had a close contact with Mainamoti, an ancient Buddhist center. Recently a colossal image of the Sun God has been unearthed from the site. The place no doubt, remains a place of historical interest for the generation after generation.

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Tripura Sundari Temple

This temple is one of the 51 pithasthans in India as per Hindu mythology. As per mythology, Lord Vishnu had cut off the body of Mata Sati into 51 pieces by Sudarshana Chakra and all these pieces fell at different places throughout the country and these places are known as pithasthans. It is said that ‘right foot’ of Mata Sati fell at Matabari. One of the 51 pithas of Hindu pilgrims was built by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya in 1501 A.D. It consists of an squere type sanctum of the typical Bengali hut type. The lake in front of the temple added to it’s beauty. It is located 55km from Agartala. This pithasthan is also known as Kurma Pith because the shape of the temple premises resembles to that of "Kurma" namely tortoise. Inside the temple, the idol of Maa Kali is kept which is made of ‘reddish black Kastic pathar.’ Maa Kali is worshipped in her ‘Soroshi’ form in this temple. There is an idol of smaller size of Maa Kali called ‘Chotto Maa ‘and this image used to be carried by Maharajas of Tripura during "Mrigaya" namely hunting and also during war. In the eastern side of the temple there is a famous Kalyan Sagar where fishes and tortoises of huge size are found and devotees feed them with "muri" and biscuits. No fishing is permitted in the Kalyan Sagar. The most exclusive thing here are the TORTOISE present in the lake in huge numbers specially worshipped by the local persons .You can feed them with food and if you are lucky then you can worship them when they are on the bank of the Saagar i.e. river. Every year on Dewali, a famous Mela takes place near the temple which is visited by more than two lakhs pilgrims.

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Fourteen Goddess Temple

It is located about 14 Km. away from Agartala at a place called Old Agartala. In the face of continued fight with Shamser Gazi, Maharaja Krishna Manikya had shifted the capital from Udaipur to Old Agartala. It continued to be the capital till it was shifted to Agartala. Near the sacred 14 goddess temple during the month of July every year a Kharchi festival is organised and thousands of pilgrims and devotees visit this festival. It is a local saying that one who visits Tripura Fourteen Goddess Temple once comes in Agartala fourteen times more .

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Neermahal

It is a place, which has been a vital historical center for the outgoing century, to see what it tells us of its builders, their aspiration, achievements and their sense of values. You may discover a heritage, if all this does not interest you; choose this place as a summer resort. No problem at all. This magnificent lake palace was constructed as a summer resort in 1930 by late Maharaja Birbikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur in the middle of a natural lake called Rudrasagar having an area of 5.35 Sq.Km. The construction was undertaken by Martin & Burn Co. and it is the only lake palace in the entire eastern India. A good combination of Hindu and Mughal architecture is noticed on the domes of the palace. There are mainly two parts of the palace – one on the western side known as Andar Mahal which was used by the royal family and another on the eastern side which was used for the security personnel and servants. There are 15 rooms in the main Andar Mahal. There is a beautiful garden laid in the western side of the palace. In the garden there is an open stage where drama, theatre, etc. use to be organised. Maharajas used to go by motor boat to the palace from Rajghat. There is a motor boat ghat inside the palace upto which the motor boat could go and there are two ,stairs at the motor boat ghat – one for Maharaja and one for Maharani. There are two main parts of this palace, mainly the Andarmahal in western side and a block in the eastern side used by the security men and servants of the King, In the main building there are two parts which the King and Queen used whenever they visited the palace. At the Andarmahal, there has been a waiting room for the visitors and next to that dancing hall. All around the dancing hall there are five rooms – bathroom, leisure room, bedroom, treasury room and the room for playing chess in then western side, six more rooms are found which are reported to be used by the Queen and Royal kith and kins. The storeroom has been placed in the backside. In the middle of the two parts, there is a big room, which was used by the king and his royal friend and kinks as a meeting hall. It is learnt that royal family could enter the Andarmahal by motor Boats. It seams at present all rooms are together, however, at that time glass doors covered by curtain separated them with each other. At present you find all the 15 rooms in the main Andarmahal in the west side there are also some rooms including a garden was actually open stage-cum- garden for open drama and theater. There are also three rooms including kitchen room and the toilet for the motor boatmen to rest. There was a big garden in the northern side of the palace. After the entrance there was also one garden and inside this garden there did the guests use one room. In the east side there were also two rooms including then watch tower and bath ghat for the securities an servants. There are two more rooms this side out of which one was generator room. Flood lighting of the palace has been arranged in the evening. In addition, water sports facilities are being extended. The palace is going to be renovated and a museum depicting the royal life style will be set up inside the palace. In addition Light & Sound show on the historical past and cultural heritage of Tripura will be organised in the palace. In water number of migratory birds are found in the lake surrounding Neermahal.

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Udaypur

Situated at a distance of 35km and 45km from Sepahijola and Agartala respectively. City had been built by the King Uday Manikya and it was named as Rangamati earlier. The city has been famous for it ’s lake and temple. The town had many temples at the earlier times; today many of them has been destroyed or ruined.

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Jampui Hill

The permanent seat of eternal spring is situated at an altitude of 3000’ above sea level. Jampui is famous for its charming landscape and bracing climate. The excellent climatic condition, green forests, beautiful orange garden, view of raising and setting sun are wonderful sight for tourists. The erstwhile princely State of Tripura claims a prominent place in North East India for her exquisite natural beauty spots punctuated with lush green sylvan treasure. The luxuriant forests of ‘Jampui Hill’, the premier one among the 6 principal hill ranges of Tripura provides a lifetime’s exhilarating experience for the tourists. Jampui Hill’ – ‘the permanent seat of spring’ is situated at an altitude of about 3000 ft above the sea level and about 250 Km away from Agartala, the capital of Tripura. In the eastern side of the hill range lays Mizoram and in the southern part lays Chittagong hill tracts of Bangladesh. Jampui is famous for its charming landscape and bracing climate. The hill range consists of cluster of tribal villages and is the home for colorful Lusai and Reang tribal communities. The excellent climatic condition, green forests, beautiful orange garden on the both side of hill slopes, variety of floral tapestry including a large range of enchanting orchids, panoramic view points, adventures awe-inspiring trek routes, placid lakes with boating facility, hospitable Mizo population and meditative tranquility of nature makes it an ideal destination for which any tourist would yearn for. The neat and clean traditional wooden houses of the local inhabitants combined with greenery all around provide excellent opportunities for eco-friendly tourism in this hill range The hill range has 11 villages inhabited by Mizo (Lushai tribes) and also by Reang tribes .The Lushai tribes mainly inhabited in the hill range have a very strikingly distinct cultural identity. The sun rise and sun set in the hill range is a delight worth seeing. The natural beauty, the pleasant weather, various species of trees, orchids and orange gardens, hospitable people and rich cultural heritage makes it an ideal destination for the tourists. There is an ‘Eden’ Tourist Lodge in Vangmun village where tourists can go and stay comfortablyAfter withdrawal of Restricted Area Permit for the foreign nationals, the hill range is attracting a large number of foreign tourists. The highest peak of Tripura ‘Betalongchhip’ falls in this hill range which is 3600 feet high and from where tourist can see the panoramic view of Mizoram, Chittagong hill tracts and various other hill ranges of Tripura. There are good trekking routes in the hill range for tourists. State Government is planning to develop village tourism in Jampui hill and sports complex and cultural complex will be constructed shortly.

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Bhuvaneswari Temple

On the right bank of river Gomati at Udaipur is found the ruins of a big palace built by Maharaja Govinda Manikya (1660-75 A.D.). The Bhuveneswari temple is situated adjacent to this palace. It finds close literary reference in Great poet Rabindranath Tagore’s novels and drama namely ‘Bisharjan’ and ‘Rajarshi’

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Sepahijala

Sepahijala is covering an area of 18.532 km. More than 150 species of residential birds, migratory birds, orchid garden, boating facilities, wild life, botanical garden, zoo, elephant joy-rides, rubber and coffee plantation attracts the visitors. The famous spectacled monkey is found here. For possession of which endangered wild species the state boast of that spectacle Monkey or Chasma Badar is only found in this sanctuary. The sanctuary that houses a zoo, recreation ground, and botanical garden enriched with a verity of flora, orchid house etc is about 30km away from Agartala. It covering an area of 18.53 Sq. km is a natural habitant for 53 species of carnivores, herbivorous and reptiles. In winter Sipahijala Lake wears a fabulous look with floating flocks of local and migratory birds including moorhen, water cork, cranes, whistling teal etc. beyond this, a ride on elephant back, a ride on a toy train and boating will make one spending a splendid weekend.

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Trishna Wild Life Sanctuary

Trishna Wild Life Sanctuary is located at about 100 Km. away from Agartala in Belonia Subdivision of South Tripura District. Bison is the main attraction in this sanctuary, in addition to the resident and migratory birds Situated at a distance of 18km from Belonia. The jungle is spread over a sprawling area of 190.7sqkm. The specialty of this jungle is different species of monkeys.

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Kamalasagar

Kali temple atop the hill of hillock dates back to the 15th century. Vast lake at the border of Bangladesh with scenic beauty, a good picnic spot. It is located 30km from Agartala. Vast lake at the border of Bangladesh was excavated by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya in 15th century. On the bank of Kamalasagar, there is a famous temple of Goddess Kali dating back to 16th century. It is one of the excellent picnic spots in the statewith scenic beauty.

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Deotamura

Deotamura is famous for its panels of rock carvings on the steep mountain wall on the bank of Gomati. There are huge images carved of Shiva, Vishnu, Kartika, Mahisasur Mardini Durga and other gods and goddesses. This is also called Chabimura. These images date back to 15th-16th centuries. A panel of crude images engraved on the face of hill facing the river Gumati will welcome one in Deotamura, a hill range 75 km from Agartala. To approach Deotamura you have firstly to land up at Rangamati by bus from Udaipur and thereafter have to journey by boat to arrive at Deotamura.

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Dumboor Lake

A water area of 41 sq.km. with an un-ending spell of luxuriant green vegetation all around stands majestic for her exceedingly charming beauty and 48 islands in the midst of the lake. Migratory birds, Water sports facilities are additional attractions. 115 km away from Agartala, the place is connected by bus from Agartala and Udaypur. The panorama of transparent weaving water cover the vast span and the deep green dots of island in their midst are fascinating. There is a Hydel Project near the lake from where River Gomati originates and this is called Tirthamukh where on 14th January every year famous ‘Pous Sankranti Mela’ takes place. The lake is the confluence of rivers Raima and Sarma. Various species of migratory birds are noticed in the winter and it has rich reservoir of natural and cultured fishes. Nearby is Tirthmukh, a popular pilgrim center where tribal and non-tribal people assemble there to take bath during Uttarayan Sankranti.

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Government Museum

A small museum where sculptures are displayed as imaginatively as if they were in an art gallery. On display are some rare stone images, old coins, Bengal kantha and archaeological findings from Tripura and adjoining areas. Also interesting are the life size portions of the former rulers of Tripura. Closed Sundays and Government holidays. Timings: 1000 to 1700 hrs.

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Rudrasagar Lake

Rudrasagar lake, about 55 Km. away from Agartala near Melaghar having 5.3 Sq.Km. water area is another big attraction In the centre of the lake the famous lake palace of Tripura namely Neermahal is built. The lake witnesses a large number of migratory birds in every winter. Every year a boat race is organised in July/August. The visiting tourists can enjoy boating facility in the lake. Amarpur Bus service is available from Agartala via Udaypur to reach this place. This sub-divitional town was once the capital of King Amar Manikya. One can take a visit of this place to watch the fort, temple and the King’s palace and different historical ruins. There is also two lakes – Amarsagar and Fatiksagar in Amarpur

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Purbasha – T.H.H.D.C. Ltd -

Hanks of newly dyed yarn hang on bamboo racks, drying in the sun, while craftspeople work at their trade in large sheds in this place. The showroom here is an Alladin’s cave of handlooms including some woven in polyester; woodcarvings and a wonderful display of stools, chairs, room dividers, basket and wall plaques made of bamboo and cane. Here, again, visitors should make it a point to look up at the ceiling of cane woven in interlacing patterns.

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Durgabarri coperative Tea Estate

Postoffice Tebaria Agartala , West Tripura — This Tea Garden is very nicely maintained with the factory processing unit . A must watch Tea Garden for the Nature Lover . It is approximately 25 K.Ms from Agartala.

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Temples

Tripura has rich cultural heritage of 19 different tribal communities, Bengali and Manipuri communities. Each community has its own dance forms which are famous in the country.

Tripura University

Tripura university epitomizes the aspirations of the state’s people for academic excellence at the highest level and quest for knowledge. It is axiomatic that knowledge alone forms the basis of progress and development in the present internet-driven world. What, however, is of crucial importance is successful dissemination of knowledge and making it easily accessible to learners. With its cryptic motto ‘pursuit of excellence’ Tripura university has dedicated itself to this noble task ever since it had been launched on October 2 1987. The dream of the state’s people had come true on the birth anniversary day of the ‘Father of the Nation’. A flash-back to the historical background of the university sheds fascinating light on the series of developments that culminated in the setting up of the university. The state’s first institution of higher education, MBB college, had commenced functioning from 1947 with affiliation from Calcutta University but in the immediate aftermath of partition the population of the state registered a steep growth and so did the number of students aspiring for higher education.

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Akhura Check Post / Experience of Routine BORDER PARADE

Akhaura checkpost , standing in pastoral seclusion on the western edges of Agartala,handles the largest number of visitors to and from neighbouring Bangladesh . Till the partition of the sub-continent in 1947 the narrow strip of seven km road from Agartala to Akhaura and the train services from the railway junction there would provide the people of Tripura access to the mainstream of India across the vast plains and waterscape of Eastern Bengal . The partition of 1947 created a permanent barrier and the Assam-Agartala national highway No-44 had to be built in the early fifties of last century to secure Tripura’s link with the Indian heartland. But since the momentous partition Akhaura has emerged as the nerve centre of legalized cross-border movement and , of late, a hub of border trade. A visit to the quiet environs of around Akhaura checkpost is an eye-soothing experience for all tourists. .

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Sukanta Academy

It is a science museum located in the heart of Agartala town. A small planetarium has also been set up within the complex to attract students, research scholars and scientist.

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Jagannath Temple

Famous not only from the pilgrims point of view, this temple is also a remarkable architectual feat with its octagonal base and its impression pradhkshin patha round the sanctum. The pillars are crowned by square and pyramidal cones.

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Laxmi Narayan Temple

Icon of Lord Krishna was installed by Krishnananda Sevayet of Laxmi Narayan temple more than 45 years ago. The temple is also registered under Indian antiquitity act like monument. The main temple was constructed with some financial assistance of the royal family of Tripura. According to the legendary tale of the Bhagavata Tamal tree is closely associated with the life sport of Lord Krishna, probably considering this aspect, the sevayet planted Tamal tree in front of the temple about 35 years back. The branches of the Tamal tree have spreaded so nicely forming like a Canopy, which is indeed attractable. Every year, the Janmasthami festival is observed with great sublimity.

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Nagicherra Rubber Wood Processing Centre

Tucked away in splendid isolation from the heat and dust of urban life, Nagaicherra ,a sleepy hamlet 12 KMs southeast of Tripura’s capital town , symbolises the state’s rapid and confident march along the fast highway of development and enterprise sponsored by the government . Long seven years ago Tripura Forest Development and Plantation Corporation (TFDPC), a susidiary of the forest department, had launched a rubber wood processing centre .With prudent investment and management the project has already achieved unblemished success, providing bread and butter to hundred odd people including skilled carpenters who contribute to the growth and development of the Centre. Disposing rubber wood at the end of the life-cycle of the plants had long been a headache for public and private planters because till recently rubber wood was considered useless. But from Kerala, India’s premier rubber-producing state, the TFDPC officials had come to know that rubber wood could be converted into excellent raw materials for durable furnitures, boards and doors through processing

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M.B.B College

Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishor Manikya Bahadur, the last illustrious king of Tripura was the architect and founder of this pioneering institution of higher learning in the state which was established in the year 1947. Affiliated with the University of Calcutta, the college, since its inception, has maintained a high standard of academic excellence establishing itself as one of the prominent members of the Calcutta University family. The college, which once served as the nucleus of the states own university as a center of Post-Graduate teaching, is now affiliated with the Tripura University.

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Purbasa

Tripura is noted for its exquisite and beautiful bamboo, cane and wooden handicrafts including cotton, silk, polyester. Visitors can watch the craft persons at work and end up shopping at ‘Purbasha’ and any of the Handloom and Handicrafts sales Emporium in any of the tourist centres including Agartala.

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Nehru Park

Nehru Park Is Situated at the Northern part of the Town situated on a high Tilla Land . It is developed and maintained by the state Govt. It is the most beautifull park covered with natural beauty,fountain,stream, pond . This Park is the most beautifull park among the parks of the North-Eastern states full of flower & rare species of plants .

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Agartala Railway Station

Newly Constructed . It is Just 8K.ms from the Heart of the City . It has a resemblance of the Ujjayanta Palace, so don’t get confused . The Rail Route Covers places which are full of natural beauty and worth seeing .

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ROSE VALLEY AQUA PARK :

The said Park is one of its kind in the entire North-east. It is promoted by ROSE VALLEY …. At AMTALI . The park provides great entertainment including fun- Games , Water Games, various rides etc . A must visit place for Tourists visiting Agartala.

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Incentive and Attractive packages for Travelling to Tripura a Northeastern State through Air Flight and Helicopter Services

Ministry of the development of the North Eastern Region Feels proud to announce. Beside the competitive Air Fair for the North Eastern that various Air Lines Companies introduce moderate economical Air Fare time to time to Agartala, Tripura sector for greater interest of Tourism. Govt. of India also encourages economical air fare in Agartala, Tripura sector through introducing subsides in this region to the airlines. There is regular Pawan Hans Helicopter Air Service for Travelling within State of Tripura and various package and attractive offer for tourists.

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Tourist Bungalow, Rest House and Lodges At affordable Prices:

Tripura State Govt. provides Tourist Bungalow, Rest House and Lodges at different declared tourist Spots managed by the Govt. Departments with necessary amenities at very low tarrif for the convenience of Tourists.

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Relaxation in L.T.C Rules for Central Govt. Employees to Travel to the North East States including Tripura by AIR FLIGHT .

Fulfilling the Commitment made at the National Conclave on 16th January 2008 to Promote Tourism in the North Eastern Region. The Ministry now exhorts the Central Govt. employees to take advantage of the relaxation and visit this beautiful Region.

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Special Provisions

(i) Group A and Group B central govt. employees will be entitled to travel by air from their place of posting or nearest airport to any city in the N.E.R or nearest airport. (ii) Other categories of employees will be entitled to travel by air to city in the N.E.R from Guwahati or Kolkata. (iii) All Central Government employees will be allowed conversion of one block of Home Town L.T.C into L.T.C for destination in N.E.R For a period of two (2) years from 2nd May 2008. For details visit the website of Ministry: www.mdoner.gov.in

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Tripura is Famous for the following

1. World Famous Traditional Bamboo Dance, Folk Dance, Music and Songs. 2. Tripura is famous for peaceful village Life a peace loving, gentle, cooperative, honest and religious simple minded population. 3. Tripura is full of great Temples of various deities like Kathmandu . In Tripura there are 13 ( Thirteen) Pujas in 12 (Twelve) month. 4. The Durga Puja is celebrated like a big festival of the state from the time of Tripura Maharaja.And so grandly celebrated that people from other states, including from nearby Bangladesh also visit Agartala during Durga Puja. 5. Tripura is famous for Tripuraswari Ma Kali Temple at Udaipur and Kasba Kali Bari Temple (Pithasthan), Budha Mandir , Durga Bari, Luxami Narayan Bari, Jagannath Bari, Ma Ananda mayee Ashram, Shree Krishna Temple, Jain Mandir, Gurudwara, and Gedumia Masjid, Churches etc. 6. Tripura is second largest producer of Raw Rubber after Kerala. The quality of Rubber produced in Rubber plantation of Tripura is very good & of world class standard. 7. Tripura is famous for its quality of Bamboo & Bamboo products. Mmore than 50% of Agarbati sticks of India are produced in Tripura alone 8. Tripura is producing World famous quality Sweet pineapples, Jack fruits, Oranges, Gulabjammun and other good quality fruits. 9. Tripura is famous for its ginger, Jackfruit, Lichi, Oranges, Banana, papaya Bamboo shoot & other fruits also growing in plenty. 10. Tripura is famous for its scenic and beautiful Land scape, Hills, Lakes, Ponds, River, Forest, Greenery, and heavenly beautiful places like Jampui hill, Khumlung Teliamura, Atharamura, Pilak and peaceful villages, roadside long paddy fields natural Flowers like Antharium, Champa, Kathal Champa, Bela, Rajamiganth, Roses etc with amazing fragrance. 11. Tripura is famous for Traditional Boating, Paddel Boating, cycling, Bullock-Cart, Rickshaw, Fishing experience and village like mud and bamboo huts. 12. Tripura is famous for Toy Train, Meter gauge train. 13. Tripura is famous for Royal Palace, Temples, Palace in Water Lake, Palace on hill top 14. Tripura is famous for Orange Gardens, Pineapple Gardens, Rubber Gardens, Rubber Nursery, Bamboo plantation, Tea Plantation, Jute Cultivation, Paddy Fields. 15. Tripura is famous for T.P.S. Potato Seeds cultivations. 16. Tripura is famous for Wild Life Sanctuary. 17. Tripura is famous for eco friendly, maintained gardens, Parks, Rock Gardens, Water Parks, small hills, Tilas etc.

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Folk Dances

The main folk dances are Hozagiri dance of Reang community, Garia , Jhum, Maimita, Masak Sumani and Lebang boomani dances of Tripuri community, Bizu dance of Chakma community, Cheraw and Welcome dances of Lusai community, Hai-Hak dance of Malsum community, Wangala dance of Garo Community, Sangraiaka, Chimithang, Padisha and abhangma dances of Mog community, Garia dances of Kalai and

Jamatia communities, Gajan, Dhamail, Sari and Rabindra dances of Bengali community and Basanta Rash and Pung chalam dances of Manipuri community. Each community has its own traditional musical instruments. The important musical instruments are’ Khamb( Drum)’, Bamboo flute, ‘Lebang,’, ‘Sarinda’, ‘Do- Tara’, and ‘Khengrong’, etc. Handlooms and handicrafts of Tripura reflect the inherent quality of workmanship, and uniqueness of the people. Simple materials such as bamboo, cane, palm leaves and ordinary yarn are used to create a fascinating variety of handiwork. Intricately designed handlooms and silk, cane and bamboo works are the main industries. Furniture, toys, objects of daily utility such as lamp shades, baskets, calendars, ivory work and Tripuran tribal jewellery, make shopping here a fantastic experience.

Folk Dances of Tripura Tripuri Community Garia Dance Mog Community Lebang_Boomani_Dance Reang Community Hozagiri Dance Chakma Community Bizu Dance Halam(Malsum)_Community Hai-Hak Dance Garo Community Wangala Dance Lusai Community Welcome Dance Darlong Community Cheraw Dance Way Festival

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Fairs & Festivals

Throughout the year and throughout the state different fairs and festivals are organised. which attract a large number of pilgrims and tourists. The important ones are :-

Name Location Month Ashokastami Festival Unakoti April Garia and Gajan Festival Throughout the state April Rabindra/ Nazrul Jayanti Throughout the state May Kharchi Festival 14 Goddess Temple, Old Agartala July Boat Race Melaghar/ Gandacherra August

Manasa Mangal Throughout the state August Durga Puja Throughout the state October Dewali Festival Mata Tripureswari Temple Premises, Udaipur November Rasha Festival Kamalpur, Kailashahar, Khowai, Agartala November Orange & Tourism Festival Jampui Hill Range November Book Fair Agartala January Pous Sankranti Mela TirthaMukh January

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Tripura – Community & Culture

Tripura is a State inhabited by various ethnic groups. Cultural heritage of one community differs from the other. But inspite of the different ethnic group maintaining their distinct cultural identities, the manifested efforts have mingled into a single hole giving birth to a unique cultural generation. Tripura can be turned as a ‘laboratory’ of cultural synthesis. Tribal culture and Bengali culture blend here magnificently. Flute music, Bamboo dance Gajan Dance, Reang Dance, Garia Dance, Lebung Boomani Dance and Basanta Dance are some of the requisite varieties of Tripura’s mixed culture. The Govt. has attached top most priority to the revival of the folk culture, by maintaining the separate identity of the different communities of the State. All the ethnic groups have received, technical and financial assistance from the Govt. to develop their traditional cultural life. The songs of tiller of weaver or of a boatman or even the indigenous dhole recitals have received due recognition in Tripura as a piece of performing art. Among the cultural activities of different ethnic groups, songs and dances have occupied a most prominent place. Tribals are very fond of music. They sing with their traditional instrument. Dance in Tripura has always been in complimentary lines with music and it has always been a very popular aspect of cultural function with the people of Tripura irrespective of community.

Tripuri Community The Tripuris constitute the weightiest section of the entire tribal community, representing more than 50% of the total tribal population of the state. the Tripuris live on the slopes of hills in a group of five to fifty families. Their houses in these areas are built of bamboo and raised five to six feet height to save themselves from the dangers of the wild animals. Now a days a considerable section of this community are living in the plains and erecting houses like the plain people adopting their methods of cultivation and following them in other asp3ectsd of life, such as dress, manners and cosmetics. Tripuri women were scarp, called Pachra, which reaches down just below the knee. They weave in their loin – loom a small piece of clothe which they call “Risha” and they used small piece of cloth as their breast garment. Dances of Tripuri Community: Garia Dance – The life and culture of Tripuris revolve around Jhum (shifting) cultivation. When the sowing of seeds at plot of land selected for Jhum, is over by the middle of April, they pray to God ‘Garia’ for a happy harvest. The celebration-attached to Garia Puja continue for Seven days when they seek to entertain their beloved deity with song and dance. Lebong-Boomani Dance – After the Garia festival is over, the Tripuris have a time to rest awaiting the monsoon. During this period, flocks of charming colorful insects called ‘Lebang’ use to visit to hills slopes in search of seeds sewn on it. The annul visit of the insects render the tribal youths to indulge in merry making. While the male folk make a peculiar rhythmic sound with the help of two bamboo chips in their hand, the women folk run tottering the hills slopes to catch hold of these insects called ‘Lebang’. The rhythm of the sound made by the bamboo chips attracts the insects from there hiding places and the women in the groups catch them. With the change of time jhuming on hill slopes are gradually diminishing. But the cultural life that developed centering round the jhum delved deep into the society. It still exists in the state’s hills and dales as a reminiscence of the life, which the tribal of today cherish in memory and preserve as treasure. In the both the dances, Tripuris use the musical instruments like khamb made of bamboo, flute, sarinda, lebang made of bamboo and bamboo cymbal. Tripuri women generally put on indigenous ornaments like chain made of silver with coin, bangle made of silver, ear and nose rings made of bronze. They preferred as ornaments. Reang Community Next to the Tripuris, the Reangs constitute the second biggest group among the tribal population. It is generally believed this particular community migrated to Tripura from somewhere in the Chittagong hill tracts in the middle of the fifteen century. The Reangs are very disciplined community. The head of the community enjoys the title ‘Rai’ word is supreme in all matters of internal disputes and hence to be obeyed by all belonging to the said community. They generally avoid normal court for justice. The Reangs are very backward both educationally and economically and therefore they are still considered to be the primitive group Dance of Reang Community: Hozagiri Dance – While the theme of the dance remains almost to be the same as of other tribes, the dance form of the Reang community is quite different from others. The movements of hands or even the upper part of the body is somewhat restricted, where as the movement beginning from their waist down to their feet creates a wonderful wave. Standing on a earthen pitcher with a bottle on the head and a lighted lamp on it, when the Reang belle dance twisting rhythmically the lower part of the body, the dance bewilders the onlookers. The Reangs also used the musical instrument like khamb, flute made of bamboo and bamboo cymbal. The Reang women prefer to put on black Pachra and Rea. Reang women put on coins ring which generally covers their upper region. They also put on ring made of coin in their ears. They are fond of fragrant flowers as ornaments to metal things. Chakma community People of chakma Community in Tripura are found normally in the Sub-Division of Kailaspur, Amarpur, Sabroom, Udaiur, Belonia and Kanchanpur. They are followers of Buddhism. Although the Chakama are divided into several groups and sub-sections. No major difference is noticed in the manner and customs in different groups. The Chakma chiefs are generally called ‘Dewans’ and they exercise great authority and influence within the community all-internal matters. The Chamka women, like all other tribal women are experts in weaving. The chamkas are very neat and clean in their domestic life. Dance of Chakma Community: Bizu dance –This particular form of dance is characteristic of the Chakma community. Bizu means Chaitra- Sanskriti. Chaitra Sanskriti denotes end of the Bengali calender year. It is during this period when the chakmas sing and dance to bid good-bye to the year just being ended and welcome the New Year. The dance is beautifully orchestrated with the rhythem playing of what is known as “Khenggarang” and “dhukuk” sorts of flutes. The Chakma women are fond of flower, which they often use in their hair. They also use metal ornaments. Halam (Malsum) Community Malsum is one of the 12 groups belonging to the Halam Community of Tripura. Halam, again, originally hailed from one of the branches of the ‘Kukis’ had lived in the Tripura even before the Tripuris came into conquer the land. Those of the ‘Kukis’ who had submitted to the Tripura “Raja” came to be Known as Halams originally the tribal was divided into 12 sub groups or ‘Dafas’ but in course of time these sub groups have further split into sections and as many as new sixteen clans are found to be making up for the whole Halam community. Malsum belongs to one of these 12 groups. The Halams are as followers of the ‘sakta’ cult, but the influence of vaisnavism is quite marked, particularly, in two sections of the community. They believe in the existence of sprit too. Their worship is solemnized with offerings and sacrifice so that nothing calamitous befalls the community in the form of crop failure or epidemic or any other natural, disaster. During the festivals, they sit together to settle all internal disputes, try cases or crime and inflict punishment on the offenders, which make the Puja a useful social gathering in keeping peace and harmony within the community. Dance of Halam (Malsum) Community: Hai-Hak dance – Like other tribal community of this state the social and economic life of the Halam community also revolve around jhum cultivation. At the end of the harvesting season the Malsum traditionally adore goddess Laxmi. They enjoy this festive occasion for their famous Hai Hak dance. It is also a community dance with exquisite beauty. Rhythms of the dance reflect the tradition inherited from distant past.. Garo Community The people of Garo community live in the south and Dhalai District of Tripura. Originally they use to live in Tong Ghar made of bamboo to save themselves from wild animals the other tribal of Tripura. But they now prefer houses made of mud wall with ‘Chan’ grass of roof. They are believed to have migrated to Tripuras from Garo Hills. The life style of the Garo living in Tripura is almost like the other tribal. The head of the community is known as Sangnakma and the priest of the community is known as kamal. They put on the dress as good as that of the Khasis. Dance of Garo Community: Wangala Dance – After the happy harvest ‘Wangala(1st rice eating ceremony) is performed in every houses. The Sangnakma, head of the communities visits every house and cuts a pumpkin as a part of worship. This pumpkin is sacrificed on this occasion. Thereafter the women dance to the beat of ‘Dama’ and ‘Aaduri’ made of buffalo horn. The dance projects he rehearsals for war. Lusai Community The Lusai communities were originally inhabitant of the hills lying with eastern and north- east of Tripura and also to the adjoining hilly areas. They have settled down on Jampui Hills situated on the North- east boundary of the state under Kanchanpur Sub- Division in North Tripura District. There number is very insignificant to the total population of the state. Their social life and customs have been of objects of great attraction to others. The principle means of livelihood of the Lusai still remain to be jhum cultivation. Of course, this can be considered chiefly to the dearth of plain land in the hills,. They prefer in high altitude of the hills. Dance of Lusai Community: Welcome Dance – The Lusai girls are well dressed they generally were their colorful cloth. They perform welcome dance where young girls of the entire community take part. Their dress is so colorful that the ornaments are not very much required except fragrant flowers. Darlong Community The Darlong are the sub caste of the Lusai community. They live mostly in Kailashahar subdivision in North Tripura District. Their main livelihood is cultivation of pineapple, orange and cotton. Dance of Darlong Community: Cheraw Dance - Darlong reposes faith in after life. They believe that man is destined to go heaven after death. Incidentally, they think that if a pregnant woman, she feels it very difficult with all her physical strains, to track the long journey to heaven. Hence at the last stage of her pregnancy – in fact just at the time or immediately prior to delivery all her relatives perform this ‘Cheraw’ dance in a group throughout the day and night so as to instill confidence in the mind of that woman. They are firm in their belief that even if the dies at this juncture, it will be possible for her to go heaven with the courage and confidence together with joy gained through the sound of bamboo as well as the rhythm of the dance produced till her death. Mog Community There is controversy over the origin of the word ‘Mog’ or ‘Mogh’ in a periodical magazine of the Burmese Research Society; this word has been described to originate to have originated from Bengali. But in the model Bengali Dictionary of Bangiya Sahitya Parisad, the origin of this word is ‘unknown’. In another Dictionary, this word is clamed to have originated from a Burmese word ‘Mogh’which is generally used as an epithet before the name of a gentlemen. Some others, of courses refereed to the ancient Mogadha Empire for its origination. But it is said that when the domination of Hindu religion began to thrive in this ancient center of Buddha religion, a branch of the Magadha dynasty left for Chittagong and subsequently settled down in hill Chittagong. Probably the word ‘Mog’ came from ‘Mogadhi’ (one wbho hails from Mogadha or one who is resident of (Mogadha). In English dictionary the word Mog, Mogen, mouge have been shown s surnames to the inhabitants of Arakan in 15th and 16th centuries. Bengalis of course refer to the inhabitants of Arakan as ‘Mog’. The people of ‘Mog’ community clamed to have come from Arkan and settled down in Tripura in 957 A.D. Almost all the people bewlonging to the Mog community are the followers of the Buddism. Sangari (last day of the month of Chaitra which is last month of the Bengali calendar year) is the occasion of special festival. The people of the Mog community in general and the young boys and girls I particular celebrate the day through the cultural programmed to invite the New Year. Cakes are prepared at every home and the denizens move from house to house to take cakes. On this day water is carried through auspicious pitchers and respected persons are allowed to take bath with this water. The young boys and girls indulged in aquatics. Traditional Khouyang is played on bet. Paste of fragrant sandals wood and water of green coconuts are sprinkled in every house. There is mirth and merriment everywhere and in the midst of pomp and grandeur fragrant water is poured on the root of ‘Boudhi Briksha’. The festival continues for three years. The youths of Mog of this community on this auspicious occasion move about from one house tom another dancing and singing with pious ‘Wish Yielding Tree’ (kalptaru) on head. Dance of Mog Community: Way (lamp) Festival - The people of Mog community observe austerity from the full moon of Bengali month of Ashwin. Generally no auspicious occasion like marriage is celebrated during the period. Even the married women do not go to their parent’s house during this time. ‘Way’ festival is celebrated on the full moon of the Bengali month of the Aswin. A lamp dedicated to the lord Buddha is launched on this day. The young boys and girls stand in a row with lamps in hand to worship the Lord Buddha. The youngster’s indulge in merriment through songs and dances in the premises of the Buddha temple. The traditional dance of the Mog community is Known as ‘way dance’ or ‘Lamp Dance’ Dances of Bengali Community: Rabindra Dance – The long association and intimate relationship of Kabi Guru Rabindranath Tagore with Tripura inspired the people of both the Bengalese and tribal community of Tripura to take up dances in complementary lines with Rabindra Sangeet Gajan Dance – Gajan is the annul year ending festival of the Bengalis. During the month of Chaitra (March-April) people of Bengali community perform Gajan dance based on Hindu mythology Sari Dance – Sari dance is integral part of the community of people living in the areas where the livelihood of the people depends more or less upon the rivers and water. When they set out on a journey by boat. The need of rhythm for removing their loneliness and for enjoyment in active participation in the work has given birth to Sari Dance. This dance is also very closely connected with the boat race and other community works like farming, planting, fishing ect. This dance is practice in Tripura in the places like – Sonamura in West District, Gandacherra in Dhalai District, Udaipur in South District and Dharmanagar in North District. Dhamail – It is a folk dance of Bengali community. In the all the festivities of the people living in the North District this dance is a mast. Mainly the women perform this dance. When the women assembled in the house of festivity they perform this dance for enjoyment. It is practice on the occasion of marriage ceremony, first rice eating ceremony and other pujas.

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Travel Desk

Hotel City Centre operates the most prestigious travel desk in the state of Tripura, in the name and style of- “ CITY TOUR & TRAVELS “ “CITY TOUR TRAVELS” is the ticketing agent for Airways in the state of Tripura. It provides Air ticketing of the DIFFERENT Airlines. Conduct tours within the state in co-operation with tourism department, Agartala, Tripura and Other authorise Tour Agents . A/C and Non-A/C cars on hiring basis for sight seeing. Car hire for airport/ bus stand service. Car hire for airport shuttle service on request.* Contact us at traveldesk@hotelcitycentre.co.in * Conditions Apply

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Internet Links

purbasha.nic.in : This web site is launched for “PURBASHA”, the marketing arm of Directorate of Handloom, Handicrafts & Sericulture of Government of Tripura. Tripura is very rich in natural resources especially in cottage and handloom products. Bamboo and cane based products are of very high quality. The web site is providing valuable information on all the products including a photo, the product description, the rate, size and the purpose for which it is meant. Dhalai District : Dhalai District is the youngest district in Tripura. It is formed in 1995. The District is rich in natural resources. More than 70% area of this district is hilly and forest covered. It has tremendous scenic beauty. North Tripura District : The North Tripura District is one of four districts of Tripura. Visit this website for details on this district and also for detail procedure for availing various services from different offices. South Tripura District : The South Tripura District is one of four districts of Tripura. Visit this website for details on this district. West Tripura District : The West Tripura District is one of four districts of Tripura, bounded by Bangladesh in the north and west, by North Tripura District in the east, by South Tripura District in the south. Total area of the district is 3544 sq.kms. The district headquarter is located at Agartala, which is also the capital of the State. tripura.nic.in/sepahijala : The official website of the office of the Department of Forest, Government of Tripura. This site provides details about the "Sepahijala" Wildlife Sanctuary of Tripura along with lots of pictures of animals present in the sanctuary. tripura.nic.in/trishna : The official website of the Department of Forest, Government of Tripura. This site provides details about the "Trishna" Wildlife Sanctuary of Tripura along with lots of pictures of animals present in the sanctuary. tripura.nic.in/museum : The official website of Museum, Directorate of Higher Education, Government of Tripura. Tripura kiosk : A single window web portal of Directorate of IT, Government of Tripura. All the citizen services provided by Government of Tripura can be accessed through this portal. Tripura – Indian Princely State History of Tripura as a princely state Tripura – Genral Information Tripura is the oldest Hindu Kingdom which extended upto Arracan and one can see historical monuments at Udaipur, Amarpur, Dharamnagar and Kalyanpur.