EXPLORING TRIPURA ON A BUDGET: A SHORT YET ENRICHING JOURNEY

Exploring Tripura on a Budget: A Short Yet Enriching Journey

Exploring Tripura on a Budget: A Short Yet Enriching Journey

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Most travelers overlook Tripura, heading instead to the more famous northeastern states. But that’s exactly why you should visit. Lush green hills, ancient temples, hidden waterfalls, and vibrant tribal culture—Tripura is full of surprises. The best part? It’s one of the cheapest states to explore in India!

Since I had limited time and wanted a hassle-free experience, I used Bino (https://bino.bot/) to find budget homestays, transport options, and offbeat places—all through WhatsApp. Here’s how you can do the same and make the most of a short, budget-friendly trip to Tripura.



Getting to Tripura Without Spending Much


Tripura’s capital, Agartala, is the main entry point. You can get there in several budget-friendly ways:

Cheapest Ways to Reach Tripura



  1. Train to Agartala (₹500-800, Sleeper Class) – Agartala is well connected by train to Guwahati, Kolkata, and Delhi. A sleeper-class ticket from Kolkata is around ₹600-700.

  2. Flight to Agartala (₹2500-4000) – If you book in advance, flights from Kolkata, Guwahati, or Delhi to Agartala are quite affordable.

  3. Bus from Guwahati or Shillong (₹800-1200) – A good option if you’re traveling overland through the Northeast.


Once you’re in Agartala, shared cabs, buses, and auto-rickshaws make it easy to get around on a budget.



Day 1: Agartala – The Cultural Heart of Tripura


Agartala isn’t a typical touristy city, but it has hidden gems, delicious food, and rich history—perfect for budget travelers.

Budget Accommodation in Agartala



  • Yatri Niwas (₹600-800 per night) – Government-run guesthouse near the city center.

  • Backpacker Hostels (₹500-700 per night) – Few but decent hostels near the market area.

  • Budget Hotels (₹1000-1500 per night) – Look for hotels around Colonel Chowmuhani and Palace Road for affordable options.


Free & Cheap Things to Do in Agartala



  • Ujjayanta Palace (₹20 entry) – A stunning royal palace turned museum with Indo-Saracenic architecture.

  • Heritage Park (Free entry) – A green space showcasing the culture and history of Tripura.

  • ISKCON Temple (Free entry) – Peaceful temple with intricate carvings.

  • Agartala Local Market Walk (Free) – A great way to explore local culture and try street food.


Where to Eat on a Budget



  • Hotel Welcome (₹100-150 per meal) – Amazing Bengali and Tripuri thalis.

  • Shankar Restaurant (₹50-100 per meal) – Best cheap breakfast in Agartala.

  • Local Street Stalls (₹30-50 per snack) – Try Mui Borok, the traditional Tripuri dish.





Day 2: Unakoti – The Angkor Wat of India


If you see only one place in Tripura, make it Unakoti. It’s a mesmerizing site full of huge rock-cut carvings of Hindu gods, dating back over 1000 years.

How to Get to Unakoti on a Budget



  • Shared cab from Agartala (₹250-400 per person, 4 hours).

  • Train to Kumarghat (₹100-150, 3 hours) + shared auto to Unakoti (₹50-100).

  • Bus from Agartala (₹150-200, 5 hours).


What to Do in Unakoti



  • Explore the massive rock carvings (₹10 entry).

  • Visit the waterfalls near the site (Free).

  • Enjoy a local village walk to see traditional Tripuri homes.


Stay Option: There are few budget hotels in Unakoti (₹700-1200 per night), but I took a day trip from Agartala to save money.



Day 3: Neermahal – The Floating Palace


Imagine a stunning white palace in the middle of a lake—that’s Neermahal. Built in the 1930s, it was the summer home of Tripura’s royals.

How to Visit Neermahal on a Budget



  • Bus from Agartala to Melaghar (₹100-150, 2 hours).

  • Shared auto from Melaghar to Rudrasagar Lake (₹30-50).

  • Boat ride to Neermahal (₹50-100 per person, round trip).


What to Do at Neermahal



  • Explore the palace (₹80 entry).

  • Enjoy a sunset boat ride on Rudrasagar Lake.

  • Visit local markets for authentic Tripuri handicrafts.


If you want to stay overnight, there are homestays in Melaghar (₹800-1200 per night, including food).



Day 4: Jampui Hills – The Switzerland of Tripura


For a relaxing end to the trip, I visited Jampui Hills, known for cool weather, orange orchards, and breathtaking views.

How to Reach Jampui Hills Cheaply



  • Bus from Agartala to Dharmanagar (₹250-300, 5 hours).

  • Shared cab from Dharmanagar to Jampui Hills (₹200-300).


Things to Do in Jampui Hills



  • Visit Vanghmun Village (Free) – A peaceful village with stunning views.

  • Hike to Thaidawr Peak (Free) – The highest point in Tripura.

  • Try local orange-based dishes (₹50-100 per meal).


Budget Stay: Local homestays (₹800-1200 per night, including meals).



Total Budget Breakdown



































Expense Estimated Cost (₹)
Transport (Trains/Buses) ₹1500-4000
Local Transport (Shared cabs/buses) ₹1000-2000
Accommodation (3-4 nights) ₹2000-5000
Food (₹200-300 per day) ₹800-1200
Entry Fees & Activities ₹500-1000
Total Budget (Without Splurging) ₹7000-12,000 (~$85-145)




Final Thoughts: Why Tripura is a Perfect Budget Destination


Tripura is raw, real, and refreshingly different. You won’t find crowds of tourists or overpriced resorts. Instead, you’ll discover centuries-old temples, royal palaces, and scenic hills—all on a budget.

By using shared transport, staying in homestays, and eating at local stalls, you can explore this underrated gem without spending much.

Want a hassle-free way to find budget stays, transport, or hidden local gems? Use Bino to plan your Tripura trip easily through WhatsApp. Just call or message at +91 9800081110 for instant travel assistance!

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