Kolkata, the former capital of India, is the starting point for most explorations of East India. The imperial heritage is visible throughout the city – one of the most imposing is the Victoria Memorial: an impressive marble building mimicking the Taj Mahal. If you visit during October/November, when the Durga Puja is on, you will find the entire city decorated and cheerfully alive.

While in West Bengal, don’t forget to visit Darjeeling! This pleasant hill station has been a favourite for visitors since it was founded. Take a ride on the UNESCO World Heritage Toy Train and then sample some of the world’s best tea after a stroll through tea gardens.

The former kingdom of Sikkim, with its dramatic scenery of rugged mountains and deep valleys is well worth a visit in East India. This small state borders three countries – Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet – and all climatic zones from tropical to alpine can be found here.

Assam is one of India’s most beautiful states. It boasts colourful, varied scenery and National Parks teeming with rare species. East of Assam, you can find Nagaland, with its unique, attractive tribal cultures. It is still undiscovered by mass tourism, and an explorer’s paradise.

Header image taken from Flickr CC, by fixing-shadows.