India

I visited Agartala, India, in May 2023. It is the capital city of Tripura, one of the northeastern states of India. It is the second-largest city in Northeast India after Guwahati. Agartala is located near the Bangladesh border, making it an important center for cross-border trade and cultural exchange.

India is the seventh-largest country by area and the most populous nation in the world as of 2023. It is located in South Asia and shares borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, with the Indian Ocean to the south. India is known for its vast cultural, linguistic, religious, and geographic diversity — a land where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. It is a federal parliamentary democracy and one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, contributing significantly to global culture, science, and technology. India’s heritage spans ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley and historic empires like the Maurya and Mughal Empires. It is the birthplace of major world religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, and has a vibrant cultural life with festivals, music, dance, and cuisine varying widely across regions.

Some highlights of where I visited:

• Ujjayanta Palace: A beautiful royal palace built by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya in 1901, now a museum showcasing Tripura’s rich history and culture.

• Neermahal: Meaning “Water Palace,” it is situated in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake, blending Hindu and Islamic architectural styles — a rare and stunning sight.

• Jagannath Temple: A historic temple famous for its unique architecture and religious significance.

• Heritage Park: A beautifully landscaped park that captures the essence of Tripura’s culture and natural beauty.

Agartala is also known for its friendly people, rich tribal cultures, vibrant handicrafts (especially bamboo and cane work).