Image Source: BiswajitBholaTripura
About Tripura Sundari Temple
The Tripura Sundari Temple, popularly known as Matabari, is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in Tripura. Located in Udaipur town of Gomati district, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Tripura Sundari, an incarnation of Maa Kali.
Built in 1501 AD by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya, the shrine is regarded as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Hindu mythology, where the right foot of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. With its unique architecture, divine aura, and cultural importance, the temple is a spiritual heart of North East India.
Historical and Mythological Significance
The temple’s legend is rooted in the Shakti Peetha tradition, making it a place of immense religious significance for devotees of Shakti worship. The presiding deity is represented in the form of a black stone idol of Goddess Kali, standing atop the chest of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the cosmic balance of creation and destruction.
Maharaja Dhanya Manikya constructed the temple after a divine vision, and since then it has been the most important pilgrimage site for the Manikya dynasty and followers across the region.
Architecture and Layout
The temple is built in a Bengali hut-style (chala) architecture, which is distinct from other North Indian temple designs. The sanctum houses two idols of the Goddess – Tripura Sundari (Chhoto Maa) and Kali (Boro Maa).
Surrounding the temple is the serene Kalyan Sagar Lake, where devotees feed sacred tortoises and fishes as part of their offering. The red terracotta walls and traditional roof structure reflect the artistic blend of Bengali and Tripuri architecture.
Festivals and Religious Practices
The most important festival at the temple is the Diwali Mela, also called the Kali Puja Mela, which attracts thousands of devotees from Tripura, Assam, Bengal, and Bangladesh.
The temple is decorated with oil lamps, flowers, and traditional rituals performed throughout the night. Besides Diwali, other celebrations like Durga Puja, Navratri, and Basanti Puja also hold immense significance at Matabari. The temple’s rituals follow Tantric traditions, making it a key destination for seekers of spiritual energy.
Scenic Surroundings and Local Culture
The temple complex is surrounded by small markets selling local handicrafts, earthen lamps, flowers, and traditional sweets like khichuri prasad and peda. The Kalyan Sagar Lake beside the temple not only enhances the spiritual charm but also serves as a peaceful spot for meditation and reflection.
The temple town of Udaipur, also called the City of Lakes, is dotted with other historic temples and palaces, making it a vibrant cultural hub of Tripura.
How to Reach Tripura Sundari Temple (Matabari)
By Air: The nearest airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (Agartala Airport), about 55 km away, which has regular flights connecting to Kolkata, Guwahati, and other major Indian cities.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Udaipur Railway Station, around 3 km from the temple, connected to Agartala and North-East railway routes.
By Road: Udaipur is well-connected by road. Regular buses, shared jeeps, and taxis operate from Agartala (55 km) to Udaipur. NH-8 provides smooth connectivity for travelers.