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Unakoti

Unakoti is famous for its giant rock-cut sculptures, ancient carvings, and mystic legends that date back to the 7th–9th century CE. Known as the “Lost Hill of Faces”,Unakoti is one of India’s most fascinating archaeological and spiritual destinations. The name “Unakoti” literally means “one less than a crore,” referring to the legend that Lord Shiva cursed 99,99,999 gods and goddesses to turn into stone for not waking up on time for their journey to Kailash.

Nestled amidst the lush hills of North Tripura,Unakoti is surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and streams. Unakoti is not only a place of worship but also a treasure of heritage art, mythology, and natural beauty. It’s a must-visit destination for travelers, historians, and photographers.

Geography and Climate

Located about 178 km from Agartala, the capital of Tripura, Unakoti sits near Kailashahar in the North Tripura district. The region is covered in tropical forests and rolling hills, offering a serene and mystical atmosphere. The main archaeological site is spread across rocky hill slopes adorned with massive stone faces and idols, some over 30 feet tall, surrounded by streams that enhance its enchanting aura.

The climate is humid subtropical, with moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season and pleasant winters.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Unakoti is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making exploration comfortable.

October to February (Winter): Ideal for sightseeing and photography, with clear skies and mild temperatures.

March to April (Spring): The surroundings are lush green, and the annual Ashokashtami Festival attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.

Avoid May to September: The monsoon brings heavy rain, which can make the rocky trails slippery and difficult to navigate.

If you want to witness Unakoti’s spiritual side, plan your visit during the Ashokashtami Mela, when thousands of devotees gather for rituals and festivities.

June to September—Monsoon turns Alibaug lush and green, perfect for nature lovers.

History and Legend

Unakoti’s origins are shrouded in myth and mystery. According to legend, Lord Shiva was traveling to Kailash with one crore gods and goddesses. They rested at this site, but only Shiva woke up at dawn. In anger, he cursed the rest to become stone, hence the name Unakoti — meaning “one less than a crore.”

Archaeologists date the carvings to the 8th–9th century CE, influenced by both Shaiva (Shiva) and tribal art traditions. The site reflects early rock-cut architectural genius, showcasing a blend of religion, folklore, and artistry that is unique to Tripura and Northeast India.

Top Attractions in Unakoti

Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava:
The most iconic sculpture — a colossal 30-foot-tall face of Lord Shiva carved into the rock, flanked by massive earrings and intricate details.

Ganesha and Durga Carvings:
Stunning rock reliefs of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga, representing the fine artistry of early sculptors.

Waterfalls and Streams:
Natural cascades flow through the site, enhancing the mystical charm and providing scenic backdrops for photography.

Ashokashtami Mela Ground:
The venue of the annual festival celebrated with great devotion, attracting both pilgrims and cultural tourists.

Forest Trails:
Short treks through forested slopes lead to hidden carvings and panoramic viewpoints.

Kailashahar Town:
Just 8 km away, this small town offers local markets, traditional Tripuri crafts, and homely food options.

Things to Do in Unakoti

Nearby Kailashahar and Unakoti offer authentic Tripuri and Bengali cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes:

Mui Borok (Tripuri bamboo shoot dish).

Wahan Mosdeng (spicy pork salad).

Gudok (fermented fish curry).

Local rice beer (Chuak) in tribal households.

Traditional sweets like Pitha and Chira doi gur.

How to Reach Unakoti?

BY ROAD

Unakoti is well-connected by road. Regular buses and shared taxis operate from Agartala, Kailashahar, and Dharmanagar.

BY TRAIN

The closest major railway station is Dharmanagar Railway Station, located around 20 km from Unakoti.

BY AIR

The nearest airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (Agartala), about 178 km away.

Top Tourist Attractions in Unakoti

Unakoti, a historic and spiritual site in Tripura, is renowned for its rock-cut sculptures, ancient stone carvings, and vibrant Hindu heritage. Famous for the Unakoti Hill Sculptures, depicting deities like Shiva, Parvati, and Ganesha, the site attracts pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and travelers interested in art and culture. The top tourist attractions in Unakoti offer a captivating blend of spirituality, archaeology, and scenic hilltop landscapes.