Image Source: Barunghosh
About Unakoti
Tucked away in the lush hills of Kailashahar in the Unakoti district of Tripura, Unakoti is one of the most fascinating archaeological and pilgrimage sites in Northeast India. Known as the “Angkor Wat of the Northeast”, this heritage site is famed for its ancient rock-cut carvings, giant bas-relief sculptures, and countless stone idols of Lord Shiva and other deities.
The name Unakoti translates to “one less than a crore” (10 million – 1), symbolizing the countless number of rock sculptures spread across the site.
History and Mythological Legends
The origins of Unakoti are shrouded in myths and legends. According to local folklore, Lord Shiva once rested here with 99,99,999 gods and goddesses while on his way to Kashi (Varanasi). At dawn, when the deities failed to wake up on time, Shiva cursed them to turn into stone, leaving only himself to continue the journey. This story explains the countless stone sculptures scattered across the hills of Unakoti.
Historically, experts suggest that the carvings date back to the 8th–9th century CE, possibly influenced by both Shaivite and tribal traditions of the region. The site represents a blend of Hindu mythology and local tribal art, making it a unique pilgrimage and archaeological wonder.
Architectural and Artistic Grandeur
The highlight of Unakoti is the gigantic Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava, a 30-foot-tall rock-cut image of Lord Shiva with a crown nearly 10 feet high. Flanking Shiva are massive carvings of Ganga and Durga, along with numerous smaller sculptures of other deities.
The rock faces and hillsides are covered with intricate bas-reliefs of gods, goddesses, celestial figures, and animals, making the site an open-air gallery of ancient art.
The carvings exhibit remarkable craftsmanship and are considered one of the finest examples of rock-cut architecture in Northeast India. The surrounding forest and waterfalls add a mystical charm to the experience of exploring Unakoti.
Pilgrimage and Festivals
Unakoti is a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists gather here during the Ashokastami Mela, held every April, when special rituals, cultural programs, and fairs bring the site alive with devotion and festivity. Apart from this, Shivaratri also sees devotees flocking to Unakoti to seek blessings and witness the grandeur of the ancient sculptures.
Natural Surroundings and Exploration
Nestled amidst green forests and hilly terrain, Unakoti is not just a spiritual site but also a natural retreat. Trekking trails around the hills offer scenic views, while small waterfalls and streams add to the charm of the place. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts often combine their pilgrimage with nature walks, making Unakoti a blend of spirituality and eco-tourism.
How to Reach Unakoti
Reaching Unakoti is relatively easy, with multiple travel options from Agartala and nearby towns:
By Air: The nearest airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (Agartala Airport), located about 178 km away. Regular flights connect Agartala to Kolkata, Guwahati, and Delhi. From the airport, taxis and buses can be hired to reach Kailashahar.
By Train: The closest railway station is Dharmanagar Railway Station, around 20 km from Unakoti. Dharmanagar is connected to Guwahati, Silchar, and other parts of Tripura. From the station, one can take taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach the site.
By Road: Unakoti is about 178 km from Agartala, 20 km from Dharmanagar, and 8 km from Kailashahar. State-run buses, shared jeeps, and private taxis regularly operate between these towns and the pilgrimage site.
Local Transport: From Kailashahar or Dharmanagar, visitors can hire auto-rickshaws or small taxis to reach the entrance of Unakoti. A short walk through forested pathways leads to the rock-cut sculptures.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Unakoti is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring the hilly terrain. For a cultural and spiritual experience, the Ashokastami Mela in April is the best time to witness Unakoti’s vibrancy, when thousands of devotees gather, and the site transforms into a hub of devotion, fairs, and festivities.