Nestled in the verdant hills of Tripura, Unakoti is an anomaly — a unique destination unlike any other in India. This lesser-known gem boasts attractions of a different kind — colossal rock formations, ancient carvings and a unique Shiva folklore.
Located in Unakoti district near Kailashahar, this uncharted territory offers an opportunity for the explorers to discover a slice of history.
What Makes Unakoti So Special?
Unakoti is famed for its gigantic rock-cut sculptures. The most prominent among them is the colossal statue of Lord Shiva, also called the Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava.
The 30-foot-high statue of Shiva towers over the smaller depictions of gods and goddesses.
As the name suggests, Unakoti means ‘one less than crore’, as the locals say that once there existed a crore images of deities in that valley.
The Shiva folklore goes that Lord Shiva and his ninety-six crore (96,000,000) followers had embarked on a pilgrimage to Kashi. Tired after days of wandering, they decided to spend the night in this valley and leave at dawn.
Shiva woke up early, while the followers were still asleep. He left for Kashi, unaware that his followers had turned into stone images during the night. Henceforth, this place came to be known as Unakoti because there was one less image (of Shiva himself).
The Shiva statue in Unakoti is just one of the attractions in this region. The valley also boasts other megalithic sculptures in addition to the main one. Though some of the carvings have withstood the ravages of time, others have crumbled into unusable rubble.
Unakoti: Where Nature Meets History
With its panoramic views of the valley, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers more than just a glimpse into India’s past. Set amidst forests and rocky outcrops, Unakoti is a treat for nature lovers as much as it is for history buffs.
It may not just be another Shiva temple but a valley with ancient carvings that depict the legendary Hindu god and a unique folklore that adds charm to the place. Unakoti is a place where you can stop and smell the nature — quite literally — as there are several natural attractions.
Photographers will also enjoy the emerald landscape dotted with sculptures. Unakoti is particularly photogenic in the early hours of the day, with cool temperatures and overcast skies.
The Best Time To Visit Unakoti
October to March is the best time to visit Unakoti. The weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring this northeastern destination. The peak season also witnesses the popular Ashokastami Mela, a grand fair that draws thousands of devotees from far and wide. The event usually commences in March or April, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar.
How To Get There
Unakoti lies nestled in the northern part of the state (near Kailashahar). The nearest airport is the Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala. Kailashahar is connected to the nearest railway station, Kumarghat, via road. You can also hire a taxi or take the local transport to get around the city.
What To Do In Unakoti
Take a trip to this rock formation wonderland and capture some unforgettable shots of this ancient land. You can also time your visit with the Ashokastami Mela if you want to witness the spectacular celebrations. Needless to say, Unakoti has a number of other attractions to suit your liking.
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Some things to note before heading to Unakoti:
- Always carry an extra pair of comfortable shoes. You will need them to explore this wondrous land.
- Do bring along some water to drink if you are visiting during the warmer months.
- Avoid littering and touching the ancient carvings.
- A certified tour guide can also be a great companion (he can narrate some interesting tales about the place).
Why You Should Definitely Add It To Your Bucket List
Unakoti is a unique destination offering an out-of-the-box experience. Rich in cultural and historical values, this place combines natural splendour with human-made masterpieces. For the intrepid travellers, it is a chance to uncover India’s ancient legacy.
For the more mainstream tourists, it is a chance to discover Northeast India. And for the photography enthusiasts, it is a chance to capture a lifetime shot.