The most visited place in Tripura is the Unakoti Hill, which is a famous pilgrimage and tourist destination in the state. Unakoti means “one less than a crore” in Bengali, and the name is derived from the fact that there are numerous rock-cut sculptures and carvings of various Hindu deities and mythological figures dating back to the 7th-9th centuries CE. The place is located in Kailashahar subdivision of Unakoti district in the northern part of Tripura and is known for its natural beauty and archaeological significance.
Unakoti Hill: A Must-Visit Tourist Destination in Tripura
If you’re planning a trip to the northeast of India, Tripura should definitely be on your list. This small but beautiful state is home to several tourist attractions, including the famous Unakoti Hill. Located in the northern part of the state, Unakoti is a pilgrimage site as well as a popular tourist destination.
Unakoti Hill is known for its rock-cut sculptures and carvings of various Hindu deities and mythological figures. The name Unakoti means “one less than a crore” in Bengali, and it is said that there are 99,99,999 such carvings at the site. These carvings date back to the 7th-9th centuries CE, and are believed to have been made by a group of Shaivite ascetics who used the site as a place of worship.
The most impressive of the carvings is a giant 30-foot-high Shiva head, which is the largest rock-cut image in India. Other notable sculptures at Unakoti include a Ganesha statue, a Nandi bull, and numerous other images of Shiva and his consort Parvati. The hill is also home to several natural caves and waterfalls, making it a great place for nature lovers.
To reach Unakoti Hill, you’ll need to travel to the town of Kailashahar, which is about 178 km from Agartala, the capital of Tripura. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to the site. The hill is open to visitors year-round, but the best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and dry.
When visiting Unakoti, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you’ll need to do some hiking to see all the carvings. You should also carry plenty of water and sunscreen, as the site can get quite hot during the day. There are several small shops and eateries near the entrance to the site, so you can buy snacks and refreshments as needed.
In conclusion, if you’re interested in history, art, and nature, Unakoti Hill is a must-visit destination in Tripura. With its impressive rock-cut sculptures, beautiful natural surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this site is the most visited place in the state. So why not add it to your itinerary for your next trip to the northeast of India?
The most visited place in Tripura is the Unakoti Hill, which is a famous pilgrimage and tourist destination in the state
Pros:
- Unakoti Hill is a unique and historically significant site, with rock-cut sculptures and carvings dating back to the 7th-9th centuries CE.
- The site is a great place to learn about Hindu mythology and Shaivism, and to appreciate the skill and artistry of ancient Indian sculptors.
- Unakoti Hill is surrounded by natural beauty, with several caves and waterfalls to explore, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
- The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the site makes it a great place for meditation and spiritual reflection.
- The local people are friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of small shops and eateries near the site where you can buy souvenirs and refreshments.
Cons:
- Unakoti Hill is located in a remote part of Tripura, and getting there can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re not used to traveling in rural areas.
- The site can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season, which can detract from the sense of peace and tranquility that many visitors come to experience.
- There are some areas of the site that require hiking and climbing, which may not be suitable for people with mobility issues or health concerns.
- While the local people are generally friendly, there have been occasional reports of theft and harassment, so it’s important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Overall, the pros of visiting Unakoti Hill in Tripura outweigh the cons, and it’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary if you’re interested in history, art, and nature. Just be prepared for a bit of adventure and some physical exertion, and you’ll be rewarded with a truly unique and memorable experience.
