Unakoti: The Mysterious Rock Carvings of Tripura
Unakoti, located in the Unakoti district of Tripura, is a hidden gem that offers a peek into the rich heritage and mysticism of ancient India. The name ‘Unakoti’ translates to ‘One Less Than a Crore’, reflecting the site’s legend that nearly a crore (ten million) deities were once sculpted here, with only one less completing the number. What makes Unakoti special are its gigantic rock carvings of Hindu deities, many of which date back to the 7th – 9th century AD. Surrounded by lush forests and tranquil streams, Unakoti is not just a historical treasure but also a destination of serene natural beauty.
My Journey through the Mystical Unakoti
As I trekked up the rugged trails leading to Unakoti, I could feel a sense of awe and wonder building up. The first sight that greeted me was the colossal rock-cut face of Lord Shiva, known as the ‘Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava’, standing at a towering height of 30 feet. The intricate details of the headdress and the expressions carved onto the rock were mesmerizing. Moving further into the site, I came across numerous smaller sculptures, some half-buried in the forested landscape, depicting other Hindu deities like Ganesha, Durga, and Nandi. Each carving seemed to tell a story, capturing moments frozen in time.
Another highlight of the trip was exploring the Shaivite galleries, where rows of smaller rock reliefs and lingas, partially covered in moss, created a mystical aura. Standing amidst these ancient sculptures, I felt transported to a different era, making the long journey to Unakoti entirely worthwhile.
Natural and Cultural Highlights
- Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava: The most prominent sculpture, featuring a 30-foot-high carving of Lord Shiva, flanked by two female deities.
- Bas Relief Sculptures: Ancient rock carvings depicting Hindu gods and goddesses, spread across the site.
- Shaivite Galleries: Rows of smaller carvings and lingas, showcasing Shaivite traditions.
- Lush Forest Trails: Unakoti is surrounded by dense forests, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.
- Chabimura Rock Paintings: A lesser-known rock art site near the Gomati River, showcasing more ancient carvings.
Legend and History of Unakoti
According to local legend, Lord Shiva was once traveling to Kashi (Varanasi) with a crore deities. They decided to rest for the night at Unakoti. Shiva instructed everyone to wake up at dawn and resume the journey. However, none of the deities except Shiva himself woke up on time. Angered, Lord Shiva left them behind, turning them into stone. This is why the site is called ‘Unakoti’, meaning ‘one less than a crore’.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Unakoti is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season should be avoided, as the trails can become slippery and difficult to navigate.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Agartala Airport, about 180 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Kumarghat, around 20 km from Unakoti.
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Agartala, taking around 4 hours to reach the site.
Local Cuisine to Try
Tripura offers a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the region’s tribal heritage. Some must-try delicacies include:
- Mui Borok: A traditional Tripuri dish made with bamboo shoots, fish, and fresh vegetables.
- Wahan Mosdeng: Pork cooked with onions, garlic, and green chilies.
- Gudok: A unique dish made using dried fish, vegetables, and local herbs.
- Mosdeng Serma: A tangy tomato chutney served with rice.
- Chakhwi: Bamboo shoots cooked with pork or chicken.
FAQs about Unakoti
1. What makes Unakoti special?
Unakoti is known for its massive rock-cut sculptures and ancient carvings depicting Hindu deities, making it a rare archaeological treasure in northeastern India.
2. Is Unakoti accessible for all tourists?
While Unakoti is accessible, reaching the site requires trekking through forested trails and climbing stairs. It’s recommended for visitors who are comfortable with a bit of adventure.
3. What are the nearby attractions in Tripura?
Nearby attractions include the Chabimura Rock Paintings, the Neermahal Water Palace, and the Jampui Hills, all offering unique cultural and natural experiences.
4. Are there any accommodations near Unakoti?
Yes, there are a few guesthouses and hotels available in the nearby town of Kailashahar. For a more comfortable stay, you can opt for accommodations in Agartala.
5. How many days are ideal to explore Unakoti?
A 1-2 day trip is ideal to explore Unakoti and the nearby attractions, including the Chabimura Rock Paintings.
