Situated about 178 kilometres from Tripura’s capital city’s Agartala, Unakoti is placed amidst the hills close to the town of Kailashahar.
Unakoti is a must-visit leeser-known destination for every adventure seeker. As you head past Agartala, the scenic drive leads you to this historic site, eight kilometres from Kailashahar town.
The name Unakoti translates to “one less than a crore,” a nod to local lore claiming there are 99,99,999 sculptures etched into the stone. While this figure may seem like an exaggeration, the sheer scale of the rock reliefs is reminiscent of the grandeur of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, lending Unakoti its nickname. The site is free to enter, making it an appealing option for travelers on a budget.
Myths revolving around Unakoti
Unakoti is steeped in intriguing myths, enhancing its allure. The most popular legend tells of Lord Shiva, who, while journeying to Kashi with his divine companions, decided to rest for the night in the Unakoti region. He instructed his entourage to rise before dawn, but only he awakened on time. Enraged by their slumber, Lord Shiva cursed the 99,99,999 companions, turning them into stone. This mythical origin adds an enchanting dimension to the already stunning rock sculptures that populate the area, each believed to represent these cursed figures.
Sculptures of deities
The site’s centerpiece is the Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava, a stunning 30-foot-high sculpture of Lord Shiva’s face carved into a vertical rock face. Surrounding this imposing figure are intricate carvings of various deities, believed to date back to the 8th or 9th century CE. Each sculpture showcases remarkable artistry, leaving visitors in awe of the skills of the unknown craftsmen who created them. The hilly, forested landscape enhances the mystical atmosphere, inviting exploration and reflection.
Unakoti aka ‘Angkor Wat of Northeast’
Unakoti earns its title as the “Angkor Wat of the Northeast” due to its extensive religious significance and architectural grandeur. While Angkor Wat is a sprawling Hindu temple complex dedicated to Vishnu, Unakoti primarily honours Lord Shiva. Both sites encapsulate the artistic brilliance and cultural depth of their respective eras, offering insight into the ancient civilizations that crafted such monumental works.
