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Unakoti!

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Population

Very small

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Tripura map Northeast India 🕉️ Spiritual Historical Sites Religious Sites Unakoti Tripura rock carvings Shiva pilgrimage Northeast India

Unakoti is a significant archaeological site in Tripura, India, famed for its massive rock carvings and sculptures. These carvings primarily depict Hindu deities, especially Shiva, and are believed to date back to the 7th-9th centuries.

Unakoti offers a unique blend of history, religion, and natural beauty, making it attractive for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts. However, it's quite remote and lacks high-end tourist infrastructure. If you're looking for a well-trodden path with luxury amenities, this might not be the place for you.

Reaching Unakoti requires travel from Agartala, the state capital. Plan for at least one full day to explore the main carvings and surrounding areas. Consider two days if you want a more relaxed pace and deeper exploration.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

10-25 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for exploring the outdoor carvings. Clear skies enhance visibility and photography opportunities.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for walking around the site and enjoying the natural surroundings. Festivals like Ashokastami in April draw large crowds, but October-March offers a more peaceful experience. This period avoids the monsoon rains and extreme heat.

Tip: Book accommodations in advance, especially if visiting during local festivals. The area can get crowded during peak season.

Shoulder Season

April to May

25-35 degrees C

Hot and humid. Exploring during the day can be tiring.

Why Visit:

Fewer crowds and potentially lower prices on accommodations are the main draws. Be prepared for the heat and humidity, and plan your activities accordingly.

Tip: Carry water and wear light clothing. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.

Avoid

June to September

25-30 degrees C

Heavy monsoon rains can make the site difficult to access and explore. Visibility may be poor.

Why Avoid:

The monsoon season makes travel challenging and the carvings less accessible. The heavy rains can also cause landslides and road closures.

Note: Unless you enjoy heavy rain and muddy conditions, it's best to avoid Unakoti during the monsoon.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Central Shiva Head

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

The centerpiece of Unakoti, this is a colossal bas-relief sculpture of Shiva's head, known as 'Unakotishwara Kal Bhairav'. It stands approximately 30 ...

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Ganesha Images

⏱ 30 minutes ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Several images of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, are carved into the rock face. These are smaller than the Shiva head but equally detailed and sign...

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Hanuman Image

⏱ 20 minutes ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

A large image of Hanuman, the monkey god, is also present at Unakoti. This carving adds to the diverse representation of Hindu deities at the site....

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Durga Image

⏱ 30 minutes ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

A carving of the goddess Durga can also be found at Unakoti. This image represents the divine feminine and adds to the spiritual significance of the s...

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Unakotiswara Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

A functional temple where locals offer prayers and perform rituals. Though newer than the carvings, it's an integral part of the site....

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The Natural Surroundings

⏱ Variable Free

Unakoti is set amidst lush green forests and hills. The natural beauty enhances the spiritual and historical significance of the site....

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Ashokastami Festival Grounds

⏱ Variable, depending on the festival Free (for general access), variable for specific events

During the Ashokastami festival, the grounds come alive with celebrations and cultural performances. It's a unique opportunity to experience the local...

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Things To Do

attractions

Guided Tour of Unakoti

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person

A local guide can provide valuable insights into the history, mythology, and artistic significance of the carvings. They...

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attractions

Photography Tour

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹750-1500 per person

A photography tour can help you capture the best images of the carvings and the surrounding landscape. A professional ph...

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attractions

Trekking in the Surrounding Hills

⏱ 2-4 hours 💰 ₹200-500 per person (including guide)

Explore the lush green hills surrounding Unakoti. Enjoy the fresh air and the scenic views....

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attractions

Visit to Nearby Jampui Hills

⏱ Full Day 💰 ₹1500-2500 (including transport)

A scenic hill station about 2 hours from Unakoti. Offers panoramic views and a different perspective on Tripura's landsc...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend Ashokastami Festival

1-2 days | Free (for general access), variable for specific events

A major Hindu festival celebrated at Unakoti, commemorating the birth of Ashokastami. It's a vibrant...

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celebration

Experience Tribal Dance Performance

1-2 hours | ₹500-1000 per person

Tripura is home to several tribal communities, each with its unique dance forms. Witness a performan...

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celebration

Visit a Local Village

2-3 hours | ₹200-500 (donation to the village)

Visit a nearby village to experience the rural life of Tripura. Interact with the locals and learn a...

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celebration

Learn Kokborok Language

1 hour | ₹300-500 per lesson

Kokborok is the native language of the Tripuri people, the largest tribal group in Tripura. Learning...

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celebration

Try Local Cuisine Cooking Class

2-3 hours | ₹800-1500 per person

Learn to prepare traditional Tripuri dishes using local ingredients. A hands-on experience to unders...

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celebration

Attend a Local Market

1-2 hours | Free (shopping costs extra)

Experience the bustling atmosphere of a local market. See the variety of local produce and handicraf...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Berma
Berma

Fermented fish, a staple of Tripuri cuisine (try at local restaurants)

Wahan Mosdeng
Wahan Mosdeng

Pork dish cooked with bamboo shoots and herbs

Gudok
Gudok

A simple vegetable stew (try at local eateries)

Chakhwi
Chakhwi

Bamboo shoot based dish

Muya Bai Wahan
Muya Bai Wahan

Bamboo shoot with chicken

Panch Phoron Tarkari
Panch Phoron Tarkari

Mixed vegetable dish with five spices

Where to Eat

Meghna Restaurant

Meghna Restaurant

₹₹

Indian, Chinese

📍 Kailashahar

A popular restaurant in Kailashahar, serving a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. A reliable option for a decent meal.

Indian curries

₹400-600 for two

City Spice Restaurant

City Spice Restaurant

₹₹

Indian, Continental

📍 Kailashahar

Offers a mix of Indian and Continental cuisine. A good place for a more formal dining experience.

Tandoori dishes

₹500-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Kailashahar Market

Kailashahar Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be careful about hygiene. Choose stalls that look clean and have fresh food.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Unakoti

More restaurants & dishes from Unakoti

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Kailashahar

The closest town to Unakoti, offering basic amenities and accommodations. A convenient base for exploring the site.

Best For: Budget travelers, those seeking convenience

Agartala

The state capital, offering a wider range of accommodations and services. Requires a longer drive to Unakoti.

Best For: Luxury travelers, those seeking more options

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Nakshatra

📍 Kailashahar

Basic but clean rooms. A convenient option for budget travelers.

₹800-1200/night

Tripura Tourism Guest House, Kailashahar

📍 Kailashahar

Simple government-run accommodation. Offers basic amenities and a decent stay.

₹600-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹1500-2500/night

Hotel Park City

📍 Kailashahar

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. A good option for a more relaxed stay.

₹1500-2500/night

Ginger Hotel, Agartala (nearby)

📍 Agartala

Reliable chain hotel with consistent quality. Requires a longer drive to Unakoti.

₹2000-3000/night

Luxury

₹4000+/night

Hotel Polo Towers Agartala (nearby)

📍 Agartala

The most luxurious option in the region. Offers excellent service and facilities, but far from Unakoti.

₹4000+/night

Radisson Blu Hotel, Agartala (nearby)

📍 Agartala

International chain hotel with high standards. A comfortable stay, but requires travel to Unakoti.

₹3500+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Agartala Airport (IXA), 178km from Unakoti

train

By Train

Stations:

Kumarghat (KUGT)

Nearest railway station to Unakoti, about 20km away. Limited train connectivity.

Agartala (AGTL)

Major railway station with better connectivity. Requires a longer road trip to Unakoti.

Routes:
  • From Kolkata (to Agartala): 24 hours (₹800-2000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Kailashahar Bus Stand
  • Agartala Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Agartala: 5-6 hours (₹300-500)

Note: Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances. Buses can be crowded.

Getting Around

directions

Car/Jeep

💰 ₹2000-3000 per day

Best for: Comfortable travel, reaching remote areas

Hire a car with a driver for convenience. Negotiate the price beforehand.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-150 per trip

Best for: Short distances within Kailashahar

Bargain for the fare before starting the journey. Be aware of traffic conditions.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light and comfortable clothing is recommended. Wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites. Bring a hat and sunscreen.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Kailashahar and Agartala. Carry enough cash for smaller expenses.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller transactions. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or purified water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Be cautious of spicy food.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, stomach problems. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in Agartala. Requires ID and address proof.

WiFi: Wifi is available at some hotels and restaurants in Kailashahar and Agartala.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learning a few basic Bengali or Kokborok phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

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