Unakoti is a tourist spot in the tiny north eastern state Tripura. It is almost 180 Km away from state capital Agartala and only around 10 Km away from Kailasahar Sub division.
I have visited this place twice with family and friends. We hired a private car and started our journey to Unakoti. Both Teliamura town and Bara Mura hills came on the way to Unakoti. Roads are smooth and a bit zig zag too, we enjoyed the hilly roads.
Unakoti means one short of Crore. "Koti" means crore in Bengali. There are one short of crore stone cravings of various gods and goddesses on the hills. Apart, there are so many animal cravings, lots of geometrical shapes of stones are craved there. But, the main attraction is the Idol of Shiva. The largest of craving is the God Shiva head which is around 30 feet height. So, it is quite a pious place and both pilgrimages and tourist visit this place to worship Lord Shiva. There are countless stone cravings and you will get tired seeing them.
You have to be physically fit to explore this place on the hills. It is always better to visit this place in winter, as in rainy season the hill becomes risky.In the month of April, a festival is held in this place named Ashokastomi Mela.
There are no hotels to stay in Uankoti, so either you have to stay in nearby town Kailasahar or for a better accomodation you have to go another nearby city Dharmanagar. As it is not possible to back to Agartala after a whole day visit in Unakoti Hill.
Infrastructure is not up to the mark in this place, may be the location is the main reason. It is situated in north eastern part of the country. Both State and Central Government should promote this place in proper way and try to develop the better infrastructure. A wonderful example of Indian religion, culture and heritage just staying there mostly unnoticed!
If it is promoted properly, historians, researchers not even from India but also from aboard will take keen interest to this place.
So, if you visit Tripura, please do not forget to visit Unakoti hills, as it will be a fascinating experience of your life. I recommend this place.