History of Unakoti
The Unakoti dates back to 7th-9th century. The Hindu mythology describes the history of Unakoti thus-- when lord Shiva was going to Kashi with one crore Gods and Goddesses he halted in Unakoti for a night and instructed all the Gods and Goddesses to wake up before sunrise and proceed for Kashi. In the morning, however, no Gods and Goddesses could wake up except Shiva. Shiva got furiated and cursed the Gods and Goddesses to be turned to stone images and left for Kashi. According to the curse the Gods and Goddesses turned to stone. Therefore, there are one less than a crore Gods and Goddesses here, the one remaining being lord Shiva.Structure of Unakoti
In Unakoti there are several rock cut and stone images, much to the delight of history lovers. The images of Unakoti are of two types-- rock curved figures and stone images. The stone images and other rock cut images consist of images many deities. The rock cut figures consist, among others, the central Shiva head and the gargantuan Ganesha figures. The central Shiva head is known as Unakotishwara Kal Bhairava and is 30 feet high, including an embroidered head dress which is 10 feet high. There are two full sized female figures on each side of the head dress of the central Shiva head. Among the female figures one figure is that of Goddess Durga who is seen standing on a lion. In the ground could be seen half buried three gigantic images of Nandi Bull.Unakoti, the tourist place
The rock cut and the stone images of Unakoti draws pilgrims and archeologists to the place who come impressed by the rock carvings, primitive beauty and waterfalls in Unakoti. The location of Unakoti at a beautiful forested area, beautified by green vegetation and plantation all around forms the major attraction of the place. The Archaeological Survey of India has adopted the site as a heritage site and is responsible for preservation and conservation of the site.The Ashok Ashtami Mela is organized in April every year in Unakoti. The mela draws large number of devotees and pilgrims from across the country who come to pay homage to the Gods and the Goddesses here. Other small melas are also organized in the month of January here.
How to reach Unakoti
Unakoti can be reached via air, rail and road networks.By Air: There is a small airport situated at Kailashahar. Small chartered planes land in the airport. The other nearest airport to Unakoti is Agartala airport.
By Rail: The nearest railhead to Unakoti is situated at Kumarghat.
By Road: One can reach Unakoti by buses and private vehicles from Agartala. Regular bus service is available from Agartala to Kailashahar. From Kailashahar buses, autos and cars are available to reach Unakoti.
