Tripura, a small state in Northeast India, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The state is dotted with numerous ancient temples that showcase its architectural splendor and spiritual depth. These temples not only serve as places of worship but also stand as monuments of Tripura’s glorious past. In this blog post, we will delve into the top 10 famous temples in Tripura, each offering a unique experience for travelers. From stunning architectural marvels to serene spiritual retreats, these temples are a must-visit for anyone exploring Tripura.
Explore the Top 10 Famous Temples to Visit in Tripura
1. Tripura Sundari Temple
Tripura Sundari Temple, also known as Matabari, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India and is located in Udaipur, about 55 kilometers from Agartala. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Tripura Sundari and is a significant pilgrimage site.
Highlights:
- Historical Significance: Believed to be over 500 years old, built by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya in 1501.
- Architectural Style: The temple is designed in a traditional Bengali hut style, with a square-shaped sanctum.
- Festivals: Diwali and Durga Puja are celebrated with great fervor here.
Timings:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 9:30 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (55 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station (3 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
2. Bhuvaneshwari Temple
Situated on the banks of the Gomati River, the Bhuvaneshwari Temple is about 55 kilometers from Agartala. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhuvaneshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance.
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Highlights:
- Architectural Brilliance: The temple features intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various deities.
- Literary Significance: Mentioned in Rabindranath Tagore’s famous plays ‘Rajarshi’ and ‘Bisharjan’.
- Serene Location: The temple offers a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for meditation and reflection.
Timings:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 8:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (55 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station (4 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
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3. Unakoti
Unakoti, meaning ‘one less than a crore’, is an ancient Shaivite pilgrimage site located about 178 kilometers from Agartala in the Kailashahar district. The site is famous for its rock-cut sculptures and stone carvings.
Highlights:
- Massive Rock Carvings: The site features colossal rock reliefs of Lord Shiva and other deities, some of which are over 30 feet high.
- Historical Mystery: The origins of these carvings are shrouded in mystery, adding to the site’s allure.
- Annual Festival: The Ashokashtami Mela, held in April, attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists.
Timings:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (178 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Kumarghat Railway Station (19 km)
Best Time to Visit: November to March
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4. Kamalasagar Kali Temple
Located on the banks of the Kamalasagar Lake, near the Bangladesh border, the Kamalasagar Kali Temple is about 27 kilometers from Agartala. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is a popular tourist and pilgrimage destination.
Highlights:
- Scenic Beauty: The temple offers stunning views of the Kamalasagar Lake and the surrounding hills.
- Historical Significance: Built in the 17th century by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya.
- Festivals: Durga Puja and Diwali are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Timings:
- Open: 5:00 AM
- Close: 9:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (27 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Agartala Railway Station (28 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
5. Chaturdas Devata Temple
The Chaturdas Devata Temple, located in Old Agartala, about 8 kilometers from Agartala city center, is unique as it houses the idols of 14 deities. It is an important religious site for the local Tripuri people.
Highlights:
- Cultural Significance: The temple is central to the Kharchi Puja, a major festival in Tripura, celebrating the 14 deities.
- Traditional Architecture: The temple showcases the traditional architecture of the region.
- Festivals: Kharchi Puja is celebrated in July, drawing large crowds.
Timings:
- Open: 5:00 AM
- Close: 8:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (8 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Agartala Railway Station (10 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
6. Jagannath Temple
The Jagannath Temple in Agartala, located within the Ujjayanta Palace grounds, is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. It is a prominent pilgrimage site for the devotees of Lord Jagannath.
Highlights:
- Architectural Beauty: The temple features a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
- Cultural Importance: The annual Rath Yatra festival is celebrated with great pomp and show.
- Historical Background: Built by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya in the early 20th century.
Timings:
- Open: 5:00 AM
- Close: 9:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (12 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Agartala Railway Station (3 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
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7. Gunabati Group of Temples
The Gunabati Group of Temples, located in Udaipur, about 55 kilometers from Agartala, consists of three temples dedicated to different deities. These temples are known for their historical and architectural significance.
Highlights:
- Historical Relevance: Built in the 17th century by Maharaja Govinda Manikya.
- Architectural Style: The temples are constructed in the typical Bengali architectural style.
- Serene Environment: The temple complex is set amidst a tranquil environment, perfect for spiritual reflection.
Timings:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 6:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (55 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station (5 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
8. Mahamuni Pagoda
The Mahamuni Pagoda, located in Manubankul village, about 140 kilometers from Agartala, is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site in Tripura. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Highlights:
- Buddhist Architecture: The pagoda features a golden statue of Lord Buddha and traditional Buddhist architectural elements.
- Spiritual Significance: It is an important site for the Buddhist community in Tripura.
- Festivals: Buddha Purnima is celebrated with great devotion.
Timings:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 8:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (140 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Dharmanagar Railway Station (60 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
8 Days North East India Travel Itinerary
9. Pilak
Pilak, located in South Tripura, about 100 kilometers from Agartala, is an archaeological site that houses ancient Hindu and Buddhist sculptures and carvings. It is a place of great historical and religious significance.
Highlights:
- Ancient Sculptures: The site features rock-cut images and sculptures dating back to the 8th-12th centuries.
- Cultural Blend: Pilak showcases a blend of Hindu and Buddhist art and architecture.
- Festivals: Various cultural festivals are held here, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.
Timings:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 5:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (100 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station (100 km)
Best Time to Visit: November to March
10. Bhubaneshwar Temple, Gomati
The Bhubaneshwari Temple, situated on the banks of the Gomati River in Udaipur, about 55 kilometers from Agartala, is another important temple in Tripura. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhubaneshwari.
Highlights:
- Architectural Excellence: The temple features beautiful carvings and is built in the traditional style.
- Literary Significance: It is mentioned in Rabindranath Tagore’s literary works.
- Peaceful Setting: The temple’s location by the river offers a serene environment.
Timings:
- Open: 6:00 AM
- Close: 8:00 PM
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Agartala Airport (55 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station (4 km)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Additional Reading:
- 10 Popular Historical Places in Tripura
- Tripura’s Top 10 Famous Attractions
- Top 25 Things To Do in Tripura
- 10 Popular Temples in North East India
- North East India UNESCO Heritage Sites
- Places to See in North East India August
- Solo Travel in North East India – What You Need To Know
- Interesting Facts About the North East India
FAQs
1. What are the most famous temples in Tripura?
The most famous temples in Tripura include Tripura Sundari Temple, Bhuvaneshwari Temple, Unakoti, Kamalasagar Kali Temple, Chaturdas Devata Temple, Jagannath Temple, Gunabati Group of Temples, Mahamuni Pagoda, Pilak, and Bhubaneshwari Temple in Gomati.
2. What is the best time to visit temples in Tripura?
The best time to visit temples in Tripura is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for travel.
3. How can I reach Tripura Sundari Temple?
Tripura Sundari Temple is located in Udaipur, about 55 kilometers from Agartala. The nearest airport is Agartala Airport, and the nearest railway station is Udaipur Railway Station.
4. Are there any significant festivals celebrated at these temples?
Yes, significant festivals such as Diwali, Durga Puja, Ashokashtami Mela, Kharchi Puja, and Buddha Purnima are celebrated with great enthusiasm at these temples.
5. What are the timings for visiting Bhuvaneshwari Temple?
Bhuvaneshwari Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.
6. Is there any entry fee for visiting these temples?
Most temples in Tripura do not charge an entry fee; however, it is always best to check locally as some sites may have nominal charges during festival times.
7. Can I find accommodation near these temples?
Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses near these temples, particularly in Agartala and Udaipur, which cater to tourists and pilgrims.
8. How can I reach Unakoti?
Unakoti is located about 178 kilometers from Agartala. The nearest airport is Agartala Airport, and the nearest railway station is Kumarghat Railway Station, about 19 kilometers away.
9. What is unique about the Chaturdas Devata Temple?
The Chaturdas Devata Temple is unique as it houses idols of 14 deities and is central to the Kharchi Puja festival, which is a significant cultural event in Tripura.
10. Are there guided tours available for these temples?
Yes, guided tours are available for most of these temples. Local tour operators in Tripura offer packages that include visits to these famous temples with knowledgeable guides.
Conclusion
Tripura’s temples are not just places of worship but also repositories of the state’s rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. Each temple has its unique story and significance, making them must-visit destinations for anyone exploring the region. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or an architecture lover, these temples offer a profound and enriching experience.
Have you visited any of these temples in Tripura? Share your experiences and favorite memories in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
