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Tripura

Exploring heritage and religious gems of Agartala

By: Travel and Food Network
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Nestled in the northeastern corner of India, Agartala, the capital city of Tripura, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, vibrant festivals, and scenic landscapes, Agartala is a gem waiting to be discovered by avid travelers.

Ujjayanta Palace

Located at the heart of Agartala town, the Ujjayanta Palace stands as a majestic testament to the rulership of Radha Kishore Manikya, the 20th-century king of Tripura. Evidenced by its towering domes and other architectural wonders, the palace appears to draw inspiration from Mughal designs. While a significant part of the palace is open to the public, the annex attached to the main structure is currently inhabited by members of the royal lineage. Among its treasures, the palace boasts an ivory throne, a revered focal point during the annual Durga Puja celebration. On this occasion, the palace priests pay homage to the throne after conducting a ritual animal sacrifice in honor of the goddess. The ivory throne stands out as one of the prominent attractions in Agartala, encapsulating both regality and cultural significance.

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Traversing pristine Agartala

Tripura government museum

The Tripura Government Museum, housed within the Ujjayanta Palace, stands as the sole state museum in Tripura, offering a compelling glimpse into the region's cultural and historical treasures. Spanning two floors of the palace, the museum showcases rare artifacts that encapsulate the cultural richness, daily life, weaponry, and other belongings of the erstwhile kings of Tripura, along with insights into the tribes, fauna, and flora of the area. The exhibits, spanning many centuries, include a dedicated section that delves into the life and times of literary legend Rabindranath Tagore. A haven for art and history enthusiasts, this museum unfolds the tales of bygone eras witnessed by Northeast India.

Jagannath temple

Located adjacent to the Ujjayanta Palace, the Jagannath Temple in Agartala is a renowned pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. Drawing thousands of visitors annually, the temple holds significance as the donor of the idol of Lord Jagannath at Puri. The temple's architecture, a blend of Hindu and Arabic styles, stands out with its vibrant orange spires and adorned pillars featuring depictions from Lord Krishna's life. Devotees visiting from outside Agartala can avail accommodation within the temple complex.

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Neer Mahal

True to its name, Neer Mahal is a palace situated on the tranquil waters of Rudrasagar Lake. Once the summer retreat of Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the erstwhile king of Tripura, this architectural marvel boasts awe-inspiring rooms that beckon visitors to explore its grandeur. For a nominal fee, tourists can embark on a guided tour of the palace, unraveling its historical and cultural significance. To extend your experience, indulge in a leisurely boat ride on the serene lake. The boat rides not only provide a unique perspective of Neer Mahal but also offer moments of tranquility surrounded by nature's beauty. For those looking to satisfy their taste buds, local vendors stationed outside Neer Mahal offer piping hot puri-sabzi, providing a delightful culinary experience amidst the picturesque surroundings.

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Tripura Sundari temple

Situated 55 km from Agartala, the Tripura Sundari Temple, holds a special place among the 51 Shaktipeethas in India. It is believed to be the spot where Goddess Sati's right foot fell during Lord Shiva's cosmic dance of destruction. The temple, showcasing Bengali-hut style architecture with a conical dome, proudly stands on a hillock and houses two identical images of the deity. Goddess Kali, worshipped in the form of Soroshi, is the focal point of devotion. Annually, a Diwali mela near the temple attracts over two lakh pilgrims, emphasizing the religious significance of this sacred site.

Kamlasagar Kali temple

Perched on a hillock overlooking Kamala Sagar, Kamlasagar Kali Temple, or Kasba Kali Bari, is home to a sandstone idol of Mahishasurmardini (Goddess Kali). Notably, a shivling at the feet of Goddess Dasabhuja Durga adds to its uniqueness. Built by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya in the 15th century and completed by local rulers in the 17th century, this temple, located 27 km from Agartala, draws thousands of pilgrims during various festivals. The serene Kamalasagar Lake nearby enhances the site's beauty, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and family outings.

Bhuvaneswari temple

The Bhuvaneswari Temple in Agartala, mentioned in Rabindranath Tagore's works, is a revered spiritual site located 55 km from Agartala on the banks of River Gomati. Dedicated to Goddess Bhuvaneswari, the temple features a distinctive structure with a 3-ft elevated porch, a four chaala roof, and flower-patterned motifs on pillars and stupas. Administered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the temple stands near the ruins of Maharaja Govinda Manikya's palace from the 17th century.

Sepahijala wildlife sanctuary

Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven of nature, offers joy through its diverse wildlife, encompassing avifauna and fauna. The only peculiarity you'll encounter is the entry fee system, which requires payment twice – first to enter the sanctuary and then at another gate for direct access to the zoo. The expansive area typically takes 2 to 3 hours to explore, adorned with deciduous trees throughout. Get ready to observe leopards, lions, Himalayan mountain bears, pig-tailed macaques, and other creatures freely roaming the reserve.

Unakoti

Located around 170 km or a five-hour drive from Agartala, Unakoti is an ancient site with a fascinating legend behind its name. Translating to 'a number less than a crore,' the site is associated with a tale from ages past. According to legends, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati rested at Unakoti during their journey to the Himalayas. The skilled sculptor Kallu Kumhar, wishing to accompany them, faced a challenge set by Shiva. He had to sculpt crore images of the deities before sunrise. Despite his efforts, Kallu fell short of completing the last image, and Shiva and Parvati continued their journey, leaving behind immortal sculptures. To visit this site, visitors must ascend hundreds of steps carved into the hill. It is advisable to start the climb early morning.

Agartala, with its rich history, diverse culture, and picturesque landscapes, beckons travelers seeking an offbeat destination in Northeast India. From exploring historical palaces to religious gems, Agartala offers a unique and immersive travel experience. So, pack your bags, embark on this journey, and let Agartala weave its enchanting tale of heritage and hospitality.