The North Eastern part of India is largely unexplored and therefore nests some of the most beautiful ecosystems. The flora and fauna of the North East also boasts of a unique blend thanks to the tribal cultures that protect and worship nature. North East India comprises 7 different Indian states, also known as the 7 sisters of India, namely- Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizora, and Tripura.
Tripura is a state of North East India, which is surrounded by Bangladesh on three sides, is famous for its bamboo products and pineapple fruit which is exported internationally from India. This third smallest state of India also has a variety of tourist attractions that attract thousands of tourists every year. Here’s a list of top 7 places to visit in Tripura.
Ujjayanta Palace: Located at the heart of Agartala city, Ujjayanta Palace is a royal heritage site that also serves a historical museum showcasing the rich and untold history of the people and the land. In the past, this palace was the main occupancy of the royal family of Tripura and the king lived and reigned over the citizens through this palace. The palace has beautifully maintained gardens and buildings which is a treat to the eyes.
Neermahal: Neermahal Palace was built by the king of Tripura Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, and is also the largest water palace of India. It was initially enjoyed by the royal families of Tripura as a summer retreat, which consisted of dance halls, recreational halls, bedrooms, bath halls, common areas, etc. It has now become one of the most famous tourist attractions of Tripura, and one can only visit the palace after a short and sweet boat ride.
Unakoti: Unakoti literally translates into “one less than a crore (koti)” and this tourist attraction of Tripura comes with a religious myth of the region of Lord Shiva. The amazing rock carvings, and murals, with their primitive beauty and waterfalls, is one of the most important heritage sites of Tripura. Every year a big fair is held in the month of April, popularly known as ‘Ashokastami Mela’ by thousands of pilgrims.
Montang Valley: This is one of the fastest growing tourist attractions of Tripura. Situated in the Atharamura Hills, this scenic beauty is a nature’s retreat as one can relish the locally made awang while gazing at the mesmerising mountain view. Montang Valley also has several beautiful photoshoot locations, and original tribal housings called “gairing” that enables one to experience an authentic tribal culture.
Dumboor: Dumboor Lake is a beautiful waterbody situated in Tripura which is spread across 41 sq kilometres. This charming lake also offers a range of watersports and activities in which one can engage in. It is also believed that the lake was formed in the shape of a drum, which is considered sacred in the local tribal culture. The lake is also of great historical significance as it is believed to have played an important role in the battle of Mahabharata.
Baramura Eco Park: Located in the Baramura hills, this ecological park is one of the most important attractions of Tripura. It has a serene environment with unique species of flora and fauna spread all across the park. This park also has an organic lemon garden nearby and a lovely Tong Ghar which is a must see. One can visit the park and witness the beauty of nature which is preserved thanks to Tripura Tourism.
Tripura Sundari Temple: Also known as Matabari, this holy shrine is established upon a small hillock that resembles the hump of a tortoise (Kurma). This shape is called Kurmapṛṣṭhākṛti and is considered the holiest possible site for a Shakti temple, hence also bestowing the name of Kurma Pīṭha. The Goddess is served by traditional Brahmin priests as it is considered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Legend says that the little finger of the left leg of Sati fell here. Here, Shakti is worshipped as Tripurasundarī and the accompanying Bhairava is Tripuresh. It was erected by the Maharaja of Tripura Dhanya Manikya in 1501 CE, and is constructed in the Bengali Ek-ratna style.This is a very important location for the Hindus of the area.