Did you know that the northeastern state of Tripura is also home to a lake city named Udaipur? Yes, you read that right. However, this Udaipur hasn’t yet garnered the pan-Indian fame that its namesake city in Rajasthan has always enjoyed. Located in Tripura’s Gomati district, Udaipur charms the experienced traveller with its ancient temples, enchanting lakes, incredible rock carvings, and more. Here’s why you must plan a trip to the offbeat town. By Karan Kaushik
Your handy guide to Udaipur, Tripura
The Destination
Nestled on the banks of River Gomati, the beautiful city of Udaipur once served as the capital of Tripura. Akin to Rajasthan‘s Udaipur, this city of Tripura is also known as the Lake City. Historically, Udaipur was the capital of the Manikya dynasty. The city was earlier known as Rangamati and is home to Tripura’s most sacred shrine – the Tripura Sundari Temple. Also dotting the landscape of Udaipur are picturesque lakes such as Kalyan Sagar and Dhani Sagar, among others.
Things to do in Udaipur, Tripura
Tripura Sundari Temple
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Established by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya in 1501, the Tripura Sundari Temple is the largest temple in the state. While at the first glance, the temple may remind you of a Buddhist Stupa, a closer look at it will tell you that it is actually shaped like a tortoise. This is why the temple is also known as Kurma Pith, with the word kurma translating as a tortoise. The temple’s architecture is inspired by the medieval Bengali style of architecture, which is reflected in its four slanted roofs, known as char chaala. It does have hints of the traditional Tripura style too. The temple’s sanctum has been built in the quintessential Bengali-style hut-type structure with a conical dome.
Kalyan Sagar Lake
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Housed inside the Tripura Sundari Temple complex, the Kalyan Sagar Lake offers absolute bliss to devotees. Flanked by lush environs, the lake inhabits large fishes and tortoises. Sprawled over 5 acres, the lake is said to have been dug up as many as 124 years after the construction of the temple. Devotees, especially the little ones have a great time feeding puffed rise to the fishes. Gotta love Indian temples for bringing the best out of humans.
Gunavati Group of Temples
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This grand temple complex is more popularly known as the Gunabati Mandir Gucchha. Sequestered in the bustling and narrow alleys of Udaipur, the temple complex is a reminder of the glorious past of Tripura during the reign of Maharaja Govinda Manikya. A stone inscription at the temple complex suggests that these temples were commissioned by Maharani Gunabati, wife of Maharaja Govinda Manikya in 1668 A.D. There are three temples in this complex, all dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The distinct feature of the temples is the chalas featuring stupa-like finials that embellish their structures.
Melaghar
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Melaghar is famous for its stunning Neermahal. The palace served as the royal residence of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, who ruled over the erstwhile kingdom of Tripura. The stunning white-coloured palace is set in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake. It is said to have been constructed sometime during the 1930s. It is said that the palace is the second of its kind after the Jal Mahal in Rajasthan’s Jaipur.
Tepania Eco Park
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Get your dose of some greens at the Tepania Eco Park on Udaipur-Agartala Road. A perfect place to enjoy a back-to-nature outing with your loved ones, the park features a gorgeous orchidarium. On display here are more than 200 species of orchids. Then there’s the Cactus House, which also displays over 200 varieties of cacti. The best part, though? You could even enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in the treehouses here.
Devtamura
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History buffs and archaeology affiniados must not miss the rock carvings at Devtamura. Embark on a refreshing boat ride from Udaipur to visit this incredible spot on the banks of River Gomati. The rock carvings are found at the verdant hill range of Devtamura, which stands between Udaipur and Amarpur. Encompassed by dense forests, the archaeological site will leave you fascinated with its rock-cut sculptures that have been in existence since the 15th and 16th centuries. Noteworthy sculptures here include those of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Durga.
Best time to visit
The months from October to March are considered ideal to have the best experience in Udaipur. Summers start from March end and last till May, and are best avoided.
How to reach
By Air: At 52km, Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala is the nearest airport. Agartala enjoys good air connectivity with major Indian towns like Delhi, Guwahati, and Kolkata.
By Rail: Agartala (52 km) and Kumarghat (160 km) are the nearest railheads from Udaipur. Private and shared taxis are easily available at the airport.
By Road: Udaipur is served by direct buses from prominent towns like Agartala, Aizawl, and Silchar.
Feature and hero image courtesy: Shutterstock
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