Unakoti, Archaeological site in Unakoti district, India
Unakoti is an archaeological site in Unakoti district featuring thousands of rock carvings spread across multiple hillsides. The sculptures portray ancient Hindu deities and mythological scenes that transform the landscape into an open-air gallery of stone art.
The site was carved between the 7th and 9th centuries and served as an important pilgrimage destination for devotees. The sculptures reveal how belief and religious practice shaped this place during medieval times.
The main sculpture depicts Shiva adorned with an elaborate headdress, flanked by carvings of Durga and other Hindu deities that reflect the spiritual focus of those who came here to worship. These figures reveal how devotion to these gods shaped the religious life of people in this region.
The site spreads across several hillsides and can be explored on foot, though sturdy shoes are recommended since paths are uneven. The best time to visit is during cooler months when the weather is drier and more comfortable for walking.
The name Unakoti means 'one less than a crore,' deriving from an old legend claiming that millions of figures were created in a single night by divine power. This story reflects how local traditions weave mythology into the identity of this place.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
