Tripura, with its rare combination of natural beauty and man-made wonders, ranks high among the beautiful destinations in India. The state abounds in forests and hills with natural wonders ranging from lakes to wildlife sanctuaries. Tripura is home to a number of tribes and communities who lend an incredible mix of culture and customs to this small state.

Ashokastami Festival in Tripura

Ashokastami is one of the important festivals of Tripura which is held on March-April every year at Unakoti Teertha in Kailasahar sub-division of the state. The rituals are performed by the Tripuris and the Kakborok linguistic group, but the festival is celebrated with equyal fervor by both tribals and non-tribals. Ashokastami is followed by a big fair popularly known as "Ashokastami Fair".

Numerous rock-cut images of gods and goddesses can be seen on the walls of Unakoti hill. These are worshipped by thousands of pilgrims from all over the state.

Mela and the rite of bathing appear to be the special characteristic of Unakoti. Shibaratri, Makar Sankranti and Ashokastami Mela are the famous festivale of Unakoti. Thousands of religious people gather on that occassion to perform rituals and take a holi dip in the water of Astami kunda