Indian Temples: Tripura Sundari Temple (Tripureswari Temple)- Highlights
The Tripura Sundari Temple, also known as Tripureswari Temple, is one of the most sacred and powerful Shakti temples in India. Located in Udaipur town of Tripura, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Tripura Sundari, an incarnation of Maha Shakti (Parvati) and one of the Ten Mahavidyas in Hindu philosophy.
It is revered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, making it a major pilgrimage destination for devotees of the Divine Mother across India.
History (In Detail)
Mythological Origin – Shakti Peetha
According to Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva carried the body of Goddess Sati after her self-immolation, parts of her body fell at different places across the Indian subcontinent. These sites became known as Shakti Peethas.
At Tripura Sundari:
Right foot of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen here.
Shiva is worshipped here as Tripuresh (Bhairava form).
Royal History
The temple was constructed in 1501 AD by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya, the powerful ruler of the Manikya dynasty of Tripura.
The Manikya kings made Tripura Sundari their royal deity, and the temple became the spiritual heart of the kingdom.
Tantric Legacy
The temple is a major centre of Tantric Shakta worship, associated with ancient rituals and esoteric practices, especially related to Sri Vidya tradition.
Significance
Tripura Sundari is significant because:
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas
Among the most important Tantric temples in India
Goddess worshipped as cosmic beauty and supreme consciousness
Considered equal in power to Kamakhya and Kalighat
Spiritual Meaning:
“Tripura” = three worlds (heaven, earth, netherworld)
“Sundari” = supreme beauty
She represents absolute knowledge, energy, and liberation
Devotees believe:
Worship here removes fear, sorrow, and karmic blocks
Grants wisdom, prosperity, marriage, and spiritual awakening
Temple Details (Full Description)
Architecture
Built in Bengali hut-style (Chala architecture)
Dome-shaped sanctum
Surrounded by Kalyan Sagar Lake, enhancing its serenity
Main Deity
Black stone idol of Goddess Tripura Sundari
Installed on a Chakra (Sri Yantra) pedestal
Goddess has four arms, holding:
Chakra
Conch
Bow
Arrow
Associated Shrines
Bhairava shrine
Durga, Kali, and Chandi shrines
Temple complex includes sacrificial platforms (Bali Peeth)
Festivals and Rituals
Major Festivals:
Diwali (Deepavali) – grand animal sacrifices
Durga Puja
Navaratri
Kali Puja
Unique Ritual:
Animal sacrifice (Bali) continues as ancient tradition
Offerings include goats and buffaloes (under state regulation)
Timings
Daily Darshan:
Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
October–November (Durga Puja & Diwali)
February–March (pleasant climate)
Connectivity
By Air:
Agartala Airport – 55 km
By Rail:
Udaipur Railway Station – 3 km
Well connected from Agartala and Guwahati
By Road:
Located on NH-8
Buses and taxis available from Agartala (1.5 hours drive)
Legacy
The Tripura Sundari Temple is not just a religious site but the spiritual backbone of Tripura’s history.
Its enduring legacy includes:
Royal patronage for over 500 years
Preservation of Tantric Shakta traditions
Cultural symbol of Divine Feminine power
One of India’s most important centres of Sri Vidya worship
Even today, the temple stands as a living Shakti Peetha, radiating the timeless energy of the Goddess and drawing pilgrims seeking power, peace, and liberation

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