Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth, Udaipur, Tripura: History, Reason, Significance

Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth, Udaipur, Tripura: History, Reason, Significance

, 9 min reading time

Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth, Udaipur, Tripura: History, Reason, Significance

The place where Goddess Sati's rigt foot fell is the temple called Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth and thus, the devotees who worship here gain the blessings of bowing to Goddess Sati's feet.

Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth, Udaipur, Tripura: History, Reason, Significance

In the peaceful town of Udaipur in Tripura, the Tripurasundari Temple stands as a timeless symbol of faith and devotion. Locally known as Matabari, this ancient shrine is one of the 51 sacred Shaktipeethas of Hinduism, a place where mythology, history, and spirituality seem to meet under one roof.

For centuries, pilgrims have walked its stone pathways, carrying flowers, incense, and silent hopes in their hearts, believing that the Goddess here listens to every prayer. 

The temple’s charm is not in grand decorations or towering walls, but in its serene simplicity, its unique tortoise-shaped structure, and the deep-rooted belief that this land is blessed by the very touch of the Goddess herself.

Whether you arrive as a devout worshipper or a curious traveler, the moment you step into its courtyard, the calmness in the air and the soft hum of prayers instantly make you feel you’ve entered a space where time slows down and the soul finds quiet.


What is the legend behind Tripursundari Shaktipeeth?

The story of Tripurasundari Shaktipeeth is woven into one of the most emotional episodes of Hindu mythology, the tale of Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva. According to ancient scriptures, Goddess Sati, the daughter of King Daksha, married Lord Shiva against her father’s wishes.

When Daksha organized a grand yagna (sacrificial ritual), he deliberately chose not to invite Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati. Out of love and duty towards her father, Goddess Sati decided to attend, but upon reaching, she was humiliated for her marriage and her husband’s ascetic lifestyle. 

Unable to bear the insult to Lord Shiva, she immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. Grief-stricken and enraged, Lord Shiva lifted Goddess Sati’s lifeless body and wandered across the universe, his sorrow shaking the cosmic balance.

To end his suffering and restore harmony, Lord Vishnu released his Sudarshan Chakra, which cut Goddess Sati’s body into 51 parts. Each part fell at a different spot, and these sacred locations became the Shaktipeethas, places where the Goddess’s energy resides eternally.

The Tripurasundari temple in Udaipur, Tripura, is believed to be the spot where Goddess Sati’s right foot fell. From that moment, the land was considered blessed, radiating the divine energy of the Goddess. In this sacred form, she is worshipped as Tripurasundari,“the most beautiful in the three worlds”, an embodiment of grace, power, and compassion. 

Interestingly, even though she is associated with beauty, the idol here is black in color and represents a youthful form of Goddess Kali, symbolizing both her nurturing and fierce aspects.

This blend of tenderness and strength makes the legend of Tripurasundari not just a tale from the past, but a living spiritual presence that continues to draw devotees who seek protection, blessings, and a reminder of the unshakable bond between the Goddess and her devotees.

 

What is the historical background of the temple?

At Udaipur in Tripura, it is said that the right foot of the Goddess touched the earth, sanctifying the place forever. Many centuries later, around 1501 AD, Maharaja Dhanya Manikya, the ruler of the Manikya dynasty, built the temple following what he believed to be a divine command.

As the story goes, the king saw a vision of the Goddess in a dream, instructing him to construct her temple at this very site. Trusting the vision, he erected the shrine in a distinctive tortoise-shaped structure, known as Kurma Peeth, which is considered extremely auspicious in Hindu temple architecture.

Over the centuries, the temple has not only been a center of worship but also a focal point of the cultural and spiritual identity of Tripura. The Manikya kings maintained and expanded the temple complex, making it a seat of royal patronage and religious gatherings.

The idol of Maa Tripurasundari, carved from black stone and depicting the Goddess seated gracefully on a lotus, has remained unchanged for over 500 years, retaining its original charm and divinity. 

Despite the passage of time, the temple has withstood natural and political changes, preserving its historical essence. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring devotion of the people of Tripura and the vision of the Manikya rulers, linking modern-day worshippers with an unbroken chain of faith that stretches deep into history.

 

What are the unique features of the temple?

One of the most striking features of the Tripurasundari Temple is its rare tortoise-shaped (Kurma) structure, something you don’t often find in temples across India. In Hindu belief, the tortoise is a symbol of stability, longevity, and support, qualities that reflect the enduring nature of faith.

The entire temple platform is designed to resemble a tortoise’s back, giving it not just a unique visual appeal but also deep symbolic meaning. 

Inside, the sanctum houses a small yet powerful idol of Maa Tripurasundari, about 5 feet in height, crafted in black stone. Though modest in size, the idol radiates an extraordinary sense of calm and authority, depicting the goddess as a young, beautiful deity seated gracefully on a lotus.

This rare blend of beauty and strength in the idol is one of the reasons devotees feel a deep connection the moment they step inside.

Another charming and unusual aspect is the presence of Kalyan Sagar, the sacred lake right next to the temple. What makes it even more special is the large population of rare tortoises living in its waters, considered sacred and protected by the temple.

Devotees often feed them puffed rice and biscuits, treating the act as a form of offering to the goddess herself. The temple also has a simple yet soulful architectural style, instead of towering gopurams or heavily ornate carvings, it stands with understated elegance, painted in earthy red and crowned with a traditional Bengali-style curved roof.

Combined with the constant fragrance of incense, the sound of bells, and the hum of prayers, these elements create a spiritual atmosphere that feels intimate, personal, and timeless, a place where centuries of devotion can be felt in every corner.

 

Why is Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth so significant?

The Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth is revered not just as a place of worship but as a divine powerhouse where devotees experience profound spiritual transformations. It is widely believed that sincere prayers offered here can remove lifelong troubles, restore marital harmony, and attract prosperity and success into one’s life.

Many childless couples visit the temple with unwavering faith, seeking the goddess’s blessings to be blessed with progeny, and countless devotees attest to the miraculous fulfillment of their deepest desires. 

Beyond its spiritual potency, the temple stands as a living testament to Tripura’s rich heritage, seamlessly blending history, culture, and religion. Unlike many modernized temples, Tripura Sundari retains its ancient charm, with its traditional Bengali hut-style architecture, age-old rituals, and the serene beauty of its surroundings, offering pilgrims a truly immersive spiritual experience.

Additionally, the temple holds immense significance in Tantric traditions, serving as a sacred hub for Tantra Sadhana. 

Spiritual seekers and practitioners believe that meditating within its precincts can unlock hidden energies, awaken higher consciousness, and accelerate spiritual growth, making it a revered destination for those on the path of esoteric wisdom.

Whether one seeks divine intervention, cultural enrichment, or mystical awakening, the Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth stands as a beacon of faith, tradition, and transcendental power.


How to visit Tripura Sundari Temple?

The best time to visit the Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it comfortable for pilgrims to explore the temple and its surroundings.

The monsoon season (June to September) should be avoided as heavy rains often lead to travel disruptions and slippery pathways, which can make the journey difficult. 

Reaching the temple is convenient through multiple modes of transport, the nearest airport is Agartala, located about 55 km away, with regular flights connecting to major Indian cities.

If traveling by train, the closest railway station is Kumarghat, around 40 km from Udaipur, and from there, taxis or buses can be taken to the temple. For those preferring road travel, frequent buses and private taxis operate between Agartala and Udaipur, ensuring a smooth journey.

Once at the temple, devotees can immerse themselves in the divine atmosphere by attending the enchanting Morning Aarti at 5 AM or the serene Evening Aarti at 7 PM, both of which are deeply spiritual experiences. 

Traditional offerings to the goddess include red sarees, bangles, fresh flowers, and sweets, which are believed to please Maa Tripura Sundari and bring her blessings. Whether you're a pilgrim seeking divine connection or a traveler exploring Tripura’s heritage, planning your visit during the right season and knowing the logistics will ensure a fulfilling and hassle-free experience.

Therefore, the Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth is not just a temple; it’s a living testament to faith, history, and divine energy. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, wish fulfillment, or simply wish to experience the mystical aura of an ancient Shaktipeeth, this sacred abode of the Goddess welcomes all with open arms.

 

Written by: Nikita, Content Writer, Rudraksha Hub

If there is anything you want to add to this or edit in this, connect with us at wa.me/918542929702 or info@rudrakshahub.com and we would love to accomodate the request..!!

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