KAILASAHAR, August 12 (TIWN): Governor Tathagata Roy in a visit to Unakoti on Wednesday, an ancient place with huge rock-cut images and stone idols of Lord Shiva urged for preservation of archaeological sites in the district.

The governor accompanied by administrative official reviewed the place of tourist interest in area and assured that he will talk with Chief Minister Manik Sarkar for the betterment of the spot.

He advised the concerned department to create more awareness among the people about the archaeological site and the need to preserve them, said Roy. 
He suggested for renovation of the sculptures and the rock engraved stones. He also stressed on the data being more definitive. 

It is the prime tourist spot of Unakoti District in the Kailashahar Subdivision in the North-eastern Indian state of Tripura. The marvelous rock carvings, murals with their primitive beauty, waterfalls are one of the most natural asset which attracts large number of tourist from different part of the state.

Offering prayer to lord shiva, he said that the spot is very informative reflecting various tribes and their cultural assets and traditions. 

The story of Unakoti says that once lord Shiva was going to Varanasi along with 1 crore god and goddesses including him. On the way they thought of taking rest and shelter on this hill for the night. Before going to bed Lord Shiva strictly warned the other gods and goddesses to get up at dawn before the sun rises and leave for Varanasi. The following morning only Lord Shiva got up and nobody else woke up. In anger Lord Shiva cursed them to become stone sculptures or images and stay there forever. Since then there have been one less than a crore stone sculptures on the hill.

 There the governor suggested developing security measures by district administration and police to maintain the sanctity of the place, the governor added.

At the end of the visit, Governor added that the place is really attractive and will look forward for the development of the site.

However, he was accompanied by DM Mrinal Kanti Das, SDM Ajit Sukla Das along with other official.