Ashokastami is celebrated with pomp and gaiety in Tripura, especially in Unakoti, in Chaitra month as per Hindu calendar. Ashokastami Mela is the major attraction for the tourists or pilgrims who visit Tripura during the spring season. In 2013, Ashokastami date is April 18.
This festival is of great significance according to Ochai, the sacred book of Tripura Hindus. Chaitra Shukla Astami, eighth day of bright half of Chaitra month, marks the day of Ashokashtami.
Ashokashtami festival is associated with the holy dip in Unakoti Astami Kunda or any other holy river. Unakoti is the most sacred place to observe Ashokashtami, Makar Sankranti, and Maha Shivaratri. Ashokastami is also celebrated in West Bengal, Orissa and some other North Indian places.