Purulia Tourism 

Purulia tourism offers Ajodhya hills circuit and Garpanchokot Baranti circuit as major tourist attractions among the popular Purulia tourist spots. Purulia tourism has a lot to offer to its guests and travelers from the beauty of nature to ancient history. Purulia has verdant hills and hillock scattered around its length and breadth along with a lush green canvas of forest and vegetation.  Purulia is surrounded by famous rivers like Subarnarekha, Kansabati, Damodar.  Purulia tourism also offers historical places which are almost 1000 years old. Purulia is a perfect gateway for travelers and vacationers trying to explore the serene and untamed nature of western West Bengal.

EVERYTHING ABOUT PURULIA TOURISM

• Tourist circuits in Purulia district
• Top Places to visit in Purulia
• Offbeat places in Purulia
• Best time to visit Purulia
• How to reach tourist places in Purulia ?
• Famous Festivals & Fairs in Purulia
• Things to do in Purulia

HOW TO PLAN A PURULIA TOUR?

While planning a Purulia tour, tourists must consider the two major tourist circuits in Purulia district.

1.  Ajodhya Pahar Baghmundi tourist circuit
2. Garpanchokot Baranti Panchet tourist circuit

Both the tourist circuit can be covered in a single tour plan or can be visited separately in a relaxed manner. Both the tourist circuit under purulia tourism offers a blend of mesmerizing landscapes and ancient historical architectures.

WHICH ARE THE TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN PURULIA?

Two major tourist circuits of Purulia covers almost all the alluring scenic spots under Purulia tourism.

A. Ajodhya Pahar or Ayodhya hills circuit under Purulia Tourism

The most popular tourist circuit is the Ajodhya Pahar Baghmundi tourist circuit since it covers a variety of landscape, towering hills, dams, falls and lush green forest. Popular destinations under Ajodhya pahar or Ayodhya hill tourist circuits are as below

1. Ajodhya Pahar

   Ajodhya Pahar is the main attraction among all the tourist spots in Purulia. An extended part of the Eastern Ghats range, Ajodhya Pahar is a hill of medium height with tableland on top. Belonging to the Dalma Hill range, the highest peak of Ayodhya Pahar is Gorgaburu. The hill is within the vast area of Chota Nagpur Plateau and forms its lowest step. It is a woody hill with picturesque beauty. The cacophony of birds will accompany you along your trail to the Ayodhya Hills through the forested path. Legend has it that this hill was visited by Lord Rama and Sita during their exile. The vast spread of greenery and serpentine roads are a treat to the eyes. With a height of mere 712 metres, it is one of the most favourite nearby weekend destinations from Kolkata. A visit to the Ajodhya Pahar will certainly make you fall in love with Purulia all over.

2.  Muruguma Dam

   Not far from Ajodhya Pahar in Purulia, there is another tourist spot in Purulia rich in natural beauty awaiting your amazement. Muruguma Dam. Built over a small tributary of the river Kangsabati, this place is serenity well-defined. A whiff of fresh air coming every second from the water body is sure to make you feel relaxed on your next trip to Purulia. Fill your pollution-laden lungs with freshness and enjoy the not-so-distant views of the Ayodhya Pahar. The clean water of the dam, greenery around the place and hints of the characteristic red soil- all make the tourist spot in Purulia worth visiting.

3. Bamni Falls

   Purulia, an otherwise dry district of West Bengal, has wonders in store for you as you visit Bamni Falls. While you experience the dry, stony soil of Purulia, the hint of moisture in the air coming along with the fresh smell of spruce trees fills up your senses as you visit the falls. The water here steps down without giving you any visual indication of erosion. Stand close to it and droplets of water will drench you like the pitter-patter of rain. Looking for a place to sit and think of nothing and letting go of all the worldly worries? Look no further beyond Bamni falls, the stunning tourist spot in Purulia.

4. Upper dam

   

   Another location with breathtaking beauty within the vicinity of Ajodhya Pahar in Purulia is the Upper Water Dam. It is one of the major sightseeing in Purulia and without giving it a visit your Purulia tour will be incomplete. It is mainly a project for generating hydroelectricity. It is also known by the name of PPSP or Purulia Pump Storage Project. The artificially constructed dam brings freshness to the dry surface of Purulia. Watching the sunrise and sunset from this location is nothing short of an extravagant experience. The vast open area does not barricade the sky and thus when the colours of sunrise and sunset spread across the sky, you are simply left awestruck. The Upper Dam area is surrounded by Sal forest which adds to the lush green beauty of the Purulia tourist spots.

5. Lower Dam

   It is another rock-filled dam under the PPSP project. Located downhill from the upper dam, it gets its name, Lower Dam. The scenic beauty and natural environment are not much different from the upper dam. But at the same time, Purulia has wonders hidden in every turn. You can always discover the lower dam in its unique view when you visit it. The low reservoir of water provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the natural view of the surrounding without any barrier in front of your eyes. The reflection of the sky on the clear water will make you want to touch it and feel it.

6. Charidah

   If you have a special fondness for local artisans and their artefacts which are famous across the globe, Charidah is the place you must include in your Purulia tour plan. Internationally acclaimed Chhau martial dance uses masks of various looks, sizes and shapes and Charidah is the home to these masks and the artisans who make them. While you get to interact with more than 250 artisans involved in mask-making, you may come across a few who have been awarded nationally too, acknowledging their effort. Be mesmerised by the beautiful creation and you can buy these artefacts directly from the makers at an excitingly affordable price. Charida village is a bright spot in the Purulia tourist map for its contribution to the art to make Purulia tourism more attractive and vibrant.

7. Deulghata

   A quick step back in history is what Deulghta is all about. Ruins of temples built in the times of the Sen and the Pal emperors bear the evidence of rich heritage, improved expertise in designing and building and the immense creativity of the artisans. The nearby Kansai River adds to the stucco decoration and authentic architectural styles. Even though the temples have endured the wrath of time, the skilled artistry is still evident on the temple body and the idols. One must include Deulghata in their Purulia tour plan to know the history of Purulia from ancient times.

8. Baghmundi

   Famously known for the hills by the same name, Baghmundi is actually a small town in Purulia developed as a part of the community development programme. It is a small area with all the necessities in the vicinity. There are many approaches to visit Ayodhya Pahar, one can visit Ajodhya Pahar through Baghmundi situated at the foothills of Ayodhya Pahar. The rainy season, winter and spring are three times of the year when this area thrives with natural beauty. A simple aimless stroll through Baghmundi can enrich you with the magnificent beauty of nature. Hills, forests, waterfalls- nature has its basket full and is awaiting your arrival.

9. Ajodhya Pahar Tea Garden

   Spread across 20 acres of land on the slopes of Ajodhya and other areas, the tea garden was an initiative undertaken by the Government of West Bengal. Once a beautiful Purulia tourist spot with a lush green cover of tea saplings, this project now needs a fresh lease of life. The administration is working towards it. You can still spend some time here, have a small chit chat with the workers here and get a glimpse of their lifestyle before returning to your resort.

10. Khairabera dam

    Yet another water body in the trail of Purulia, the Khairabera dam is located amidst hills and forests. It is mainly an irrigation dam. Two hills on two sides adorn the dam which is around 1.5 km long. The calmness of the location is only disturbed by the cacophony of birds. You can see various fishes swimming in the clear water. A trek of a few miles will bring you to Machhkanda falls, a small waterfall hidden in the greenery of the forest. Khairabera dam is a must-visit place for sightseeing in Ajodhya hill and forest reserve area.

B.Garpanchokot Panchet Baranti Circuit under Purulia Tourism

The other important tourist circuit in Purulia tourism is Garpanchokot Panchet Baranti Circuit. Following are the main tourist attraction in this tourist circuit

1. Garhpanchkot

   Garpanchkot is one of the most popular tourist spots in Purulia. The word Garh in the name Garhpanchkot stands for ‘fort’. Here you will find a fort, now in ruins but still standing strong, as it was built in 1600 AD by the Panchkote kings. The structure is located just at the foothills of the Panchet Hills. It withstood the Bargi attacks and bears the signs of their ruthlessness. The environment here is serene. Fill your lungs with fresh air and fill your ears with the chirping of varieties of birds as you experience history unfold itself in front of your eyes. The fort stands alone bearing the testimonial of Bengal’s rich heritage. It is one of the most visited Purulia tourist spots. This place is an excellent location for clicking photographs also.

2. Baranti or Muradi Lake

   The rocky terrain of Purulia makes it an ideal place for building dams for irrigation. Muradi Lake / Baranti lake is situated at the base between the hillock named Muradi hill and Baranti hill. It is situated about 15 Km from Panchyet Hill and is a favourite picnic spot for travellers visiting Purulia. During winter, the place becomes abuzz with the chirpings of migratory birds. There’s a dash of colour everywhere. The picturesque lake surrounded by forests and hills is one of the major attractions of Purulia Tourism. Amid Purulia’s rugged landscape, Boronti is like an oasis. One looking for sightseeing in Purulia shouldn’t miss.

3. Jaichandi Pahar

   If Purulia is a queen, Jaichandi Pahar is undoubtedly her crown. It is closer to Raghunathpur than Purulia town. This hill has made itself one of the most favourite places on the Purulia tourist map. Whether you want to simply absorb the beauty of nature in its most virgin form or whether you are up for a day tour Jaichandi Pahar is the ultimate location. It is not of much height but stands tall in the surrounding plateau. In winter, Jaichandi Pahar Pariyatan Utsav is held from 1st or 2nd January. Local artisans flock to the festival ground with their creations.

4. Cheliyama

   Located at the Raghunathpur subdivision, this part of Purulia has even more wonders packed in its famous temples. Time travel with a visit to the Radha Vinod temple built in the 17th century. Thanks to the administration, the temple has been restored. On the temple walls, you will find intricate designs of terracotta depicting the various Leela of Lord Krishna and other incidents from the Ramayana. The temples are built in a truly authentic Bengal style of aatchala. Restoration works have added to its beauty and made it ready for you to step in and be mesmerised by the creation in your next Purulia tour plan.

HOW TO REACH TOURIST PLACES IN PURULIA ?

Travelers can reach the tourist places in Purulia by various ways.  Tourists can plan their purulia tour plan according to the following connectivity details 

Tourist who will like to visit the Ajodhya hill circuit can opt for the following communication –

A. By flight, one can reach the nearest airport Ranchi and take a cab to reach the resorts near Tulin, Matha and Ajodhya Pahar.

• Distance from Ranchi to Tulin – 70 Kms approx
• Distance from Ranchi to Ajodhya Pahar – 115kms approx

B. The nearest well-connected railway station is Muri Jn which is on the border of Purulia district and Jharkhand. One can reach from and Purulia station also.

• Distance from Muri Jn to Tulin – 03 Kms approx
• Distance from Muri Jn to Ajodhya Pahar – 45kms approx
• Distance from Purulia Jn to Ajodhya Pahar – 50kms approx

C. Tourist can visit Ajodhya hill circuit or Tulin by road via Durgapur – Bankura – Purulia town route which is approximately 350 kms in distance.

Tourist approaching Garpanchokot Panchet Baranti Circuit can opt for the following communications

A. The nearest well-connected railway station is Asansol.

• Distance from Asansol Jn to Garpanchokot – 35 Kms approx
• Distance from Purulia Jn to Garpanchokot – 60kms approx

B. Tourist can visit Garpanchokot Panchet Baranti Circuit by road via Durgapur – Asansol – Barakar route which is approximately 280 kms in distance.

WHICH ARE THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PURULIA ?

There are various locations one can stay and visit in the tourist destinations of Purulia. Following are the most well connected and popular location to stay in tourist places in Purulia. One can find decent and luxury accommodations in these places

1. Tulin 

   Tulin is a very convenient place for tourists visiting Purulia tourist spots. The nearest railway station Muri Jn is just 3 kms away and well connected with all major railway stations. Staying in Tulin, tourists can also visit the tourist spots in Jharkhand as Tulin is centrally located to both Purulia tourism and Jharkhand tourism.

2. Ajodhya Hills 

   There are many resorts available on Ajodhya hilltop. One can stay on the top of the Ajodhya Pahar and enjoy the beauty of the place. However, very few resorts and accommodations offers a panoramic view from the hilltop.

3. Matha Forest

   There are various resorts and accommodations available near Matha hill and forest. Mostly all the resorts are at the foothill and offer a beautiful scenic view of the hill. Matha is convenient for tourist opting for covering the Ajodhya Pahar circuit only.

4. Garpanchokot 

   Garpanchot has lots of accommodations for tourist visiting the Garpanchokot Baranti circuit. Both government and private resorts are available in this place. The nearest well-connected railway station is Asansol.  However it is not very convenient for tourists planning to visit Ajodhya Pahar tourist circuit from Garpanchikot.

FAMOUS FESTIVALS & FAIRS IN PURULIA

The vibrant village culture of Purulia celebrates various festivals and fairs around the year. A lot of tourists make their Purulia tour plan to witness these festivals and fairs. Nowadays these festivals and fairs are becoming the main attraction of Purulia tourism. Following are a few of the most popular festivals and fairs of Purulia

1. 1. • Tushu Parab – Tushu Parab is a celebration of rural women making folk songs to share their joy, sorrow and experiences with an imaginary character called Tusurani. Tushu Parab is held around mid January during maker Sankranti.
      • Gajan or Charak Puja – This is celebrated in honour of lord shiva and held from March to May-end in different parts of the Purulia district.
      • Disum Sendra or Sikar Parab – It is a festival of hunting or ‘Shikar’ celebrated by the Santhal tribe in the Ayodhya Hills areas during April.
      • Bandhna Parab – This festival or ‘Parab’ is one of the most vibrant festivals celebrated by most tribes in Purulia. Farm Animals are worshipped as the god by the Tribal families and they paint their houses with vibrant colours during the festival. This festival is held in October/ November.

TOP ACTIVITIES TO DO IN PURULIA

Purulia offers plenty of activities for tourists visiting Purulia. Travellers can indulge in various activities from photography to trekking and many more things in Purulia. Following are the best activities travellers can get engaged in

1. 1. Nature Photography
   2. Birding
   3. Trekking
   4. Rock climbing
   5. Rural and hill cycling
   6. Kayaking
   7. Village walk
   8. River bathing
   9. Watching ‘Chou Nach’ a popular local dance form
   10. Buying masks of ‘Chou Nach’ as a souvenir.