Purulia is one of the most beautiful districts in West Bengal with a number of tourist attractions. The rich green terrain, rolling hills, and vast wilderness make it one of the ‘must-visit’ places in West Bengal.
It provides tired city inhabitants with a pastoral ambiance and relaxing surroundings.
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Purulia may not have the spectacular ocean or the beautiful mountains, but it does have a rich cultural legacy. This district continues to draw visitors from all over the world owing to its natural beauty.
In this article, you will get to know about the following places to visit in Purulia,
Let’s see each of these places in detail.
1. Baranti Reservoir
The Baranti Reservoir, surrounded by lovely green hills and serenity, is considered a hidden gem in the Purulia district. This place is ideal for those who want to escape from the crowd and relax in a peaceful environment. It is a relatively new weekend destination to visit in the area.
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You can have a fun boat ride on the Muradi Lake, which is an artificial lake created by an irrigation project. You can also have a picnic with your family, friends, and loved ones near the lake and enjoy the fresh air and the lovely views.
The Baranti reservoir is about three hours away from Purulia town by road, so you should start your journey early in the morning to make the most of your day. There are also various resorts with all the basic amenities, where you can spend the night.
2. Cheliama
Cheliama is a historical village in Purulia, where you can witness the rich heritage and culture of this region. The main attraction here is the Radha-Govinda temple, which was built in the 17th century and showcases the terracotta architecture and artistry of that era. The temple has intricate carvings of scenes from Krishna Leela, Ramayana, and Mahabharata on its walls and archways.
You can also visit the Radha-Vinod temple, which has a modern ceramic plaque in Bengali that narrates the history of the temple. There are many other temples in Cheliama that reflect the religious diversity and harmony of this place.
Apart from historical attractions, Cheliama also offers you a glimpse of the rustic lifestyle and hospitality of the local people. You can explore the village and interact with them to learn more about their customs and traditions.
3. Joychandi Hill
Joychandi Hill, also known as Joychandi Pahar, is one of the visited spots in the Purulia district. This place is famous for its natural beauty and the Jai Chandi temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Chandi.
The temple is located at the top of the hill, which is about 400 stairs away from the base. The climb is worth it, as you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and the sky. You will feel a sense of awe and devotion at the temple, which will soothe your mind and soul.
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Joychandi Hill is also a popular destination for rock climbers, who come here to challenge themselves on the rugged terrain.
Every year, a festival called Joychandi Pahar Paryatan Utsav is held at its foothills, which attracts tourists from all over the country. The festival showcases the local art, culture, and entertainment of this region.
4. Ajodhya Hills
Ajodhya Hills is one of the most attractive and famous tourist destinations in Purulia. These hills are part of the Dalma mountain range and an extension of the Eastern Ghats. They have a mythological significance as well, as they are believed to be the place where Lord Rama and Sita spent some time during their exile.
When you get to Ajodhya Hills, you’ll realize why it is considered one of the best weekend destinations near Kolkata. This is a breathtakingly beautiful place, with lush greenery, rocky cliffs, winding rivers, and cascading waterfalls. The highest peak of Ayodhya Hills is Gorgaburu, which stands at 2,220 ft above sea level. You can trek to the top of this peak and enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding area.
You can also visit nearby attractions such as the Marble Lake and Turga Dam. Many adventurers come to Ayodhya Hills to practice their rock-climbing skills on the challenging terrains. Ajodhya Hills is a perfect place for nature lovers and photographers who want to capture its charm and splendor.
5. Saheb Bandh
Saheb Bandh is the largest and most prominent water body in Purulia town, covering an area of 50 acres. This reservoir has a unique history that dates back to the colonial era. It was commissioned by Colonel Tikley, a British officer, in 1843. He compelled many prisoners to dig this huge tank for five years. The tank was meant to supply water to the town and also to serve as a recreational spot for British officials.
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Today, Saheb Bandh is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Purulia. It is located in the heart of the town and attracts many visitors who come to enjoy its beauty and tranquility.
You can witness the stunning sunrises and sunsets along this water body, which will fill your heart with joy and peace. Saheb Bandh is also a haven for bird lovers, as it hosts many migratory birds from different parts of the world. You can spot some rare and exotic species of birds here, such as Siberian cranes, pelicans, flamingos, and storks. If you visit Saheb Bandh, don’t forget to carry a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at these feathered friends.
6. Garpanchkot
Garpanchkot Fort is a historical site that lies at the base of the Panchet Hills in Purulia. The fort was once the stronghold of the Singh Deo dynasty, who ruled over this region for about 1500 years. However, the fort was attacked and plundered by the Maratha invaders in the 18th century, leaving behind only the ruins of its glorious past.
Although the fort is in ruins now, it is still a popular tourist attraction in Purulia, offering a serene and scenic escape from city life. The fort showcases the splendid architecture of the ancient kingdom, with temples, palaces, and gateways.
You can also visit the small temple on top of Panchet Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Garpanchkot Fort is a paradise for photography lovers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers who want to explore this offbeat destination.
You can learn about places to stay and other nearby places to visit in Garpanchkot in the article below.
Click to know more about Garpanchkot.
7. Kashipur Rajbari
Kashipur Rajbari is a notable heritage structure in Purulia situated about 25 kilometers from Purulia station.
It stands as a testimony to the rich history and culture of Panchakot, a former princely state in Purulia district. The palace was built in 1916 by the Panchakot royal family, who ruled over the region for more than 800 years. The palace was also the residence of Nawab Wasif Ali Mirza, who was conferred the title of “Raja Bahadur of Kashipore” by the British government.
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Special exhibits at the Rajbari include exquisite Belgian-painted glass, large chandeliers, and stone statues that display the taste of royalty and extravagance. The palace also houses a rare ancient Durga temple, which showcases the religious devotion of the rulers. The palace also displays various weapons used by the kings, such as swords and spears, which reflect their martial prowess and valor. The ambiance of the place will take you back in time and will give you the essence of the bygone era.
You can reach Kashipur Rajbari easily from Howrah station. Take a train and get down at either Adra Junction or Purulia Junction. Trains can also be accessed from Asansol, Bokaro, and Jamshedpur. Alternately, board a bus in Dharmatala and get down at the Purulia bus stop. From there, book a Toto or Auto to reach the Rajbari. Explore the palace and its surrounding area to know and learn more about it and the dynasty that was once there.
These are some of the best places to visit in the Purulia district of West Bengal.
They are filled with the beauty of nature and are distinct from other popular tourist attractions in West Bengal. So pack your belongings and organize your trip to Purulia!
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