Best Places to Visit in Purulia – Explore Nature, Hills & Heritage

1. Ajodhya Hills

Ajodhya Hills is a small plateau that is surrounded by hills in Purulia. It provides a lovely hideaway to wandering tourists looking for non-touristy sites in Purulia. It is the eastern end of Chhotanagpur Plateau and an extension of Eastern Ghats. The tallest peak of Ajodhya Hills is the Chamtaburu, which is at the height of approximately 719 meters. The destination has amazing waterfalls such as Bamni falls and Turga falls that you should not miss. In addition, the Ajodhya Hills is surrounded by a forest reserve. Here, you are able to see different birds and vegetation. This place is well-known among the youths who are interested in rock climbing for mastering the fundamentals of this activity.

• Best Time to Visit: During the period between October to March is the best time to visit Ajodhya hills. The weather is beautiful, and one can enjoy outdoor activities.

2. Saheb Bandh

Saheb Bandh is a magnificent man-made lake, which is located amidst hills and forests, on the banks of Kangsabati River close to Purulia, and is one of the most popular offbeat locations in Purulia. It was built in 1843 by Britons for supplying drinking water; it was at first called Saheb Bandh (meaning the “Sahib’s Dam”). However, after Rishi was renamed as Rishi Nibarayan sayer in 2016 to honor local freedom fighter Nibaran Chandra Sen. Feel the beauty of the place as you take a boat ride on a shikara which is a traditional kashmiri boat brought in 2019. There are also some historical and religious attractions in that neighborhood such as the Panchkot Palace and the Maa Kalyaneshwari Temple, from which it is possible to observe the area’s history and culture.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit this place would be in the winter between November and February. It is during the pleasant weather and when it is possible to see the migratory birds.

3. Gajaburu Hills

Enveloped at an altitude of roughly 700 meters, this beautiful hill station shows majestic natural beauty, mesmerizing with its lush forests, tumbling waterfalls, large areas, making Gajaburu Hills one of the most appealing off-beat places in Purulia. Gajaburu Hills has a number of challenging climbs for the beginners.

For those looking for some peace, you will enjoy the beauty of the wilderness with nature camps. Gajaburu Hills is an exciting climb for rock climbers. You can also see the cascading waterfalls hidden in the thick splendour of greenery that enhances the glamour of Gajaburu Hills. You could swim in the tranquil waters as well.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time that one should visit Gajaburu Hills is during the winter months i.e. November-February.

4. Baranti Reservoir Or Muradi Lake

Branti reservoir (Muradi lake) is one of the best off beat destinations in Purulia. It is a peaceful place; green hills form the surrounding landscape of a calm lake. Although not a big lake, its beauty is in its calmness and its attractiveness to behold. Baranti Reservoir is one of the best weekend getaways, particularly for the people who search for peace in the lap of nature. You can take a slow boat ride around the lake. It is the home of different birds hence a haven for birdwatchers. If you find the king fishers, egrets, and cormorants, Look for them. For the adventurous souls, climbing up on the nearby hills does offer the opportunity to enjoy stunning scenes of the lake and the surroundings.

• Best Time to Visit: You can visit this place during the winter, between the month of October and February. It is a nice weather and the place is green shaded.

5. Garpanchkot

Garpanchkot is another of the offbeat places in Purulia, located on the foothills of Panchet Hill. This peaceful retreat is home to historical importance and scene-stealing natural scenery. In the midst of the greenery, here, you will see the ruins of the Panchkot palace, mute witnesses of the fierce attack of Bargi in the 18th Century. You will be able to gather the history of Garpanchkot by researching the ruins of Panchkot Palace. These ruins give a glimpse of the style of architecture and magnificence of the Malla Dynasty. You may also take a refreshing trek to verdant Panchakot Hills. The trails provide breathtaking views in all directions of the nature around and the opportunity to see the richness of flora and fauna of the region.

• Best Time to Visit: Better part of a year to visit Garpanchkot would be between months of November and February.

Related articles : Best Places to Visit in Purba Bardhaman – History, Nature & Culture