Purulia Travels
Purulia Travels
Purulia Travels
Purulia Travels

Khairabera Dam: A Serene Retreat in the Ajodhya Hills

Nestled in the scenic Baghmundi hills on the Chota Nagpur Plateau, Khairabera Dam is a tranquil irrigation reservoir surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Its serene beauty makes it a perfect retreat for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and spiritual travelers alike. The peaceful atmosphere of the dam is ideal for relaxation, while activities like trekking, boating, and birdwatching offer plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re looking to unwind or seek adventure, Khairabera Dam provides a refreshing escape into nature.

History of the Khairabera Dam

Khairabera Dam, nestled in the Purulia district of West Bengal, was originally built for irrigation but has evolved into a serene retreat surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Fed by seasonal rainfall and off-beat waterfalls like Machkanda, which ultimately flow into the dam, it offers a pristine natural setting. This offbeat destination, rich in biodiversity and scenic charm, is perfect for trekkers and nature lovers seeking tranquility away from the usual tourist trails.

Things to Do at Khairabera Dam?

Best Time to Visit Khairabera Dam

The charm of Khairabera Dam is truly timeless — EACH SEASON paints a new story across its scenic canvas, offering distinct moods and unforgettable experiences.

Winter (September to January)
Winter is one of the best times to explore the peaceful surroundings of Khairabera Dam. Clear blue skies, cool breezes, and soft sunlight create the perfect setting for trekking, camping, and photography. The calm waters of the dam reflect the surrounding hills and forests, and the evenings are ideal for bonfires and stargazing. It’s a refreshing and relaxing time to visit.
Monsoon (July to August)
The monsoon brings Khairabera to life with lush greenery and flowing waterfalls like Machkanda feeding into the reservoir. Mist floats over the hills, and the whole area takes on a dreamy, quiet charm. It’s a magical time for nature lovers and couples, though trails can be slippery, so visitors should be careful while exploring.
Spring & Summer (February to June)
Spring brings the stunning bloom of Palash flowers, turning the landscape into a sea of red and orange, a sight that’s perfect for nature walks and photography. While the peak summer months can be warm, early mornings and late evenings stay pleasant. There are fewer tourists during this season, making it ideal for peaceful getaways, off-season travel, and budget trips. Sunset views are striking, and if you stay past dusk, the moonlit lake and the glow of fireflies around the trees offer a quiet, memorable experience.

Places to Visit Near Khairabera Dam

Here is a table showing the approximate distances from Khairabera Dam to nearby key locations in the Ajodhya Hills Range

Location Name Details Distance (Approx.)
Charida Village A culturally rich village renowned for its traditional Chhau mask-making artists. Visitors can witness live mask-making demonstrations and purchase handcrafted souvenirs. 11.6 km
Turga Dam Turga Dam is a serene nature spot in Purulia, perfect for trekking, camping, and enjoying waterfalls. 16.6 km
Turga Falls Turga Falls is a scenic waterfall in Purulia’s Ajodhya Hills, perfect for bathing, trekking, and nature photography. 19.2 km
Matha Forest / Mathaburu Hill Matha Forest and Mathaburu Hill in Purulia offer a unique blend of scenic trekking, rich wildlife, and vibrant tribal culture amidst the Ajodhya Hills. 24.4 km
Pakhi Pahar Pakhi Pahar, located in the Ajodhya Hill range, is famous for its stunning rock art carvings of animals, vibrant natural beauty, and cultural experiences with local tour guides. 26.9 km

Tips for Visiting Khairabera Dam

  • Book with a local travel operator like Purulia Travels to ensure a hassle-free trip, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
  • Carry essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle, as shops may be limited around the dam area.
  • Respect the natural environment by disposing of waste responsibly, avoid using single-use plastics, and respect forest trails by staying on marked paths.
  • Always choose the highway road instead of the hilly road for a smoother and safer journey to the dam.

How to Reach Khairabera Dam

By Train

Purulia Railway Station is well-connected and located about 322 km from Kolkata. You can take convenient trains like Ranchi Vande Bharat Express (20898), Chakradharpur Express (18011), Purulia SF Express (12827), or Ranchi Intercity Express (18627). From the Purulia station, continue your journey by hiring a private vehicle from Purulia Travels to reach Khairabera Dam. The distance from the station to Khairabera Dam is about 75 km and typically takes 2 hours.

By Road

Purulia is well-connected by road to nearby cities such as Bankura, Asansol, Bokaro, Jamshedpur, and Ranchi. From Kolkata, you can take a bus from Esplanade or Karunamoyee where multiple government and private buses operate. Two of the government buses even offer AC service for added comfort. All buses drop you at the Purulia Bus Stand, from where you can hire a private vehicle from Purulia Travels to reach Khairabera Dam. The distance from the bus stand to Khairabera Dam is about 75 km, and the road journey typically takes 2 hours.

By Air

The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, located about 117 km from Purulia. Another option is Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport in Durgapur, approximately 164 km away from Purulia Town. From where you can hire a private vehicle from Purulia Travels to reach Khairabera Dam. The distance from the bus stand to Khairabera Dam is about 75 km, and the road journey typically takes 2 hours.

FAQs About Khairabera Dam, Ajodhya Hills

Find quick answers to all your questions about visiting Khairabera Dam.

Khairabera Dam is approx 75 km from Purulia Town, making it a convenient destination for day trips.

The best time to visit is from late September to early April, when the weather is cooler and perfect for outdoor activities and in the spring so anyone can enjoy the red view of the forest for the Polash blossom in a chilled pleasant weather.

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