Sita Kunda, or Bugbugi Dari, is a mystical freshwater spring in Bagandi village in Ajodhya Gram Panchayat, Baghmundi Block, Purulia district, West Bengal. The bubbling crystal-clear spring draws pilgrims, nature lovers, and seekers of spiritual experience due to its beauty and mythological associations.
Enveloped by dense green wilderness and rugged hillsides, Sita Kunda serves as a perfect escape site that feels so peaceful, floating through just one small section of the site filled with lotus flowers among the walks on water. And not only that, but it is a fantastic site for birdwatchers too, especially in winter. With a little spirituality and a lot of beauty, there are few places in Purulia that more people miss visiting.
As per Hindu Mythology, Lord Rama and Sita journeyed through the Ajodhya Hills in exile. When moving on through thick forests and uneven terrain, Sita felt thirsty. Rama fired an arrow into the ground to relieve her thirst producing pure and flowing freshwater that came forth from underground. The spring that came out of the earth was freshwater and pure, and this is why the devotees consider Sita Kunda a sacred resting place. Devotees also believed that Rama himself would have created this freshwater.
Complementing the mystique surrounding the location, residents opine that one can still find Sita’s hair strands clinging to some of Sal trees in and around the area, increasing its religious significance. Less than 500 meters from the spring lies the Ram Mandir, which is a significant pilgrimage center, where people assemble to pray and bless themselves before or after worship at the holy Kunda. This temple combined with the area’s natural scenery, places Sita Kunda on the list as a location of strong religious and cultural significance
Sita Kunda is a charming retreat, surrounded by small, crystal-clear water bodies lined with floating lotus flowers adding beauty and stillness to the ambience. The area is deep in a medium dense natural forest that presents a relaxed and subdued feeling that captivates tourists, lovers of nature and spiritual seekers alike.
In winter, Sita Kunda becomes a bird watchers delight, as all the movements of migratory birds laden the local space with an abundance of color and happiness. The lush greenery, pure water and natural diversity of this place makes it an exceptional offbeat spot in Purulia- a breath of fresh air back into the nameless beauty of nature.
Sita Kunda’s pure fresh water spring stands out for the exceptional temperature changes over the seasons:
In addition to its natural beauty, Sita Kunda is also rich in spiritual values among the natives. Its sacred water is thought to possess medicinal properties, curing body aches and skin conditions. The people of the Tundra tribe adhere to an age-old practice of consuming the water prior to going hunting, considering it to bring good luck and success. These sacred beliefs and mystical qualities further contribute to the site’s cultural and religious values.
Sita Kund, in the Ajodhya Hills, is not just a spiritual site but also a vibrant center of cultural heritage, where ancient tribal traditions and religious festivals flourish. According to the Ramayana, this sacred spring emerged when Lord Rama, during exile with Goddess Sita, shot an arrow into the ground to quench her thirst – giving rise to the miraculous Sita Kund.
This site holds deep spiritual meaning, especially for the Tundra community, who have preserved their age-old customs tied to the land. Before embarking on their traditional Shikar (hunting) trips, they drink the spring water from Sita Kund, believing it grants them divine blessings and protection throughout their journey. This ritual reflects their deep reverence for nature and ancestral beliefs. Just 500 meters from the Kund lies the serene Ram Mandir, a peaceful temple space that enhances the spiritual aura of the region. Devotees often visit both Sita Kund and the Ram Mandir, seeking blessings, inner peace, and a deeper connection to the mythological and cultural essence of the area.
Sita Kunda is a beautiful destination that reveals its charm throughout the year. Every season offers a different experience—be it spiritual, scenic, or peaceful. Whether you’re visiting for its mythological importance or natural serenity, Sita Kunda always has something unique to offer.
When you’re in Sita Kunda, make sure you explore some of the beautiful and culturally significant sites nearby as follows:
| Location Name | Details | Distance (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ajodhya Hilltop More | A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. | 5.2 km |
| Ram Mandir & Durga Mandir | Two sacred temples near Sita Kunda, where devotees gather to seek blessings and participate in religious rituals. | 7.7 km |
| Upper Dam | A serene and picturesque dam, perfect for a peaceful retreat amidst nature. | 10.7 km |
| Mayur Pahar | A well-known hilltop destination, offering stunning vistas and a great spot for trekking and nature photography. | 7.6 km |
Purulia Railway Station, approximately 322 km from Kolkata, is well-connected by several trains, including the Ranchi Vande Bharat Express (20898), Chakradharpur Express (18011), Purulia SF Express (12827), and Ranchi Intercity Express (18627). Upon arrival, a private vehicle arranged by Purulia Travels will take you on a scenic 45 km journey along the picturesque Ajodhya Hill Road to reach the Hilltop Area. From the Hilltop, the vehicle will continue for 300 meters to reach Haribol Mandir, take a left towards Ram Mandir, drive 500 meters straight towards Sikar Maidan, park your vehicle, and walk approximately 1 km to reach Sita Kunda.
Purulia is well-connected by road to cities such as Bankura, Asansol, Bokaro, Jamshedpur, and Ranchi. From Kolkata, you can board a government or private bus, including AC options, from Esplanade. These buses will drop you at the Purulia Bus Stand, where a vehicle from Purulia Travels will be ready to pick you up. The drive then continues through the scenic Ajodhya Hill Road, covering 45 km to reach the Hilltop Area. From the Hilltop, the vehicle will proceed 300 meters to Haribol Mandir, take a left towards Ram Mandir, drive 500 meters straight towards Sikar Maidan, park your vehicle, and walk around 1 km to reach Sita Kunda. If you are driving on your own, just follow the same route after reaching Purulia Town.
The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, located about 117 km away, followed by Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport in Durgapur, around 164 km from Purulia. From either airport, you can take a train or bus to reach Purulia Town. Once there, a private vehicle from Purulia Travels will drive you 45 km via the scenic Ajodhya Hill Road to the Hilltop Area. From the Hilltop, the vehicle will continue for 300 meters to Haribol Mandir, take a left towards Ram Mandir, drive 500 meters straight towards Sikar Maidan, park your vehicle, and walk approximately 1 km to reach Sita Kunda.
Find quick answers to all your questions about visiting Sita Kunda.
Sita Kunda is a mythologically significant site where Lord Rama is believed to have created a freshwater spring for Sita. The bubbling water, natural beauty, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit spot.
You can drive up to Sikar Maidan, but from there, you need to walk approximately 1 km to reach the actual spring.
No, Sita Kunda does not have any entry fee. It is open to all visitors.
The best time to visit is winter (November to February) when the climate is pleasant, and you can spot colorful migratory birds.
Yes, locals believe the water has healing properties, and many drink it as a holy ritual. However, visitors should consume it at their discretion.
Subscribe to see secret deals prices drop the moment you sign up!