Purulia, the oldest and the westernmost district of West Bengal, is a beautiful place full of nature, culture, and history. The town is set in the Chhotanagpur Plateau, surrounded by the stunning Ajodhya Hills to the north and east, and the Panchkot and Joychandi Hills to the west. The Ajodhya Range is known for its green landscapes, dams, ancient temples, lakes, and beautiful waterfalls, while the Panchkot Range (Baranti Circuit) adds charm and history to the area. Both hill ranges are filled with hidden spots, including calm lakes and lovely dams, perfect for exploring. Apart from these two, there are many smaller hills all around the district, making it a peaceful and scenic place.
Purulia has famous rivers like Kangsabati, Dwarakeswar, Subarnarekha, Damodar, Kumari, and Silabati. The district has many beautiful dams, including Murguma, Khairabera, Upper Dam, Lower Dam, Turga Dam, Pardi Dam, Maurubhasa Dam, Panchet Dam, Ranjandih Dam, and Tara Dam, all offering stunning views and calm surroundings. There are also lovely lakes like Baranti Lake, Marble Lake, Saheb Bandh, and Telkupi Lake.
Purulia is known for its waterfalls, such as Bamni Falls, Turga Falls, Machkanda Falls, Gaghkocha Falls, and Pithitiri Falls. Ajodhya Hills is the top attraction, famous for its beauty, adventure activities, and great trekking trails.
The district has a rich tribal culture, with the well-known Chhau dance recognized by UNESCO. Festivals like Tusu Parab, Bhadu Parab, Badhna Parab, and Charak Puja show the traditions of the people, and the famous Chhau masks are a highlight of local art. Purulia also has ancient hindu and jain terracotta temples and relics, telling the story of its past. Most of these temples are in Deulghata and Pakberia areas.
With its mix of nature, culture, and history, Purulia offers a memorable experience that captures the heart of Bengal.
State: West Bengal
Area: 6,259 sq. km
Population: Approx. 2.9 million
Languages: Bengali, Santali, Kurmali
Major Towns: Purulia, Raghunathpur, Balarampur, Jhalda
Prominent Tribes: Santhal, Bhumij, Kurmi, Sabar, Munda
Major Railway Stations: Purulia, Adra, Barabhum
Nearest Airports: Kazi Nazrul Airport, Birsa Munda Airport
Ancient Period: Vajra-Bhumi and Jain Heritage (Before 5th Century CE – 12th Century CE)
Purulia, the oldest district of West Bengal, was known in ancient times as Vajra-Bhumi and is mentioned in the Jaina Bhagavati-Sutra (5th century CE) as part of the 16 Mahajanapadas. The region was a significant center of Jainism and Hinduism, as evidenced by ancient temples at Deulghata, Pakberia (Pakberra), Telkupi, and Banda.
Deulghata (Pala-Sena Period, 8th – 12th Century CE)
Located in the Arsha block, Deulghata features three brick temples (deuls) with intricate stucco decorations, floral and symbolic motifs, reflecting Pala-Sena architecture. These temples were dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, illustrating the co-existence of Jain and Hindu traditions. A 2,500-year-old Durga idol and a Shiva temple are also present. The site remains a significant marker of Purulia’s spiritual and artistic legacy.
Telkupi (Shikhara Dynasty, 11th Century CE)
Originally known as Tailakampi, Telkupi was the capital of the Shikhara dynasty under King Rudrasikhara. He allied with Pala King Ramapala to suppress the Varendra rebellion, as recorded in Ramcharitam by Sandhyakar Nandi. Numerous temples were built by the descendants of Shikhara kings from Kashipur and Panchet. These temples, mostly submerged after the Panchet Dam construction in the 1950s, reflect medieval eastern Indian architecture.
Foundation and Rise of Panchkot Raj (940 CE – 18th Century)
Panchkot Raj was founded in 940 CE by Damodar Sekhar, believed to have been raised by the Kudmi (Mahato) community. He ruled from Garh Panchkot, a hill-fort that became the kingdom's center before the capital shifted to Kashipur.
Garh Panchkot (940 CE – 18th Century)
Garh Panchkot was the early seat of the Panchkot dynasty and possibly connected to the ancient Tilakampa Kingdom. The area includes Pancharatna temples, palace ruins, and Dhara spring, showcasing the dynasty’s engineering and architectural skill. The region was attacked during the Bargi invasion in the 18th century, leading to the decline of this flourishing capital.
Muslim and British Rule (1365 – 1956)
In 1365, Bakhtiyar Khalji defeated the Sena dynasty, bringing Purulia under the Bengal Sultanate. After the Battle of Plassey (1757), the British East India Company gained control, and Purulia became part of British Bengal in 1765.
Key Historical Changes:
• 1805: Formation of Jungle Mahals district by the British, including Purulia.
• 1833: Merged into Manbhum district, with headquarters shifted to Purulia in 1838.
• 1956: Manbhum split; Purulia became part of West Bengal on November 1, 1956, under the States Reorganization Act.
Cultural Flourishing under Maharaja Jyotiprasad Sing Deo (1901 – 1926)
Maharaja Jyotiprasad Sing Deo, born in 1881, became the 67th king of the Panchkot dynasty in 1901 and took full charge in 1903.
• Recognized by Nawab Wasif Ali Mirza of Murshidabad in 1912.
• Titled “Raja Bahadur of Kashipur” by the British in 1921.
• Commissioned major landmarks:
- Raj Rajeswari Temple in Kashipur
- Kali Mata Jyotishwar Shiv Mandir
- Kashipur Palace (completed in 1920 after 12 years, at a cost of Rs. 32 lakhs)
In 1926, he founded the Saraswata Samaj to promote music, literature, and drama, and maintained a multilingual library in his palace.
Philanthropy:
• Rs. 1 lakh to Purulia Sadar Hospital
• Rs. 50,000 to Lady Dufferin Hospital
• Rs. 50,000 to the Imperial Relief Fund
• Support to schools, orphanages, and public works
Note: In 1872, the great Bengali poet Michael Madhusudan Dutt worked briefly under the Kashipur Raj, adding a literary dimension to Purulia’s legacy.
Purulia, covers 6,259 km². It lies between 22.60º–23.50º N and 85.75º–86.65º E, bordering Bankura, Paschim Medinipur, Bardhaman, Dhanbad, Bokaro, Ranchi, Jamshedpur and districts in Jharkhand.
The town of Purulia (23.28º N, 86.24º E) is the district HQ. It is well-connected by National Highway 32 to Ranchi and a state highway to Asansol, with rail links to other regions. Purulia is 60 km from Asansol, 310 km from Kolkata, and near towns like Balarampur and Durgapur.
Strategically located, Purulia serves as a gateway between West Bengal and neighboring states like Odisha, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, influencing regional weather patterns due to its tropical position.
Purulia, a cultural gem in West Bengal, is renowned for its vibrant traditions and rich heritage. The district is famous for the Chhau Dance, a unique blend of martial arts, drama, and acrobatics. Recognized by UNESCO, this ancient dance is performed during the Chhau Festival with colorful masks, costumes, and storytelling focused on mythological themes. Gambhir Singh Mura, who introduced Chhau to the world, was honored with the Padma Shri in 1981.
Purulia also celebrates several traditional festivals. The Tusu Festival, held on Makar Sankranti (last day of the Hindu month of Paush), is centered around rivers and the joy of harvest. It’s widely celebrated in Southwest West Bengal, Southeast Jharkhand, Northeastern Odisha, and Assam, with rural fairs bringing communities together.
The Bhadu Festival, linked to Purulia, honors Princess Bhadu of Panchkot Raj. The festival is known for "Bhadu gaan" – songs sung by unmarried girls, accompanied by dancing and drumming, celebrating the princess's memory.
Another important event is Bandhna, a celebration among the Bhumij and Santhal tribes. During this festival, colorful threads are tied around wrists, symbolizing unity and friendship.
Charak Puja, a spring festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, is marked by intense rituals of devotion and physical endurance. Devotees perform feats like walking on fire and swinging from high poles, honoring the deity Charak in an extraordinary display of strength.
Purulia’s festivals, dances, and traditions reflect the deep connection between its tribal roots, nature, and daily life. These vibrant celebrations continue to attract tourists, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts worldwide, offering a rare glimpse into the heart of tribal Bengal.
Purulia, a town set in the heart of the Chhotanagpur Plateau, is surrounded by lush hills that offer an incredible range of natural beauty and adventure. The landscape of Purulia can be divided into three major parts, each offering its own unique attractions for tourists. These three circuits—Ajodhya Circuit, Baranti Circuit, and Purulia Town—cover the entire area, with each one focused on different regions and features.
Among these, the Ajodhya Circuit stands out as the most important, covering a large portion of Purulia's best-known tourist spots. Many people mistakenly believe that Ajodhya is just a single hill, but in reality, it is a range of hills that stretches across the northern and eastern parts of the town. This hill range is actually an extension of the Eastern Ghats and runs from the town of Jhalida to Balarampur. Ajodhya Hills Range is a home of nearly 40+ stunning tourist spots, making it one of the famous tourist spots in Purulia for nature lovers and adventure seekers. These are all the tourist spots in the Ajodhya Hill Range:
| # | Location | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dowri Khal | A serene stream flowing through rocky terrain, perfect for peaceful retreats. Famous for a large rock resembling a crocodile’s face... | Check Map |
| 2 | Kecha Pahar | A unique hill with rugged terrain, perfect for offbeat trekking adventures. | Check Map |
| 3 | Ajodhya Rock View Point | A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Ajodhya Hills and its rocky landscapes. | Check Map |
| 4 | Machkanda Falls | Probably the most beautiful waterfall in the Ajodhya Hills... | Check Map |
| 5 | Ghageshwari Falls | Unique for its secluded location amidst dense forest... | Check Map |
| 6 | Pithitiri Falls | A hidden gem with a natural swimming pool at the base... | Check Map |
| 7 | Chalchali Falls | A beautiful cascading and crystal-clear waterfall... | Check Map |
| 8 | Ghagkocha Falls | A serene waterfall surrounded by pristine beauty... | Check Map |
| 9 | Gorgaburu Hill | The second highest peak in the Ajodhya Hills and South Bengal... | Check Map |
| 10 | Gojaburu Hills | Three distinct peaks offering stunning views and trekking routes. | Check Map |
| 11 | Chemtaburu Hill | The highest peak in Ajodhya Hills and South Bengal... | Check Map |
| 12 | Kuhuburu Hill | A small yet scenic hill range with peaceful views. | Check Map |
| 13 | Baredi Falls | A cascading waterfall known for its refreshing beauty. | Check Map |
| 15 | Mahadev Bera Temple and Falls | A scenic waterfall near a small Shiva temple in the Baghmundi circuit. | Check Map |
| 16 | Yogini Cave & Waterfalls | A charming waterfall named after a local deity, with a sacred cave behind Mayur Pahar. | Check Map |
| 17 | Norahara Dam & Waterfalls | Located near Jhalda, with a lake and a scenic waterfall trek. | Check Map |
Baranti is a small, quiet and scenic place in the West Rarh region of West Bengal. This is not actually a circuit though, but it is the most famous tourist spot in the west part of Purulia, which is also known as the sightseeing spots for tourists in Purulia. There is a 1 km long irrigation project dam, between two small hillocks, Muradi Hill and Baranti Hill. You can get a grand view of Baranti Lake. It’s also a picnic spot, where people from nearby areas, such as Asansol, come for a day-long picnic.
Also the Garh Panchkot Hills and the Ancient temples are nearby the Baranti Lake. A fortified area owned by the Rajas of Panchakot, the Singh Deo dynasty, reputed to have been established in 90 CE. It is said that the Singh Deos lost out to Bir Hambir of Bishnupur Raj around 1600, albeit for a short period. The Maratha raiders, locally known as Bargis, ransacked the place in the 18th century. The Singh Deo family, ultimately, moved out to Kashipur, in present-day Purulia district. We can see some ancient temples made by those kings in the Telkupi Area. That's another scenic beauty of nature, the half temple is under water and another half up the water, tourists can go boating there. Also the Panchet Dam is nearby which is the West Bengal and Jharkhand Border, also one of the largest dams in Bengal. These are all the tourist spots in the Baranti Circuit:
Purulia Town is surrounded by the stunning Ajodhya Hills to the north and east, and the Panchkot and Joychandi Hills (Baranti Circuit) to the west. Most of the tourist places are situated in the Ajodhya Range (40+), Then comes the Baranti Circuit (6 Places), Then comes the Purulia Town surroundings, like Rakab Forest, Futiyari Dam, Patloi Dam, Kashipur Rajbari, Ranjandih Dam (Purulia’s Sundarban). These are the places to visit near the Purulia Town Area.
Purulia has a tropical savanna climate, and every season brings its own charm. Here’s a quick and easy guide to help you choose the best time to visit Purulia based on what you’re looking for.
Spring is one of the best times to visit Purulia, as the region bursts with blooming Palash flowers. These bright red/orange blossoms, known as the Flame of the Forest, cover the hills and trails, turning the landscape vivid red. The weather stays pleasant, ideal for walking, exploring, and photography. From April, it gets warmer, but nights in the hill areas remain cool. Summer brings lower hotel and car fares than other seasons. Early morning and evening tours offer a peaceful escape from city heat. Since most tourist spots are reachable by AC car, summer is also good for low-budget, quiet trips.
Winter is perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities in Purulia. Cool weather makes it ideal for exploring old fort ruins and nearby forests. Clear skies and crisp air enhance hikes with scenic views of hills and countryside. It’s a great time for nature-focused experiences. Winter attracts the highest number of tourists, as the hills look especially beautiful during this season. However, due to peak fairs and crowds, hotel and car fares are higher at this time.
Monsoon brings lush greenery across Purulia, turning forests vibrant and full of life. The misty, rain-washed setting creates a dreamy mood. Though often avoided due to rain, it’s not a problem since most spots can be visited by car. Waterfalls are at peak flow, and forests show their greenest look. In some spots, you can even touch the clouds, adding a magical feel to the journey. Monsoon is an underrated but stunning season for exploring Purulia’s raw and fresh beauty.
Purulia’s cuisine is a delicious blend of tribal traditions and rural Bengal flavors, offering a taste of the region’s rich culture.
Rice cakes made during festivals, come in both sweet and savory varieties, filled with jaggery, coconut, or lentils.
A traditional rice beer, is mildly alcoholic and slightly sour, brewed by fermenting rice. It’s a popular drink enjoyed in local rituals and social gatherings.
A unique alcoholic beverage made from the flowers of the Mahua tree. Fermented and distilled to create a potent, fragrant spirit.
A crispy treat made from gram flour, similar to jalebi. Though rare today, it can still be found in village shops.
A sweet made from milk solids and flour, often served during festivals and loved by locals for its delicate taste.
A type of jaggery made from date palm sap, available in both solid and liquid forms. Known for its rich aroma and sweetness.
Made by boiling sugarcane juice using traditional methods to produce a mineral-rich natural sweetener.
Consumed in tribal areas, these larvae and pupae are fried with spices—a unique traditional source of protein.
These foods and drinks reflect Purulia’s fascinating tribal and rural culinary heritage—deeply rooted in its culture.
Standing tall at 720 meters, Chemtaburu is the highest peak in the Ajodhya Hills and southern West Bengal. It’s also ranked among the top 10 highest peaks in the state, offering breathtaking views and a challenge for adventurers.
Purulia is a haven for wildlife. From the common wild boar to the rare striped hyena, the forests of Ajodhya, Matha, and Jhalda are home to diverse species. While tigers are rare, they have been spotted, including one tigress named Zeenat, who traveled from Odisha’s Similipal Reserve, and another tiger from Jharkhand that made its way to Purulia’s Raika Hills.
Purulia is famous for its vibrant Polash flowers. These striking red/orange blooms (with yellow and rare white varieties) blanket the region during spring, turning the landscape into a sea of red. It’s one of the most beautiful seasonal sights in the area.
According to Hindu mythology, Sita Kunda in the Ajodhya Hills was created when Lord Rama shot an arrow into the ground to provide water for Sita during their exile, adding a spiritual layer to the region’s natural beauty.
West Bengal’s longest state highway, WB SH 4, stretches over 466 km, connecting Jhalda to Digha. Meanwhile, SH 4A is the shortest, running just 39 km from Tulin through Jhalda and Kotshila to Chas More.
The ancient Durga Murti at Deulghata, believed to be 2,500 years old, is a rare and exquisite artifact reflecting Purulia's rich spiritual heritage. This idol is revered every year during Durga Puja, symbolizing enduring faith.
The Golden Durga Murti of Joypur Rajbari, crafted from 108 gold coins from the Akbar era, weighs 950 grams and is adorned with diamonds. It’s only displayed during the last four days of Durga Puja, following ancient rituals conducted by the Singha Deo family, the former rulers of Purulia.
The Upper Dam in Purulia stands out for integrating a 900 MW hydroelectric plant with a 10 MW floating solar power plant. This cutting-edge combination not only generates clean energy but also reduces water evaporation while enhancing solar panel efficiency with natural cooling.
Purulia is one of the oldest districts in West Bengal. Historical records trace its roots back to the 16 Mahajanapadas and the Vajra-bhumi of ancient times. The present district was established in 1838, with the headquarters moving from Manbazar to Purulia.
Joychandi Pahar is a well-known tourist destination in Purulia, loved for its rock climbing opportunities and rich biodiversity. This scenic hill is home to an impressive 74 species of butterflies and also hosts an annual cultural festival that celebrates local talent and traditions.
Pandri made history in 2015 as India’s first decentralized solar-powered village. Thanks to a dedicated solar power plant, 80 households in this remote Purulia village now enjoy clean, renewable electricity—marking a proud milestone in sustainable rural development.
Begunkodar Railway Station in Purulia is often considered one of the most haunted railway stations globally. Locals believe the spirit of a young girl, who tragically lost her life near the station, roams the area, especially on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Purulia holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded in West Bengal – a scorching 51.1°C (124°F). This remarkable temperature makes Purulia stand out for extreme weather conditions.
In 1872, the famous poet Michael Madhusudan Dutta worked with the Kashipur Raj for a brief period, adding a literary connection to the region's history.
Patachitra is an age-old storytelling tradition where artists hand-paint mythological tales on long cloth scrolls. In Purulia, this art form is brought to life not just through the vivid visuals but also through accompanying songs, making it a unique blend of painting and performance rooted deeply in local culture.
The Kurmali people are one of the prominent tribal communities in Purulia, known for preserving their distinct language and cultural identity. Their vibrant heritage lives on through folk songs, storytelling, and community-driven festivals that reflect the deep-rooted traditions of the region.
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) and a few others.
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 and Karunamoyee. These buses will drop you at the Purulia Bus Stand.
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.