Welcome to Purulia, a hidden gem nestled in the westernmost part of West Bengal, approximately 291 KM, a 7-hour drive via NH 19 from Kolkata. Known as the “Land of Red Soil” and the heart of the ancient Rarh region, Purulia is a captivating blend of rolling hills, dense forests, shimmering lakes, and deep-rooted tribal culture. If you are searching for the perfect short getaway that blends nature, culture, tribal heritage, hills, lakes, and adventure, then a Purulia Tour Plan is one of the best choices in West Bengal.
This comprehensive guide offers a unique perspective on this mesmerizing destination, focusing on a compact yet fulfilling 2-Night, 3-Day Purulia Tour Plan, covering all the must-see attractions, connectivity, and accommodation.
Purulia Tour Plan: More Than Just a Weekend Getaway
Purulia is a district of stark contrasts. The arid, red earth suddenly gives way to the verdant slopes of the Ajodhya Hills, while the silence of the forests is broken by the vibrant rhythms of the famous Chhau Dance. It’s a journey into history, with the ruins of Garh Panchkot whispering tales of Maratha invasions, and a dive into nature with the serene Muradi Lake (Baranti) offering some of the most spectacular sunsets.
The focus of any perfect Purulia Tour Plan should be to experience its two major tourist circuits: the misty heights of Ajodhya Pahar (Hills) and the historical tranquility of Garh Panchkot-Baranti. The best time for your Purulia Tour Plan is during the winter (October to March), when the weather is pleasant, or during spring (February/March) to witness the entire landscape ablaze with the flaming red blossoms of the Palash tree.
Ajodhya Pahar Circuit (The Hill and Nature Core)
This is the main attraction of Purulia, known for its scenic views, dams, and waterfalls.
| Attraction | Category | Details & Distance |
| Hill Station, Trekking | The extended plateau atop the hills is a trekker’s paradise. It is the core area for all sightseeing in this circuit. The highest peak is Gorgaburu Hill. From Purulia Town: 42 km | |
| PPSP Upper & Lower Dams | Dams, Viewpoint | Part of the Purulia Pumped Storage Project. The Upper Dam offers a stunning viewpoint, and the road winding up the hills provides panoramic vistas. From Ayodhya Top: 1.5 km |
| Bamni Falls | Waterfall | A beautiful waterfall that cascades down rocky slopes, accessible via steps. It is a popular spot for nature photography. From Ayodhya Hills Top: 4 km |
| Turga Falls & Lake | Waterfall, Lake | Another picturesque spot in the forest, offering a tranquil environment and a small lake/reservoir. From Ayodhya Top: 5 km |
| Marble Lake (Durga Bera) | Lake | A serene blue lake formed in a stone quarry near the PPSP Upper Dam area. The distinct colour of the water gives it the name ‘Marble Lake’ or ‘Nil Jal’ (Blue Water). From Ayodhya Top: 11 km |
| Charida Village | Culture & Craft | Known as the Chhau Mask Village. You can witness artisans creating the famous vibrant Chhau dance masks, a UNESCO-recognised art form. From Ayodhya Top: 15 km |
| Khairabera Dam | Dam, Nature Camp | A large dam nestled amidst hills and forests, often a spot for eco-tourism and nature camps. From Charida Village: 8 km |
| Murguma Dam | Dam, Reservoir | A peaceful and beautiful reservoir built on a tributary of the Kangsabati River. Excellent for birdwatching, boating, and enjoying a quiet sunset. |
| Pakhi Pahar | Hill, Art | A unique hill known for its ongoing art project, where various bird images are carved and painted onto the rock face. From Charida Village: 4 km |
The Garh Panchkot & Baranti Circuit - History and Sunset
This circuit focuses on historical ruins and the captivating reservoir region near the Panchet Hills.
| Attraction | Category | Details & Distance |
| Baranti (Muradi Lake) | Lake, Sunset Point | A vast, calm lake nestled between Muradi Hill and Baranti Hill. It is famous for its breathtaking sunset views over the water. From Panchet Dam: 19 km |
| Garh Panchkot | Historical Site, Ruins | The ruins of an ancient fortified palace at the foothills of Panchet Hill. It is a silent witness to the Bargi (Maratha) attacks of the 18th century. From Purulia Town: 60 km |
| Joychandi Pahar | Hill, Viewpoint | A prominent rocky hill near Raghunathpur, famous for being the setting of the Satyajit Ray film Hirak Rajar Deshe. You can climb the steps to the top for a temple and have a grand view. From Purulia Town: 35 km |
| Panchet Dam | Dam | Located on the Damodar River, this massive dam is near Garh Panchkot and offers expansive views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. From Garh Panchkot: 5 km |
Your Comprehensive 2-Night, 3-Day Purulia Tour Plan
This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to experience the essence of Purulia’s two main circuits efficiently, helping you enjoy Purulia without rushing.
Day 1: The Ajodhya Pahar Circuit - Falls, Dams, and Tribal Culture
Morning | Arrival & Check-in | Arrive at Purulia/Barabhum/Adra Station. Transfer to your accommodation near Ajodhya Hills/Baghmundi. |
Post-Lunch | Nature & Water Bodies | Visit the majestic Upper Dam and Lower Dam (part of the Purulia Pumped Storage Project). Head to the picturesque Marble Lake (Tarpania Lake). |
Afternoon | Waterfalls & Viewpoints | Trek down to Bamni Falls (stair access, be cautious) and witness the cascading water. Visit the Ajodhya Hill Hairpin Viewpoint for panoramic valley views. |
Evening | Culture Connect | Visit Charida Village—the famous Mukhosh Gram (Mask Village)—to see the artisans craft the traditional Chhau masks. |
Night | Rest | Dinner and overnight stay in Ajodhya/Baghmundi. |
Day 2: The Garh Panchkot & Baranti Circuit - History and Sunset
Morning | Hill Top Exploration | Drive towards the Garh Panchkot circuit (approximately 2-3 hours). En-route, visit Murguma Dam—a beautiful, quiet reservoir perfect for morning photography. |
Post-Lunch | History & Ruins | Explore the ruins of Garh Panchkot, an ancient fort and temple complex at the foothills of Panchet Hill, steeped in history. |
Afternoon | Sunset Spectacle | Head to Baranti (Muradi Lake) to witness the breathtaking sunset over the tranquil lake, framed by Muradi and Baranti Hills. This is a highlight of any Purulia Tour Plan. |
Evening | Adventure/Relaxation | Optional evening bonfire/cultural program (Chhau Dance) at your resort (check availability). |
Night | Rest | Dinner and overnight stay in Baranti/Garh Panchkot area. |
Day 3: Temples, Hills, and Departure
Morning | Pilgrimage & Trekking | Visit Joychandi Pahar (Hill), famous for being a shooting location for Satyajit Ray’s film Hirak Rajar Deshe. Climb the 400 steps to the summit for a fantastic view and a small temple. |
Late Morning | Nearby Attraction | Explore Panchet Dam (on the border with Jharkhand) or the ancient Banda Deul temple ruins. |
Post-Lunch | Final Drive | Check-out and begin your transfer to Purulia Junction/Adra/Asansol for your onward journey. |
Tourist Spots Near Purulia (Included in the Plan)
Joychandi Pahar: A rocky hill with 400 steps, offering a grand, sweeping view of the area. It is near Raghunathpur.
Garh Panchkot: The historical fort ruins at the base of Panchet Hill, crucial for history lovers on a Purulia Tour Plan.
Baranti (Muradi Lake): A peaceful lake nestled between two small hills, known for its serene environment and spectacular sunset point.
Murguma Dam: A serene water reservoir, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, particularly on the Ajodhya circuit.
Accommodation and Stay Options
The accommodation choices in Purulia are primarily categorized by the two main circuits.
Ajodhya Hills/Baghmundi
This area offers several basic resorts, Forest Rest Houses (WBFDC), and eco-camps, ideal for a rustic, nature-focused stay.
Baranti/Garh Panchkot
This side has a mix of private resorts and budget hotels that offer a more comfortable stay with better amenities, capitalizing on the stunning lake and hill views.
Resort run by the West Bengal Forest Department is one of the best option.
Purulia Town
For those preferring proximity to the railway station and better infrastructure, Purulia town offers more conventional hotel options, though it requires a longer travel time for daily sightseeing.
Some Stay Options
Ayodhya Hills & Surroundings | Purulia Town | Bagmundi Area |
Eco Adventure Resorts Nature Trails Resort Spangle Guest House, Ayodhya | Hotel Akash Deep Pearltree Hotels Hotel Purulia Inn | Bamni Falls Eco Huts Bagmundi Jungle Camp |
Book well in advance, especially during the peak season (Oct-Mar), as the best resorts fill up quickly for any planned Purulia Tour Plan.
Connectivity and How to Reach Purulia
The logistics for your Purulia Tour Plan are straightforward, with excellent connectivity to major cities like Kolkata, Durgapur, Asansol, Ranchi, Dhanbad, and Jamshedpur.
By Air
The nearest major airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata, approximately 250 km away. From there, you can take a train or hire a cab.
By Rail (The Most Convenient Option)
Purulia is very well-connected by train.
Purulia Junction (PRR): The main station. Direct trains, such as the Howrah-Purulia Express, Rupasi Bangla Express, and Chakradharpur Express, run regularly from Howrah (Kolkata).
Adra Junction (ADRA): A major railway hub, close to the Garh Panchkot/Baranti circuit.
Barabhum (BBM): The nearest station for the Ajodhya Hills circuit.
By Road
Purulia is about 290-325 km from Kolkata. A road trip typically takes 6-8 hours, offering scenic views as you enter the Rarh region. The roads are generally good, making a road trip a viable part of your Purulia Tour Plan.
Once at your chosen base (Ajodhya or Baranti), the best way to cover the circuit is by hiring a local car (SUV/MUV) for the entire sightseeing duration. The local drivers are familiar with all the attractions, ensuring a smooth execution of your Purulia Tour Plan.
Purulia is a land that calls to the soul—a raw and beautiful destination far removed from the concrete jungle. Whether you seek thrilling treks, serene sunsets, or a deep dive into folk culture, executing this comprehensive Purulia Tour Plan will leave you with a treasure trove of unforgettable memories. Start planning your Purulia Tour Plan today and get ready to be mesmerized!