Puruliya, India
Region: West Bengal
Geographic Coordinates: 23.333300, 86.366700
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 40.0°C (59°F to 104°F)
Climate: Dry and hot summers, followed by a monsoon season with heavy rainfall, and mild winters.
Population: 121067
Language: Bengali
Puruliya is a district located in the western part of the Indian state of West Bengal. It has a rich cultural heritage, Natural beauty, And historical significance. The district spans an area of 6259 square kilometers and has a population of around 2.5 million people. The history of Puruliya dates back to ancient times when it was ruled by various dynasties such as Mauryas, Guptas, Palas, And Senas. During the British rule in India, Puruliya played an important role in revolutionary activities against colonialism. Many prominent leaders hail from this region who played significant roles in India’s freedom struggle.
Puruliya is famous for its traditional folk art forms such as Chau dance and Jhumur music which reflect the rich cultural heritage of this region. These art forms are performed during various festivals and occasions throughout the year. The district is surrounded by hills on three sides which offer breathtaking views to visitors. Some popular tourist attractions include Ayodhya Hills, Bamni Falls, Baghmundi Hill Station, Joychandi Pahar Fort among others. Agriculture plays a vital role in Puruliya’s economy with rice being the primary crop grown here along with vegetables like potato and tomato.
The district also has mineral resources like coal which contributes to its economic growth. In terms of education facilities in Puruliya there are several government schools as well as private institutions offering education up to higher secondary level along with vocational courses that help students develop skills required for employment opportunities. Overall Purulia offers visitors a unique blend of history, Culture, Nature, And adventure making it an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore offbeat destinations within India that are rich both culturally & historically while still providing ample opportunities for adventure & relaxation alike .
- Puruliya is a district in West Bengal, India, and it’s home to several famous landmarks and tourist attractions.
- Ayodhya Hills is a scenic hill station that sits at an altitude of 2,000 feet above sea level.
- Bamni Falls is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush green forests.
- Joychandi Pahar is an ancient fort dating back to the Mughal era.
- Matha Forest is worth visiting for its wildlife and natural beauty.
- Pakhi Pahar offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Saheb Bandh is a popular picnic spot that features a large reservoir and boating facilities.
- Turga Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Ayodhya Hills.
- The Upper Damodar River Valley area boasts scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage.
- Charida Village stands out for its traditional mask-making industry and cultural festivals like Chhau dance.
- Kenduadihi Temple Complex attracts visitors with its ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- 1. Agriculture
- 2. Small-scale industries like handloom weaving and cottage industry
- 3. Mining of minerals such as coal and iron ore
- 4. Forestry
- 5. Tourism
- 6. Production of tasar silk
- The district was formerly known as Manbhum and was part of the ancient kingdom of Magadha.
- During the British colonial period, Puruliya was a center for revolutionary activities against British rule. Matangini Hazra, a famous freedom fighter, was born in Tamluk village in Puruliya.
- In 1948, Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay, a renowned Bengali writer visited Purulia and wrote about its natural beauty in his travelogue Himalaya Darpan.
- The Chau dance is a traditional folk dance form that originated in Purulia and is popular throughout West Bengal.
- The district has several important archaeological sites including the ruins of an ancient fort at Banda Hill and an old temple complex at Deulghata.
- Notable people from Purulia include singer Shyama Sangeet artist Amar Paul, author Subodh Ghosh, and politician Bir Singh Mahato.
- In recent years, initiatives like the Purulia Model have been implemented to promote organic farming practices among local farmers which has gained recognition for Purulia’s efforts towards sustainable agriculture practices.
- Purulia Chhau Mask Museum
- Bamni Falls
- Charida Village, known for its traditional Chhau dance
- Joychandi Pahar, a historical fort and temple
- Pakhi Pahar, a bird-watching spot
- Matha Forest Range
- Ayodhya Hills
- Kashipur Rajbari Palace
- Deulghata Temple Complex
- Garpanchkot Hill Station
- After conducting research, it appears that there are no notable sports teams with a significant history in Puruliya, India.
- The district does not have a reputation for producing famous athletes or having a strong sports culture.
- However, the state of West Bengal is home to several prominent football clubs such as Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, which have a massive fan following across the region.
- Chhau Dance Festival is a three-day event celebrated in Purulia district during April, featuring traditional Chhau dance.
- Charak Puja is a popular festival in Purulia district, celebrated during April with rituals and worship of Lord Shiva.
- Tusu Parab is a festival celebrated by unmarried girls in Purulia district during mid-January to mid-February to seek blessings for a happy married life.
- Basanta Utsav, also known as Holi, marks the arrival of spring and is enthusiastically celebrated across Purulia district.
- Bishnupur Mela showcases local handicrafts, textiles, and products every year in Bishnupur town near Purulia.
- Kali Puja/Diwali are widely celebrated across India including Purulia district with lighting up homes with lamps or candles called diyas or kandils along with fireworks displays.
- Rath Yatra takes place annually at Maheshpur near Jhalda town attracting thousands of devotees from all over India who participate in this grand procession featuring chariots carrying deities being pulled through streets by devotees while singing hymns and offering prayers along their way.
- Handi Biriyani: This is a famous dish in Puruliya made with rice and meat cooked together in a handi (clay pot).
- Chhena Poda: It is a traditional sweet dish made from cottage cheese and sugar.
- Kachori: It is a deep-fried snack that can be enjoyed with spicy chutney.
- Raja’s Thali: This thali includes various vegetarian dishes like dal, rice, vegetables, papadum, and sweets.
- Hotel Sagarika: It serves authentic Bengali cuisine including fish curry and luchi (deep-fried flatbread).
- Rajasthani Bhojnalaya: As the name suggests, this restaurant serves Rajasthani food like dal baati churma (lentils served with baked wheat balls) and gatte ki sabzi (gram flour dumplings cooked in gravy).
- Royal Dhaba: It offers North Indian dishes like butter chicken and tandoori roti.
- New Hindustan Hotel & Restaurant: This restaurant serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes including biryani, kebabs, curries etc.
- Shree Krishna Fast Food Center: It offers fast food items like burgers, sandwiches etc.
- Hotel Utsav Palace: It serves delicious Chinese food along with Indian cuisines as well.
- Ajodhya Hill and Forest Reserve: This is a popular tourist destination located in Puruliya district. It offers trekking, bird watching, camping, and other adventure activities.
- Joychandi Pahar: This hill station is known for its scenic beauty and offers trekking, rock climbing, and other adventure activities.
- Saheb Bandh Park: This is a public park located in the heart of Puruliya city. It has a children’s play area, walking paths, and picnic spots.
- Banda Deul Temple Complex: This ancient temple complex is located near Puruliya city and attracts many tourists for its historical significance.
- Kalyaneswari Temple: This temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is located on the banks of Kangsabati River near Puruliya city.
- Sirkabad Eco-Park: Located on the outskirts of Puruliya city, this park offers boating facilities, nature trails, and bird watching opportunities.
- Matha Forest Range: This forest range located near Baghmundi village in Puruliya district offers trekking trails through dense forests with waterfalls along the way.
- Bamni Falls: Located near Jhalda town in Puruliya district, this waterfall is a popular picnic spot with beautiful surroundings.
- Baranti Reservoir: Located near Baranti village in Purulia district, this reservoir offers boating facilities amidst scenic surroundings.
- Garpanchkot Hill Station: This hill station situated at 55 km from Purulia town, offers trekking, birdwatching, camping, etc.
