Top Tourist Attractions in Purulia for Every Traveler

Implausible natural beauty, the indefinable folk culture of the tribal, exquisite dances, friendly localite, rich mythological values – all these come together to make Purulia a mystical place. Purulia is blessed with natural magnificence - while the bright red Palash flowers mesmerize the surroundings during the springs, the autumn brings the feathery white Kaash and the summers are filled with lush greenery. All these make Purulia a perfect place for all the travel bonkers and nature lovers to satisfy their travel pang. The red earth country, Purulia contains nature at its most verdant state where the rural lanes have dust flying in deep saffron, brick brown, and dusty red colors.

At this moment, Purulia is one of the most popular places to be in West Bengal if you want to take a break from your boring and chaotic urban life and spend your holidays in the lap of mother nature. Here, in this article, we are trying to explain Purulia.

Purulia at a Glance – Land of Golden Brown Fields and Masked Chau Dance

Extremely rich in minerals, Purulia has many industrial belts surrounding the place. Home to a number of native communities and the origin of the famous masked dance, Chau, Purulia is one of the dry districts among the 20 districts in West Bengal with picturesque landscapes. Moreover, if you are planning a trip to Purulia, you will find some of the best Hotels in Baranti and other popular places. So, let’s explore Purulia…

Popular Tourist Attractions in Purulia

Purulia has a number of places and activities which, in themselves, are quite popular as a tourist attraction. If you are planning a trip to Purulia but are unsure where to visit or what to do, below are ideas to blow your mind. Let’s start…

Chau Dance

The traditional folk dance, ‘Chau’ is one of the cultures that Purulia carries with itself. Famous among the Sahish, Mahatos, Kumars, Santhais, and Kalindi communities are the masked Chau dancers who represent the important local cultures. What makes Chau dance so graceful is the blend of colorful costumes, makeup, exclusive dance style, and gorgeous masks. Highly popular across the globe, the Chau dance is often considered as a kind of martial art due to the agility and physical strength involved in it. This form of dance is an inseparable segment of the festivities and rituals of Purulia. From the mythological stories like Ramayana to contemporary incidents like Kargil war and Santhal revolt, many are used as the themes of shows.

Pata Naach

Another popular dance form of Purulia, Pata Naach is a traditional dance, held during the end of Monsoon (in the Bengali month - Bhadra) along with the Bhaduria Jhumur songs. According to the etymology, the term, ‘PATA’ came from the term, ‘PANKTI’ or line. Thus, the dancers (village women) of Pata Naach dance a line with entwined arms whereas they are accompanied by the men with madal, dhamsa, and flute among the other instruments.

Jhumur

Birharh, kharia, Oraon, Munda, Santhal, and other tribal communities along with the artisan communities such as Muchi, Hari, Ghatoal, Rajwar, Kumhaar, Dom, Kurmi are associated with this popular dance and songs called Jhumur. Jhumur, which is known for the literary and lyrical significance owing to its use of prehistoric language. At different times of the year, the local people sing different Jhumur songs that match the seasons. For instance, during the month of Chaitra (spring), Chaitali is sung and Bhadra month has the song – Bhaduria!

Garpanchakot

Located at the foothills of Panchet Hill (Panchakot) in Purulia district’s north-east corner, near to the boundary line of Jharkhand and Burdwan, Garpanchakot is a scenic wonder gifted by nature to Purulia. While the hilltop possesses the stunning panoramic view of the Panchet dam on Damodar river and its reservoir. Moreover, nature lovers can also opt for bird watching, which is surely a treat to the eyes.

Joychandi Pahar

Joychandi Pahar, a rock climber’s paradise is a major attraction for the tourists. Named after Goddess Chandi (Chandi Maa), the hill has a small temple dedicated to her on the top. A number of nearby abandoned towers (which used to be used by Dacoits in the older days) and small lakes are there. 400 steps need to be covered to reach the top that can be taxing. The dry and barren place has a shortage of drinking water. That’s why tourists are recommended to carry drinking water with them.

Cheliama

Considered as a famous destination in Purulia, Cheliama is rich in history and known as archaeologists’ and historians’ paradise. You will find the remnants of the 17^th century in this village. There are eminent marks of artistry, the culture of the eras. Also, you will find a number of temples in this village that carries the architectural evidence. Hundreds and thousands of tourists are attracted to this outstanding place.

Conclusion

These are the top attractions in Purulia that you can explore in your next trip to the picturesque locations of the place. So, plan your trip to Purulia now and spend your holidays amidst the gorgeous landscapes and rich culture of Purulia.