Top 8 places To visit in Bankura
The city of Bankura is full of historical and geographical places . This places are located in the west side of west Bengal. The district includes areas known as “Rarh”. Bankura is a land of red soil. The region is famous for the iconic Bankura horse, a symbol of Indian folk art, and attractions like Bishnupur’s temples and Shushunia Hills, kangshaboti dam. Bankura is blessed with natural beauty, featuring lush green forest and hills. This region is also home to a rich culture heritage, with various tribal communities such as the Santhal, Bhumij, and Munda living in areas like Mukutmonipur. The people of Bankura celebrate numerous festivals with great enthusiasm, such as Durga Puja, Makar Sankranti, and Charak Puja, often accompanied by traditional music and dance like Chau and Jumar. Bankura is also known for art and craft of Dorka, terracotta, conch shell, and bell metal, and production of mango and mustard. Its agricultural production includes rice, wheat, and others crop. Bankura is a place that shows the true beauty of Nature.
Top 8 places visit in Bankura:
These places are the most visited places in Bankura. Explore the joy of getting lost in solitude feel the unspolied nature at Bankura.
1. Shushunia hill:
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shushunia hill is one of the hills in Bankura district of west Bengal. Which is full of history and natural beauty. Tourists mainly visit this mountain for trekking and the trekking roads are very rough. This mountain is believed to be older than the Himalayas and here are found the fossils of lion, giraffes, hyenas. There is an ancient Narasimha temple a little higher up the hill. Where local people worship. Near this Narasimha temple there is permanent water source called an artesian well and that water is believed to have many medicinal properties.
In addition ,this hill has a very dense forest rich in other plants, including the shala, palash tree. So it is a ideal place for nature lover. And various medicine are also available from these mountain tree. This mountain is about 1200 feet high. Trekking up this mountain is very difficult, but once you reach the top you will be able to witness a natural environment rich in beautiful rural vegetation. If you want to break from the hustle and bustle of the city this could be an ideal place for you.
This place can become very popular with adventure lovers as the weather is very good between October to march.
- Distance: 21 km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 1 – 2 hours
- Ideal Time To Visit: October To February
- Accommodation: Limited options; consider staying in Bankura
- Local Delicacies: While specific dishes aren’t highlighted, visitors can enjoy traditional Bengali meals in nearby eateries.
- Dining Options: Limited; it’s advisable to dine in Bankura town before or after visiting.
2. Mukutmonipur Dam:
The second most important place in Bankura is Mukutmonipur dam. The real reason for its beauty is its natural beauty and the huge watercourse dam surrounding it.
Parasnath Temple:
This temple is located on hill, from where the magnificent view of he dam attracts the attention of tourists.
Banapukuria Deer Park:
This is a small forest area where some deer can be seen.
Bank of Kangsaboti River:
Tourists enjoy a beautiful view of the kangsaboti River and can feel the cool breeze along the riverbanks where numerous rural tribal communities engage in fishing , which is their profession.
Visitors enjoy activities like boating on this river. The beauty of the place increases on the time of sunrise and sunset.
The name Mukutmonipur comes from the word “Mukut” and it is a great place for people from the Durgapur area of Kolkata to spend a two to three day vacation. Mukutmonipur is a wildlife hotspot where a variety of birds and others wildlife can be seen.
This place is close to a forest, temple, and picnic spot. This place is much cheaper and less crowded than others places to visit . if you want to get away from the busy lifestyle then this place is a must visit.
- Distance: 55 km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 1 day
- Ideal Time To Visit: November To March
- Accommodations: Mukutmanipur Tourist Lodge (WBTDC), Hotel Amrapali, Peerless Resort.
- Must-Try Dishes: Bengali thalis featuring fish curry, rice, and local vegetables.
- Top Restaurants: Madol Restaurant at Peerless Resort: It Offers multi-cuisine dishes with an peculiarity on Bengali meals, Geetanjali Hotel Restaurant and Bar: Known for its Indian cuisine, Cilantro Restaurant: Serves Italian dishes in a serene setting
- Local Eateries: Pice hotels offering affordable Bengali meals.
3. Jhilimili Overview:
The journey from Ranibandh to Jhilimili takes you through beautiful forest on the both side of the road . The river Kangsabati flows through this forest and its banks are perfect for picnic. At jhilimil, a watchtower offers great views of surrounding area. It’s a quite place and a nice break from the busy city.
Jhilimili-Baro Mile Forest:
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Jhilimili and Sutan Forest also called “Baro Mile-er Jungle” is 45 Km from Mukutmanipur and 70 km from Bankura Town. The forest has several viewpoints offering beautiful views. You will enjoy walking among tall tress like Sal, mahua and Simul. Don’t miss the colourful butterflies that look like painting on natural canvas. During the Monsoon the forest turns lush green -perfect for enjoying a playful rain dance like in childhood.
Sutan Lake:
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Sutan Lake is located about 7 km inside the Jhilimili Range. The forest here is full of wildlife, unique flowers, and seasonal birds. You might see a colourful peacock.
It’s not just a treat for tourists—bike riders also enjoy the road through the jungle, which feels like riding through hilly terrain.
Rimli Eco Tourism Centre:
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The Rimil Eco-Tourism Centre is a government guest house in Jhilimili, managed by a private lease. Its a place with a village like atmosphere. Nearby, you’ll find several tribal villages. If you’re planning to stay in Jhilimili, Rimil Eco-Tourism is the best option for accommodation.
- Distance: 65 km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 2 – 3 hours
- Ideal Time To Visit: October To March
- Accommodation: Limited, nearby options in Mukutmonipur or Bankura.
- Local Delicacies: Traditional Bengali dishes, often prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
- Dining Options:Aronya Abokash Gramya Paryatan & Restaurant: Provides homely Bengali meals in a rustic ambiance.
4.Gongoni -The Grand Canyon of Bengal:
Gongoni is a natural canyon near Garbeta in west Bengal, Paschim Medinipur district, known as the Grand Canyon of Bengal and this noise can also be fill from Bankura .The distance from Bankura to gongoni is 60 km.
This Grand Canyon was formed by the erosion of the Shilavati river in Garbeta area. This canyon is 70 feet depth with red hills and laterite rocks adding to its beauty. This sculpture is made of different coloured clay. Mainly red, yellow, light yellow, white coloured clay is seen. Nature has created different types of sculptures here like temples have been built here, forts have been built here, it looks like an elephant’s ,trunk, a lion, is standing her a ship somewhere, everything is very alive. But all of them are made by nature, strange beauty where there is no human touch. This place also called Gongoni Danga or Gongoni Khola. Such a natural scene is unmagical on a flat land, so this place attracts at least the attention of tourist. Currently stairs have been installed to go down to this place. During sunrise and sunset, the suns rays reflect on this mountain, creating a beautiful scene that attracts the attention of tourist. Gongoni is known for its diverse birdlife ,especially during winter. The Shilavati River ,located next to Gangoni ,has very high water levels during the rainy season, but during the summer, the water level is low ,so the river can be crossed on foot during this time. Due to this presence of the Shilavati River ,tourists can experience the beauty and cool breeze of river and this place is very famous as a picnic spot.
- Distance: 80km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 2-3 hours
- Ideal Time To Visit: October To March
- Accommodation: stay in near by Garbeta or Bankura
- Local Delicacies: Standard Bengali fare.
- Dining Options: Riya Hotel: Offers good quality food near Garbeta.
Suruchi Hotel: Located near Garbeta College, known for its meals.
5. Bihari Nath Hill:
Bihari Nath Hill is 57 km away from Bankura and 24 km from Raniganj. It is known for its connection to ancient Jain culture. Plan a peaceful weekend in this beautiful hilly area. Wake up to birdsong, enjoy the fresh breeze, take a nature walk, and soak in the calm surroundings. Bihari Nath, the highest hill in Bankura district at about 1480 feet, offers stunning views and a spiritual atmosphere. It’s one of the district’s densest forest areas, filled with greenery and serenity. Perfect for those looking to escape the stress of daily life, Bihari Nath is part of the scenic Rarh region and is a popular tourist spot. Nearby places like Tiluri and Saltora are slightly more populated. Don’t miss the famous Bihari Nath Temple, a major Shiva temple in West Bengal, visited by thousands of devotees every year.
Biharinath Temple:
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Whether you’re someone who finds peace in nature or someone who seeks spiritual solace, Bihari Nath has something special to offer . at the base of the hill, you’ll find a small , serene temple dedicated to lord shiva-a perfect spot to pause, reflect and connect. Devotees believe the ‘Shivalinga’, known as Bihari Nath, is spiritually alive, and the hill is
named after the deity. With beautiful views, gentle streams, and the calming sound of temple bells, the place offers a peaceful atmosphere. Many pilgrims visit during the Mahashivratri festival. It also becomes a sacred spot during the months of Shaban and Navaratri.
Forest and wildlife:
Bihari Nath is like the Araku Valley of West Bengal—a hidden and peaceful tourist spot waiting to be explored. Recently, the rare Spurfowl was spotted in its dense forests. A narrow trail winds through the hills, and we recommend following it to explore the main
Bihari Nath Hill and the nearby smaller hills. Bird lovers will find the Common Babbler everywhere here. You can also spot rare butterflies like the Nawab and Rajah, and wild animals like wolves and hyenas.
Avoid visiting in the peak summer. Winter and the monsoon is the best time. Its perfect for a two-day, one-night nature trip.
- Distance: 55 km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 1- 2 hours
- Ideal Time To Visit: October To March
- Accommodation: Bihari Nath Touries point, local guesthouses.
- Local Delicacies: Bengali cuisine with options like Posto Bora (poppy seed fritters).
- Dining Options:
Biharinath Eco Tourism Restaurant: Serves a lots of Indian, Chinese, Tandoor, and Jain dishes.
- Nearby Restaurants: Options like Durga Foods and Sagourab Hotel & Restaurant are available.
6. Bishnupur:
Bishnupur is a small west Bengal town . This place is famous for terracotta temples, vibrant Balu Chari sarees, and classical music heritage. The terracotta temples built in the 17th and 18th centuries. There are some famous temple near this place like Ras Mancha, Jor Bangla, and Madanmohan Temple etc . These temples are made of red baked clay and have detailed carvings shows Hindu Mythology. There are numerous shop around these temples that sell beautiful terracotta items so you can buy the things you like from those stores. Visitor can enjoy Bishnupur Gharana music. The town is peaceful and perfect for a short weekend trip from Kolkata. If you are a history lover than Bishnupur welcomes you warmly.
- Distance: 31 km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 1 – 2 hours
- Ideal Time To Visit: October To March
- Accommodation: Hotel Laxmi Park, Hotel Heritage, Bishnupur Tourist Lodge.
- Must-Try Dishes:
Moa: A sweet made from puffed rice and jaggery.
Pithe: Traditional rice cakes.
Posto Dishes: Various preparations using poppy seeds.
- Top Restaurants:
Grihini: Family restaurant offering Indian and Chinese dishes.
Bishnupur Tourist Lodge: Known for local delicacies like Posto Bora.
7. Discovering Joypur Jungle: A Hidden Gem in Bankura
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If you want to visit somewhere for a short vacation of one to two days you can visit Jaipur jungle. This is located in Bankura district , not the capital of Rajasthan , it is located in Bankura district. Jaipur jungle is surrounded by dense forest of Sal, mahua, and neem trees. This forest that creates a green canopy over your head. It’s quite nice to see the forest as you wander along the roads here. The beautiful, black, flat road cuts through the jungle and heads towers Bishnupur. The road runs thought the mibble of Joypur and is surrounded by dense forest on both sides. This place is also popular for photography among nature lovers because it is surrounded by greener. There are numerous species of majestic elephants, deer, and variety of bird . The attractions of this forest include an abandoned British air base from world war II , a watch tower, and a picnic spot etc . There are three places to stay in joypur forest, the most notable of which is the Banalata Resort, which has flower gardens, ponds, and the quality of food in this resort is also very good. Joypur can be visited at any time of the year, but it is better not to visit during the summer season.
- Distance: 35 km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 2-3 hours
- Ideal Time To Visit: October-February
- Accommodation: Limited; consider staying in Bishnupur.
- Local Delicacies: Freshly prepared Bengali meals using ingredients from local farms.
- Dining Options:
Banalata Resort Restaurant: serves a lots of Indian and continental dishes, using fresh ingredients grown own garden.
Hotel Sonar Bangla: Provides a variety of cuisines including Bengali, Mughlai, and Chinese.
8. Jayram Bati:
Jayram Bati is the small village twenty-seven miles distant from Bishnupur in Bankura District. This place is just 2 miles east of Shihar and 3 miles west of Kamarpukur. It is the holy birthplace of Shri Shri Thakur. The spiritual vibes of this holy place convey the message of Dharma, Karma and Moksha. Shri Shri Sarada Devi, the spiritual companion of Bhagavan Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, was born in the peaceful village of Jayram Bati in 1853.
Shri Shri Matri Mandir:
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A beautiful white marble statue of the Holy Mother, shown in a meditative pose (‘Dhyana Mudra’), sits in this peaceful temple. Swami Sarada Nanda dedicated the temple to her on the holy day of Akshaya Tritiya, 19th April 1923. It is situated exactly where she was born. Her father, Shri Ramchandra Mukhopadhyay, lived here, and this is also where the divine marriage of Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa and the Holy Mother was arranged. Every day, she is worshipped here with offerings and rituals.
Puratan-Bari (Old House) & Nutan-Bari (New House):
Maa Sarada Devi lived here the Puratan Bari in the year 1863 to 1915. In this house, she blessed many spiritual seekers with Brahmacharya, initiation, and Sannyasa. She also began worshipping Goddess Jagaddhatri here. Later, Swami Saradananda selected a piece of land on the western side of a pond known as punya pukur-so named because maa sarada used it regularly, making it a place of quite reverence and deep significance. A new house, called Nutan Bari, was built there in 1915-16 to provide better living space for the growing number of devotees and for the Holy Mother.
Amodar Ghat & Mayer Ghat:
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Amodar, the sacred stream, was where the Holy Mother used to bathe with Golap Ma, Yogin Ma, and other women devotees. She lovingly called it the Ganga and often spent time on its banks reading the Chandi, the Gita, and meditating. Today, a bathing ghat has been built at the spot where she used to bathe. Nearby, there a bus stop called Mayer
Ghat, next to ‘Mayer Dighi’—a pond where the Holy Mother used to cut grass during her childhood.
- Distance: 66 km From Bankura
- Ideal Time Required: 1 day
- Ideal Time To Visit: October To March
- Accommodation: Ramakrishna Mission Guest House, local lodges.
- Local Delicacies: Simple vegetarian meals, often served at the Ramakrishna Mission.
- Dining Options:
Ramakrishna Mission Guest House: It Provides complete vegetarian food to the visitors.
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