Things To Do
in Puruliya
Purulia is a western district of West Bengal, set on a patchwork of hills, forests, and rural villages. It is home to tribal communities and historic terracotta temples, notably around Bishnupur, and it hosts dramatic landscapes like Ayodhya Hills. The region offers a slower, craft-oriented vibe with vibrant folk traditions such as Chhau dance.
While largely off the beaten path, Purulia rewards curious travelers with authentic culture, panoramic viewpoints, and memorable village life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing hike through the lush trails of the Ayodhya Hills, where the cool morning breeze invigorates your senses. As you trek, encounter stunning views of the surrounding valleys and vast landscapes that stretch to the horizon. Don't forget to take pictures of the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this serene environment.
After your hike, visit the nearby Ayodhya Hill Temple, an ancient site where spirituality and nature converge. Enjoy a traditional Puruliya meal at a local eatery, featuring simple yet delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon exploring the intricacies of tribal art and crafts at various artisan workshops in the area.
As the sun begins to set, head towards the banks of the Kumari River for a peaceful evening. Engage in a quiet meditation or yoga session while enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature around you. Conclude your day with a cozy bonfire dinner under the starlit sky, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Start your morning with a visit to the nearby tribal villages, where you can witness the vibrant culture and traditions of the Santhal community. Participate in a traditional Santhal breakfast, savoring local delicacies while learning about their customs and heritage. Engage in conversations with the villagers to gain deeper insights into their daily lives and artistic expressions.
In the afternoon, join a workshop to learn about traditional Santhal dance, music, or craft-making, immersing yourself fully in their rich cultural tapestry. This hands-on experience allows you to appreciate the intricate skills passed down through generations. Afterward, stroll through the village, admiring the colorful murals and handicrafts that adorn the homes.
As the sun sets, gather with the villagers for an evening of folk music and dance, where you can participate and enjoy the rhythms of their culture. The sounds of the dhol and the beautiful melodies will envelop you in a joyous atmosphere. Share stories, laughs, and perhaps even learn a few dance moves before wrapping up the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚌Local transport (day pass/taxi) | $3-12 |
| 💧1.5L bottle of water | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich tribal culture and crafts
- Stunning hill landscapes like Ayodhya Hills
- Historic temples in Bishnupur and nearby towns
- Less crowded than mainstream destinations
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Rural roads can be challenging in monsoon
- Distances between sights can be long; requires planning
- Connectivity and services may be sparse in remote villages
- "Namaskar" - Hello
- "Kemon aachen?" - How are you?
- "Ami Bangla bolte pari." - I can speak Bengali.
- "Koto holo?" - How much is this?
- "Dhanyabaad" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Puruliya
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic ridges with forests and viewpoints ideal for panoramic sunrise shots and landscape photography.
Historic temples renowned for their intricate terracotta panels; especially striking during golden hour.
Granite hill with rugged rock faces and sweeping views; popular for dramatic hill photography and sunset pics.
Traditional thatched huts and expansive farmland set against wide skies, perfect for documentary-style photography.
Food in Puruliya
Puruliya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Bengali fish curry simmered with potatoes and spices; best enjoyed with steamed rice from local eateries.
Must-Try!
Lentil curry served with rice; a staple in village homes and modest restaurants.
Rice-based cakes served with jaggery syrup or stuffed varieties; popular during cooler months and festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling center for fresh produce, spices, and regional snacks; look for jhalmuri and local fritters along the lanes.
Local markets around Bishnupur and Purulia where you can buy terracotta crafts and sample simple street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask before photographing people, especially in villages or during ceremonies; respect local privacy and consent.
Dress modestly and remove shoes where required; show respect at religious sites.
Greet with Namaste; use the right hand for handing objects and avoid public displays of anger or affection in conservative settings.
Safety
Tipping in Puruliya
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is common if service charge is not included; in street stalls tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service.
Cash remains widely used; digital payments (UPI, Paytm, Google Pay) are increasingly accepted in towns and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often above 35°C; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Heavy rains from June to September; trails can be slippery and some roads may flood; carry rain gear and take extra caution on hillside routes.
Cool to mild with pleasant days and cooler evenings; ideal for trekking and outdoor sightseeing, especially in clear skies.
Puruliya at Night
Hiking in Puruliya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular ridge walk with viewpoints overlooking surrounding valleys; moderate difficulty.
Rocky hill ascent offering panoramic views and dramatic photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Puruliya by plane.
Primary regional gateway about 230-300 km from Purulia; flights connect to major Indian cities; road/rail transfer to Purulia takes several hours.
Major international gateway about 360-420 km away; good rail/road connections to Purulia; long but frequent service.
Smaller regional airport about 180-220 km away; options include domestic flights and road transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence in rural Purulia, contributing to culture, crafts, and language; Santhal plays a central role in festivals like Chhau and harvest celebrations.
Bengali-speaking residents, as well as migrant workers and traders, form the urban and peri-urban population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local clubs and informal matches.
Widely played in towns and schools; weekend matches are common.
Local rural games and wrestling (kushti) are part of cultural events in villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puruliya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available through thalis and dal-based dishes; ask for no meat and confirm ingredients when ordering.