Purulia

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Purulia: Unveiling the Interplay of Nature, Culture, and Wildlife Expenditure

Purulia is a land of natural beauty. The lush green landscape, verdant hills, and dense forests make it a perfect tourist destination that gives peaceful surroundings to weary city dwellers. This westernmost district of West Bengal is part of the Chotonagpur plateau which unravels her untapped mystery and wondrous beauty. The landscape is rocky and undulating. The tourism of Purulia attractions centers around its hills, and forests as well as its archaeological excavations and the relics of ancient buildings and temples. Tribal ethos enriches the mystic charm and natural beauty of this land of red soil and red blooms of Palash. Purulia Sadar subdivision covers the central portion of the district. 83.80% of the population of the subdivision lives in rural areas.

• History of Purulia- There is hardly any written history of Purulia however one can find the mention of crushing the Varendra rebellion by Pala King Rampala in the poem Ramacharitram written by court poet Sandhyakar Nandi.
  It is also believed that a major trade route passed through Purulia in the 10th -12th Century. One can find the influence of Jainism in Purulia. There was a huge settlement of Jains during this time in Purulia and one can find Jain temples in Purulia. which were built in Oriya Deul Style Architecture. The temples were built of stone and bricks.
  One of the important areas in the Purulia district is Garpanchkot. The name is derived from two words Gar (Fort) and Panchkot (Panchkot Raj). So basically, the combination of two words became Garpanchkot which is the fort of the Panchkot kings. We have heard of the river Damodar, which gets its name from King Damodar Sekhar. He established Panchkot Raj during 90 A.D. along with the help of Sardards of Jhalda. He kept on expanding his kingdom. The name Panchkot comes from the 5 clans of the area.

Embark on a Nature, Cultural, and Wildlife Expedition in Purulia: A Hidden Gem Unveiled

• Wildlife and Verdant Hills- The rich biodiversity of Purulia is a testament to its untouched natural beauty. The region boasts a diverse range of flora, from indigenous plants to rare and exotic species. Explore the wilderness and witness the kaleidoscope of colors that define the local botanical wonders. Biogeographically it represents zone 06B (Deccan, peninsula Chotonagpur), there are 39 species of mammals (5 in schedule -1) (pangolin, wolf, leopard, cub, leopard, Elephants). 9 species of amphibians, 27 species of fish, 9 species of mollusk available in Purulia district (WB). Ajodhya hill ecosystem hosts a few number mega mammals like elephant
• Tribal Ethos- Enriching the mystic charm and natural allure of Purulia is the vibrant tapestry of tribal communities that call this region home. Santhals, Kurmis, Kherias-Sabars, and more contribute to the cultural mosaic of Purulia, their traditions embedded in the red soil and the vivid red blooms of Palash. Song and dance form an intrinsic part of tribal life, creating a unique and immersive experience for knowledge-seeking travellers.
• Jhumur Songs and Dance- Immerse yourself in the lyrical and literary significance of Jhumur songs and dance, deeply rooted in ancient languages. These artistic expressions evolve with the changing seasons, offering a melodic journey through the cultural calendar of Purulia. Different Jhumur songs resonate at different times of the year, providing a rich tapestry of tribal storytelling.
• Chau Dance: A Cultural Spectacle- The Chau dance, an integral part of Purulia's rituals and festivities, captivates audiences with its rarity and cultural significance. Popular among Santhals, Kumars, Mahatos, Kalindis, and Sahish communities, the masked dancers of Chau epitomize local culture. The use of beautiful masks, exclusive dance styles, and vibrant costumes has catapulted Chau dance to global recognition. Many enthusiasts view it not just as a folk dance but as a form of martial art, applauding the physical strength and agility displayed by the performers.
• Plan Your Nature Odyssey- Purulia invites you to unravel its hidden natural treasures and embark on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you seek the solace of verdant hills, the thrill of wildlife encounters, or the cultural richness intertwined with nature, Purulia promises an enriching experience for the knowledge-seeking traveller. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the untamed beauty of Purulia!