Baghmundi

Often a times, the biggest surprises of life come in small packages. The little village of Baghmundi might sound like just an ordinary village but once you visit the place, your perception is bound to change. Located at the foot of Ayodhya Hills, the village acts as a charming hideaway for tourists from the stress and anxiety of modern life. A rendezvous with the peaceful serenity, uneven topography, cascading waterfalls, trickling rivers, and diverse flora and fauna of the place will leave you awe struck. Bamni Falls is one of the major attractions of the place. This perennial waterfalls is flanked by charming landscape and vivid greenery. Another tourist spot near Baghmundi is Khairabera, a beautiful lake in the midst of mild slopes and thick woods. You can also visit the Tarpania Lake. This blue lake settled in a desolate landscape is a must visit for those who wish to experience serenity and solitude. Art lovers should make it a point to visit Charida, a village famous for the making of Chau masks. Chau is an acrobatic martial art based tribal dance of the region which involves wearing handcrafted, colourful masks while dancing. You can witness the entire process of making a mask and even collect a few as a souvenir.

Baghmundi

Sightseeing

Bamni Falls

Bamni Falls is one of the major attractions of the place. This perennial waterfalls is flanked by charming landscape and vivid greenery. Every year, a large number of tourists from Baghmundi, Ajodhya Hills and Murguma visit this place. A 20-minutes downward trek from the main road along a rocky and lightly-forested trail will take you to the front of the beautiful Bamni Falls. The cascading water falls over the rocks and form a small lake down below. You can even indulge in some shopping as there are many stalls near the road selling a variety of handicraft items and other stuff.

Turga Falls

Located close to Bamni Falls, this waterfalls also attracts a lot of tourists. From the main road, you can catch glimpses of the gushing white waters through chinks in the forest cover. Away from busy city life, the charming songs of colorful birds and chattering noise of squirrels make the environment a pleasant place to be in.

Khairabera Lake

Another tourist spot near Baghmundi is Khairabera, a beautiful lake in the midst of mild slopes and thick woods. The beauty of the place is its serenity, uneven terrain, falls, streams, thick vegetation. During the spring, the Palash trees enhance the scenic beauty of the area with their orange-red flowers. The ample scenic beauty of nature at Khairabera makes it a prime tourist spot.

Pakhi Pahar

This 800 ft high hill called Pakhi Pahar is a canvas for the artist, Chitta Dey, who along with his team, has sculpted nearly 65 images of birds on the sheer rock face. The hill has now become a hotspot for tourists who visit this place, only to be left speechless by the single-minded dedication and passion of the veteran artist. Encompassed by verdant forest, Pakhi Pahar is also a great spot for bird watching.

Upper Dam & Lower Dam

Both the upper and lower dams are part of the Purulia Pumped Storage Project (PPSP). These huge reservoirs are engineering marvels. Water from these reservoirs are used for hydroelectric power generation. The Lower Dam, especially, looks spectacular when viewed from the roadside viewpoint situated between the Upper Dam and Lower Dam.

Charida Village

Art lovers should make it a point to visit Charida, a village famous for the making of Chau masks. Chau is an acrobatic martial art based tribal dance of the region which involves wearing handcrafted, colourful masks while dancing. You can witness the entire process of making a mask and even collect a few as a souvenir.

Marble Lake
You can also visit the Marble Lake situated near Ajodhya Hill Top. This blue lake settled in a desolate landscape is a must visit for those who wish to experience serenity and solitude. Once you reach the place, you will be mesmerized by the charming beauty of the place. This man-made lake was formed when the rocks here were quarried for stone to build irrigation dams. The Marble Lake is surrounded by towering walls of scraggy boulders overhanging the clear, azure waters. There are two points from where you can enjoy the lake's beauty - one is from the top, and the other one is from the side of the lake.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Barabhum. Baghmundi is 19 km from Barabhum. Buses and cars are available from Barabhum to reach Baghmundi. Alternatively, you can reach Purulia by train from Howrah, Santragachi or Shalimar. Baghmundi is 59 km from Purulia town.

Accommodation

Chhowburu Guest House
Tariff: Rs. 800-1000/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9732294515

Aranyak Lodge
Tariff: Rs. 500-800/- per room
Tel: 9732394115

For more places to visit near Baghmundi, buy the Weekend Destinations travel guidebook.

Namchi

The district headquarters of South Sikkim, Namchi is a fabulous tourist destination perched at an altitude of 1325 m above sea level. In Bhutia language, the word ‘Namchi’ literally translates to ‘top of the sky’. Set in a picturesque location, the town offers an awe-inspiring view of the Kanchenjunga Range and the Rangit Valley. Namchi hosts the very popular Namchi Mahotsav, a Tourism, Culture and Food Festival, every year in October. A flower festival is also held annually.

Statue of Guru Padmasambhava atop the Samudruptse Hill

Sightseeing and Activities

One of the most striking attractions of Namchi is the 135 feet high statue of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) atop the Samudruptse Hill. It is the highest statue of Guru Padamasambhava in the world. The statue is gilded with gold that makes it glitter when sunlight falls over it. His Holiness the Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of the statue in October 1997 and it took about three years to complete the statue. From here, you can treat your eyes with the magnificent vista of Mt. Kanchenjunga amidst the richly forested hills under the clear blue sky. Another notable attraction of Namchi is the Solophok Char Dham complex (officially known as Siddheswar Dham). A huge pilgrimage cum cultural centre developed by the Government of Sikkim, the complex hosts a 26.5 m high statue of Lord Shiva in sitting posture. Apart from this giant statue, the replicas of twelve Jyotirlingas along with the four Dhams of Hindus namely Badrinath, Jagannath, Dwarka and Rameshwaram have been constructed inside the complex. This stunning imitation of Char Dham amidst the serene nature of Sikkim, has made it one of the prime tourist destinations in Sikkim.



While at Namchi, you should not miss a visit to the Rock Garden. Set against a beautiful backdrop of the Himalayan mountains, the garden houses different species of plants, flowers and trees growing everywhere. Along the pathway there are several waiting sheds, view points and water bodies landscaped to fit the taste of the visitors. The idyllic surroundings will help you relax and soak in the views of nature. You can also visit the Tarey Bhir view point which offers a breathtaking view of the river valleys below and dense woods. It also offers a panoramic view of the confluence of the two rivers of Sikkim, Teesta and Rangit. The Ngadak Monastery, Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir, Serdup Choling Monastery, Temi Tea Garden and Tendong Hill are other places of interest that can be visited from Namchi.

Best Time to Visit

Namchi can be visited at any time of the year except the monsoons.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. You can reserve a car from New Jalpaiguri and reach Namchi directly. Alternatively, you can reach Namchi from Siliguri by shared car.

Accommodation

Juniper Residency. Tariff: Rs. 2200-3700. Tel: 9593988698, 7679071222.
Summit Sobralia Resort & Spa. Tariff: Rs. 3700-30000. Tel: 8250528270, 8388877888.
Kava Suites. Tariff: Rs. 2500-4500. Tel: 8670044028, 03595-263444.
Hotel Valley View. Tariff: Rs. 1800. Tel: 9830152169.

Places Near Kolkata

Pemling

A picturesque hill hamlet situated 38 km from Kalimpong, Pemling is an ideal retreat for a soul seeking peace and solitude. It is mostly inhabited by the Lepchas and the Tamangs. Around 230 inhabitants reside in this small village. The village of Pemling offers some stunning views of the surrounding hills and valley. Savour the beauty of nature as you walk through orange orchards, elaichi farms, lush green meadows and dense forests. You can take a leisurely stroll on the forest trail and discover the joy of being away from the buzzing city life. The Juge Waterfalls is a must see attraction of Pemling which you will not want to miss. A 3 km downhill car ride from the village and a 50 minutes jungle trek will land you in front of the mesmerizing waterfalls. The place is a bird watcher’s paradise. With a binocular, you can simply spend hours here witnessing these colourful creatures. You can also visit Charkhole, Lava, Lolegaon, Pabong and Chuikhim from Pemling.

How to Reach

Purchase the Weekend Destinations Travel Guide Book to find out the best way to reach Pemling from Kolkata. Click here to buy the eBook. Pay securely with Paytm.

Accommodation

Buy the Weekend Destinations eBook to get in-depth information about Pemling along with tariff and contact details of homestays in Pemling.

Places Near Kolkata

Ajgaivinath

Ajgaivinath Dham is a well known temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in Sultanganj in the East Indian state of Bihar. The temple is situated atop a rock on the bank of Ganges river. It is believed that Lord Shiva was given his bow, known as Ajgay, at this very place and so the place came to be known as Ajgaivinath. A series of marvelous rock sculptures and inscriptions are the main highlights of the temple. Inside the temple, there are idols of various deities including Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Narayana and Goddess Laxmi. The place has a beautiful charm in it. Its calm natural surroundings and the soothing view of River Ganga will relieve your soul from all stress and worries.

Ajgaivinath

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah and Sealdah to Sultanganj. Ajgaivinath Dham is 3 km from Sultanganj station. Trekkers and cycle rickshaws are available from Sultanganj station to reach Ajgaivinath temple.

Accommodation

Indrapuri Rest House. Tariff: Rs. 600-1700. Tel: 7070868666, 9631891301.
Hotel Alka. Tariff: Rs. 600-1500. Tel: 9135266589.

Places Near Kolkata

Seraikela

Seraikela is a charming destination situated in the Indian state of Jharkhand. Surrounded by low hillocks, verdant forests and sparkling water streams, Seraikela is a great place for a weekend hangout. The town also serves as the administrative headquarters of Saraikela Kharsawan District. Enriched with vibrant colours and rhythms of Chhau dance, the destination is quite popular among folk art lovers. Apart from being well-known around the world for its unique variant of Chhau Dance, Seraikela also hosts a range of tourist attractions.

Seraikela Palace

Sightseeing and Activities

A landmark attraction of the town is the Royal Palace of Saraikela. This ancient archaeological treasure dates back to 300 years in history. You will be spellbound by the exquisite architecture and rich heritage of this palace. Just a stone's throw away from the Royal Palace lies the Mau Paudi temple. The age-old temple is a must visit for art and history lovers. Another important tourist attraction of Seraikela is the Sri Ram Baba Ashram, which attracts thousands of devotees round the year. Other tourist spots in and around Seraikela are Palna Dam, Subarnarekha Dam, Karakatta Dam and Kharkai River.

Best Time to Visit

Summers at Seraikela are scorching hot and hence should be avoided. The best time to visit the town will be during the months of October to March.



How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Tatanagar. Seraikela is 40 km from Tatanagar. Buses and hired cars are plying from Tatanagar to Seraikela.

Accommodation

There are no proper accommodation options at Seraikela. The best place to stay near Seraikela is Tatanagar. Some hotels in Tatanagar are listed below.
The Kannelite Hotel. Tariff: Rs. 3500-6200. Tel: 9209010008.
Hotel Ab Palace. Tariff: Rs. 1350-2550. Tel: 9955093493.
Hotel Sky Lark. Tariff: Rs. 600-1500. Tel: 0657-2290300, 9798888393.
Hotel Ashoka Inn. Tariff: Rs. 1100-2650. Tel: 0657-2441874, 7209699105.
Hotel Balajee. Tariff: Rs. 900-1100. Tel: 0657-2320594.

Places Near Kolkata

Phulbani

Phulbani is a little-known tourist destination in Kandhamal district of Odisha. The place is surrounded by lush green hills and a bunch of awe inspiring waterfalls making it the perfect retreat for a sojourn in the wild. Primarily inhabited by the tribal people, Phulbani is home to a rich tribal cultural heritage. The two prime attractions of Phulbani are the Putudi Waterfalls and Pakdajhar Waterfalls. You can also visit the temple of Balaskumpa.

Putudi Waterfalls

Sightseeing and Activities

One of the top attractions of Phulbani is the Pakdajhar Falls. Lose yourself in the rustic natural beauty as you travel through narrow and winding red gravel filled lanes lined on both sides by large deciduous trees. The verdant nature welcomes you with its beautiful landscapes, unmatched tranquility and soft natural winds that caress your face, leaving your soul rejuvenated with a fresh, positive energy. A flight of around 150 steps will take you to the bottom from where you can enjoy a delighting view of the Pakdajhar Waterfalls. Falling from a height of around 100 feet, this waterfalls is an admiring sight for all visitors.

Another must visit attraction of Phulbani is the Putudi Waterfalls situated at a distance of 18 km from the heart of the city. On the way to Putudi Falls, you will be thrilled by the fantastic scenery and bottle green dense woods embracing the road. Once you reach the waterfalls, you will be transfixed by its stunning beauty that is hard to resist. Salunki River is the source of the waterfalls. The cool breeze and the melody of chirping birds generate poetic thoughts in the minds of the visitors. A visit to Balaskumpa, 18 km from Phulbani should also be on the cards. The place is famous for the temple of Goddess Barala Devi who is believed by the natives to be the creator of the world.



Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Phulbani is around August to November. Summers should be avoided as this region remains pretty warm and sunny during this time.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to Berhampur. Buses are available from Berhampur to reach Phulbani.

Accommodation

Phulbani Nature Camp
Tariff: Rs. 3894/- per room with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 7008817600

Hotel Dreamland
Tariff: Rs. 430-870/- per room
Tel: 8763460001, 9583265930

Hotel KP's Salunki
Tariff: Rs. 1000-3500/- per room with breakfast
Tel: 06842-255655, 9437980081

Places Near Kolkata

Chujachen

Chujachen is a beautiful place to spend your vacation in solitude and serenity. Tucked on pine-clad mountain slopes above lush green valleys and surrounded by pristine nature, Chujachen is a perfect spot to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Home to some exotic species of birds and butterflies, the place is a heaven for nature lovers. The resort at Chujachen offers a spectacular view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The area is covered with thick groves interspersed with cascading waterfalls which provide for a truly delightful experience.

Sunset at Chujachen

Sightseeing and Activities

A little distance away from Chujachen lies the Jorkhola Waterfalls encircled with dense foliage and magical mist. After falling from a considerable height, the water flows through the forest and finally meets the Rangpo River. If you wish to experience tranquil solitude and quietude, then you must visit the bank of Rangpo River where you can spend some time watching the river flow at its own pace. Another spot of tourist interest is the Sokekhola Waterfalls shrouded with mountains and caressed with soft breeze. From a height of about 50 feet, it falls carelessly on the rocks and flows in a small stream before making its way to the Rangpo River.

Best Time to Visit

Chujachen can be visited round the year except during the monsoon season.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Chujachen is 115 kilometres from New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from New Jalpaiguri to reach Chujachen. Alternatively, you can opt to reach Rangpo by shared jeep from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri. Hired cars and shared jeeps are available from Rangpo to reach Chujachen.

Accommodation

Nirja Resort
Tariff: Rs. 800-1000 per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 7551870546, 9933308289

Places Near Kolkata