Belpahari

Belpahari is a tribal village situated at a distance of 35 km from Jhargram in West Bengal. The pitch black road from Jhargram to Belpahari is thickly forested with a variety of tropical trees on both sides. The place is surrounded by Sal, Mahua, Piyal, Sonajhuri and Eucalyptus trees. The peaceful and serene environment of this village is mesmerizing. A beautiful waterfalls is located at Ghagra, little distance away from Belpahari. Tarafeny Barrage is situated nearby and is worth a visit.

Sightseeing

Khandarani Lake

Khandarani Lake is an irrigation dam surrounded by captivating forests and ubiquitous expanse of mountains. The murmuring water currents mingled with shimmering sunlight finding their way into the vast swathes of agriculture land through the Dam channels make the onlookers gaze spell-bound at the mystifying marvels of nature. During the winter season, different species of birds including some migratory birds flock to Khandarani Dam and spend their winter in utter abandon and rant the air with their incessant flap and flutter. You can take an idyllic stroll along the bank of the lake or just sit back and watch the scenery unfold in front of your eyes. The luxuriant growth of flora and foliage around Khandarani will leave you awestruck.

Khandarani Lake

Ghagra Waterfalls

Nestled in the midst of dense foliage interspersed by rocks and boulders, the Ghagra Waterfalls is an unexplored tourist spot. The cascading streams of Ghagra falling over the craggy rocks offer visitors a sight to behold. This spectacular waterfall attracts visitors for its uncanny splendour and majestic flow of unfettered water currents. The rustic environs, enigmatic bushes and overarching rocks lend an inexplicable aura to the place. Shooting of the Bengali film “Behula Lakhindar” took place at this very spot. The grandeur of the waterfalls is best experienced during the monsoon.

Ghagra Waterfalls

Gadrasini Hill

Gadrasini Hill is situated at a distance of 8 km from Belpahari. The tranquility of this place will make feel calm and peaceful. Gadrasini Ashram is located at the foot of the Gadrasini Hill. People from various walks of life travel to this place to spend their time in serene meditation as the Ashram is a centre of spiritual gospels and practices. Inspired by the ideals of Lahiri Maharaj and Swami Yogananda, the centre offers the pilgrims unique opportunity of basking in spiritual enlightenment. Apart from the ashram, there are two temples of which one is dedicated to Lord Shiva whereas the other one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also check out the Debi Ma Guha and Jagadananda Siddhi Guha. Far from the madding crowd, Gadrasini Hill is heaven for colorful birds and is a great place for bird watching and photography. And lastly don't forget to enjoy the fabulous bird's eye view of the surrounding areas from top of the hill.

View from top of Gadrasini Hill

Tarafeni Dam

Tarafeni is situated at a distance of 7km from Belpahari. It is another attractive place where tourists get enthralled at the sight of impetuous sway of the river currents against the rocky boulders, particularly during rainy season. It is the place where the visitors gaze on the meandering currents of the river criss-crosing the zig-zag paths. This barrage is an important source of providing drinking water to thousands of the people in the area. Tarafeni River receives its share of water mainly from Mukutmanipur Dam. Its beauty becomes more sparkling when the Barrage releases surplus water from the channels and the dancing and leaping currents of water leave one wondering at the marvels of nature.

Tarafeni Dam

Kanaisor Hill

Kanaisahar is situated at a distance of 10 km from Belpahari. Flanked on each side by dense forest, Kanaisahar Hill stands out as a towering glory of nature. Overlooking villages situated at the foot hills teeming with agricultural activity and countrymen attending to their household chores, this hilly spot offers a panoramic view. A village mela is held every year in the month of July on the top of the hill. People from far and wide swarm to this place to offer worship to the mountain god. A religious festival is held for 5 days in the season of autumn by the tribals of this area. They gather in thousands to add colours to this historic festival. In the mela colourful stalls displaying a wide range of homemade toys, articles and handicraft add to the feverish tempo to the mela. Kanaisahar offers a rare chance of adventure as well as sightseeing.

Laljal Cave

Laljal Cave lies 19km from Belpahari. Lalajal is a scenic mountain village. The village has Belapaharira primitive cave-men, including antiquities. Here the spring water is slightly reddish. Copper and iron mixed with water is quite tasty. Local residents say, because of the red color of the water in the name of the village lalajala. Deopahare west of the village there is a primitive cave man. Sinlahara south-eastern part of the mountain range. The village is north Ranipahara. Abahelitai witness remains a place of ancient civilization. The area is one of the great natural wonders of tourist attractions.

Kankrajhore Forest

Kankrajhore is situated at a distance of 23km from Belpahari. It is enveloped with verdant forest and amazing skyline leaves one mesmerized by the sheer chastity of nature’s elegance that allures visitors by its abundant growth of woods and undulating hilly terrain. Mazy paths criss-crossing wild greenery with Sal, Pial, Kendu, Simul, Bohera, Haritoki etc. leading to Kankrajhore without even the notion of travelling a distance of 23km which is something one can cherish forever. Kankrajhore is also a familiar haunt for those who want to familiarize themselves with the unique and interesting facets of tribal lives. The teeming populace of tribal engaged in their household chores, offers the visitors a rare opportunity to have a first-hand insight into the rich cultural heritage of the tribal community. Doves of visitors have the lure of staying with the local tribes in their well-carved houses sharing their staple diet and indulging in their folklores.

Dhangikusum and Dungri Falls

Dhangikusum is situated at a distance of 13km from Belpahari on way to Kankrajhor, just turn left from Chirakuti and reach at Dhangikusum View Point. Mazy paths ups and downs criss-crossing roads and wild greenery with Sal, Pial, Kendu, Simul etc. which is something memorable. Dhangikusum (locally known as Dungri) Falls is just 1km from the view point. Dhangikusum Village is popular for their stone craft and you can purchase the handicraft products.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Belpahari is during the monsoon.

How to Reach

Trains are available from Howrah to reach Jhargram. Belpahari is 56 km from Jhargram. Buses and jeeps are plying from Jhargram to Belpahari via Shilda.



Accommodation

Binpur II Panchayet Samiti Guest House
Tariff: Rs. 600-900 per room
Tel: 9800033633

Tarafeni Cottage
Tel: 9733795340, 8900360222

Belpahari Guest House
Tel: 8972999926

Belpahari Forest Bungalow
Booking: DFO, Jhargram, Paschim Midnapore, Tel: 03221-255010.

Places Near Kolkata

Bidyang

Bidyang is a small hamlet situated at a distance of 15 km from Kalimpong. The place is ideal for those who want to experience the serenity of the hills and the endless bounty of nature. The hamlet is located on the banks of Reli river. Facilities for adventure sports like rock climbing and river crossing are added attractions. The confluence of Teesta and Reli river is 7 km from Bidhyang Valley. The wooden hanging bridge standing on the river is awe inspiring.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Howrah and Kolkata station to New Jalpaiguri. Kalimpong-bound buses are available from Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus in Siliguri. Shared jeeps are also available from Siliguri to Kalimpong. Bidyang is 15 km from Kalimpong. Hired cars ply from Kalimpong to Bidyang village.



Accommodation

Doon Valley Nature Retreat. Tariff: Rs. 1500-2200. Tel: 9830107879, 9432964242.
Kunchudyangmoo Home Stay. Tariff: Rs. 3600 for two persons with food and stay. Tel: 9002212829, 9733323345

Places Near Kolkata

South Khayerbari Nature Park

South Khayerbari Nature Park is a tiger rescue centre situated 15 km from Jaldapara. The park has been developed with the objective of treatment and rehabilitation of leopards and tigers. The leopards and tigers have been kept in a natural environment in this park. Battery operated cars are used to conduct safari tours in this nature park. River Buri Torsa is flowing through the South Khayerbari Nature Park. Boating can be done in the waters of the river.

How to Reach

Train is available from Sealdah to Hasimara. Madarihat is 12 km from Hasimara station. South Khayerbari Nature Park is 15 km from Madarihat.


Accommodation

There are three cottages of the forest department on the bank of Buri Torsa river.
Tel: 9641796519. Kolkata booking: WBFDC, Tel: 033-22370060/61.

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Kuilapal

Kuilapal is an attractive weekend destination situated in Purulia district of West Bengal. Located at a distance of 18 km from Bundwan, the place is surrounded by forests of Sal, Teak and Mahua trees. There are a number of Santhal villages in and around Kuilapal. You can take a leisurely walk through the tribal villages in order to get a glimpse of their lifestyle.

How to Reach

Trains are available from Howrah to reach Jhargram. Buses are plying from Jhargram to Kuilapal.



Accommodation

WBFDC Forest Bungalow. Tariff - Rs. 500. Tel: 03252-222604.
For booking contact: DFO, Kangsabati Soil Conservation, Division-2, PO & District - Purulia.

Places Near Kolkata

Pathra

Pathra is an unexplored weekend destination situated in Paschim Midnapore district of West Bengal. The place hosts an attractive number of Terracotta temples. Located on the bank of River Kangsabati, Pathra is ideal for a one day tour or a bike outing. The exquisite Terracotta work on the walls of the temples is worth seeing. These temples were established by Baidyanath Ghoshal who was given the responsibility of collecting revenue in the Ratanchawk pargana by Nawab Alivardi Khan. The major temples in Pathra include the Navratna Temple, Dharma Mandir, Sitala Temple and Kalachand Dalan Temple. There are total 32 temples at Pathra. You can also see the Rasmancha and Durgamandap.

Pathra

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How to Reach

You can easily reach Midnapore from Howrah by Midnapore Local. Distance from Midnapore to Pathra is 10 km. Pathra is easily accessible by car or trekker from Midnapore via Hatikhola.


Accommodation

Since there is no option for accommodation at Pathra therefore you have to stay in the town of Midnapore.
WBTDC Rani Shiromani Tourist Lodge. Tariff - Rs. 800-1100. Tel: 03222-263125, 9732510074.
Reshma Lodge. Tariff - Rs. 500-1200. Tel: 03222-264432.
Medinipur Lodge. Tariff - Rs. 500-800. Tel: 03222-275241.

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Beloon

Beloon Eco Village is a small village situated on the banks of Shibai River in the district of Bardhhaman. In winter flocks of migratory birds visit the waters of River Shibai. You can take a nice stroll along the river bank watching the boats sailing on the river. If you want you may hire a boat yourself and sail in the waters of Shibai river. The best time to visit the place is during winter when a large number of birds including White Throated Kingfisher, Woolly Necked Stork, Ruddy Shelduck are seen in this village. There is a lake close to Beloon Eco Village. You can also do fishing in this lake. From Beloon, you can visit Kalyanpur Ghat where a number of dolphins are seen.

Beloon

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah and Sealdah to Katwa. It takes around three and a half hours to reach Katwa from Kolkata. Cars, buses and trains are available from Katwa to reach Shiblun Halt Station. Shiblun is 8 km from Katwa. Beloon Eco Village is just 1 km from Shiblun Halt. You can either walk or ride a bullock cart to get to Beloon village. Beloon is also accessible from Kolkata by car via Bardhaman-Katwa Road.



Accommodation

Belun Eco Village. Tariff - Rs. 2250 per person (including food, lodging and select activities). Tel: 7003109504.

Places Near Kolkata

Baruva

Baruva is a new and virgin beach resort situated in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. The Mahendra Tanaya river merges into the Bay of Bengal at this place. Baruva used to be a seaport during the British colonial rule but the harbor was closed in the year 1948. The main town of Baruva is located a little away from the sea beach. Apart from the sea coast, there are some ancient temples which are added attractions of this place. The most notable one is the Kotilingeswara Swami Temple. Other temples include Janardhana Swami Temple and Durga Temple. The newly constructed Andhra Pradesh Tourism's Haritha Beach Resort is the ideal place to enjoy the serenity of the sea.

How to Reach

There are two ways to reach Baruva. You can reach Brahmapur from Howrah by train. Baruva is 70 km from there. Trains are also running from Howrah to Palasa. Baruva is just 35 km from Palasa.



Accommodation

Haritha Beach Resort. Tariff - Rs. 1000-1700. Tel: 9491765003.

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