What are the Best Weekend Getaway in Purulia?

Weekend Getaway in Purulia

Frustrated with the mundane routine of weekdays and craving a break right now? You’re certainly not alone. Every person in Kolkata desires to escape to somewhere far for two days by simply packing their bags. But here’s a piece of good news for you – you need not wait for an extended holiday or even spend a lot of money. A weekend getaway in Purulia, like PatalGhar, is a solution. After all, this is close to Kolkata and makes the perfect destination for a weekend break on a budget. Let us take you through the top weekend getaways from Kolkata with this guide.

Why Purulia Deserves the Top Spot

The site that usually takes the backseat compared to Digha and Mandarmani is Purulia. But this is the reason why it succeeds because there are fewer tourists, a pollution-free environment, and green forests as far as the eye can see. A weekend destination in Purulia will provide you with red soil roads, hills, and tribes that are unavailable close to the beach. Most importantly, it is located 3 hours from Kolkata.

Patal Ghar: The Hobbit Village That Feels Like Magic

Imagine waking up from slumber to the sweet chirping of birds in a wooden round door set into the side of a hill, rather than to the noise of car horns. This is what PatalGhar is all about. Nestled in Sonkupi, Matha Forest, within the jurisdiction of Baghmundi Police Station, Purulia, this unique hobbit experience has gained fame as a must-do place in Purulia in recent times.

Why Patal Ghar?

Unlike any other weekend getaway in Purulia, Patal Ghar is built using eco-friendly materials that enable it to seamlessly fit in with the surroundings. Its cottages offer spacious interior design, true-to-the-hobbit-hole architecture, and amazing open areas where you can spend time soaking in the environment. It is, thus, an experience that combines nature with luxury – perfect for families, couples or solo travelers.

Your stay will typically include the following amenities:

Comfortable Hobbit Rooms and Hobbit Tents (both breakfast and dinner included)
24/7 guest assistance and security service
Facility of car rental for visiting local places as per choice
Bamboo chicken, barbecue chicken, and patpura available upon request

Things to Do at PatalGhar

Here comes the actual fun part of the journey. This place provides you with the authentic feel of tribal Purulia rather than providing you with accommodation.

Night walk in the forest – moonlight, rustling leaves and total silence
Chhau Dance and Tribal Dance Shows – beats and colors from the culture of the area
Dowri Nala Trekking – waterfalls and tough routes for the brave
Badlidhandhir Cave Exploration – exploration of caves and rocks

Thus, if you are looking for a weekend getaway in Purulia, which can provide you with everything from comfort to adventure. Then you should go for Patal Ghar without a second thought. Prices start at ₹1,500 per person per day, which I think is too little for what you get.

Ayodhya Hills: For the Trekkers and Sunset Chasers

The next destination for you is Ayodhya Hills after PatalGhar. This hill range has a cold climate, dense sal forests, and a few spots where you can take photos of the sunrise and sunset. For example, the Bamni Falls and Turga Falls in this area become rushing streams just after the rainy season.

Joychandi Pahar: A Break Full of History and Height

Joychandi Pahar lies close to Raghunathpur and is famous for its hilly terrain and an old temple situated on the top of it. The place has even been used for some Bengali movies, thus adding more charm to the place. The trekking time takes around 30-40 minutes, but it is worth the effort because of the scenic beauty that one gets to see from above, making for a successful weekend getaway in Purulia.

Garpanchakot: Ruins, Hills, and Quiet Mornings

This place comprises ruins of ancient forts along with the hills named Panchet and Panchkot. It is a serene place and good for people looking to spend time in a relaxed manner. Moreover, the sunrise at this place is one of the most amazing sights.

Planning Your Trip: A Few Practical Tips

Before hitting the road, bear in mind the following tips so that your small adventure becomes smooth sailing.

Ideal time of travel: October to March, as the weather will be fine and trekking paths will be dry
Duration of travel: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from Kolkata by car through NH19 and connecting routes
Items to carry: Comfortable footwear, light jacket at night, and a power bank (network could be unreliable in forests)
Bookings advice: Make a booking during weekends and holidays, as forest stays like Patal Ghar can get crowded

Why a Short Trip Makes a Big Difference

Most people believe that rest involves having a long holiday. This, however, is not completely correct. A two-day break, which is well utilized, can be equally refreshing for the mind. A weekend getaway in Purulia does not need additional holidays, expensive air travel, or planning. To reach places like PatalGhar, you only require a vehicle, some curiosity, and a willingness to begin on a Saturday.

FAQ

1. How far is Purulia from Kolkata, and how much time will the journey take?

The distance from Kolkata to Purulia is around 290-300 km, and the journey takes about 6 hours to reach there in a car.

2. Is it okay to visit Patal Ghar with my family with kids?

Yes, it is quite a family-friendly stay. There are big cottages available in the property, along with on-duty security and activities such as nature walks, which kids and adults both love.

3. Which is the best month for a weekend getaway in Purulia?

The months from October to March provide very good weather, with cooler mornings and sunny skies, making it an excellent season for trekking.

4. Can I make payments using digital means, or do I need to carry cash?

Mostly, the stays that have gained popularity accept both cash and online payments. It would be better to carry some cash as there may not be network connectivity in forest areas.

Patal Ghar ...A Hobbit village