Purulia. The name conjures images of vibrant Chhau dancers, the stark beauty of the Ajodhya Hills, and the tranquility of Murguma Lake. Yet, for those who seek to go beyond the postcard-perfect scenes, a hidden Purulia awaits-a land of secluded waterfalls, ancient temples, and tranquil dams. As a basecamp for these offbeat adventures, Bon Polashi Eco Hut & Camp offers a curated experience that connects you not just with nature, but with the very soul of this rugged land.
1. Machkanda Waterfalls: A Secret in the Sal Forest [Trekking Route]
Distance from Bon Polashi: ~20 km
Best Time to Visit: July to October (Post-monsoon)
While Ajodhya is known for its famous falls, Machkanda remains a whispered secret among locals. The journey to this hidden cascade is as rewarding as the destination itself. The trail begins near the Khairabera Dam and winds its way through dense sal forests and over ancient rock formations. The only sounds you’ll hear are the rustling leaves and the distant murmur of the water.
Machkanda isn’t a roaring torrent; it’s a series of gentle, tiered falls that create serene pools, perfect for a refreshing dip or a quiet picnic. The raw, untouched beauty of this place is its biggest draw, offering a true sense of off-grid immersion.
Why Go:
- True Seclusion: Experience nature in its most pristine form, with no crowds or commercialization.
- Nature Photography: Capture the light filtering through the canopy and the clear, blue-green water of the pools.
- Guided Treks: Bon Polashi’s local tribal guides lead you through the forest, sharing fascinating tales of the land.
2. Marubhasa & Layek Dams: The Twin Lakes of Serenity [Trekking Route]
Distance from Bon Polashi: ~15-25 km
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but most beautiful during winter and post-monsoon.
Beyond the popular Murguma Dam, lies a cluster of smaller, more intimate reservoirs that offer breathtaking views and absolute tranquility. Marubhasa and Layek Dams, nestled among rolling hills, are a haven for migratory birds and a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon.
The calm, clear water reflects the surrounding red soil and lush greenery, creating a painter’s canvas. There are no boating facilities or vendors here, just the silence of the hills and the gentle breeze. It’s the ideal place to sit, meditate, or simply watch the sun set over the water, leaving streaks of gold and crimson across the sky.
Why Go:
- Birdwatching Paradise: Spot a variety of local and migratory birds, especially during the winter months.
- Digital Detox: These spots offer a complete break from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
- Picnic Perfection: Pack a meal from Bon Polashi’s organic kitchen and enjoy it by the serene lakeside.
3. Kuki Dam: The Oasis of Jhalda Circuit
Distance from Bon Polashi: ~18 km
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Located on the outskirts of the Ajodhya Hills, Kuki Dam is a lesser-known but equally captivating destination. Part of the larger Jhalda circuit, this dam is an engineering marvel that has created a tranquil waterbody amidst the rugged landscape. The drive to Kuki Dam is scenic, with narrow roads winding through quaint villages and vibrant farmlands.
The dam offers stunning panoramic views of the hills and is a favourite spot for local photographers. The serene atmosphere makes it an excellent place for a morning walk or an evening stroll, where you can watch the sky change colours as the day fades.
Why Go:
- Photographer’s Delight: The combination of water, hills, and sky provides endless opportunities for stunning landscape shots.
- Rural Immersion: The journey takes you through authentic tribal hamlets, allowing a glimpse into local life.
- A Sense of Discovery: Kuki Dam is not on every tourist map, making your visit feel like a personal discovery.
4. Pitidih Waterfalls: Where the Rocks Roar
Distance from Bon Polashi: ~32 km
Best Time to Visit: August to December
If Machkanda is a whisper, Pitidih is a roar. This massive, multi-layered waterfall defies the typical image of Purulia’s serene landscapes. Here, the water thunders down over dramatic, fossil-rich rock formations, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The sound of the rushing water is deafening, and the atmosphere is electric.
Pitidih is a paradise for geotourism enthusiasts, with its unique cliffs and stone beds that tell a story of millennia. The raw energy of the falls is palpable and provides a humbling reminder of nature’s power. It’s a place where you can feel the earth move under your feet and the mist of the falls on your skin.
Why Go:
- Dramatic Scenery: Witness a geological masterpiece carved by centuries of water flow.
- Natural Meditation: Find a quiet spot on the rocks and absorb the powerful energy of the roaring water.
- Adventure Awaits: For the brave, Bon Polashi guides can take you on a short trek to explore the hidden caves and cliffs around the falls.
5. Telkupi: The Forgotten Temple Town
Distance from Bon Polashi: ~28 km
Best Time to Visit: November to March (Dry season when water recedes)
The story of Telkupi is a beautiful tragedy. Once a prosperous town with over 30 temples, it was submerged under the waters of the Panchet Dam in the 1950s. Today, during the dry months, the water levels recede, and the “lost city” of Telkupi slowly begins to re-emerge from the depths.
What remains are the eerily silent, half-drowned stone shikharas and intricately carved idols of ancient Jain temples. Believed to be from the 9th to 11th centuries, these ruins offer a surreal and rare archaeological experience. The sight of these ancient structures, rising from the water like ghosts of the past, is both haunting and deeply moving.
Why Go:
- A Glimpse into History: Explore a hidden piece of Bengal’s rich archaeological past.
- Photographer’s Dream: The half-submerged temples create a truly unique and surreal backdrop for your shots.
- Local Folklore: Bon Polashi can arrange a guided tour with local storytellers who will bring the history of Telkupi to life.
Why Bon Polashi is Your Ultimate Basecamp
Strategically located in the heart of Murguma, Bon Polashi Eco Hut & Camp is more than a place to stay-it’s your gateway to authentic, offbeat Purulia.
- Local Experts: Our guides are from the tribal communities themselves, ensuring a safe and truly authentic experience.
- Customizable Tours: We craft itineraries that cater to your interests, whether you’re a trekker, a history buff, or a birdwatcher.
- Sustainable Living: Stay in eco-huts and bamboo cottages, savour organic food, and reconnect with nature in its purest form.
Sample Itinerary for a 3-Day Offbeat Tour
Day 1: Arrival + Cultural Immersion
- Check-in at Bon Polashi
- Evening walk to Guraberra tribal village
- Chhau dance performance & bonfire [on Request]
Day 2: Waterfall Day
- Early morning trek to Machkanda Waterfalls, Pitidiri Waterfalls, Marubhasa & Kuki Dam [Trekking Route], Kuki Dam, Layek Dam [if time permits],
- Return via sunset at Ukkambura Viewpoint
Day 3: Telkupi Temple Tour
- After Breakfast start for Explore submerged temple ruins
- Departure
Final Words: Don’t Just Travel. Discover.
Offbeat Purulia isn’t for checklist travellers. It’s for those who seek meaning behind moss-covered rocks, who feel stories in the rustle of sal leaves, who want to travel not to escape life, but to remember how to live it.
Come, be that traveller.
Bon Polashi Eco Hut & Camp is ready when you are.