Ajodhya Hills

Ajodhya Hills can be visited throughout the year. The different seasons provide glimpses of different species, both flora and fauna.

October—February

This is the coolest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 8-25°C. Winter migrants congregate in large numbers during this period, making it an ideal time to visit for birding enthusiasts.

March—April

In spring, blooming Palash and Mahua provide mesmerising views all around. Palash blooms last till April. While temperatures range from 25-30°C throughout the day, the cool breeze in the evening provides some comfort.

May—June

During peak summer, temperatures soar over 40°C, with hot, dry winds during the daytime. However, occasional torrential rain provides some respite. Photography tends to be challenging as the haze emitted from hot rocks can cause blurry images.

Mid-June—September

Ajodhya Hills receives moderate rainfall during the monsoon when the humidity level rises to 80 per cent. Torrential rains and frequent cyclonic storms can affect travel plans adversely during this period. However, Ajodhya Hills look magical this time of the year, when the lakes are full, waterfalls are bursting and various hues of green veil the hills.

When the East India Company obtained the ‘Diwani’ of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa in 1765, a Jungle Mahals district was formed, consisting of 23 parganas and mahals, including the present-day Purulia. Subsequently, by Regulation XIII of 1833, a new district called Manbhum was constituted from the Jungle Mahals district. After independence, through the States Reorganisation Act in October 1956, the Manbhum district was partitioned between the states of Bihar (present-day Jharkhand) and West Bengal, and Purulia, including Ajodhya Hills, became a part of West Bengal.

From government youth hostels to luxury resorts, there are plenty of accommodation options at the foothills and the Ajodhya Hill Top.

Kushal Palli Resorts is a 4-star property at Kuchai Rekha Hill. A double occupancy room will cost you between ₹7,280 to ₹18,880.

Tulin Heritage Bungalow is a sprawling 2.5-acre property in the serene Tulin village, adjacent to the Subarnarekha river. A twin-sharing A/C room will cost you between ₹3,100 to ₹3,750.

Palash Badi at the foothills of Gajaburu is perfect for birders and rock climbers alike, with the accommodation just a short walk away from the forest and the camping site. A double occupancy cottage/tent will cost you between ₹4,000 to ₹4,500.

Malgudi Resort in the Matha Forest Range is a good option for those accessing Ajodhya Hills from the Barabhum railhead. A double occupancy room will cost you between ₹,2000 to ₹2,500.

The Ajodhya Pahar Youth Hostel is available for just ₹200 to ₹950 per person per day.

Other options at the Ajodhya Hill Top are Ajodhya Eco Nest and Ajodhya Hill Arcade.

• Go for a hike inside the Dhol Baru Valley in search of the Indian Eagle-Owl, which has been spotted roosting on the steep cleft at its foothills. Malkohas, barbets, babblers and prinias can also be found here.
• On the southern side of Dhol Baru, you will find Savanna Nightjars, larks and buntings. Catching the sunrise from the peak will be an added bonus.
• An evening stroll inside the Matha Forest around Malgudi Resort will reward you with sightings of the Indian Nightjar, Jerdon’s Nightjar and numerous owl species. There are chances of encounters with deer, wild hogs, porcupines, jackals and even leopards in the upper regions of the forest.
• There is plenty to see around Ajodhya Hills – Upper Dam, Lower Dam, Tarpania Lake (locally known as Marble Lake), Sita Kunda, Mathaburu Hill, Bamni Waterfalls, Tunga Dam, Khairabera Lake and Murguma Dam.
• If time permits, visit the Charida or Mukhos villages to witness firsthand how artists create the larger-than-life masks used in the traditional Chhau martial dance dramas. With stories based on Hindu mythology, the dance celebrates the triumph of good over evil.

• Be sure to try the delectable Aloo Posto, a simple yet delicious dish made by cooking potatoes in a lightly spiced poppy seed paste.
• The traditional Mahua liquor is a must-try for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The locally brewed liquor is made from the flowers of the Mahua tree and tastes incredibly sweet.
• Enjoy the traditional Chhau martial dance and rhythmic Santali dance, usually organised in high-end resorts in the evening.
• If possible, trek to a nearby peak and catch a sunrise/sunset, with breathtaking, panoramic views of the hills, lakes and villages.

• During winter, temperatures often dip below 10 to 11°C. Be sure to carry warm clothing such as jackets and sweaters. Additionally, carry woollen socks, fleece caps and mufflers for early morning and late night outdoor activities such as birding.
• During summer, it is imperative that you carry loose cotton clothes, a hat/cap, sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Carry a torch/headlamp and covered shoes for night outdoor activities.
• Monsoon showers in the Ajodhya Hills drastically reduce temperatures. Be sure to pack a rainproof jacket or a poncho and an umbrella.
• Pack medicines and other essentials.

• A telephoto lens of 500mm focal length or more is essential for bird photography since passerine birds are often small and well-camouflaged.
• Carry a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) to photograph the remarkable landscape of Ajodhya Hills.
• A tripod is of no use as you mostly have no choice but to go handheld.

• No permit is required and fees are not chargeable for visiting Ajodhya Hills. However, to go inside the Purulia Pumped Storage Project, prior permission is required from authorities.
• ATMs, food joints, pharmacies, convenience stores and medical facilities are available at Ajodhya Hill Top, Baghmundi and Begunkodar.
• All major mobile phone networks provide good network coverage and data connectivity in the region. Some areas have unreliable connectivity, particularly in the valleys and foothills.
• For easy logistics, tour operators and resorts offer standard/customised packages for 1 to 3 days from Kolkata, which include local transport, accommodation and food.