The end of the year always brings a longing to unwind and reflect—a time to step away from the daily grind and reconnect with what truly matters. As the New Year approached, we felt the same urge to make the most of the annual vacation. We decided to hit the pause button and embark on a short yet fulfilling trip, somewhere close to home where we could escape the city’s chaos and immerse ourselves in nature.
That’s how we decided on Baranti, a quaint village nestled in the Purulia district of West Bengal. On the crisp winter mornings of December 29th and 30th last year, we set out for our getaway, ready to welcome the new year with a heart full of memories and a soul refreshed by nature.
The journey itself was a delight, as we drove through scenic countryside landscapes and charming rural settlements. The excitement of discovering new places with family made the trip all the more special. Little did we know that Baranti and its nearby attractions—Baranti Dam, Garhpanchkot, Joychondi Pahar, Biharinath Hill and Susunia Hills—would leave us with experiences that we’d cherish for a lifetime.
The Beginning of the Trip
There’s something magical about traveling with family—sharing laughs, soaking in scenic beauty, and creating memories that stay etched in your heart forever. That’s exactly what our trip included when it began with an early morning drive to the serene countryside. As we moved away from the bustling cityscape, the scenery gradually transformed. The winding roads led us past lush greenery, open fields, quaint villages, and occasional water bodies glimmering in the sunlight. It was a refreshing prelude to set the mood for the days ahead.
Where We Stayed
For this trip, we opted to stay at the Baranti Village Resort.
Places We Visited
Baranti Dam: A Picture-Perfect Scene
Our first stop was the scenic Baranti Dam, built to conserve water for irrigation and drinking purposes for nearby villages. Constructed over the Baranti Reservoir, the Ramchandrapur Dam (Baranti Dam) is not just a functional structure; it’s also a tranquil retreat. The calm waters surrounded by dense forests and hills create a picture-perfect scene, attracting nature lovers and photographers alike.
As we strolled along the dam, we learned about its significance in the local ecosystem. The reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture in this semi-arid region, ensuring a steady supply of water even during dry spells.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we found ourselves reflecting on how rare it is to find such undisturbed beauty in today’s fast-paced world.
Garhpanchkot: A Tryst with History
Next on our itinerary was Garhpanchkot, a site steeped in history and folklore. Garh Panchkot, which means “Fort of the Five Clans”, is now a ruined fort located at the foothills of Panchet Hill in the Purulia district of West Bengal. Once a thriving fort of the Panchkot Raj dynasty, this ancient structure now stands as a silent witness to time and destruction. Built during the 17th century, the fort was a symbol of prosperity until it was plundered and destroyed by the Bargis (Maratha raiders) in the 18th century.
Walking through the ruins, we admired the ornate temples, especially the Pancharatna Temple (Ras Mandir). The crumbling walls, overgrown with moss and vines, seemed to whisper tales of battles fought and lives lived. A local guide shared stories of the dynasty’s resilience and the fort’s eventual downfall, enriching our visit. It felt surreal to stand amidst the remnants of history, imagining how life must have been centuries ago.
One of the highlights of Garhpanchkot was the watchtower located near the ruins. Climbing to the top of the tower, we were rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding forests and rolling hills. It was a breathtaking sight that offered a bird’s-eye view of the area that the ancient rulers might have once surveyed.
Today, Garhpanchkot is not just a historic site but also a favorite spot for picnics and photography. The fusion of history and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination.
Joychondi Pahar: Where History Meets Cinema
Our next adventure took us to Joychondi Pahar (Joychondi Hill), a hill that holds a special place in the hearts of movie buffs. This location became famous after being featured in Satyajit Ray’s iconic film Hirak Rajar Deshe. As we climbed the hill, we could almost hear the echoes of Ray’s brilliant storytelling reverberating through the rocky terrain.
The trek to the top was moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding. The hill’s unique rock formations and lush surroundings provided ample opportunities for exploration. At the summit, the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape took our breath away. It was easy to see why this spot inspired cinematic masterpieces.
Here, we spent time reminiscing about Ray’s contributions to cinema, marveling at how Joychondi Pahar continues to be a muse for storytellers and adventurers alike.
Biharinath Hill: A Trekker’s Delight
Our journey wouldn’t have been complete without visiting Biharinath Hill, often referred to as the “Araku of Bengal.” Rising majestically as the highest hill in the region, Biharinath has a rich history intertwined with local legends and cinema.
In ancient times, Biharinath was a hub of Jainism, and the remnants of Jain temples around the area stand as evidence of its spiritual significance. Over the centuries, it became a refuge for ascetics and a popular pilgrimage spot. Today, Biharinath offers a harmonious blend of spirituality, adventure, and cinematic allure.
The drive up the hill was an experience in itself, with dense forests and occasional glimpses of wildlife along the way. At the foothill, the Biharinath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva serves as a major attraction. The temple is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a serene spot for both devotees and nature lovers. The hill’s scenic beauty has also drawn filmmakers, adding a layer of modern cultural significance. Bengali cinema often uses Biharinath’s picturesque backdrop to capture the essence of rural Bengal.
Susunia Hills: Where Nature Meets History
Another highlight of our trip was Susunia Hills, a destination that combines natural beauty with historical intrigue. Known for its ancient inscriptions and rich flora, Susunia is a paradise for trekkers and history buffs alike.
The hill is famous for its rock inscriptions dating back to the 4th century CE, believed to have been commissioned by King Chandravarman of the Gupta dynasty. These inscriptions are a testament to the region’s historical significance and draw archaeologists and enthusiasts from far and wide.
There are small but vibrant shops at the foothills of Susunia Hill. The local market was a treasure trove of handcrafted items, trinkets, sondesh-stencils and traditional snacks. The villagers proudly displayed their wares—brightly colored shawls, handmade jewelry, and local produce like fresh honey and spices. We couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs to remember our trip. We had food at one of the local restaurants and headed our way back home.
More Details
- Nearest Railway Station: Muradi railway station
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Known For: Flowers. February and March are when Palash flowers bloom, and early October is when Kash phool blooms
