In recent years, the Bankura district in West Bengal has become a popular tourist destination not just with tourists within the state, but also for those from across the country. This should be no surprise, considering the abundant natural beauty of the region and its central position in Bengali art and architecture.
Part of the Eastern Chotanagpur Plateau, Bankura has it all—dense vegetation, rolling hills, babbling brooks, gently flowing streams, terracotta temples, artworks and a thriving indigenous culture. The sight of the temples, built using the region’s red soil is so characteristic of the region and yet in complete contrast to the bright green hills. The azure blue water bodies only add to the rich colorful hues, with the shades of red, green and blue making for great photo ops and picturesque postcards. No photograph can do the place justice however, and you just have to visit Bankura to experience it for yourself.
Bishnupur is perhaps the most famous area of Bankura, and rightfully so. The artistic headquarters of the region, Bishnupur still preserves traces of the erstwhile Malla dynasty. The terracotta temples here, made from the rich red soil, proudly showcase ancient architecture against beautiful backdrops. Bishnupur also contributes significantly to the native Bengali music, as the Bishnupur Gharana of Hindustani Classical music originated here. Walking about this town, between temples and shrines, strains of music will fill your ears, giving you the true Bishnupur experience.
Just a couple of hours from the main Bankura town center is Mukutmonipur, located at the confluence of Rivers Kangsabati and Kumari. There is a huge dam constructed over the lovely blue waters, surrounded by densely forested hills, thus making it a perfect tourist attraction and a beloved picnic spot for locals.
Adventure lovers also have reason to celebrate in Bankura. Jhilimili offers many trekking trails that will delight trekkers with its splendid natural surroundings. Susunia is another destination that is perfect for trekking to, and it boasts an abundance of natural springs.
Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are the most popular modes of transport within Bankura. They are extremely affordable, but make sure to fix your fare before getting in. You can also use public buses that will take you to Bishnupur and Mukutmonipur. The best way to explore the region however, would be by hiring a private car or taxi.
On a daily basis there are approximately 327 flights that operate at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.IndiGo, SpiceJet and Air India are the most popular airline brands that fly frequently to this airport.
Besides flying you can also reach Bankura through train.Bankurais one of the most popular train stations in Bankura.On an average about 50 trains pass through Bankura on a daily basis.Adra to Bankura, Midnapur to Bankura, Bishnupur to Bankuraare some of the most popular routes to Bankura with 40, 38, 29 trains weekly respectively.
By road Bankura is surrounded by Ondal, Raniganj, Asansol which are 25.16 km, 27.48 km, 32.07 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.