To the west of the State, lies the district of Purulia, a land characterised by woods and hills, a typically dry climate and a crimson soil, and the world-famous Chhau masked dance. The most important centre in this region, from the point of view of tourist attraction is the sprawling Ajodhya Hill.

How to go

From Calcutta to Purulia by rail or road. From Purulia to Sirkabad by bus. Ajodhya Hill is a 12 km trek from Sirkabad. Or, from Howrah to Barabhum by train and from there again by bus to Baghmundi. Ajodhya Hill is 13 km from Baghmundi on foot. Landscape here is varied and the climate bracing. Innumerable ridges, waterfalls and a dense forest cover are characteristic of Ajodhya Hill. Bamni and Tunga are two of the cascading waterfalls. The most important festival of the region is Shikar Utsav, held on the occasion of Buddha Pumima (May).

Around Purulia are Chelliama village, known for its terracotta Radha Benode emple and Balarampur, noted for lac toys and jewellery. At Chorida ( 90 km ), craftsmen fashion masks for Chhau dance. 40 km from Purulia is Jhalda, another hilly retreat.