7 Amazing Sites in Jhargram That You Will Love (2024)

About Jhargram:

Located in the newly formed district of West Bengal by the same name, Jhargram is a fairly popular city in West Bengal. This town is famous for being the headquarter of the Jhargram district and for being one of the most historically important cities in ancient India. In the historically famous book, Ain-i-Akbari, Jhargram has been mentioned. Even though in the said book, this area was mentioned as Junglekhand, but historians believe the site to be in recent day Jhargram. Moreover, Ain-i-Akbari mentioned the tribal people like Bhumij, Santhal, Munda, and others. These tribal groups still make up a massive part of the Jhargram district.

History of Jhargram:

You will be surprised to know that the entire area surrounding Jhargram earlier known as Junglekhand was gifted to Sarveshwar Singh by Raja Man Singh as a way of thanking him for fighting off the Mal rulers on behalf of the Mughal ruler Akbar. It is Sarveshwar Singh who created the foremost fortress in Jhargram. Sadly, no trace of the said castle can be found in modern Jhargram. The ruler later found the kingdom of Jhargram. Later Jhargram became famous in Indian history when Raja Man Govind Malla Dev fought against the British by joining the clan of Nawab of Bengal and Raja of Bishnupur from 1741 to 1751. After that event, Jhargram became the center for several events that are important to the Indian National Movement. If you visit there, you will be able to see the reminiscence of the different historical events in the town quite vividly.

There are so many sightseeing spots located in Jhargram town, that will help you understand the true glory of Jhargram. Apart from the historical aspects, Jhargram is quite well-known for its natural beauty as well. As most of this town is surrounded by the lush greenery of the thick forests, the scenic view of the region is quite overwhelming. Most of the trees contributing to the forest cover area of Jhargram is Saal and Mohua. Moreover, the red soil of the entire area makes the entire scene even more satisfying. From different parts of the town, you will get to see mountain ranges. You might not have heard about these hilly terrains but the view offered by them is quite spectacular. Some of the mountain ranges that can be seen from Jhargram include Kankrajhore and Belpahari.

There are several religious sites in the Jhargram town that attracts a lot of Hindu pilgrims from different parts of India. Some of the temples located over there are quite popular and architecturally beautiful. So, you can understand that Jhargram has a lot to offer. There are so many sites located over there that you will be confused without any proper guidance. If you are planning on visiting Jhargram, but do not know where to start, then read this blog. Here, you will find the best places to see in Jhargram in depth.

Best Time to Visit Jhargram

Even though exploring the beauty of Jhargram is best done during the winter months, we must tell you that some festivals occur over there in other seasons as well. For example, the famous spring festival of Baha is celebrated in Jhargram from April to May. Or, the harvest festival, Bandhu is celebrated in the district between August and September. Although the said months can get pretty uncomfortable in Jhargram, missing the festivals can make you regret your decision. In case you are not willing to take the risk of spending your vacation in tremendous heat, then do not worry, as there are some major festivals and fairs that happen in Jhargram during the autumn and winter. For example, festivals like Tusu, Durga Puja, Badna, and others, all happen between October to March. Reaching Jhargram is pretty easy as this town is located only 180 km from Kolkata. Usually, people go there by availing an airplane to Kolkata airport. From there they rent a car and reach Jhargram within four hours. Or else, they get on a train to Jhargram railway station and go there directly. So, let us start learning about the interesting and beautiful places located in and near Jhargram for a great getaway.

7 Amazing Sites in Jhargram That You Will Love

The following sites mentioned in this blog are all famous in Jhargram. They are all worth checking out. We would suggest you keep three to four days in your hand to genuinely explore the sites located over there.

1. Jhargram Palace

One of the major sightseeing spots in Jhargram is the Jhargram Rajbari or Jhargram Palace. The main reason why this site is so popular nowadays is that it has been now converted into a successful hotel. As this site is located at a ten-minute walking distance from the heart of the city, you will have no problem in finding it out. Right now, tourists can access ten rooms of this property. Also, there are three dormitories located over there that you can stay in if you are under a budget.
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The architecture of this palace will genuinely stun you. It was designed by taking influence from Italian architecture. This palace was commissioned in 1931 by the then king of Jhargram, Raja Narasingha Malla Deb. Spread over an area of 30 acres, this palace is one of the biggest heritage tourism sites in India. Even though finding a room in this gorgeous palace in Jhargram can be tough, but it will be a great experience for you if you get to spend a few days over there.

Location: Old Jhargram, Medinipur, West Bengal 721507.

The distance between Jhargram to Jhargram Palace is- 4 km.

2. Chilkigarh Rajbari

Located at half an hour-drive from Jhargram, Chilkigarh Palace is another important historical site that you will love while exploring the town. Constructed by the Dhalbhum kings of the region, this palace is mostly famous for the number of temples located on its premises. There are deities erected in the surrounding area of the Rajbari that is over 300-year-old. The architecture of the palace was designed to keep the residents of the palace safe from the Borgis. Borgis were the dacoits that used to terrorize the entire region many centuries ago.

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As the palace is located pretty close to the Dulung river, the geographical location of the site is quite wonderful. Another important reason why this palace is so historically important is that the then King of the palace fought against the British. The temples located inside the premises of the property are quite important. Even now, buffaloes and goats are sacrificed during different festivals to satisfies the deities.

Location: Chilkigarh Rd, Chilkigarh, West Bengal 721505.

The distance between Jhargram to Chilkigarh Rajbari is- 12 km.

3. Jungle Mahal Zoological Park

Earlier known as the Jhargram Deer park, Jungle Mahal Zoological park is located right beside Jhargram’s city center. With 147 mammals, 147 reptiles, and 65 birds, this zoo is one of the most important zoological parks in India. When you will visit there, you will witness a large number of deer. These breathtakingly beautiful creatures make the entire set of this park even more beautiful. Apart from deer, you will get to see monkeys, bears, and black rabbits. Usually, people who have kids love to visit this site.

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Locally, this site is also known as Jhargram mini zoo. The animals living over there do not live in cages. Rather, they spend their time in the artificial forests created by the Government of West Bengal for their preservations. The authorities have taken steps to breed animals of endangered species. As the area of the entire region is over 21 hectares, people love spending some time over there. If you want, you can have a lovely picnic with your loved ones in the Jhargram mini zoo.

Location: Jhargram, West Bengal 721507.

The distance between Jhargram to Jungle Mahal Zoological Park is- 2 km.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm (This park is closed on Thursday).

4. Kankrajhore Forest

Located at a three-hour drive from Jhargram, Kankrajhore forest is the best place to visit over there. If you want to spend some hours amid vast natural beauty, tranquility, and lush greenery, then the Kankajhore forest is the best option for you. As this site is located only 8 km from the Gadrasini hill, the view surrounding the forest is quite breathtakingly beautiful. Many adventure enthusiasts prefer trekking for exploring the woods. Spread over an area of 9000 hectares, the vastness of Kankrajhore forest will genuinely enthrall you.

Most of the trees comprising the forest are mahua, teak, akashmani, Kusum, and others. The tribal population collects the hardwood from the trees of this region. One of the most interesting things to do while exploring this part of Jhargram is spending some time with the area’s tribal people. You will get to know a lot about the culture and community of the tribal people over there. Many people spend participating in local activities in the area.

Location: West Midnapore.

The distance between Jhargram to Kankrajhore Forest is- 64 km.

5. Kendua

Kendua is one of the most famous bird-watching sites in India. Located only at half-an-hour-drive from the heart of Jhargram, this place is the best place to witness a major variety of gorgeous birds in the region. Some of the most commonly seen birds in Kedua include Intermediate Egret, Little Egret, Great Egret, Rufous Treepie, Cattle Egret, Black-Hooded Oriole, and others. If you visit there in May, you might be lucky enough to see most of the migratory birds staying over there.

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One of the most interesting things about these birds is most of the migratory ones visit Kendua in May and hatch their eggs and fly away in November. By walking through the entire Kendua village, you will get to see a lot more different categories of rare birds that you have ever seen in your whole life. Moreover, the entire atmosphere over there is so peaceful that your mind will instantly be rejuvenated after visiting there.

Location: Kendua Village, Jhargram.

The distance between Jhargram to Kendua is- 9 km.

6. Khandarani Lake

Located pretty close to Belpahari, Khandarani lake is one of the most beautiful sites located near Jhargram. You will reach this lake within two and a half hours from the city of Jhargram. When you will reach this site, you will be pleasantly surprised as the scenic view of the entire surrounding is mesmerizingly beautiful. As lush green forests and mountain ranges surround this lake, the entire scenery looks picturesque. Originally this part of the dam and that is why it is human-made. Although, you will not be able to understand this when you will see it for the first time.

Apart from its gorgeous expanse, this lake is mostly popular for the number of gorgeous species of birds that gather there. Some of the birds that can be seen in this lake are Bronze Wing Jacana, Little Green Bee Eater, Indian Roller Bird, Pheasant Tailed Jacana, and others. Many bird lovers visit this site annually to witness these breathtakingly beautiful avian species. Moreover, the surrounding lush green forest is home to different varieties of floras. If you visit there, do not forget to bring your camera with you. You will not stop yourself from clicking a large number of the picturesque region.

Location: Amlasol, West Bengal 721501.

The distance between Jhargram to Khandarani Lake is- 49 km.

7. Jhilli Lake

Jhilli Lake is yet another location in Jhargram that is extremely famous for the number of birds that gather around there. As this site is located only a few kilometers away from the heart of the city, witnessing different species of birds is even easier in the lake. We would suggest that you visit this site during dusk or dawn to catch the moment during sunrise or sunset.

Many people explore this lake by participating in paddle boating with their loved ones. Paddling around the crystal clear water of this fantastic lake is an extremely romantic way to spend a day of your life. Jhilli Pakhiralay is also located right beside the said lake. In the sanctuary, you will get to see a large number of exotic birds including Common Kingfisher, Black-shouldered Kite, Eurasian Moorhen, Gray-Headed Lapwing, Asian Pied Starling, and others.

Location: Hati – Gopi Road, Nekra Gudri, West Bengal 721506.

The distance between Jhargram to Jhilli Lake is- 10 km.

As you can understand by reading this blog that Jhargram is a unique location that has different touristic attractions. From natural beauty to historical sites, from deep forests to gorgeous mountains, the nature of Jhargram is too hard to explain in one blog. We hope, by reading this blog, you get excited enough to start planning for a trip to Jhargram. If you do that, this blog will be your guide.