Bankura Travel Blog: Explore Hill, Forest and Much more
In this blog we cover Bankura travel blog which cover forest, hill, culture and complete guide to travel Banruka district and enjoy you staycation
Koushik Sarkar
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Are you craving a break from the chaos of city life? Want to soak in a blend of history, hills, forest and natural lakes without venturing too far? Look no further than Bankura – a cultural & scenic beauty nestled in southern West Bengal.
Often referred to as the gateway to western Bengal, Bankura is famed for its terracotta temples, forest, lakes and tribal culture. Whether you're a solo traveler, a adventure lover, or someone looking for a peaceful family weekend trip – Bankura offers something very special.
Let’s dive into a complete travel guide to help you plan your perfect Bankura trip.
How to Reach Bankura from Kolkata
Bankura is well-connected tourist destination and accessible from Kolkata via multiple transport options:
By Train:
Trains are the most convenient way to travel to Bankura.
- Rupasi Bangla Express (12884): takes around 5 hours 50 minutes
- Aranyak Express (12885): takes arund 4 hours 30 minutes
- Purulia Express (12827): takes arund 5 hours 30 minutes
Cost: ₹145 (Sleeper Class), ₹350–₹450 (AC)
Booking website: IRCTC & Confirmtkt
By Bus:
State-run (SBSTC) or private buses operate frequently between Kolkata and Bankura. Buses leave from Esplanade/Karunamoyee.
Travel Time: 4.5 – 6 hours
Ticket Cost: ₹100 – ₹300 (non-AC), ₹500 (AC)
Booking websit: Redbus
By Car:
If you're up for a road trip, take NH16. The roads are mostly smooth & the journey is scenic with paddy fields, highways, rivers, and small towns along the way.
Distance: 160-170 km
Travel Time: 5 – 6 hours
Toll & Fuel Cost: ₹700 – ₹900 one way
Where to Stay in Bankura
Recommended Hotels:
- Hotel Saptaparna (Mid-Range) – Centrally located, great for families.
- Hotel Amrapali (Budget) – Clean, basic amenities, near station.
- Green Palace Guest House – Garden views, ideal for quiet stays.
- Mayaban Resort (Nature Stay) – Surrounded by greenery, perfect for peace-seekers.
- WBFDC Joypur Forest Resort – Inside a forest zone, book via wbfdc.net.
Price Range: ₹900 – ₹2,000 per night
Booking
Tip: Always book in advance on weekends or festive seasons.
Top Places to Visit in Bankura
Bankura is a mix of natural wonders, ancient temples, tribal heritage. Here are must-visit spots:
1. Bishnupur – The Terracotta Town Located 35 km from Bankura, Bishnupur is home to 17th-century terracotta temples, built by Malla kings.
Must-sees include:
- Rasmancha
- Jorbangla Temple
- Madanmohan Temple
- Baluchari Saree Handloom Villages
Entry Fees: ₹10 – ₹20 per temple
Time Needed: 4 – 5 hours
Don’t Miss: Terracotta souvenirs or saree shopping!
2. Mukutmanipur
About 55 km from Bankura, it is houses India’s second-largest earthen dam across the Kangsabati River.
Activities:
- Boating in Kangsabati Lake
- Musafirana Viewpoint
- Forest walk near deer park
Visit our full tour guide on Mukutmanipur link: https://thejourneyjunction.net/Mukutmanipur-Diaries:-A-complete-tour-guide-for-travel
3. Susunia Hill
A paradise for adventure lover or trekkers. The hill is known for:
- Ancient rock inscriptions
- Rare medicinal plants
- Crystal-clear natural spring
Trek Level: Beginner–Moderate
Best Time: Morning (Oct-Feb)
Entry: Free
4. Biharinath Hill
Bankura's tallest hill, ideal for a day trek or a bike ride. Visit:
- Biharinath Temple
- Dense forest trail
Tip: Carry your own snacks and water.
5. Joyrambati & Kamarpukur
Birthplaces of Sri Ramakrishna and Ma Sarada Devi, these spiritual towns attract pilgrims from across India.
- Sri Ramakrishna Math
- Holy pond & birthplace
- Simple village life
Distance: 50–60 km from Bankura
Time Needed: Half day
Complete travel guide Jayrambati & Kamarpukur: https://thejourneyjunction.net/Spiritual-Exploring:-Kamarpukur-&-Jayrambati-tour-from-Kolkata
6. Jhilimili Forest
A lush green jungle called the ‘Baro Mile-er Jungle’, connecting Bankura to Purulia. You’ll pass tribal hamlets and beautiful red earth roads.
Ideal for: Nature drives, birdwatching
Best Time: Monsoon & winter
Food to Try in Bankura
Bankura offers authentic Bengali cuisine – spicy, sweet and more. Must-try items:
- Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa in mustard sauce)
- Begun Bhaja (Fried eggplant)
- Alu Posto (Potato with poppy seeds)
- Macher Jhol (Bengali fish curry)
- Mishti Doi & Rasgulla
Many local eateries serve veg thalis for ₹150–200 and non-veg meals for ₹250–350.
Sample Budget (2 Days, Per Person)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
| Travel (Train/Bus) | ₹300 – ₹600 |
| Stay (1 Night) |
₹1,000 – ₹2,000
|
| Food | ₹500 – ₹700 |
| Local Travel | ₹300 – ₹600 |
| Sightseeing | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| Total | ₹2,500 – ₹4,500 |
Tip: Traveling in a group of 4–5 helps reduce transport & stay costs.
2-Day Bankura Itinerary
Day 1: Cultural Heritage & Temple Trails
- Depart Kolkata by train/bus and arrive Bankura, check-in at hotel.
- Head to Bishnupur (35 km, 1 hour drive). Explore the terracotta temples: Rasmancha, Madanmohan.
- Lunch at local restaurant – try Bengali thali and sweets. Visit Baluchari saree weaving village, shop souvenirs.
- Return to Bankura. Relax at hotel or stroll local market.
Day 2: Nature & Spiritual Exploration
- Breakfast at hotel.Visit Mukutmanipur Dam. Boat ride,Musafirana viewpoint.
- Lunch picnic or at local dhaba near Mukutmanipur.Drive back towards Bankura; visit Susunia Hill for a short trek.
- Explore Joyrambati & Kamarpukur if time permits (optional).
- Head back to Bankura.Dinner and pack up.Board train/bus back to Kolkata.
FAQs
Q1: What is the best time to visit Bankura?
October to March is ideal for visit due to pleasant weather.
Q2: Is Bankura safe for solo travelers?
Yes, generally safe with friendly locals.
Q3: Are local guides available?
Yes, especially at Bishnupur temples.
Q4: How can I get around locally?
Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws,taxis are available.
Q5: Can I combine Bankura with Mukutmanipur and Bishnupur?
Absolutely! They’re easily done over 2–3 days.
Bankura offers a perfect blend of history,nature, and culture – all within easy reach from Kolkata. From the terracottas of Bishnupur to the lake waters of Mukutmanipur, the hills of Susunia, and the holy places Joyrambati, Kamarpukur.
Pack your bags & get ready for a mesmerising journey into the heart of Bengal’s beauty!
