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Garpanchkot, located near the scenic Panchet Dam in the Purulia district of West Bengal, is a destination where history and nature blend seamlessly. Locally known as Panchet, this region once flourished as the seat of the Panchkot Raj, believed to have been established around 90 AD by Damodar Sekhar as part of the Tilakampa Kingdom, with Telkupi as its capital. The Garh of Garpanchkot later came under the Singh Deo dynasty, whose legacy still echoes through the ruins scattered across the land.
The fort and temples of Garpanchkot have witnessed centuries of glory and tragedy. The area was ravaged during an attack by the Borgis—marauders from Maharashtra—who plundered the palace, destroyed the fort, and left the kingdom in ruins. Legend has it that, during the assault, the king’s seventeen wives embraced death by leaping into a well near the temple rather than fall into enemy hands. Today, the ruins of the Pancharatna Temple stand as a silent witness to that turbulent past, while the restored structures now attract history enthusiasts and spiritual travelers alike.
Beyond its historical significance, Garpanchkot is a haven of natural beauty. Surrounded by lush green hills, serene lakes, and dense forests, it offers visitors a perfect escape from city life. The peaceful landscape, complemented by panoramic views of Panchet Dam and the rolling Purulia hills, makes Garpanchkot a favorite destination for those seeking both heritage exploration and nature’s tranquility.
By Train: Ramkanali Junction and Muradi Railway Station are the nearest railheads to Garpanchkot, both around 5 km away. Other nearby stations include Kumardubi, Mugma, Barakar, Asansol, and Adra. Local vehicles are easily available from these stations to reach Garpanchkot. From Howrah Station, you can take trains like Black Diamond Express, Shaktipunj Express, Coalfield Express, Doon Express, or Mumbai Mail for convenient travel.
By Road: Regular Volvo and luxury buses are available from Esplanade, Kolkata to Asansol. From Asansol, you can easily hire local vehicles to reach Garpanchkot. Many hotels and resorts in the area also arrange pickup and drop facilities for added convenience.
By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata), about 257 km away. From the airport, you can pre-book a cab to Garpanchkot, or alternatively, travel by train from Howrah to Asansol or take a bus from Esplanade to Asansol before proceeding onward.
1) Pancharatna Temple Ruins – The ancient terracotta temple ruins that stand as a reminder of the rich history of the region.
2) Garh Panchkot Fort – A historic fort nestled amidst the hills, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts.
3) Joychandi Pahar – A scenic hill and a popular trekking destination, also known for its connection with Bengali cinema.
4) Baranti Lake – A serene waterbody surrounded by hills, ideal for picnics, photography, and sunset views.
5) Murguma Dam – A peaceful spot surrounded by forested hills, offering boating and nature trails.
6) Kalyaneshwari Temple – A famous Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Kalyaneshwari, located near Maithon Dam.
7) Maithon Dam – A large reservoir known for its boating options and stunning panoramic views.
8) Ajodhya Hills & Forest Reserve – Located nearby, this destination is rich in tribal culture, waterfalls, and scenic trekking routes.
9) Susunia Hill – Famous for its rock climbing trails, natural spring, and ancient stone inscriptions.
