Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Feb 16: The Ajodhya Hills in Purulia district of West Bengal, bordering Jharkhand, hold immense religious and historical significance. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shri Ram and Mata Sita visited these hills during their exile and stayed for two days. Legend has it that when Mata Sita felt thirsty, Lord Ram shot an arrow into the ground, bringing forth a stream of water. This spot, now known as Sita Kund, remains a revered pilgrimage site for locals and tourists.
Ajodhya Hills are also home to the stunning Jagran Waterfall, a major attraction in Purulia. Devotees and visitors believe the hills preserve footprints of Lord Ram and Mata Sita, along with strands of Sita’s hair embedded in a Sal tree. The region’s deep cultural roots attract hundreds of foreign tourists, especially from France, Italy, Germany and Russia, who visit to purchase the famous Chhau masks and costumes, an integral part of local artistic heritage.
Historically, Ajodhya Hills were part of Bengal Province during the Mughal era and later fell under Manbhum district during British rule. After India’s independence, the region was initially included in Bihar but was later integrated into West Bengal following state reorganization in the 1950s.
Today, Ajodhya Hills are undergoing rapid development as an eco-tourism destination. The lush green landscape, adorned with Shaal, Piyal, Palash, Mahua and Kusum trees, attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The winter season, from December to March, sees a surge in visitors from West Bengal, eager to experience the scenic beauty, historical charm and spiritual essence of this timeless land.
