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Mon. Apr 13th, 2026
Trending News: RIDE TO MIGHTY GURUDONGMAR LAKERider of the Year 2026 | On: 20th December 2026 | Please save the date.
Mon. Apr 13th, 2026

A Family Trip to Purulia on 25th Dec 2025

By: RAJDIP MONDAL (25th Dec to 27th Dec. 2025)

We began this journey on 25th December 2025, although the planning truly started on 27th October 2025 with our hotel and travel reservations. This was my first family trip with my lovely wife and tech-savvy son under the banner of Vagabond Riders 2020.

Day 1: Departure and Arrival

On 25th December, we woke up at 4:00 AM, filled with energy and excitement. We started from Hridaypur at 6:30 AM on our trusted “golden chariot,” travelling via Dumdum, Dunlop and Dhulagarh.

  • Adhikary-da arranged a wonderful round of refreshments for us at Panchla, which set the tone for the rest of the day.
  • After refreshments, we moved towards Purulia via Jharkhand, enjoying music, fun activities and a joyful atmosphere inside the bus.

On the way, we completed breakfast, lunch and evening snacks, and then began our first sightseeing at Ghagra Forest and Waterfall in the Jhargram district.

We reached our hotel at around 7:00 PM, where the management handed over room keys to each family.

  • After freshening up, everyone gathered in the common area to share their travel experiences, stories and laughter late into the night.
  • Around 10:30 PM, we had dinner at the hotel and then started preparing for the next day’s sightseeing plan.

Day 2: Ajodhya Hills Exploration

Early next morning, we visited Turga Dam for a short trek with the entire group. Ajodhya Hills in Purulia are known for their scenic landscape and numerous natural springs, which enhance the charm of the region.​

  • After returning to the hotel and freshening up, we boarded the bus to explore the Ajodhya Hill top area, including the picturesque upper and lower dams.​
  • At the upper dam, a security guard requested that we not park our bus in the restricted area and warned he might call the police, so we respected his instructions and cooperated fully.

From the upper dam, one side offered a stunning view of a vast lake, while the other side was covered with dense forests and mountains. We enjoyed some snacks there and then proceeded towards our next destination, Marble Lake (Tarpania Lake).

Marble Lake and Mask Village

The surreal ambiance of Tarpania Lake, locally known as Marble Lake, left a lasting impression on all of us. Once an open-pit mine, it is now one of the most sought-after attractions in the Ajodhya Hills region.​

  • Surrounded by rocky landscapes and calm blue waters, the place offered a peaceful break in the midst of our adventurous schedule.​
  • After spending some quality time there, we continued our journey to Mask Village, also known as Mukhosh Gram.

Mask Village (Charida) is famous for its centuries-old tradition of crafting intricate Chhau dance masks.​

  • Almost a few hundred families in this village are involved in mask-making, and these masks are an integral part of the Purulia Chhau dance, a vibrant martial folk-art form.​
  • The colourful, handcrafted masks depicting gods, demons and mythological characters fascinated every member of our group.​

Evening Bonfire and New Experiences

After returning to the hotel, everyone began preparing for the bonfire party with music, dance and endless enthusiasm.

  • Under the open sky, with the bonfire glowing, I danced for the first time in my life with my wife, son, and everyone creating a truly memorable family moment.
  • We ended the night with a delicious dinner at the hotel and then went to bed, tired but happy.

Return Journey and Gratitude

The next morning, I tasted fresh Khejur Ras near Turga Dam and then returned to the hotel for checkout. We started our return journey at 11:00 AM via the Duarsini Forest.

  • At Duarsini, we witnessed a traditional cockfight and enjoyed some snacks before resuming our journey.
  • Our golden chariot then rolled back towards home, with everyone carrying countless memories in their hearts and minds, and we finally reached home at around 11:00 PM.

I am sincerely thankful to the core team members of Vagabond Riders 2020 for organising this wonderful family trip and giving such a beautiful opportunity to my wife and son. I am eagerly looking forward to our next trip together.

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