Exploring Nature: Off-Road Adventures and Family Getaways
Recently, BHPian Samba shared his experiences of two memorable trips—one off-road adventure in a Maruti Jimny and another family vacation in a Toyota Etios.
Overview of the Trips
The first trip was an exhilarating off-road experience in a Maruti Jimny, while the second was a family trip in a Toyota Etios. Both offered unique opportunities to connect with nature, with beautiful surroundings and diverse landscapes.
Where to Stay
During the off-road trip, Samba and his companions chose to stay at the Palash Dungri Resort in Sonkupi. While the rooms were quite basic, the views and the food available were particularly commendable. Additionally, the resort provided ample parking, making it convenient for travelers.
For the family trip, they opted for Akash HillTop, located atop Ajodhya Pahar. This resort provided a comfortable stay with secure parking. Many travelers consider it one of the top accommodations in the Ajodhya area, next to the popular Kushal-Palli. However, one downside was the slow service, though the staff were friendly and accommodating.
Journey Routes
Samba explored three different driving routes during the trips. Importantly, he chose to avoid the Durgapur and Asansol routes due to numerous diversions on the Durgapur expressway, which can detract from the overall enjoyment of the journey. He also expressed his aversion to the route through Arambagh, which is notorious for heavy city traffic.
Route 1: Kolkata – Ghatshila – Jamshedpur – Chandil – Purulia
This route is currently not recommended as there’s construction ongoing in Chandil, leading to significant traffic delays.
Route 2: Kolkata – Ghatshila – Galudi – Manbazar – Purulia
This route is highly recommended for its stunning scenic views. The stretch from Galudi to Manbazar is especially beautiful, offering a pleasurable driving experience.
Route 3: Kolkata – Ghatshila – Jamshedpur – Dimna – Patamda – Balarampur – Purulia
Similar to Route 2, this route also features visual delights. The road from Dimna to Patamda runs through the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, adding a breathtaking aspect to the journey.
All three routes cover roughly the same distance of approximately 360 to 380 kilometers one way, and the road conditions are generally good. However, travelers should be cautious of a recent issue with cows wandering on the highway between Jhargram and Kolaghat during the evening, which has caused frequent traffic bottlenecks over the past year.
Nature’s Beauty: The Palash Bloom
A highlight of the trip was experiencing the Palash bloom, which peaked early this year due to the warm onset of summer. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips before March 15 to witness this natural beauty.
Scenic Spots and Attractions
The trips included stops at various scenic spots, such as Ghatshila, which is known for its natural beauty and is also the residence of the famous Indian author Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay.
Participants took in various picturesque sights around the resorts, capturing stunning sunsets and tranquil lake views during their stay. Dimna Lake and the serene Marble Lake at Ajodhya Pahar were also highlights, showcasing the pristine natural scenery that the region has to offer.
Adventurers even ventured into the small jungle trails of Purulia in the Etios, emphasizing that fun and exploration aren’t limited to off-road vehicles like the Jimny.
For those considering exploring this region, Samba’s detailed overview provides valuable insights into accommodation options, recommended routes, and the beauty of the local flora.