Ajodhya Hills trails

Ajodhya Hills form the highest part of the Purulia plateau in West Bengal, India, near Bagmundi, and offer a network of forest and hill trails within a day's reach of the Jharkhand border. Multiple trails of about 5-10 km run from the Upper Dam area toward the highest point, with elevations of roughly 400-677 m above sea level, so the climbs are sustained but moderate. Trailhead access is long: trains run from Howrah to Purulia in about 6-7 hours for around ₹250-1,200, followed by a taxi of about 1.5-2 hours to Ajodhya, while driving from Kolkata takes about 5-6 hours. There is no standard permit for casual day walks, and parking is available near the dam and village areas. The surface alternates between forest tracks, rocky paths, scree-like loose stones and rough steps near the viewpoints. Exposure is moderate, with some open ridgelines and shade from sal and mixed forest on many sections. Landmarks include the Upper Dam reservoir, forest trails with views over the plateau, small waterfalls in the wetter months and the high points that give wide views across the plateau. Walkers usually choose a route according to time available, with shorter walks to the Upper Dam and viewpoints and longer circuits reaching the highest summit before turning back. Water is not reliably available on the trails, so about 2 L should be carried, along with snacks. Small stalls near the dam and villages offer basic food, but there are no refuge huts on the hills. Hiking boots, a hat and light layers are recommended, and paths can be slippery after rain. Elephants and other wildlife have occasionally been reported in the wider region, so local guidance is worth seeking before heading into forested areas. Staying overnight in Ajodhya or Bagmundi allows an early start, and the October to February window gives the clearest and coolest conditions.