🚗 Mukutmanipur–Susunia Hill Drive – 2 Days
“A Scenic Weekend Escape Where Serenity Meets Adventure Amidst Hills, Lakes, and Rural Bengal Charm”
The Mukutmanipur–Susunia Hill Drive is a short yet enchanting weekend getaway into the serene landscapes of Bankura district in West Bengal.
This two-day tour brings together the calm waters of Mukutmanipur Dam, the ancient heritage of Susunia Hill, and the rustic beauty of Bengal’s countryside.
It’s a perfect combination of nature, history, and soft adventure — ideal for families, couples, and explorers seeking an offbeat destination within driving distance from Kolkata.
From panoramic hill views and peaceful boating to exploring ancient rock carvings, the trip promises an unforgettable experience wrapped in simplicity and natural beauty.
🌿 Introduction – Gateway to Rural Bengal’s Natural Splendor
Located about 230 km from Kolkata, the Mukutmanipur–Susunia circuit showcases the best of southern West Bengal’s landscape diversity.
Mukutmanipur, with its massive earthen dam and shimmering lake, lies at the confluence of the rivers Kansabati and Kumari. It’s a peaceful retreat surrounded by forested hills and tribal villages.
Nearby, Susunia Hill offers an adventurous contrast with trekking trails, ancient rock inscriptions, and mythological significance.
Together, they form one of Bengal’s most scenic weekend routes, blending relaxation and discovery with a dash of local culture.
📍 Major Attractions & Places to Visit
1. Mukutmanipur Dam
The Mukutmanipur Dam is the second-largest earthen dam in India, built across the Kansabati River.
The calm blue waters stretch endlessly, forming a picturesque lake bordered by green hills.
Visitors can enjoy boating across the lake, admire sunsets from the dam’s viewpoint, or simply walk along the long embankment lined with trees.
Evenings here are magical — the golden glow of the setting sun reflecting on the vast waterbody makes Mukutmanipur a photographer’s paradise.
2. Pareshnath Shiv Mandir (Ambikanagar)
Located near the dam, the ancient Pareshnath Shiv Mandir is associated with local legends and devotion.
The temple complex is surrounded by forests and small ponds, creating a peaceful spiritual retreat.
During Mahashivratri, the temple becomes a hub of celebration, attracting devotees from nearby villages.
3. Deer Park
At the edge of Mukutmanipur’s forest area lies a small Deer Park that offers a family-friendly experience amidst nature.
Children especially enjoy watching spotted deer, peacocks, and local bird species in their natural habitat.
The park’s tranquil setting is perfect for picnics or quiet nature walks.
4. Bonpukuria Deer Sanctuary
A little further from the main dam area, Bonpukuria Deer Sanctuary adds another layer of adventure to the tour.
The sanctuary is home to several wildlife species and provides scenic nature trails through sal and teak forests.
5. Kangsabati Eco Park
Located near the main embankment, this park offers boating, gardens, and children’s play zones.
It’s a well-maintained recreational area where visitors can enjoy both the sunrise and sunset views.
Evenings often feature cultural programs by local artists during festive weekends.
6. Susunia Hill
Located about 65 km from Mukutmanipur and 30 km from Bankura town, Susunia Hill is an ancient geological marvel.
It rises gracefully from the surrounding plains, covered in forested slopes and known for its rock inscriptions dating back to the 4th century CE.
The hill is popular among rock climbers and trekkers. A sacred spring at the base, known as Chandrabindoo, is believed to have medicinal properties.
The panoramic view from the top rewards those who make the short climb.
7. Terracotta Villages
The surrounding villages of Bankura are known for terracotta art, particularly the famous Bankura Horse – a traditional craft that has become a symbol of Bengal’s rural artistry.
Visitors can interact with local artisans, watch pottery being made, and buy souvenirs directly from the craftsmen.
🗓️ Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Journey to Mukutmanipur & Lake Activities
- Depart early morning from Kolkata (Approx. 230 km / 6 hours by road).
- Arrive at Mukutmanipur by noon and check into a lakeside resort or government tourist lodge.
- Enjoy lunch with local Bengali delicacies.
- Afternoon visit to Mukutmanipur Dam for boating or cycling along the embankment.
- Explore Deer Park and Ambikanagar Shiv Temple nearby.
- Evening: Watch the sunset over the lake and enjoy a peaceful dinner under starry skies.
Day 2 – Drive to Susunia Hill & Return
- After breakfast, drive to Susunia Hill (Approx. 65 km / 2 hours).
- Enjoy a short trek to the top, visit Chandrabindoo Spring, and explore the ancient rock inscriptions.
- Lunch at a local eatery or forest rest house en route.
- Evening return drive to Kolkata via Bankura town (Approx. 230 km / 6 hours).
📏 Major Distances & Travel Durations
- Kolkata → Mukutmanipur: 230 km (Approx. 6 hours)
- Mukutmanipur → Susunia Hill: 65 km (Approx. 2 hours)
- Bankura → Susunia Hill: 30 km (Approx. 1 hour)
- Mukutmanipur → Bishnupur: 80 km (Approx. 2.5 hours)
🚗 How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata).
From there, travelers can hire private cars or take trains to Bankura, followed by a short road drive to Mukutmanipur.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Bankura Railway Station, located about 55 km from Mukutmanipur.
Regular trains run from Howrah and Sealdah to Bankura. Taxis and local vehicles are available at the station.
By Road
Mukutmanipur is well connected by road through NH16 and SH2.
Buses and private cars ply regularly from Kolkata, Durgapur, and Asansol.
The scenic drive through villages and farmlands adds to the charm of the journey.
🏨 Staying Options (Properties)
1. Mukutmanipur Lakeside Resorts
Mukutmanipur offers comfortable stays in private resorts and government-run tourist lodges overlooking the vast lake.
Rooms come with scenic balconies, local cuisine, and easy access to boating and dam viewpoints.
2. Eco-Cottages & Forest Rest Houses
For nature lovers, eco-cottages near Bonpukuria and Ambikanagar provide a peaceful environment amidst greenery and bird calls.
These are ideal for those who wish to stay close to nature without compromising on comfort.
3. Bankura Town Hotels
If you plan to explore nearby heritage sites like Susunia Hill or Bishnupur, mid-range hotels in Bankura offer convenient bases with modern amenities.
🌦️ Best Time to Visit
- Winter (November–February): Ideal weather for sightseeing, boating, and trekking. The most popular time to visit.
- Monsoon (July–September): The dam and surroundings become lush green, but occasional rain may affect travel.
- Summer (March–June): Warm but suitable for early morning or late evening activities.
🎭 Culture & Local Life
The region around Mukutmanipur and Bankura is deeply rooted in tribal and rural culture.
Villages here are inhabited by Santhal, Munda, and Lodha communities who maintain their traditional way of life through handicrafts, folk songs, and dance.
Evenings often echo with Santhali rhythms and drumbeats during festive months.
You can also visit local artisans crafting Bankura horses, terracotta jewelry, and bamboo artifacts — each representing Bengal’s rich folk artistry.
🥘 Cuisine Highlights
- Traditional Bengali Meals: Rice, dal, posto (poppy seed curry), fish fry, and sweets like rosogolla and chamcham.
- Tribal Dishes: Locally prepared chicken or mutton curry cooked in sal leaf-wrapped pots.
- Street Snacks: Jhalmuri, egg rolls, and seasonal fruits from local vendors.
🧭 Travel Tips
- Carry light woolens if visiting during winter — mornings near the dam can be chilly.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the Susunia Hill trek.
- Keep sunscreen and hats handy for day excursions.
- Respect local customs and avoid littering in natural spots.
- Boating at Mukutmanipur closes by evening — plan accordingly.
📅 Quick Tour Summary
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
- Destinations: Mukutmanipur – Susunia Hill
- Ideal For: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers, Weekend Travelers
- Activities: Boating, Trekking, Photography, Cultural Walks
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
🌺 Conclusion
The Mukutmanipur–Susunia Hill Drive is more than just a weekend trip — it’s a peaceful journey through Bengal’s scenic countryside, where hills meet water and heritage meets tranquility.
Whether you are cruising along the serene Mukutmanipur Lake, hiking through Susunia’s rocky paths, or admiring sunset reflections on the dam, every moment connects you to nature’s gentle rhythm.
It’s a perfect short escape for those who crave calm landscapes, rural simplicity, and authentic Bengal charm.
Let Nature Craft Tours design your perfect 2-day journey — combining lakeside serenity, soft adventure, and heritage discovery through the enchanting heart of Bankura’s hills and plains.