Susunia Hills
– A Complete Travel Guide to Bankura’s Ancient Rock, Spring and Forested Slopes
Susunia Hill, often written as Susunia Pahar, is one of the most evocative landscapes of southern West Bengal. Rising gently from the red-soil uplands of Bankura, this ancient hill combines archaeology, myth, rock climbing, forest trails and rural culture in a single destination. It is a favourite among weekend travellers from Kolkata who seek a peaceful yet adventurous escape in the lap of nature.
Geographical Setting and Overview of Susunia Hills
Susunia Hill is part of the Bankura uplands, a transition zone between the Chota Nagpur plateau and the Rarh plains. The hill stands at an elevation of about 1200 feet above sea level and stretches roughly two miles from east to west, draped in sal and mixed deciduous forests and surrounded by paddy fields and red laterite soil. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Located on the Bankura–Purulia road, Susunia lies around 13 kilometres from Bankura town and about 10 kilometres from Chhatna, making it easily accessible yet still beautifully secluded. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} The approach to the hill is extremely scenic: the road passes through small villages, clumps of palm trees and stretches of open fields before the silhouette of the hill slowly begins to dominate the horizon.
History, Mythology and Archaeological Importance
Susunia is not only a natural attraction; it is also an important archaeological and cultural site in West Bengal. The hill is known for what is often referred to as one of the oldest rock inscriptions of the state, engraved on a rock face near a natural spring. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} This inscription, written in ancient Brahmi-like characters, is associated with an early ruler of the region and provides valuable clues to the political and cultural history of ancient Rarh and Tamralipta.
At the foothills stands the famous Narasimha stone – an open-air monolithic idol worshipped as a form of Lord Narasimha. The carving is stylistically different from classical temple sculpture and is believed to have strong links with the aboriginal communities of the area such as the Santhals, Kols and Mundas, who possibly worshipped it as a powerful guardian deity long before formal temple structures appeared. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Susunia is also described in local folklore as an ancient seat of kings. Some legends mention that this hill once housed a fortified settlement ruled by a powerful monarch, though physical traces of such a fort are now difficult to identify in the present terrain. Fossil remains of animals such as the Asiatic lion, giraffe and hyena have been discovered in nearby areas, establishing Susunia as an important fossil site that helps researchers reconstruct the prehistoric ecology of eastern India. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Key Attractions and Important Points to See
1. Susunia Hill Trek and Summit Viewpoint
The primary attraction is, of course, the hill itself. The main trekking path begins near the foothill settlement and gradually ascends through dense vegetation, rock steps and boulder-strewn stretches. The climb is moderate; most healthy travellers can complete the ascent in about 45–60 minutes, taking short breaks to enjoy the views.
As you climb higher, the panorama slowly widens: sal forests spread below like a green carpet, interspersed with palm groves and small water bodies, while distant village roofs peep through the foliage. From the summit, the view of the red-soiled plains and scattered hillocks, especially during sunrise or sunset, is remarkably serene.
2. Natural Spring and Rock Inscription
One of the most distinctive features of Susunia is its perennial natural spring. The water gushes out of a stone spout, cool and crystal clear throughout the year. Local tradition holds this spring to be holy, and many visitors stop here to drink or fill bottles before proceeding further up the hill.
Near this spring, the celebrated ancient rock inscription and the Narasimha monolith stand side by side. The inscription, carved meticulously on the stone surface, refers to a king and mentions the name of the hill, offering epigraphic evidence of Susunia’s importance in earlier centuries. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
3. Narasimha Stone and Open Temple Complex
The Narasimha stone is unlike conventional idols found in mainstream temples. It has a somewhat fierce, demonic appearance, leading some scholars to believe that it may have originated from tribal or folk religious traditions and was later integrated into the Hindu pantheon. The idol remains open to the sky, surrounded by small shrines and offerings of flowers and incense. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
For culturally inclined travellers, this space offers a unique opportunity to observe living folk traditions and how local communities negotiate between ancient animistic beliefs and contemporary religious practices.
4. Rock Climbing and Adventure Activities
Susunia has long been recognised as one of the earliest rock-climbing training grounds in eastern India. The rough granite faces and natural rock walls provide an excellent training field for beginners as well as intermediate climbers. During winter, several adventure clubs organise rock-climbing, rappelling and mountaineering training camps here. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Even if you are not participating in formal training, watching climbers negotiate the rock faces against the backdrop of the forest is an exciting visual experience in itself and adds a distinctly adventurous flavour to the trip.
5. Forest Trails, Medicinal Plants and Birdlife
The forests around Susunia are rich in flora and fauna. The sal-dominated woodland contains several medicinal plants traditionally used in local healthcare practices. The area is also a good spot for birdwatching; travellers can often spot drongos, woodpeckers, barbets, bee-eaters and a variety of small forest birds. The morning and late-afternoon hours are especially rewarding for quiet walks and nature photography. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
6. Rural and Tribal Culture Around the Hill
Scattered around the base of the hill are villages inhabited by tribal communities and other rural populations. Their mud houses, painted with simple wall motifs, courtyards filled with harvested crops, and traditional musical instruments visible during festivals give visitors a feel of the region’s living culture. In the right season, you may witness folk dances like Chhau and Jhumur being performed in nearby settlements.
Major Distances and Regional Connectivity
For planning a well-structured itinerary, it is essential to understand the distances between Susunia and other major tourist hubs in West Bengal:
- Kolkata to Bankura (by road): approximately 200–220 km, depending on route; typical travel time 4.5 to 5.5 hours. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Kolkata to Susunia Hill (via Bankura): around 203 km by road. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Bankura town to Susunia Hill: about 13 km. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Chhatna to Susunia Hill: roughly 10 km. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Bishnupur to Susunia Hill: approximately 50 km. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Other nearby attractions: Biharinath Hill, Joychandi Pahar, Baranti and Mukutmanipur can all be comfortably combined with Susunia for a 2–3 night circuit of Bankura–Purulia. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
These distances make Susunia especially suitable for long weekends, allowing travellers to include multiple hills, dams and heritage towns in a single tour.
How to Reach Susunia Hills
Reaching by Road from Kolkata and Other Cities
From Kolkata, most travellers take the Durgapur Expressway (NH 19) towards Durgapur and then continue to Bankura via Bishnupur or via Durgapur–Bankura Road, depending on route choice. From Bankura town, the road to Purulia passes through Chhatna, with a clearly marked diversion leading towards Susunia Hill. The surface is generally good, and the drive through red-soil countryside is extremely picturesque.
Private cars, outstation taxis and tourist vehicles can be hired from Kolkata, Durgapur, Asansol or Bankura. For budget travellers, state transport and private buses operate regularly between Kolkata and Bankura; from Bankura, local buses, shared jeeps and auto-rickshaws are available towards Susunia.
Reaching by Train
Bankura is well connected by rail with Howrah and other important junctions in eastern India. The rail distance from Kolkata to Bankura is around 230 km, with multiple express and passenger trains operating every day. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
After reaching Bankura railway station, visitors can hire a cab, auto-rickshaw or shared vehicle to Susunia Hill, which lies about 13 km away on the Bankura–Purulia route. Some local trains also stop at Chhatna station, from where Susunia is reachable by short road journey.
Reaching by Air
The nearest major airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. From the airport, travellers can reach Susunia by two main combinations:
- Airport → Howrah station by taxi → Train to Bankura → Local transport to Susunia.
- Airport → Direct road journey by hired cab or pre-booked tourist vehicle to Bankura/Susunia (approximately 210–220 km). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Staying Options and Property Types Near Susunia Hills
Accommodation around Susunia has improved steadily, with a mix of simple rural stays and more organised resorts. While no contact numbers are mentioned here, travellers can easily locate and book these properties through online search or travel agencies.
1. Forest-Side Eco Resorts and Camps
Near the foothills of Susunia, there are eco-oriented resorts and camp-style accommodations that blend with the natural surroundings. They usually offer cottage-type rooms or tents, open lawns, basic recreational facilities and guided walks to the hill. These properties are ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers and small groups looking for a quiet, immersive experience.
2. Standard Lodges and Guest Houses
Around the main access road and nearby villages, several standard lodges and guest houses provide budget-friendly rooms with basic amenities such as attached bathrooms and simple dining facilities. These are suitable for backpackers, students, rock-climbing groups and travellers who plan to spend most of the day outdoors exploring the hill and surrounding areas.
3. Mid-Range Hotels in Bankura Town
Many visitors prefer to stay in Bankura town and make a day trip to Susunia. Bankura offers a selection of mid-range hotels with well-furnished rooms, in-house restaurants and better connectivity to rail and bus services. This option works especially well for itineraries that combine Susunia with Bishnupur, Jhilimili or Mukutmanipur.
4. Resorts on Multi-Destination Circuits
Travellers planning a longer tour often stay at resorts in Mukutmanipur, Biharinath, Baranti or Joychandi Pahar and cover Susunia as a half-day excursion. Many such resorts are located beside reservoirs, dams or hills and provide a comfortable base from which one can explore multiple sites in the Bankura–Purulia region.
Best Time to Visit Susunia Hills
Susunia can theoretically be visited throughout the year, but certain seasons offer clearly superior experiences in terms of comfort, visibility and activities.
October to February – Pleasant Winter Months
Winter is widely regarded as the best season for visiting Susunia. Daytime temperatures remain mild and comfortable, making trekking and rock climbing enjoyable. The sky is usually clear, providing excellent visibility from the summit. Many adventure clubs schedule their rock-climbing camps in this period owing to favourable weather and lower humidity.
February to March – Season of Palash Blossoms
Late winter and early spring add another layer of beauty: the countryside around Susunia becomes ablaze with the fiery orange flowers of the palash tree (Butea monosperma). For photographers and nature lovers, the contrast between red soil, green sal forests and palash blossoms can be particularly captivating.
July to September – Monsoon Verdure with Caution
During the monsoon, the hill and its forests turn lush green. The spring flows more vigorously, and the atmosphere becomes misty and romantic. However, the rocks and paths can be slippery, so trekking requires extra care. It is advisable to avoid difficult climbs in heavy rain and to check local weather forecasts before planning a monsoon visit.
April to June – Hot and Dry Summer
Summer in this region is typically hot and dry, with temperatures frequently crossing 35°C. The rocky surfaces absorb heat, making mid-day climbing quite uncomfortable. If travel dates cannot be adjusted, visitors should attempt the trek only in the early morning or late afternoon, carry sufficient drinking water and wear protective headgear.
Suggested Activities and Itinerary Ideas
Day Trip from Bankura or Bishnupur
Travellers based in Bankura or Bishnupur can easily plan a day excursion to Susunia. A typical itinerary might include an early-morning drive to the hill, a leisurely trek to the summit, a visit to the spring and Narasimha stone, lunch at a local eatery or resort, followed by a relaxed evening return.
Weekend Circuit with Mukutmanipur and Jhilimili
A popular two-night itinerary combines Susunia with Mukutmanipur’s vast reservoir and the forested stretch of Jhilimili. Travellers may spend the first day at Mukutmanipur, enjoy a boat ride on the Kangsabati waters, stay overnight by the dam, and then proceed to Susunia the next morning, finishing with a drive through Jhilimili’s forested roads.
Adventure-Focused Stay with Rock Climbing
Those interested in adventure sports can time their visit to coincide with rock-climbing training camps organised by mountaineering clubs. Staying near the hill or in Bankura, they can spend two to three days learning basic techniques, rappelling, knot practice and natural route finding under trained instructors.
Practical Tips for Travellers
- Wear sturdy walking or trekking shoes; the path includes uneven rocks and forest trails.
- Carry a hat, sunscreen and sufficient water, especially in the warmer months.
- Respect local customs when visiting the Narasimha stone and other religious spots; modest clothing is advisable.
- If you plan to trek during early morning or late evening, carry a flashlight as some sections can be dimly lit.
- Do not litter; carry back plastic bottles or wrappers to keep the hill and forest clean.
- During monsoon, check with locals about trail conditions before attempting steeper routes.
Conclusion
Susunia Hills is a destination where geology, history, adventure and village life come together in a subtle, harmonious way. The hill does not overwhelm with extreme height or crowded commercialisation; instead, it invites travellers to walk slowly, observe carefully and breathe deeply. From its ancient rock inscription and enigmatic Narasimha stone to the murmuring spring, forested slopes and rock-climbing routes, every element of Susunia tells a story that stretches from prehistory to the present day.
Whether you are planning a quiet family outing from Kolkata, designing an adventure-oriented weekend with friends, or exploring the wider Bankura–Purulia circuit that includes Bishnupur, Mukutmanipur, Baranti and Biharinath, Susunia fits naturally into your itinerary. With thoughtful planning regarding season, accommodation and transport, a visit to Susunia Hills can become a memorable encounter with one of West Bengal’s most distinctive and culturally layered landscapes.