Top 5 Jhargram Tourist Spots – Forests, Palaces & Hidden Gems
Jhargram tourist spots:
Jhargram, located in the southwestern corner of West Bengal, is a perfect blend of nature, history, and tribal culture. Once a princely state, this town is now an offbeat paradise for travelers looking for peace, forested landscapes, and a taste of heritage.
If you’re seeking a unique weekend getaway near Kolkata, this Jhargram travel guide has everything you need — from royal palaces to dense sal forests, waterfalls, and local art.
📍 Where is Jhargram?
Jhargram lies about 170 km west of Kolkata, bordered by Jharkhand and Odisha. It’s part of the Chotanagpur plateau and is surrounded by hills, forests, and tribal villages — a terrain totally different from the rest of Bengal.
🛤️ How to Reach Jhargram:
By Train: Regular trains from Howrah (like Ispat Express, Steel Express)
By Road: ~4.5–5 hours via NH6 or Mumbai-Kolkata highway
By Car: Best for flexible travel and detours to nearby spots
🏰 Top Places to Visit in Jhargram
This stunning palace, still home to the royal Malla Dev family, is partially open to visitors and offers heritage stays. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and displays colonial architecture.
🏡 What to Do: Take a tour, stay overnight in heritage rooms, enjoy royal hospitality
🎫 Entry: Free for outer grounds, paid for overnight stay
2. Kankrajhor Forest
Kankrajhor is a dense forest area that borders Jharkhand. It’s ideal for adventure lovers and photographers. The forest is filled with sal, teak, and mahua trees, and is home to tribal settlements.
🌿 Best For: Forest treks, tribal village visits, monsoon greenery
🐾 Wildlife: Wild boars, deer, peacocks, and various birds
A hidden gem near Belpahari, Ghagra Falls is surrounded by rocky hills and thick jungle. The spot is peaceful and perfect for day picnics.
📸 Tip: Visit during or just after monsoon for the best flow
🧭 Location: ~50 km from Jhargram town
4. Kanak Durga Temple, Chilkigarh
A spiritual and natural combo — the temple is set amidst a forested area and surrounded by the Dulung River. It’s especially lively during Durga Puja.
🚶♂️ What to Do: Nature walk to the temple, riverside relaxation, puja during Navaratri
📍 Location: ~15 km from Jhargram
5. Jungle Mahal Zoological Park
Also called Jhargram Mini Zoo, this well-maintained zoological park houses various animals, birds, and reptiles. A great stop if you’re traveling with kids.
🐘 Animals: Deer, leopards, birds, crocodiles
⏰ Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM
🧑🎨 Explore Local Culture & Handicrafts
Jhargram is rich in Santhal and Lodha tribal culture. You’ll find local markets selling tribal jewelry, dokra art, wooden crafts, and handwoven mats.
🛍️ Must-Buys: Tribal jewelry, bamboo work, dokra items
🎉 Local Events: Tusu Parab, Poush Mela (winter), Charak festival (spring)
🍛 Local Cuisine You Must Try
Jhargram’s food has a tribal touch — spicy and earthy. Don’t miss:
Pitha, Chattu Tarkari (mushroom curry)
Fish cooked with bamboo shoot or mustard
Mahua (fermented drink) if visiting with locals (optional)
Many homestays and resorts offer local-style cooking.
🏨 Where to Stay in Jhargram
Jhargram Rajbari Tourist Complex (government lodge)
Jhargram Palace Heritage Stay
Budget hotels and eco-resorts near Chilkigarh and Lodhashuli
🕰️ Best Time to Visit Jhargram
| Season | Why Visit |
|---|---|
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Best weather, festivals, perfect for sightseeing |
| Monsoon (Jul–Sep) | Lush green forests, waterfalls in full flow |
| Summer (Mar–May) | Hot and dry; only visit early mornings or evenings |
📌 Nearby Offbeat Spots from Jhargram
Belpahari – A forest retreat ideal for hiking
Gopiballavpur – Known for wildlife and rustic scenery
Hatibari – Eco-tourism and forest vibes
✍️ Final Thoughts
Jhargram is not just a town — it’s a gateway to Bengal’s tribal soul, natural beauty, and royal heritage. Whether you’re a culture explorer, forest lover, or peace-seeker, Jhargram offers a refreshing break from crowded tourist spots.
Take a long weekend, travel slow, and dive into this underrated gem of Bengal.
