Tourist Places in Jhargram

Introduction

West Bengal, an Indian state, has the lovely district of Jhargram. It is renowned for its peaceful natural beauty, historical significance, and luxuriant green surroundings. Some of the tourist attractions in and near Jhargram are listed below.

1. Jhargram Raj Palace

A general under Raja Man Singh of Amer, Sarveshwar Singh left behind a significant historical heritage for the kingdom of Jhargram, which was established in 1592 AD. Raja Man Singh received the Subehdari of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Sarveshwar Singh, a Fatehpur Sikri-based Chauhan Rajput dynasty member, set out to conquer Bengal. He overthrew the tribal kings of the Mal people who lived nearby and controlled Junglemahal. A yearly custom that still exists today honors this victory by requiring the creation of an idol of Mal Raja and its ritual sacrifice on Vijayadashami.

Sarveshwar Singh Chauhan and his older brother received the mansabdari (military rank and land revenue assignment) of the entire Junglemahal region as payment for their conquest from Raja Man Singh. The Mughal Emperor Akbar's suzerainty and subordination as a tributary vassal state were prerequisites for this appointment. Sarveshwar Singh called the kingdom "Jhargram," which translates to "a village surrounded by deep forests," in recognition of the city's thick woodlands. As a result, Jhargram's rulers proudly adopted the appellation "Malla Deb." The historical significance of Jhargram's creation and legacy is a monument to the region's bravery and cultural history.

2. Jhargram Rajbari

The Jhargram Rajbari physically represents the Malla Dev Royal family's rich history, culture, and traditions. This magnificent home is a stunning synthesis of Islamic and Italian architectural styles. It has about 10 ground-floor rooms that have been tastefully converted into a Heritage Homestay run and managed by the family. The lavish Jhargram Rajbari is tucked away behind finely groomed lawns and gardens, and it was built in the Italianate architectural style. During Raja Narasingha Malla Dev Bahadur's rule in 1922 CE, this magnificent palace was built. The regal way of life of the past comes to life as soon as one enters the palace grounds, providing a look into a bygone period.

The expansive palace complex's Palatial Guest House is a crucial element of the legacy left by Jhargram Raj Palace. It has been honored to host many dignitaries and guests, demonstrating its lasting role as a hospitality center and historical significance. Visitors to Jhargram have the exceptional chance to see this amazing royal house's splendor and cultural diversity firsthand.

3. Savitri Temple

As the ancestor god of the Malla Dev dynasty, the Savitri Temple in Jhargram is of utmost importance. Although there isn't a specific idol housed in the temple, the goddess is worshiped as Durga, and the object of worship is a sacred stone thought to contain the goddess's divine presence. The ancient Hindu holy writings known as the Puranas are strictly followed throughout the devotion rites at the Savitri Temple. Brahmins sing hymns from the Devi Mahatmyam (Chandi Path) throughout the ten-day Durga Puja celebration, which takes place between Mahalaya and Dashami. On Durga Ashtami, the eighth day of the celebrations, the Maha Aarti marks the culmination of this traditional ritual. The presence of dhakis, ritual drummers who carry big dhaks (drums) and display their drumming prowess during the festivities, is one of the rites' distinctive features.

The Royal Family of Jhargram organizes and conducts these sacred rites, distinguishing the Savitri Temple from other temples. This emphasizes the enduring bond between the royal dynasty and the divinity, making the temple an essential component of Jhargram's cultural and religious legacy. The temple represents the Malla Dev dynasty's steadfast customs and dedication and is a place of worship.

4. Junglemahal Zoological Park

The Jhargram Zoo, presently known as the Junglemahal Zoological Park, was first constructed in 1980 as a deer park. It is in a small undeveloped forest area in the Jhargram Division of Jhargram, West Bengal. The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) subsequently certified it as Jhargram Zoo in the "Small Category Zoo" on September 9, 2005. The following are the main goals of the Junglemahal Zoological Park:

1. Scientific Management
   Management of the zoo by scientific norms and principles.
2. Breeding for Conservation
   To breed endangered species to further their conservation.
3. High Standards of Maintenance
   To keep the zoo's captive animals in the best possible condition for care and welfare.
4. Awareness and Education
   By offering educational and awareness programs, we aim to increase visitors' and locals' empathy for wildlife conservation.

The goal of the Junglemahal Zoological Park is to highlight the diversity of the local Lateritic Ecosystem. The park wants to provide guests with an enjoyable outing that teaches them about the local fauna. The park's exhibition, maintenance, and education initiatives are intended to support wildlife conservation. The Junglemahal Zoological Park is also dedicated to raising endangered species for exhibition, trade, and release back into the wild. The park works to keep the plants and animals in their pure, natural state, ensuring that they continue to exist unmolested and unharmed.

The Junglemahal Zoological Park is home to 65 birds, 147 reptiles, and 147 mammals representing various species. With a total size of 21.54 hectares, the park offers plenty of room for tourists and animals to roam and enjoy the local wildlife and natural beauty.

5. Kendua Migrating Birds

Kendua is a picturesque village with a unique position for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is only 9 kilometers from Jhargram town and along the path to Chilkigarh. This tiny village is well known for being a prime bird-watching location, especially along the Jhargram-Chilkigarh route. The seasonal arrival of migrating birds is among Kendua's noteworthy features. These migrating birds often stop in Kendua around May, just before the monsoon season begins, and stay there through November. They prepare to go while they are there and hatch their eggs. The ecosystem of Kendua gains a special and fascinating aspect because of this natural occurrence.

Exploring Kendua is similar to strolling through a thick forest, with vibrant birdlife and rich vegetation as a magical backdrop. Visitors can enjoy a captivating experience thanks to the shifting character of the hamlet and the wide variety of bird species that call the region home. Kendua village is a must-visit location for everyone looking for a stunning experience with nature and a chance to immerse oneself in the natural world. Kendua's vast biodiversity and avian visitors promise a wonderful experience, whether you are a birdwatcher or admire the beauty of nature. Plan a trip to this village as soon as possible with your loved ones to see the numerous bird species that have been seen in Kendua's alluring environments.

6. Chilkigarh Sacred Grove & Kanak Durga Temple

In the Jhargram region of West Bengal, the Chilkigarh Sacred Grove and Kanak Durga Temple represent an exceptional and culturally significant ecological environment. Here is a thorough summary:

1. Chilkigarh Sacred Grove

The Chilkigarh Sacred Grove is unique because it is the third biodiversity heritage site in West Bengal and the twelfth site in India devoted to preserving biodiversity. This sacred grove is a natural woodland that has long been under protection, both for social and religious reasons. It's at Jamboni, which is around 15 kilometers from Jhargram. The Chilkigarh Sacred Grove is notable for its:

1. Relict Forests
   The grove's 60 acres are mostly made up of relict woods that have reached a stage of evolution known as the "near-climax."
2. Location along Dulung River
   Its location alongside the Dulung River, which adds to its natural beauty and significance, lies on the river's eastern bank.
3. Sacred Land
   The area is revered since it was once home to the temple dedicated to Kanak Durga, the ancestor deity of the Jamboni Royal Family. The grove has survived thanks in part to these spiritual ties.

2. Kanak Durga Temple

The Chilkigarh Sacred Grove has the Kanak Durga Temple, which is of utmost significance to the area's cultural and religious legacy. It is notable historically and holds deep meaning for the neighborhood.

1. Ancestral Deity
   The Royal Family of Jamboni's ancestral deity is Kanak Durga. The temple is a place of worship and reverence for the area's residents.
2. Largest Sacred Grove
   West Bengal's Chilkigarh Kanak Durga temple complex is the state's biggest sacred grove. Despite its importance, it has not frequently been covered in the media until recently.
3. Conservation of Biodiversity
   The grove is essential to the preservation of biodiversity in the area. Several animal species, including reptiles and amphibians, have received protection from it, further demonstrating its ecological significance.

A harmonious fusion of spirituality, culture, and environmental preservation can be found at the Chilkigarh Sacred Grove and Kanak Durga Temple complex. They show how interdependent humans and nature are, emphasizing the importance of sacred sites in preserving local customs and biodiversity.

7. Chilkigarh Raj Palace

The historical and cultural legacy of the Jamboni estate in West Bengal includes the entire Chilkigarh Raj Palace. Here is a summary of its importance and historical setting:

1. Location
   On the other side of the Dulung River, roughly 1.5 kilometers from the Kanak Durga Temple, is the Chilkigarh Raj Palace.
2. Rulers of Jamboni's Estate
   Raja Gopinath Singh Matagaj, the estate's final lord, ruled over 110.63 square kilometers, known as the Jamboni estate. His four wives were Rani Govindamani Devi, Rani Champani Devi, Rani Thakurmani Devi, and Rani Durgamani Devi. But through Rani Champamani Devi, who was wed to Raja Jagannath Deo Dhabal Dev VII of Dhalbhum, he only had one child, Rani Subarnamani Devi.
   
3. Succession and Sati
   Raja Gopinath Singh Matagaj died without a male successor in 1765 AD. Unfortunately, two of his wives—Rani Champamoni Devi and Rani Thakurmoni Devi, committed Sati, a custom where widows set themselves on fire alongside their husband's funeral pyres. His elder dowager, Rani Govindamani Devi, took over the estate's administration after his death, and she held it until she died in 1818.
4. Inheritance and Coronation
   The legitimate heir to the throne of the Jamboni estate was established in 1822 by the Midnapore District Court through Rajkumar Kamalakanta Deo Dhabal Dev of Dhalbhum, the eldest grandson of Raja Gopinath Singh Matagaj. In Chilkigarh, which functioned as the seat of the Jamboni estate, Rajkumar Kamalkanta Deo Dhabal Dev was crowned as the Raja of Jamboni after winning the legal dispute in the Midnapore district court.
5. Contribution to the temple of Kanak Durga
   By divine directions, Raja Gopinath Singh Matagaja is famed for his part in consecrating the Devi Kanak Durga Gold Idol in the Chilkigarh woods. The golden idol was made with the help of his wife, Rani Govindamani Devi, whose gold bangles originated with the moniker "Kanak Durga," which means "Golden Durga."

The rich history of the Jamboni estate, its kings, and their substantial contributions to the local culture, spirituality, and religious practices are reflected in the Chilkigarh Raj Palace and its historical setting. It continues to play a significant role in Jhargram's cultural landscape.

8. Krish Garden

It is conveniently located 10 kilometers from Jhargram town and 7 kilometers from Lodhasuli on NH6, making Krish Garden a wonderful tourist destination in Salboni, Jhargram. This fun park, which is 10 acres in size, is the ideal place to go on a day trip or a holiday outing.

9. Medicinal Plants Garden

The Medicinal Plants Garden is an important and distinctive resource for the preservation and study of medicinal plants. It is situated around 14 kilometers from Jhargram. Here are some significant facts regarding this garden:

1. Location
   The Medicinal Plants Garden is conveniently located at Amlachati, Jhargram, and is reachable from the town of Jhargram.
2. Management
   The Silviculture South Division's Divisional Forest Officer, headquartered in Midnapur, looks after the location. The team's dedicated efforts in charge of this garden's upkeep and maintenance are responsible for its existence and success.
3. Collection of Medicinal Plants
   This garden has a large collection of over 704 different species of medicinal plants. Both domestic and foreign medicinal plants are included in the collection. A wonderful and priceless treasure, such a variety of medicinal plant germplasm is available in one spot.
   
4. Ex-situ Conservation
   To preserve medicinal plant species outside of their natural habitat, the Amlachati Ex-situ Conservation site is extremely important. This is particularly crucial given the rising demand for medicinal plants and the requirement to preserve endangered species.
5. Visitor Attraction
   The Medicinal Plants Garden has become a prominent tourist destination, attracting many visitors, including tourists, schoolchildren, academics, scientists, ayurvedic practitioners, and pharmaceutical companies. For those interested in medicinal plants, it is a useful resource for education, study, and application.

The Jhargram Medicinal Plants Garden is a monument to the value of protecting and researching medicinal plants for their current and potential future medical uses. It acts as a center for educating, investigating, and appreciating India's abundant biodiversity and medicinal plant potential.

10. Ecotourism Centre and Tribal Museum

Visitors have a one-of-a-kind chance to see the Jhargram district's natural beauty and rich cultural legacy, thanks to the Jhargram Ecotourism Centre and Tribal Museum. These are this attraction's main highlights:

1. Location
   Conveniently situated about 2 kilometers from the Jhargram Palace campus is the Jhargram Ecotourism Center. It is a convenient location for tourists because the state highway makes it easily accessible.
2. Natural Repose
   Visitors may re-establish contact with nature at this ecotourism facility, which doubles as a peaceful forest hideaway. It's the perfect place to escape city life's rush and bustle because of its lush surroundings and peaceful atmosphere.
3. Tribal Museum
   The Tribal Museum, which showcases the native tribal culture of the Jhargram district, is one of the complex's highlights. Visitors can explore and discover the customs, culture, and way of life of the nearby tribal groups here. The museum offers insightful information on the area's rich cultural diversity.

How to Reach Jhargram

There are many transportation choices to get to Jhargram:

1. By Air
   Jhargram is around 188 kilometers from Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, the closest airport. To get to Jhargram from the airport, consider taking a cab or another mode of transportation.
2. By Rail
   Train travel from Kolkata to Jhargram covers a distance of roughly 154 kilometers. To go to Jhargram Station, board an express or local train from Howrah or Tatanagar. Depending on your particular train, the trip from Kolkata to Jhargram normally lasts 2 hours and 24 minutes.
3. By Road
   The distance between Kolkata and Jhargram is 178 kilometers if you prefer to drive there. From Kolkata, you can drive the NH6 (Mumbai-Kolkata Highway), which, depending on traffic, normally takes 4 hours to complete.

There are many ways to go to Jhargram, and one can choose one that best fits your needs and timetable by using these transit alternatives.

Best Time to Visit Jhargram

The greatest time to visit Jhargram is winter, when one can enjoy the trip without worrying about inconveniences. The best activities are available in Jhargram during this time of year due to the pleasant weather. If you need more time to visit Jhargram, come when it's most enjoyable to have a fantastic experience without worrying about little matters.

Famous Food in Jhargram

West Bengal's Jhargram offers a wide selection of delectable and authentic tribal and Bengali food. Visitors can taste the following well-known dishes while in Jhargram:

1. Rice and Fish Curry
   Like in many other West Bengal districts, rice and fish curry are staple foods in Jhargram. It would help if you tasted the fish curry, frequently prepared with mustard oil and a combination of spices.
2. Macher Jhol
   The traditional Bengali fish curry known as Macher Jhol is distinguished by its fragrant broth comprising herbs, tomatoes, and green chilies. Steamed rice is frequently served with it.
3. Shorshe Ilish
   Hilsa fish (Ilish), a delicacy in Bengal, is prepared in a hot mustard sauce. The spicy mustard flavor complements the flaky fish well.