Are you tired of the hustle-bustle of city life? Fast-moving cars, pollution, office deadlines are stressing you out? Well, then you need to take some time off and visit Garh Panchkot. Garh Panchkot is a hidden archaeological site in Bengal, which dates back to probably the 90 AD.
Located right by the Panchet Lake along the slopes of Panchet Hill in the Purulia district of West Bengal, this pretty forested area was once a fortified area. The Rajas of Panchkot were the Singh Deo dynasty. The fort has seen a lot and that includes the Bagri attack in the 18th century which left the whole place destructed. The fort was destroyed and ransacked and as a result, only its ruins were left. The hilly landscape and the surrounding area gives you a sense of nostalgia and calm. The city has seen a lot and has been through so much of hardships, it seems as if the ruins speak out and are crying out their sorrows.
You can go to Panchkot via road and railways. You can board Trains to Asansol from Howrah to reach Garh panchkot. From the station, you can hire a trekker or even book a private car to reach the place. Via road, you can take the national highway 19 to reach the main resort of Garh panchkot.
The best time to visit Garh Panchkot: Hidden Archaeological Site in Bengal is during the rainy season. The overall summer temperature of the area remains quite high, hence it can be an unpleasant experience to visit Garh panchkot in the summers. Winters are quite cold, temperatures drop down to 3 degrees Celsius, but during the rainy season, the whole place turns into a huge green escapade. The whole hill looks like it has been painted green when the trees and plants come alive. During spring, it is quite pleasant to visit Garh Panchkot as many beautiful flowers grow and the temperature is soothing too.
The place is not just a home for the ancient ruins of the old Garh Panchkot fort, but also a site where there are many dams and these are such picturesque places to be at. The air is so fresh, especially in the rainy season. The smell of the rain-soaked soil along with the greenery makes it a perfect getaway.
if history excites you, and you are always on the lookout to know more about a place and its history. Start right here with one of the oldest and forgotten Historical places in West Bengal. The ruins of the old fort of the rajas are still present here which give you an idea of the old architecture and the beauty of the forts in India.
The 2,100 ft high hill is filled with forest cover. Lying on the lower steps of the Chotanagpur plateau, this hill will give you the best views of the area. Trek your way up to the hill and trust me you will not regret coming to this place. The panoramic view of the Damodar River and the surrounding area is truly mesmerizing.
this dam is not exactly located in Garh Panchkot, but you can easily reach the dam on your way to Garh panchkot as a bonus place to visit. Enjoy the beautiful view of the lake on a paddle boat. The dam is very well maintained and safe, so you can easily have a nice time on the waters along the Hyangla pahar. About 30 kilometres away from Asansol, anyone can take a private car and reach the dam via road.
There are various dams on the river Damodar, and the panchet dam was the last one to be constructed. Before this one, three other dams were constructed as a part of the Damodar valley river project. In the year 1959 the 45 metres high and 22,234 ft long dam was constructed across the river Damodar. But the place is not as well connected as the Maithon dam and hence it attracts fewer crowds. The dam is really huge and has a marvellous view. Even though the picnic spots near the Dam are pretty clean, you might have issues with drinking water. Hence carry water bottles with yourself if you are planning to go around the place.
when the dam of Panchet was being constructed on the Damodar River. The ancient remains of an ancient village were discovered. It is believed that Telkupi was an ancient Jain centre, which was almost submerged in the water. Sounds a lot like Atlantis, right? Well it is somewhat the scenario here and you can still see the half submerged temples here. There were a total of five temples in this village. The amazing work of architecture seen on the deul’s at Telkupi show us how skilled the artisans were at that time.
the whole area is dotted with trees and the picturesque landscape is the sole reason why you should visit the place. The lush green forests and view of Dams, along the river Damodar are true nature’s beauty that needs to be appreciated.
Garh Panchkot is definitely the best place for a mini getaway. The beautiful hill and rivers gives off a freshness which will surely help forget your worries. It is very easy to reach Garh Panchkot and do not forget to look out for accommodation beforehand. Take a walk in the forest, go paddle boating on the river and just enjoy yourself.
The history attached to the place has been long forgotten, but the ruins still have many things to say. Indulge in the historic past of this forgotten place that you deserve to enjoy!
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