Birbhum’s Best-Kept Secrets: 5 Offbeat Places in Birbhum You Must Explore

Birbhum, a charming district in West Bengal, is rich in opportunities for exploration. Dubbed as the ‘land of the red soil’, Birbhum boasts a plethora of religious, cultural, and natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Let us explore five offbeat places in Birbhum each offering something for everyone.

Sculptures by Ramkinkar Baij

Craving a deeper Shantiniketan experience? Look beyond the bustling Sonajhuri Haat and delve into the world of Ramkinkar Baij, a pioneer of modern Indian sculpture. His evocative yet simple artworks, inspired by daily life and the vibrant Santal community, offer a unique window into the soul of Bengal. Witness “Call of the Mill,” a powerful sculpture capturing the Santals’ response to commercialisation. It’s just one masterpiece among many scattered throughout Shantiniketan, waiting to be explored.  After a day of exploration, find solace at Mohor Kutir, a resort near Shantiniketan, that is inspired by the spirit of Shantiniketan.

Museum of Santal Culture

Step into a living testament to resilience, at this museum dedicated to the Santali community. Journey through aeons of struggle and identity, carefully preserved in hunting tools, musical instruments, and faded photographs. Witness the heart of a community through artefacts and stories, each a vibrant echo of the past. This museum isn’t just a repository, it’s a beacon of cultural pride, educating future generations and nurturing a sense of belonging.

Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary

Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary is a slice of tranquillity for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of the cityscape. Within the sanctuary, spotted deer grace the landscape, especially during their feeding time in the afternoon. With watchtowers overlooking a pristine lake, you can spot vibrant migratory birds with their melodious chatter filling the early morning air. The true companions at this sanctuary are the towering trees and their soothing silence, making it one of the best offbeat places in Birbhum for nature lovers.

Boner Pukur Santal Village

Boner Pukur is a tribal village that takes you on an adventure and offers a different perception of life. Mud houses painted with the imagination of the tribals in the form of expressive murals are a common sight. The local art and culture are incorporated into their everyday activities, giving you an insight into their colourful way of life. The village is close to a picturesque lake, dotted with lush greenery and a favourite among migratory birds, which makes it the perfect picnic spot.

Surul Rajbari

Travel back to a bygone era at Surul Rajbari, a majestic palatial house imbued with ‘Bangaliyana’. Built by Srinivas Sarkar, this almost three-centuries-old wonder stands amidst intricate terracotta temples whispering stories of the past. With a spacious courtyard bathed in nostalgia, arched doorways framing forgotten dreams, and a colour palette echoing whispers of history, time seems to pause within these walls, offering a glimpse into a grander life with a slower pace.

These are only some of the offbeat places in Birbhum. With its abundant cultural heritage and natural splendours, Birbhum attracts travel enthusiasts from all walks of life, every year. With tourism flourishing, the options for accommodation are plentiful. Among them, Mohor Kutir stands out as a hotel near Shantiniketan, renowned for its impeccable service and attention to every guest’s needs.