Nestled in the serene landscapes of Bankura district, West Bengal, Mukutmanipur is a tranquil retreat that offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Situated at the confluence of the Kangsabati and Kumari rivers, this quaint town is renowned for its majestic dam, lush forests, and spiritual sites, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and peace seekers alike.
With hills and forests surrounding a huge water body that changes its color in different seasons, Mukutmanipur is the right place for those who are looking for some adventure along with absolute relaxation. Nestling at the confluence of two beautiful rivers – Kumari and Kansavati, Mukutmanipur is located in Bankura district of West Bengal. This wonderful destination is also a favorite picnic spot, attracting hoards of picnic crowds. This serene place is also famous for housing the second largest water barrage across India that canalizes Kumari and Kansavati Rivers into the 3 districts of West Bengal – Midnapore (West), Purulia and Bankura to facilitate irrigation of 8,000 square kilometers during the scorching summer.
Kangsabati Dam
Kangsabati dam was built along 11 km to grant irrigation facilities to the arable land of 8,000 sq. km, covering Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Medinipur and some parts of upper Hooghly. This is the main attraction among Mukutmanipur sightseeing places. This Mukutmanipur dam, known as the second largest earthen dam in India, was constructed under the administration of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, the then Bengal’s Chief Minister. The Kangsabati Dam has become a picnic spot, frequented by people for leisure.In the monsoon, from July to September, Mukutmanipur sports a different look altogether. When the reservoir is full and the Kangsabati spills its gorge the rhythmic music of water will leave you spellbound. It is a different feel visiting Mukutmanipur in the winter.
Sonajhuri Nature Park
The view of Mukutmanipur in the evening when its close to sunset, merged with the entire backdrop is breathtaking.The road by the dam can be driven on and is a smooth ride, a very romantic one at that.The sky takes on shades of orange during sunrise and sunset, the colour that gives you hope that the sun will set only to rise again.
Ambikanagar Temple
Maa Ambika is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Goddess Durga is worshipped as Maa Ambika in Ambikanagar village (near about 5 km from Mukutmanipur) of Bankura district. It is known that Maa Ambika is being worshipped here for last 700 years. This village is situated at the mating place of Kanshai and Kumari Rivers. Ambika temple is located at the banks. Maa Ambika is now worshipped daily. Worship continuous from 9 am to 10am and also from 7pm to 9 pm. Maa Ambika is considered to be a very much ‘alive’ goddess by local inhabitants. ‘Khichudi’ is cooked on a day of first week during monsoons. Many tourists get chance to taste this ‘Khichudi bhog’. 700 years ago, one Sri Khargeswar Singh selected this spot on his holy voyage from Rajasthan. He founded his dynasty here. Later he got the dream orders of Maa Ambika. Maa Ambika emerged from within the soil and is worshipped there. Later the temple is created by assembling stones. The temple later went through many renovations. Ambikanagar is the nomenclature coined to erstwhile “Biratnagar” following Maa Ambika’s temple.
Musafirana Viewpoint
Vast stretch of water at one side, lush green valley on the other and the blue sky overhead – that is Musafirana view-point all about. From here you will get the best view of Mukutmanipur. The evening breeze and duck will complete the mystic interaction of colors of nature.
Pareshnath Shiv Mandir
A hillock near Musafirana view point this is the abode of the Shiva deity named Pareshnath in Mukutmanipur. It is of a very ancient origin. Every year in the month of January a mela is organized by the local folk which attracts pilgrims and tourist from nearby districts. On the day of Makar Sankranti the tribals of Bankura and Purulia celebrate the Tusu festival in the month of Poush. Tusu fair is also held on the bank of Pareshnath Hill.
Bonpukuria Deer Park
Bankupuria deer park is situated in the middle of the Mukutmanipur dam. Take a boat ride to reach the other side of the dam. From there you can either walk or hire a motor rickshaw to cover the distance of 2 km.There are around 40 deers present in the park. The lush green environment adds to the natural beauty of the place. One can also find eagles and species of different birds in the forest. A visit to the Bankupuria Deer Park is a perfect outing for the family. It is advisable to carry binoculars to the park as it becomes easier to spot birds. The boat ride is an added feature to the place. Photographs too can be taken inside the park.