Matha Forest/Buru
Introduction: Matha Forest, also known by its local name Mathaburu, is a dense, sprawling forest reserve situated at the foothills of the Ajodhya Hills range. This area is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and biodiverse regions in Purulia, serving as a vital ecosystem for regional flora and fauna. The name 'Matha' is derived from the hill that stands prominently within the forest, which locals revere as a sacred deity. The forest is a vibrant tapestry of Palash (Flame of the Forest), Kusum, Sal, and Mahua trees, which transform the landscape into a sea of red and orange during the spring months of February and March. Historically, this forest has been the home of various tribal communities, primarily the Santhals and Mundas, whose culture is deeply intertwined with the woods. The forest is famous for its trekking trails and rock climbing camps, attracting adventure enthusiasts who wish to experience the raw wilderness of the Chota Nagpur Plateau. As you walk through the shaded paths, the air is filled with the scent of wild flowers and the chirping of exotic birds. The terrain is undulating, with small seasonal streams cutting through the forest floor. Matha Forest also serves as an entry point for those ascending towards the Ajodhya Hill plateau, offering a different perspective compared to the main Baghmundi route. The presence of a forest rest house and various eco-resorts allows tourists to stay within the canopy, waking up to the sounds of nature. It is a place where time seems to slow down, and the hustle of urban life is replaced by the rustle of leaves and the distant beat of tribal drums. Whether it is the mystery of the dense woods or the thrill of climbing the Matha peak, the forest offers a sanctuary for the soul.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 6 HoursPlace Type:
Nature / Wildlife / AdventureTiming:
Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM for bird watching or late afternoon at 3:00 PM. The forest is closed to tourists after sunset for safety. ...Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM for bird watching or late afternoon at 3:00 PM. The forest is closed to tourists after sunset for safety.Special Events:
Matha Mela: Held every year on the day after Makar Sankranti in January. It is a major gathering for tribal communities featuring traditional music, cockfights, and food stalls. ...Matha Mela: Held every year on the day after Makar Sankranti in January. It is a major gathering for tribal communities featuring traditional music, cockfights, and food stalls.Best Photo Spots:
The Forest Canopy: Shots taken from the forest floor looking up through the Sal trees create a beautiful pattern of light and shadow.
The Mathaburu Summit: Wide panoramic shots of the Ajodhya range from the top.
...The Forest Canopy: Shots taken from the forest floor looking up through the Sal trees create a beautiful pattern of light and shadow.
The Mathaburu Summit: Wide panoramic shots of the Ajodhya range from the top.
Palash Bloom: Macro shots of the bright red Palash flowers against the blue sky.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Trekking to Mathaburu Peak: Embark on a challenging trek to the summit of the hill for a view that covers the entire Baghmundi valley.
Bird Watching: Carry binoculars to spot the Indian Pitta, Paradise Flycatcher, and various woodpeckers that inhabit the canopy.
Camping: Set up tents in designated zones to experience a night under the stars in the heart of the forest.
Tribal Village Tours: Visit the nearby settlements to see traditional mud houses decorated with Sohrai art and learn about their sustainable lifestyle.
Photography: Capture the "Flame of the Forest" during March or the misty trails during the Monsoon.
Rock Climbing: Participate in the seasonal camps organized by the forest departmen...
Information
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Why Famous:
Biodiversity: Famous for its high concentration of Palash trees and diverse bird species.
Rock Climbing Camps: It is a designated site for state-level rock climbing training camps due to its challenging rocky outcrops.
Read MoreBiodiversity: Famous for its high concentration of Palash trees and diverse bird species.
Rock Climbing Camps: It is a designated site for state-level rock climbing training camps due to its challenging rocky outcrops.
Tribal Culture: Renowned for the Matha Mela where tribal traditions are showcased.Architecture:
Forest Infrastructure: The architecture here is limited to the Forest Range Office and the Matha Tree House, which are designed to blend with the environment using wood and local stone.
Mathaburu Temple: A small, traditional hilltop shrine d...Forest Infrastructure: The architecture here is limited to the Forest Range Office and the Matha Tree House, which are designed to blend with the environment using wood and local stone.
Mathaburu Temple: A small, traditional hilltop shrine dedicated to the forest deity.
Dimensions: The forest range covers approximately 153 square kilometers. The Mathaburu hill rises to an elevation of nearly 2,000 feet (610 meters) above sea level.How To Reach:
By Air: Kolkata (280 km) or Ranchi (120 km).
By Train: Barabhum Railway Station (15 km) is the nearest. Purulia Station (52 km) is also used.
By Road: A scenic drive from Purulia via the Balarampur-Baghmund...Near Tourist Places:
Bamni Falls (15 km), Turga Falls (12 km), PPSP Upper Dam (18 km), Pakhi Pahar (8 km), Charida Village (10 km), Khairabera Dam (22 km), Murguma Dam (25 km), Lower Dam (16 km), Mayur Pahar (14 km), Marvel Lake (16 km).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Do not wander off the main trails without a guide as there are wild animals. Carry insect repellent and wear full-sleeve clothes.
Packing: Binoculars, trekking boots, and a water bottle.
Accomm...
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