Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Susunia (Bankura, West Bengal)





A paradise for trekkers, Susunia is 7 Kilometre north to Chatna. One can reach Bankura by train and then after reaching Chatna 13 Kilometre away from there, Susunia the crown of Bankura allures from a distance of a few Kilometres. Not that gigantic in terms of height (440 metre) or width (3.2 Kilometre from East to West), Susunia Hill besides mesmerizing its visitors with its unmatchable serene beauty also surprises him when he comes to know that this ancient hill made of stones from Archaean era is even older than the Great Himalaya. Right at the top of the hill stones of different sizes have flocked together to form a peak like shape popularly known as Poppinse peak. The Gandheshwari River flowing right beneath the hill and trees of different sizes covering the hill with greenery seems to be taking care of this ancient identity with utmost caution.

Brief History of Susunia: In fourth century King Chandravarma of Pushkaran/Pokhran (Located at Jodhpur, Rajasthan) conquered Bengal and set up his castle on Susunia Hill. At the end of the fourth century Chandraverma died in a battle with Gupta King Samudragupta. Chandraverma’s rock encrypts and many other ancient articraft has been found at Susunia in recent days that justifies the history of Susunia.

Places to Watch at Susunia: Susunia is all covered with greenery contributed by Shal, Segun, Palash, Arjun Amlaki and Mahua trees. In autumn the hill apparently looks to be set in fire due to the blooming of red Palash flowers all over its body. The water of the fountain at the foot of the hill believed to be with healing power from many diseases especially those related with bowels. Just opposite to the fountain a stone monument is worshiped as Nrishinghadev an avatar (messiah) of Hindu god Lord Vishnu. A temple of Hindu goddess Kali is also nearby. A visitor should also consider visiting Chatna the capital of now extinct Samanta kindom, to watch the ancient temple of Hindu goddess Vishalakhshmi or Vasuli. The temple was established by King Hamir following the order of the goddess herself in his dream. Famous poet Baru Chandidas was the priest in this temple during the reign of King Hamir. However the original statue of goddess Vishalakhshmi is no longer in this temple it has moved to Dubrajpur, Birbhum. Now a broken stone covered with oil and vermilion is worshiped as the image of the goddess. An inquisitive visitor can also go to Tiluri from Susunia and after a 10 Kilometre walk from there can visit the temple of Biharinath on Crauncho Mountain (Height 448 metre).

Things to collect in Susunia: Susunia is famous for its handicrafts especially stone made ones.

Best time to visit: Summer should always be avoided while visiting Susunia. The best time to visit the place is between November and February.

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