Draft:Pakhi Pahar

• Comment: The etymology section is entirely unsourced. Best, Reading Beans, Duke of Rivia 14:07, 6 July 2025 (UTC)

• Comment: The etymology section is entirely unsourced. Best, Reading Beans, Duke of Rivia 14:07, 6 July 2025 (UTC)

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Pakhi Pahar, Purulia, West Bengal

Pakhi Pahar (translated as "Bird Hill") is a hill located near the Ajodhya Hills in the Purulia district of West Bengal, India. The hill is known for its large-scale outdoor rock sometimes described as an "open-air art gallery" set against a natural backdrop.

Etymology

The name Pakhi Pahar comes from the Bengali words pakhi (meaning "bird") and pahar (meaning "hill"). The name reflects the rock art carved by artist Chitta Dey, which features numerous bird figures sculpted directly into the hillside, symbolizing the connection between local wildlife and community art.

Location and geography

Pakhi Pahar is situated near the tribal village of Charida, which lies at the foothills of the Ajodhya Hills, part of the eastern Chota Nagpur Plateau. The surrounding region includes undulating terrain, forests, and rocky outcrops. The nearest town, Baghmundi, is about 10 km away, while Purulia town is roughly 50 km from the site. The area is accessible by road and is a stop for tourists exploring nearby sites such as the Ajodhya Hills, Upper Dam, Lower Dam, Marble Lake, and Bamni Falls.

Origins and artistic project

The development of Pakhi Pahar as an art site began in the early 2000s when artist Chitta Dey and a group of local and visiting artists started creating large-scale rock murals of birds. The project was intended to raise awareness about the conservation of local bird species, promote art in natural spaces, and generate sustainable tourism opportunities for local communities. Over time, more than 60 species of birds have been depicted on the hill's rock surfaces, many of which are native to the forests of West Bengal and Jharkhand.

Cultural and social impact

Pakhi Pahar is considered an example of how community-driven art projects can support conservation and rural development. Local residents, including young people from nearby villages, participate in guiding visitors and maintaining the murals to protect them from weathering. Charida village, located nearby, is also known for producing traditional Chhau masks used in the Purulia Chhau dance, which is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. Together, Pakhi Pahar and Charida represent a blend of traditional and contemporary art linked to local culture.

Tourism and activities

Pakhi Pahar attracts nature enthusiasts, trekkers, artists, photographers, and researchers interested in community-led conservation and art. The trekking route to the site offers views of the forests and hills of the Ajodhya range. Popular activities include trekking, rock climbing, birdwatching in the surrounding forests, photography, and visits to Charida village to see mask-making and purchase traditional Chhau masks.

Conservation and challenges

Although Pakhi Pahar is a symbol of community-based art conservation, it faces challenges such as weather-related damage to the rock murals, the need for ongoing maintenance, and balancing tourism growth with environmental protection. Local NGOs, artists, and village councils continue to advocate for sustainable tourism and responsible visitor behaviour.

Access

Pakhi Pahar is accessible by road from Purulia, Jamshedpur, and Ranchi. The nearest railway station is Purulia, which is connected to major cities in West Bengal and Jharkhand. From Purulia town, visitors can hire local transport to reach Baghmundi or Charida village.