Ajodhya Hills, Hill region in Baghmundi, India

Ajodhya Hills is a small plateau with hilly surroundings in Purulia district, West Bengal, forming the easternmost part of the Chhotanagpur Plateau and an extension of the Eastern Ghats. Its highest peak is Chamtuburu, reaching 720 m. The landscape features undulating terrain with scattered hills, ridges, and lateritic soil supporting dry deciduous vegetation.

This region was once part of Bengal Subah under Mughal rule before becoming the Manbhum district during British colonial times. Following India's independence, it was reorganized and is now part of West Bengal.

The Santhal, Bhumij, and Munda peoples practice their traditions here today, including the annual Disum Sendra hunting ritual during the Baisakh full moon. These customs are closely tied to the rhythm of seasons and the natural cycles of the hills.

You can reach the hills through three entry points at Jhalda, Sirkabad, and Baghmundi, with rest houses available at Ajodhya Hilltop. Sturdy shoes and plenty of water are important because the paths are uneven and shade becomes scarce in higher areas.

The rocks of Ajodhya Hills belong to the Chhotanagpur Granite Gneiss Complex and formed more than a billion years ago, in the Mesoproterozoic era. At least 37 geosites in the area are visited for their landforms, and the Madras treeshrew, a small mammal uncommon in West Bengal, has been recorded in the dry deciduous forest.