“The land of the red soil” (Lalbhumi) is also “the land of the brave”. Several brave kings have dominated Birbhum since the beginning. Remnants of civilizations add profound historical importance to place. The district headquarters is Suri. Bolpur-Shantiniketan, Nanor, Joydev-Kenduli, Bakreswar and Nalhati are the principal sites of attraction here. The Visva Bharati University at Shantiniketan, established by Rabindranath Tagore, is one of the internationally renowned places. Many festivals are celebrated in this culturally rich district – Poush Mela, Basanta Utsav, Kenduli Mela etc. Trapaith and Bakreswar are other famous places of attractions.

Tarapith

Tarapith, 80 km from Bolpur, is situated near the Dwaraka River in Birbhum, West Bengal. Close by to the Temple is the Bamdev Shangha Ashram. Enshrined at the Temple is a Murti of the Maa Tara, who according to local legend suckled the thirsty Shiva, and saved him from suffering. The Murti is covered in a golden mask during the day, and during the night they remove this covering. She is described as holding two snakes in her hands, with Lord Shiva on her lap suckling.

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