Famous Tourist Places in Jharkhand Jharkhand, often called the “Land of Forests,” is one of India’s most underrated and least explored tourist destinations. With its rich tribal culture, diverse landscapes, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and historic temples, Jharkhand offers a unique experience for travelers seeking an offbeat destination. Located in the eastern part of India, Jharkhand was carved out of the southern part of Bihar in 2000 and has since become a hub for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers.
This article provides an in-depth look at some of the most famous tourist places in Jharkhand, detailing their history, attractions, activities, and best times to visit. Let’s explore the gems of Jharkhand!
1. Ranchi: The City of Waterfalls
Overview
Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand, is known as the “City of Waterfalls” due to the numerous stunning waterfalls that dot its landscape. Located at an elevation of 2,140 feet above sea level, Ranchi offers a pleasant climate throughout the year. The city is a blend of natural beauty and modern infrastructure, making it a popular destination for both leisure and business travelers.
Famous Attractions in Ranchi
- Dassam Falls: Located 40 km from Ranchi, Dassam Falls is a spectacular sight where the Kanchi River drops from a height of about 144 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests, making it a popular picnic spot.
- Jonha Falls: Also known as Gautamdhara, Jonha Falls is named after Lord Buddha, whose temple is situated nearby. The waterfall drops from a height of 43 meters and is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil environment for visitors.
- Hirni Falls: A picturesque waterfall located 70 km from Ranchi, Hirni Falls is a favorite among tourists for its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance.
- Rock Garden and Kanke Dam: The Rock Garden, located near Kanke Dam, is a beautifully landscaped garden built from recycled rocks and materials. The dam offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is an ideal spot for boating and picnics.
- Jagannath Temple: A smaller replica of the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Jagannath Temple in Ranchi is perched on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the city. The temple is particularly famous for its annual Rath Yatra.
Activities in Ranchi
- Trekking and Hiking: Ranchi’s hilly terrain offers ample opportunities for trekking and hiking, especially around the waterfalls and forest areas.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a day out with family or friends at one of the many scenic picnic spots, such as Dassam Falls, Jonha Falls, or Kanke Dam.
- Boating: Take a boat ride at Kanke Dam to enjoy the serene surroundings.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ranchi is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
2. Jamshedpur: The Steel City of India
Overview
Jamshedpur, also known as Tatanagar, is the largest city in Jharkhand and the industrial heart of the state. Founded by the industrialist Jamsetji Tata, Jamshedpur is home to Tata Steel, one of the largest steel manufacturing companies in the world. Despite its industrial nature, the city is known for its cleanliness, greenery, and well-planned infrastructure.
Famous Attractions in Jamshedpur
- Jubilee Park: Spread over 225 acres, Jubilee Park is a beautiful urban park gifted by Tata Steel to the citizens of Jamshedpur. The park features lush lawns, colorful flowerbeds, fountains, and an amusement park, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists.
- Dimna Lake: Located at the foot of the Dalma Hills, Dimna Lake is an artificial reservoir built by Tata Steel. It is a popular destination for boating, picnicking, and water sports such as jet skiing and rowing.
- Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated on the Dalma Hills, this sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and barking deer. The sanctuary is also a haven for bird watchers, with numerous species of birds found in the area.
- Tata Steel Zoological Park: Located near Jubilee Park, this zoo houses a variety of animals, birds, and reptiles in a natural environment. It is a great place for families and children to learn about wildlife conservation.
- Bhuvaneshwari Temple: Situated on a hilltop, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhuvaneshwari and offers panoramic views of the city.
Activities in Jamshedpur
- Boating and Water Sports: Enjoy boating, kayaking, and other water sports at Dimna Lake.
- Wildlife Safari: Take a wildlife safari in Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, leopards, and other animals.
- Cycling and Jogging: Jubilee Park offers well-maintained tracks for cycling and jogging.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Jamshedpur is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
3. Deoghar: The Abode of Gods
Overview
Deoghar, also known as Baidyanath Dham, is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in India. It is home to the famous Baidyanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Deoghar is also known for its natural beauty, with lush green forests, hills, and serene landscapes.
Famous Attractions in Deoghar
- Baidyanath Temple: One of the most revered Hindu shrines, Baidyanath Temple attracts millions of devotees, especially during the Shravan Mela in July and August. The temple complex consists of 22 temples, with the main temple housing the sacred Jyotirlinga.
- Nandan Pahar: A small hill park with a lake and an amusement park, Nandan Pahar offers a great spot for picnics and family outings. It also has a temple dedicated to Nandi, the bull of Lord Shiva.
- Trikuta Parvat: A group of three hills located about 10 km from Deoghar, Trikuta Parvat is considered sacred and is a popular trekking destination.
- Naulakha Mandir: This temple is known for its unique architecture and resembles the famous Ramakrishna Temple in Belur, West Bengal. It is dedicated to Radha-Krishna and attracts many devotees.
- Tapovan Caves and Hills: Located 10 km from Deoghar, these caves are believed to be the meditation site of Sage Valmiki. The area is known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Activities in Deoghar
- Pilgrimage: Visit the Baidyanath Temple and other religious sites to seek blessings and experience the spiritual ambiance.
- Trekking: Trek up the Trikuta Parvat for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic at Nandan Pahar or Tapovan Hills.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Deoghar is from October to March. However, for those interested in attending the Shravan Mela, July and August are the months to visit.
4. Hazaribagh: The Land of Thousand Gardens
Overview
Hazaribagh, which literally means “Land of Thousand Gardens,” is a beautiful town located in the north Chotanagpur plateau of Jharkhand. It is known for its rich flora and fauna, picturesque landscapes, and moderate climate. The town serves as a base for exploring the Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India.
Famous Attractions in Hazaribagh
- Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over 186 square kilometers, this sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, deer, bears, and numerous bird species. The sanctuary offers jeep safaris and trekking opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Hazaribagh National Park: Known for its dense forests, meadows, and beautiful lakes, the national park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Rajrappa Temple: Located at the confluence of the Damodar and Bhairavi rivers, Rajrappa Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chinnamasta and is a major pilgrimage site. The temple is known for its unique Tantric architecture.
- Canary Hill: A popular hill located in Hazaribagh, Canary Hill offers panoramic views of the town and its surroundings. The hill has a watchtower and a park, making it a great spot for picnics and photography.
- Hazaribagh Lake: A scenic lake surrounded by hills and forests, Hazaribagh Lake is a perfect place for boating, fishing, and leisurely walks.
Activities in Hazaribagh
- Wildlife Safari: Explore the Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park on a jeep safari to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife.
- Boating and Fishing: Enjoy boating and fishing at Hazaribagh Lake.
- Trekking: Trek up Canary Hill for stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hazaribagh is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for outdoor activities.
5. Netarhat: The Queen of Chotanagpur
Overview
Netarhat, often referred to as the “Queen of Chotanagpur,” is a hill station located in the Latehar district of Jharkhand. At an altitude of 3,622 feet, Netarhat is known for its pleasant climate, dense forests, and stunning views of the sunrise and sunset. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, honeymooners, and adventure enthusiasts.
Famous Attractions in Netarhat
- Sunrise and Sunset Points: Netarhat is famous for its breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset. Magnolia Point is a popular spot to watch the sun setting over the hills, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
- Netarhat Dam: A beautiful dam located amidst the lush green forests, Netarhat Dam is a great place for picnics and leisurely walks.
- Upper Ghaghri Falls: A stunning waterfall located near Netarhat, Upper Ghaghri Falls is surrounded by dense forests and offers a serene environment for relaxation and photography.
- Koel View Point: This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the Koel River and the surrounding valleys, making it a popular spot for photography.
- Pine Forests: The pine forests of Netarhat are a major attraction for nature lovers and photographers. The forests offer a tranquil environment for walks, picnics, and meditation.
Activities in Netarhat
- Photography: Capture the stunning views of the sunrise, sunset, and landscapes.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic at Netarhat Dam or Upper Ghaghri Falls.
- Nature Walks: Explore the pine forests and enjoy the serenity of nature.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Netarhat is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
6. Betla National Park: A Wildlife Paradise
Overview
Betla National Park, located in the Latehar district, is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Jharkhand. The park covers an area of 1,026 square kilometers and is known for its rich biodiversity, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species. Betla National Park is a part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve, one of the earliest tiger reserves in India.
Famous Attractions in Betla National Park
- Wildlife Safari: Betla National Park offers both jeep and elephant safaris, providing visitors with a chance to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and several species of deer.
- Betla Fort: Located within the park, Betla Fort is a historical fort built in the 16th century by the Chero kings. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding forests and is a popular spot for history enthusiasts.
- Upper and Lower Ghaghri Falls: These two beautiful waterfalls are located near Betla National Park and are popular spots for picnics and photography.
- Palamau Tiger Reserve: The park is part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve, which was established in 1974 as one of the first nine tiger reserves in India under Project Tiger.
Activities in Betla National Park
- Wildlife Safari: Explore the park on a jeep or elephant safari to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.
- Bird Watching: The park is a haven for bird watchers, with numerous species of birds found in the area.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and historical structures.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Betla National Park is from November to April when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
7. Palamu Fort: A Historical Gem
Overview
Palamu Fort is a historic fort located in the Palamu district of Jharkhand. Built by the Chero kings in the 16th century, the fort is a blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. The fort complex consists of two parts – the Old Fort and the New Fort, both of which are in ruins but still hold historical significance.
Famous Attractions in Palamu Fort
- Old Fort: The Old Fort is believed to have been built by the Chero king, Raja Medini Ray, in the 16th century. It is located on a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
- New Fort: The New Fort, built in the 17th century, is located near the Old Fort and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. The fort also has several underground passages and tunnels.
- Ranchi Hill: A popular viewpoint located near Palamu Fort, Ranchi Hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great spot for photography.
Activities in Palamu Fort
- Exploration: Explore the ruins of the Old Fort and New Fort to learn about the history and architecture of the region.
- Photography: Capture the stunning views from Ranchi Hill and the intricate carvings of the fort.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Palamu Fort is from October to March when the weather is cool and comfortable for exploration.
Conclusion: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Jharkhand
Jharkhand is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. From the vibrant city of Ranchi to the serene hill station of Netarhat, and from the spiritual abode of Deoghar to the wildlife paradise of Betla National Park, the state offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Jharkhand has something to offer you.
So pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Jharkhand, a state that promises to leave you mesmerized with its charm and beauty.