1. Moti Jharna

One of the many waterfalls present in the pleasing state of Jharkhand, the Moti Jharna in Sahibganj will leave you awestruck. Moti, which means “pearl,” is an apt name for this gem of a cascade, that will was over all your worries. Symbolizing the beauty of a pearl, the running torrents of white, frothy waters are a great source of happiness and wonder for its visitors. Flowing elegantly from the Rajmahal Hills, the place is a celebrated picnic spot. Tourists flock towards this supreme feat of nature, for entertainment, for clicking breathtaking pictures or to simply gain peace of mind.

2. Shivgadi Temple

The iconic Shivgadi Temple is a place of solace for the worshipers of Lord Shiva. Upon visiting this beautiful temple, you will find yourself miraculously seeking blessings inside a cave. The temple is built inside the cave in such a way, that magical feat is achieved. The mountain, within which the cave is carved, drops water eternally on the Shiva Lingam, as if nature itself is serving its Creator. The temple is flocked with worshipers from all walks of life during the holy festival of Mahashivratri.

3. Palamau Tiger Reserve

An abode of wilderness, the Palamau Tiger Reserve is a serene, wondrous and the only Tiger Reserve in the state of Jharkhand. Meet the golden cat of the jungle within the dense and untamed wild of this tiger reserve. Enjoy an adrenaline pumping safari ride on a jeep, where you can stare danger right in its eye and emerge ecstatic from the thrill. Besides tigers, you can also have the chance to witness the glorious elephants, magnificent deer species and some agile leopards. Each flutter of the leaves will make you jump from your seats, in anticipation of the majestic tigers. The sheer brilliance of this reserve will help you connect with the beauty of unadulterated nature. Transgressing through this tiger reserve is the lovely Koel river, where a few lucky ones can view the royal tigers gracefully in taking gulps of water.

4. Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary

The only bird sanctuary in the state of Jharkhand asks for a special mention. Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary is special for two reasons, for housing innumerable species of colorful, chirpy migratory birds and for having two picturesque lakes within its compound. Serving as a warm haven for the migratory birds that fly in from Serbia and other cold regions of Europe, the bird sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers. Your visit here can be graced by the pleasing presence of birds like storks, egrets, herons, ibis and lapwings. The flocks of the same feathers can be seen painting the sky in lovely formations and colours. The two lakes, namely Berhale and Pataura act as the assembly ground for various birds to quench their thirst in the sunny weather. Some birds that can spotted around this charming watering hole are teals, gulls and cormorants.

5. Teliagarhi Fort

Named after its builder, Teli Zamindar, the Teliagarhi Fort is a magnificent piece of architecture. This historic edifice is built with beautiful arcs and stone brick interiors, which will appeal to the historian inside you. This ruined fortress is a reminder of the rich heritage that India possesses, that remains hidden and unexplored. Near the fort, is the beautiful Raksisthan Temple built in the year 1819. Head over to this majestic fort to discover about Teli Zamindar and his life history, and how he converted to Islam during the reign of Shah Jahan.

To delve into the uncharted environs of Jharkhand, begin with the exploration of Sahibganj. The place has something in store for everything, be it the wildlife lovers, spirituality seekers or history fanatics. To expand your travelling prowess, visit Sahibganj for a surreal travel experience.

Also Checkout These Hot Destinations In Jharkhand:

• Top Places To Visit In Jamshedpur
• Top Places To Visit In Ranchi
• Top Places To Visit In Deoghar

1. Betla National Park

One of the most well-known parks of the area, the Betla National Park is an acronym for ‘bison, elephant, tiger, leopard, axis-axis’. The park has tropical evergreen forests that include bamboo as well as Sal trees. The river Koel flows through the area and creates a rich fertile soil for many medicinal plants to grow. The Park was established initially as the Palamau tiger reserve which was then added to the Mahuadar Wolf Sanctuary. During monsoons, the park becomes a place of safety for the elephants that stay here in hordes. Elephants can be seen here till the month of March, until their water sources aren’t dried up. The best time to visit the park is during May to June when the tourism is at its peak with jeep safaris and elephants rides up for hire. The park also boasts of many waterfalls as well as hot springs and the occasional historical fort.

2. Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the Dalma Hills, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is only 10 kilometres from Jamshedpur city and houses elephants, deer, porcupines as well as the sloth bear. The whole area is under dense forests that double up as safe habitats for wild animals. The sanctuary is a quiet place that one can visit for a short stay with the indigenous flora and fauna.

3. Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary

Inaugurated in the year 1955, Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 90 kilometres from the city of Ranchi. The sanctuary is acts as a home to wild animals like leopards, tigers, neelgai as well as black bears and hyenas. One of the well-known parks of the state, the Hazaribagh Sanctuary is popular amongst tourists who come here to get a glimpse of the tigers. A must visit for anyone who visits the state; the sanctuary provides all facilities required to enjoy nature as its best.

4. Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary

Nestled between the Pataura and Berhale lakes, the Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary is the only bird sanctuary of the state. It is famous for being the stop-over point for a variety of birds that come towards this area during the winters. The overall beauty of the place is heightened with the colourful presence of hundreds of foreign birds that come here to visit. This place is very popular amongst the tourists and can be reached easily through road or by train. The birds that come here include the gray-headed myna, jacanas, dabchicks and many other rare species of birds that can only be found here.

5. Singhbhum Elephant Reserve

One of the very first elephants-only reserves in the country, the Singhbhum Elephant Reserve is one of the establishments created under the Project Elephant. The sheer number of elephants that stay here is amazing and the conservation of the bio-sphere here is impeccable. The elephant abode is home to many migratory birds that come here to visit and the reserve is also home to over 600 different kinds of medicinal plants! One of the very best places to witness wild elephants out in the open, the Singhbhum elephant reserve is a must visit for all elephant lovers!

Jharkhand is known for its forests, timber, temples and the local way of life that have been complimented with the conservation of wildlife and nature in the area. One of the densest forests can be found here, where maximum population of elephants reside. A true gem hidden amongst nature, Jharkhand is a must-visit for its wide range of flora and fauna!

1. Maithon Dam

Constructed on River Barakar, Maithon Dam offers a captivating site to the tourists. A famous picnic spot, this dam was originally constructed for flood control. Currently, it generates about 60,000 kW of electric power. As families and tourists gather to enjoy the calming weather and the soothing scenes, the riverside also provides the visitors with a mesmerizing view of the sunset. However, photography is prohibited around this region.

2. Kalyaneshwar Mandir

Kalyaneshwar temple is at about a distance of 5 km from the Maithon Dam. Interestingly, the dam draws its name from the temple- Maithon or ‘Mai ka Thann’. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti, and witnesses hundreds of pilgrims across the years from across the globe. It is believed that ages ago, human sacrifices were made to the goddess, in order to satiate her and seek her blessings. Multitudes, especially childless women offer sacrifices and prayers at the time praying for their wishes to come true.

3. Panchet Dam

Panchet Dam was constructed as a part of the multi-functional dams built under the Damodar Valley Corporation. It is located across River Damodar and serves multiple purposes like flood control, navigation, irrigation and power generation. The dam is set against the backdrop of the Panchet hills and is an ideal picnic spot. The road leading up to the dam is serpentine in shape and is a challenging ride for bikers and cyclists. The end of monsoon season is the suggested time to visit this place. This is during this time that the gates of the dam are unlocked for the easy flow of water.

4. Jharia

Jharia is one of the largest reservoirs of coal in the state of Jharkhand. It houses massive amounts of bituminous coal, which is burnt to get coke. The place is a major source of economy for Jharkhand. Other than lending a substantial push to the state’s economy, Jharia also attracts a lot of visitors, who are simply taken aback by the colossal spread of the coal mines. Moreover, the place attracts a number of students and academicians who intend to study the field of metallurgy.

5. Bhatinda Falls

Located at a distance of about 14 km from Dhanbad station, the Bhatinda Falls make a perfect picnic spot. Nestled amidst lush green foliage and dense hillock, these waterfalls provide a captivating sight. The falls are lined by huge rocky boulders. The cascading waterfalls instil a sense of calm and tranquillity in nature enthusiasts. The falls are not very high reaching and hence enable the tourists to traverse the upper reaches.

Dhanbad thus, provides the visitors with a confluence of nature and the man-made. While the sight of the enormous coal-mines is an awe-striking one, the soothing nature and waterfalls fill the visitors with a renewed vitality. The suggested time to visit the coal capital of India will be around the months of November and December. This time is particularly suited for those to look forward to camp or set up a picnic nearby the sprawling waters of the falls.

Here Are Some More Tourist Spots Of Jharkhand:

• Popular Places In Jamshedpur
• Popular Places In Giridih
• Popular Places In Sahibganj

1. Bokaro Steel Plant

Being the oldest and the biggest steel plant of the nation, Bokaro steel plant was established by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Bokaro Steel plant fulfils about half of the country’s steel requirement with a total output capacity of about 5 million tonnes per year which will be doubled in a couple of years as the development of the plant is taking place exponentially. The plant is a joint venture of SAIL and DVC. The Bokaro plant is an aspiration of all the engineers across the continent and also a number of tourists flock here to have a look at the intense plant. With quite a number of blast furnaces that operate simultaneously to meet the steel needs of the country, Bokaro is recently getting identified for its production of flat products in India.

2. Garga Dam

Meeting the water supply of the steel plant and also of the residents of the city, Garga dam lies about 12 km from the city centre. The dam is constructed on the Garga River and hence derives its name. Surrounded by lush greenery the dam is an engineering marvel. Being famous for school excursions, the dam is also famous amongst the tourists. One can even witness some great avifauna in the periphery of the dam.

3. Parasnath Hills

Being a pilgrim spot for the Jain devotees, Parasnath Hills are also known as the Shri Sammet Shikhar Teerth by the Jains. With its highest peak, Sikharji is located at an altitude of 1350 meters; it is believed that Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankar attained salvation here and hence making it a pilgrim destination for the Jains. There are many other temples that lay on the Parasnath hills and hence making it a religious spot. Also the beauty that the place compasses makes it calm and serene and is another reason that draws the tourists to enjoy the panorama of the place.

4. City Park

With a Japanese architectural style, The City Park is one of the most happening places of the town. The park has an artificial lake and also has three artificial islands. The park used to be a home to several animals initially which are now shifted to the Jawaharlal Botanical Park. There is a small garden that has been opened here recently and enhances the beauty of the City Park. A toy train also runs through the park and is a major attraction. The park also hosts Basant Mela or the Spring Fiesta every year in February and also Chhath Ka Mela in October-November. These fairs draw a lot of tourists to the place.

5. Ram Mandir

Being one of the oldest and most famous temples, Ram Mandir is dedicated to Lord Rama. Situated in the heart of the city, there is a major market that surrounds the temple. The main temple has gone a considerable amount of renovation in past couple of years but yet the charm of the temple is kept intact. The main temple is surrounded by several other temples dedicated to other Gods and Goddesses.

Bokaro has developed exponentially in past few decades and is still on its development journey. The fairly urbanized town of Bokaro is a must visit when in Jharkhand.

Some More Tourist Destinations Of Jharkhand:

• Must Visit Places In Hazaribagh
• Must Visit Places In Deoghar
• Must Visit Places In Palamu

1. Usri Falls

One of the most popular picnic spots, the Usri Falls are amid the gravelly Parasnath Mountains and a dense forest that provide a naturally peaceful environment. The falls drop about 39ft in three separate streams. Tourists as well as local people are found having a great time with their families and friends, enjoying the gushing sounds of the Usri River. The river is a tributary of the Barakar River and flows as a gorge through the mountains. The Usri Falls are possibly the most sought after location in Giridih.

2. Stevenson Memorial Church

Located in the Pachamba area of Giridih, the Archibald Tempton built the Stevenson Memorial Church in 1871. He visited the region to serve the tribal areas, and established a hospital. One of the doctors, William Henderson Stevenson, is the one the church is named after. Pachamba is an ancient location that tourists are often found in, to pay a visit to the well-known church.

3. Parasnath Hills

Among the best and most beautiful locations of Giridih and Jharkhand, the Parasnath Hills are famous for their scenic environment. On top of one of the hills is a Jain temple, which attracts a lot of devotees and tourists. Jains consider the temple to be one of the most sacred Jain temples, and often visit to pray, and also enjoy the surrounding. It has also become a popular trekking spot, and devotees walk up to the temple amidst the lush green trees and peaceful atmosphere.

4. Rani Sati Mandir

Close to the Usri Falls and amid the Parasnath Hills, is located a shrine known as Rani Sati Mandir. Devotees, who come to visit the Jain temple on top of the Parasnath Hills, also find themselves in the Rani Sati Mandir to pay their respects. Tourists too, are attracted to the pilgrimage site where annual festivals are hosted, albeit on a small scale.

5. Jain Museum

Located in Madhuban, which is fairly close to Giridih, the Jain museum contains a host of ancient, old scriptures, idols, and manuscripts. There is a telescope installed in the balcony of the museum, and tourists usually take a clear look at the entirety of the Parasnath Hills. Madhuban is a village housing a renowned temple, which is known to be over 2000 years old. It is a place of significance for Jain devotees, and the museum is another major attraction for them, as they find a lot of knowledge through the various scriptures and manuscripts.

Giridih is another one of Jharkhand’s most interesting locations, with the scenic beauty, hills, the importance and spread of Jainism. It attracts tourists due to its picturesque and beautiful atmosphere, and the town is admired by all.

Some Other Places To Visit In Jharkhand:

• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Jamshedpur
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Ranchi
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Dhanbad

Even though the Netarhat region can be a boon to the wandering soul, this territory has been negligibly explored. Despite of which, the place has many mesmerizing sights to offer. The opulent view of the sunrise and sunset from Magnolia point is truly captivating and it is one of the most splendid tourist spots in Netarhat. Other prominent attractions of the town include the Upper Ghagri Falls and the Lower Ghagri Falls, Koel View Point, Sadni Hills and Lodhi Falls. Here are the top five places to visit in Netarhat.

1. The Upper Ghagri Falls

Situated around 4 km from the plateau of Netarhat, Upper Ghagri waterfalls are known for their ethereal beauty. The opulent waterfalls lend to the surrealist nature surrounding the area. The gushing waterfalls not only appeal to aesthetic senses of the visitors, but also fill them with a sense of calm and peace.

2. Lower Ghaghri Falls

The Lower Ghagri Falls are located about 10 km from Netarhat. The cascading waterfalls descend from a height of 320 ft. Located in a very dense forest region; these waterfalls are the 33rd highest waterfall in India. The noises of the water hitting against the boulders and rocks in the hillocks reverberate over metres. The falls appeals to all-nature enthusiast, trekkers and those who seek recourse from the hustles of everyday life.

3. Magnolia Sunset Point

This mesmerizing point is located at a distance of 10 km from the plateau region. This tourist spot attracts hundreds of visitors every day. The point is located in the vicinity of the Vindhya Hills, and is renowned for its awe-inspiring view during sunset and sunrise. According to a colonial legend, a British girl named Magnolia, had plunged to death from the cliff as she was ridiculed for having fallen in love with a local shepherd. The cliff was renamed as Magnolia Point posthumously.

4. Koel View Point

Koel View Point, situated at a distance of 3km from Netarhat is yet another attraction for those who seek calm in the bounty of nature. The Point offers a clear glance at the River Koel.

5. Sadni Falls

The Sadni Falls are situated about 35 km from the region of Netarhat. These Falls cascade down in the shape of a snake and the resounding waters only add to the effect. The surroundings are astounding with bold hillocks, ornate forests and gushing stream.

Netarhat is easily accessible by air, road and rail. Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi is the nearest airport, which is located at a distance of about 146 kms from the hill station. Also located at a distance of 145 kms is the Ranchi Railway Station. Those who prefer travelling by road can drive upto Netarhat in private cars, taxis or buses.

Some More Tourist Destinations In Jharkhand:

• Major Attractions In Dhanbad
• Major Attractions In Bokaro
• Major Attractions In Palamu

1. Baba Baidyanath Temple

Shrine of one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the Baba Baidyanath temple houses twenty-one other temples of different Gods and Goddesses. It is said that Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva and offered his ten heads as sacrifice; impressed with which, Lord Shiva came to cure him as a ‘Vaidya’—doctor. That is how the temple derives its name ‘Baidyanath’. The temple is also one of the Shakti peeths, with the two temples — of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva — linked together to show the sacred bond of Shiva and Shakti. In the month of Shravan (August), the devotees bring sacred water from the Ganges to wash the Jyotirlinga with.

2. Ram-Krishna Mission Vidyapeeth

Located in the heart of Deoghar, and established in 1922, Ram-Krishna Mission Vidyapeeth is the oldest educational institution of the Ram-Krishna Mission. It is now a senior secondary school for boys, and used to be visited by the brother disciples of Swami Vivekananda. Monks and Brahmacharins run the institution, which includes teachers from all over India, along with those from foreign countries. There is a greenhouse and a small medicinal orchard aside from an established museum showing the ancient and tribal heritage of India. The most attractive feature is the temple of Shri Ram Krishna where religious festivals are carried out.

3. Mandar Hill

One of the well-known pilgrimage destinations, Mandar Hill is located in the Bounsi block, at a height of 700ft. According to mythological legends, the place is described as ‘Sumeru Parvat’, which was used as the churning hill during Amrit Manthan (Churning of the seas). A temple is built on top of this hill in memory of, and to pay respect to the 12th Jain Tirthankar Vasupujya. Surrounded by a vast lake, amid which is the Vishnu-Lakshmi temple, Mandar Hill is one of the most sought after pilgrimage location.

4. Dev Sangh Ashram

Also known as the Nav Durga Mandir, Dev Sangh Ashram is a temple dedicated to the nine avatars of Goddess Durga. The temple also houses other deities such as Lord Shiva, Goddess Saraswati, Annapurna etc. The temple conducts annual Durga Pooja, which attracts devotees in a large number from West Bengal, Odissa among other regions in and around Jharkhand. There is also a samadhi of Acharya Narendranath Brahmachari in the temple premises.

5. Noulakha Temple

Located about 2km away from the Baba Baidyanath Temple, the Noulakha temple is a shrine of the idols of Radha and Krishna; also a major Hindu pilgrimage centre. A calm and peaceful temple, it stretches to about 146ft in height. Built in 1948, the Noulakha temple was the creation of a saint known as Shree Balananda Brahmachari. A queen of the Pathuria Ghat royal family, Rani Charushila, is said to have donated the money for this temple to be built. It is believed that she had lost her son and husband, which led to her approaching the saint in her sorrowful state. He then advised her to have said temple constructed. It is about 8km away from Tapovan— another area that consists of a number of caves, where the saint Balananda used to meditate.

Jharkhand has a lot of interesting places one can visit, and Deoghar is one of the few that captures the attention of tourists and pilgrims alike. The religious heritage of the town attracts devotees every year, and even tourists find themselves in this spot to explore its religious importance.

Other Major Tourist Destinations In Jharkhand:

• Top Tourist Destinations In Ranchi
• Top Tourist Destinations In Giridih
• Top Tourist Destinations In Sahibganj

1. Betla National Park

The Betla National Park, located on the Ranchi-Daltonganj Road is a lush tract opulently enclosed within forests, valleys and hills. The national park which spans an area of 226 sq. kms is home to 39 species of mammals and 174 species of birds. Tiger, Sambhar, Leopard, Elephant, India Gaur (Bison), Chitalor, wild boar are the wildly found species in the area. The forest has about 970 species of identified plants, of which over 180 species have pharmaceutical benefits. Besides this, the region also harbours a number of exotic as well as indigenous reptiles. Tourists can explore the uncharted territories of the part in a jeep. They can hire a guide and drive through the think trails of sal and bamboo. They also have the option of roving the area on elephant backs or on foot. The park also has watch towers for a safer view of the wildlife. Tree houses can be rented out for an authentic experience of the park.

2. Palamu Tiger Reserve

The Palamau Tiger Reserve in Jharkhand was affirmed a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1973. This reserve spans across an area of 928 sq km and houses a rich biodiversity. The reserve brims with a variety of flora and fauna. Some of the animals seen in the Tiger Reserve are tiger, wild dog, jungle cat, and four-horned antelope. The reserve is also replete with a number of medicinal herbs, grassy patches and bamboo trees. The reserve attracts a number of nature enthusiasts owing to its mesmerising hills and cascading waterfalls. Netarhat, Gulgul, Huluk and Murhu are some alluring hills which flank the area of the reserve. The reserve is also known for its enticing and soothing waterfalls like the Suga Bandh Waterfalls, the Mirchaiya Waterfalls and the Lodh Falls. The Palamu Tiger Reserve is also included in Red data book of the International Union for Conservation of nature and neutral resources (I.U.C.N.) and the appendices of Convention on International trade in endangered species of flora and fauna (C.I.T.E.S.).

3. Lodh Waterfalls

About 60 kms away from Netarhat deep in to the forests the river Burha makes an enticing and majestic water fall of about 468 feet height claiming to be the highest waterfall of Jharkhand. The roaring sound of the Lodh Waterfalls reverberates up to 10 kms. The waterfalls provide the tourists with a holistic experience wherein calm and peace sink deep into the body and soul of the visitor. The sight of the cascading waters falling from a height of 468 feet is an enchanting and captivating experience.

4. Shahpur Village

Shahpur Village is situated on the banks of River Koel. The village is located opposite Daltonganj, the district headquarters, and is famous for its white temple. It is believed that the white temple and the masonry building were constructed in the 18th century under the rule of Gopal Rai. Shahpur stands on an elevated tract of land and the white temple and the masonry building offer a vivid view from Daltonganj. However, on a closer look, the white temple is seen to be an incomplete building of little architectural relevance.

5. Palamu Fort

There are two forts inside the jungle of Aurangabad on Sher Shah Suri tract near Daltonganj. Legend has it that these forts were the palaces of the Chero Kings. Although built more or less around the same time, the two forts are distinguished as Purana Qila and Naya Qila. These majestic forts were built according to the Mughal architecture and were meant to provide resistance against danger from all directions. The Naya Quila is famous for its majestic Nagpuri Gate, which was believed to be brought here by the Rajas of Palamu. The two forts are of immense cultural and historical relevance.

The best time to visit this district in Jharkhand will be after summer, right before the advent of winter. This place also attracts a number of wildlife documentarians and wildlife photographers.

More Tourist Hotspots In Jharkhand:

• Best Places To Visit In Deoghar
• Best Places To Visit In Netarhat
• Best Places To Visit In Sahibganj

1. Hazaribagh Lake

Located in the centre of the city and wrapped around with bungalows of important government and juridical officials, Hazaribagh Lake is one of the most prominent features of the town. The lake encompasses its own uniqueness as it is divided into four distinct segments. Closed with the Urban Haat and AIR offices on the northern side, it is the edge of the third partition that is offers a scenic charm for gazing the horizon at the dusk and the dawn. The third partition is also the largest part of the lake. The lake also offers water activities and is a well-known picnic spot amongst the locals. One can also indulge in leisure walks and can enjoy toy train rides at the cafeteria nearby when visiting the Hazaribagh Lake.

2. Rajrappa

An important temple dedicated to Goddess Chinnamastaka, Rajrappa Temple stands at the merger of River Damodar and River Bhairavi. The River Bhairavi merges with River Damodar falling from a height of 30 ft. This in turn results in a beautiful waterfall that is in the vicinity of the temple. The waterfalls are a famous picnic spot due its enchanting beauty and also has allows boating activities which is a favourite amongst the visitors here. The temple is famous for its headless idol and the practice of ‘bali’ (animal sacrifice) is still a custom here. Apart from the main deity there are idols of ten other deities here. The temple is of historical importance and draws a large number of devotees on daily basis.

3. Hazaribagh National Park

Scattered in an area of approximately 186 km, Hazaribagh National Park is a home to a diverse variety of fauna. The national park is famous for homing the cheetals, sambhars, neelgai, bisons, spotted deer and kakars. Since the place has an accessible road of about 111km, it helps the tourists to visit the remotest parts of the national park and watch the wild in their natural habitat. There are also watch towers that are wisely constructed to watch the wild and yet staying at a safe distance from them. As per the last census there were only 14 tigers left in the area and hence are difficult to spot.

4. Konar Dam

One of the most picturesque destinations of the area is the Konar Dam. Situated on a tributary of the Damodar River, Konar, the dam is constructed. This dam is the second project of four that are built on the tributaries of Damodar River by the Damodar Valley Corporation. The dam is about 160 ft in height and 14900ft in length. The dam also has a huge reservoir which is the main attraction of the place. The reservoir offers a serene and tranquil view of the water collected and is a picture perfect place. There is another small reservoir on the way to the main reservoir. The place wraps a postcard view and is a perfect place to spend your day at.

5. Canary Hills

Jammed amidst a thick forest cover, Canary Hills is another important landmark of the city. The hills have a small lake at its base and offer a panoramic view of the entire Hazaribagh city. The place is also famous amongst the trekkers as it is said the trek offers a splendid view throughout the path. One can either drive to the top of the Canary Hills or alternatively climb the steps to reach the top. At the top of the hill is a rest house which also homes an observation tower and offers an extended view of the Eastern part of the Hazaribagh forest.

Hazaribagh has a laid back approach when it comes to city life but is an important pilgrim destination in Jharkhand. Apart from being dotted with religious places it also offers a scenic charm where one will easily lose them.

Other Interesting Places In Jharkhand:

• Top Tourist Places In Jamshedpur
• Top Tourist Places In Bokaro
• Top Tourist Places In Netarhat

Palamau Tiger Reserve is one of the first nine tiger reserves to be set up in the country and the only one that exists in the state of Jharkhand. It occupies an area of 1026 sq km on the Chota Nagpur Plateau and encompasses the famous Betla National Park and the Palamau Sanctuary in the core area. This tiger reserve is the first of its kind in the world where the first tiger consensus was conducted by way of pug marks.

Palamau is known for its rich & rare flora and houses endangered species of fauna. Elephants and tigers are the main attraction here. Apart from that many excursion tours can be arranged to the splendid waterfalls nearby.

Climatic Conditions

Extreme climatic conditions are found to persist in the Palamau tiger reserve with summers being really hot and dry. Maximum temperature during summers can reach upto 48 °C (118 °F). The winter season although pleasant, can become too cold at times with temperature reaching down to 3 °C or 38 °F.

Best Time To Visit

The summer time can often be unpleasant. Therefore, it is recommended that you plan your visit to Palamau tiger reserve during the winter season between February and April.

Wildlife & Vegetation

Palamau tiger reserve falls under the Indo – Malayan realm and houses an immense variety of fauna and flora. Along with the adjacent Betla National park, you can witness a large amount of biodiversity.

• Animals

Palamau tiger reserve is known to house a variety of endangered species such as tigers. While tiger is the ‘signature’ species here, other predators found to roam here include leopards, wolves, wild dogs and jungle cats. Other animals found here are sloth bear, four horned antelope, barking deer, mouse deer, gaur, chital, sambhar and elephants. Many species of insects also reside in Palamau.

• Birds

Around 140 species of birds are reportedly found in Palamau tiger reserve including partridges, peafowl, red jungle fowl, owls, babblers, tailor bird, red vented bulbul, blue – throated barbet, small green bee-eater, Grey heron, Crested hawk eagle and vultures. It is the first time in 10 years that a vulture was spotted in Palamau.

• Reptiles

Many varieties of snakes and lizards are found in Palamau. Snakes that can be spotted here include red sand boa, Indian cobra, Banded krait, king cobra, rat snake, python, russell’s viper etc. Lizards found here include chameleon, Indian house gecko, rock lizard, monitor lizard etc.

• Vegetation

The undulation terrain of Palamau is covered with dry deciduous forests comprising mainly of Sal trees occupying the valleys and slopes while bamboos and grass patches reside in the ground state. Floral species found here include Anogeisus latifolia, Butea monosperma, Shorea robusta, Acacia catechu, Terminalia tomentosa, Pterocarpus marsupium, Bothriochloa montana, Adina cardifolia, Indigofera pulchela, Madhuca indica, Moghania spp, Mallotus phillipinensis, Acacia catechu, Holarrhena antidysentrica and Apluda mutica etc.

Distance from nearby and major cities

Palamau tiger reserve is close the capital city of Ranchi as well as the town of Daltonganj. Distance from these nearby and other major cities is as follows:

• Betla: 38 km via NH 75
• Latehar: 71 km via NH 75
• Ranchi: 186 km via NH 75
• Hazaribagh: 188 km via Medininagar – Balumath Rd and NH 100
• Patna: 245 km via NH 98
• Daltonganj: 268 km via Medininagar – Balumath Rd and NH 100.
• Kolkata: 576 km via NH 2
• Lucknow: 585 km via NH 2
• New Delhi: 1060 km via NH 2

How to reach

• By air: Nearest airport is located at Ranchi, 120 km away.
• By rail: The nearest railhead is located at Daltonganj which is well connected to other cities in India.
• By road: Palamau is well connected to Ranchi, Daltonganj, Latehgar, Hazaribagh and Patna by road. Various buses run by the state transport corporation as well as private companies are available.

Local Attractions

• Inside the park, you can avail jeep safaris and elephant rides to go around an explore the wilderness.
• Many waterfalls are located near Palamau tiger reserve. Excursion tours to these waterfalls can be arranged. These include Tatapani hot waterfall which is about 18 km away from Barwadih railway station and accomoodates hot water, Kanti water fall is 23 km from Latehar and is a popular picnic spot, Lodh falls which are 60 km from Netarhat and fall from a height of 320 ft and Mirchaiya water fall composed of water as pure as distilled water.
• Fort of Palamau built by Raja Mansingh and Raja Modini Ray is an epitome of architectural brilliance and worth a visit.

Accommodation

Many hotels are available for accommodation at Daltonganj and Ranchi. To mention a few:

• Hotel Satyam

Near Bus Depot,
Ratanlal Petrol Pump,
Daltonganj- 822101
Tel: 06562-225969

• Hotel Natraj

Opposite Bus Depot,
Kutchery Road,
Daltonganj, 822101
Tel: 06562-224483

Other Useful Information

• Contact The Field Director, Project Tiger. Palamau Tiger Reserve. Daltonganj, Jharkand 822001 regarding entry fee, permits and accommodation.
• This area is affected by Naxals.