Jharkhand Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Jharkhand with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local culture, and more.


Jharkhand Travel Guide: Explore the Heart of India’s Culture and Natural Beauty

Located in the eastern region of India, Jharkhand is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. With its dense forests, rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque landscapes, Jharkhand is truly a treat for the senses. In this travel guide, we’ve rounded up all the information you’ll need to plan your trip to Jharkhand, including top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local culture, food and drink scene, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Jharkhand

Jharkhand has an array of attractions that are bound to pique your interest. Here are some of the top ones to check out:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jharkhand is home to several museums that showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage:

  • Tribal Museum: Located in Ranchi, this museum is dedicated to the indigenous people of Jharkhand and displays their art, crafts, and lifestyle.
  • Tagore Hill: This is where the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore wrote many of his famous works. It’s a popular attraction for literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
  • Jagannath Temple: Situated in Ranchi, this temple is known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.

Natural Attractions of Jharkhand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Jharkhand offers an abundance of natural attractions, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers:

  • Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Hazaribagh district, this sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. It’s a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
  • Hundru Falls: This breathtaking waterfall is located in Ranchi and is one of the highest waterfalls in India.
  • Betla National Park: Spread across Palamu, Latehar, and Garhwa districts, this park is known for its lush green forests and wildlife sighting opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jharkhand

Jharkhand has several scenic trekking and biking trails that offer a unique opportunity to explore the state’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Satpahar Trek: This beginner-friendly trail is located in Netarhat and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary: This scenic trail is located in Jamshedpur and takes you through dense forests and sparkling waterfalls.
  • Bhadra Trek: This moderate to difficult trail, located in Hazaribagh, takes you through a hilly terrain and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Best Things to Do in Jharkhand: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural and cultural attractions, Jharkhand offers several other activities and tours that make for a memorable experience. Here are some of the best things to do in Jharkhand:

  • Rock Climbing: Jharkhand is known for its plethora of rock formations, which make it an ideal destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.
  • Heritage Walks: Take a stroll through the villages of Jharkhand and immerse yourself in the state’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Night Safari: Experience the thrill of spotting nocturnal wildlife at the Betla National Park on a night safari.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jharkhand

If you’re planning to spend a week in Jharkhand, here’s an itinerary that covers some of the top attractions and experiences:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Tribal Museum and Tagore Hill in Ranchi
Day 2 Trek through the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 3 Explore the Betla National Park and take a night safari
Day 4 Visit the Jagannath Temple and Sun Temple in Ranchi
Day 5 Take a day trip to the Hundru Falls
Day 6 Go rock climbing in Netarhat
Day 7 Experience the local culture with a heritage walk in the villages of Jharkhand

Food and Drink Scene of Jharkhand

Jharkhand is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, which includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dhuska: A savory pancake made with rice flour and lentils and served with aloo chokha (potato mash).
  • Pitha: A sweet dish made with rice flour, coconut, and jaggery.
  • Handia: A local rice beer, brewed using the traditional fermentation method.

Local Beverages

  • Chaas: A refreshing buttermilk-based drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
  • Sattu: A savory drink made with roasted gram flour, which is both filling and nutritious.

Where to Stay in Jharkhand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jharkhand has accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

  • Ranchi: The capital city of Jharkhand has an array of hotels, from budget guesthouses like Hotel Capitol Hill to luxury properties like Radisson Blu Hotel Ranchi.
  • Hazaribagh: This district has a range of hotels and resorts, including the award-winning Denwa Backwater Escape.
  • Netarhat: This scenic hill station has a few budget guesthouses like Forest Rest House and PWD Rest House.

What to Buy in Jharkhand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jharkhand is known for its rich art and handicrafts, which are uniquely reflective of the state’s cultural heritage. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Tussar Silk: Jharkhand is known for its high-quality Tussar silk, which is both eco-friendly and durable.
  • Wooden Artifacts: The state is home to several skilled wood artisans, who craft intricate wooden artifacts like toys, utensils, and home decor items.
  • Paintings: Jharkhand is known for its traditional and contemporary paintings, which often depict rural life.

Local Culture and Customs of Jharkhand

Jharkhand has a rich cultural heritage, which is heavily influenced by its indigenous tribes. The state celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Sarhul, Karma, and Sohrai. Traditional dance forms like Chhau and Jhumar are also popular in the state.

Best Time to Visit Jharkhand

The best time to visit Jharkhand is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season, between June and September, when the state receives heavy rainfall and the roads may get flooded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jharkhand

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Use eco-friendly products and dispose of waste responsibly.
  • Learn a few words in the local language to help you communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Engage in any activities that harm the wildlife or environment.
  • Wear revealing clothes in public places.
  • Disrespect religious sentiments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jharkhand

As with any travel destination, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety in Jharkhand. Here are a few tips:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.

Health in Jharkhand

Jharkhand is a malaria-prone state, so it’s advisable to take precautions like using mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothes. It’s also recommended to drink bottled or boiled water and avoid eating street food.

Getting to Jharkhand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Jharkhand is well-connected to the rest of India, with several transportation options available:

Airports Near Jharkhand

  • Birsa Munda Airport: Located in Ranchi, this is the busiest airport in Jharkhand, with daily flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

Bus Stations Near Jharkhand

  • Ranchi Bus Stand: Located in the heart of Ranchi, this bus stand connects the city to several other destinations in Jharkhand and neighboring states.
  • Dhanbad Bus Stand: Located in Dhanbad district, this bus stand connects the district to several other parts of Jharkhand and neighboring states.

Other Options

Jharkhand also has a well-connected railway network, with several trains running regularly to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.

How to Get Around in Jharkhand

Jharkhand has a well-developed transportation system, with several options available for getting around:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most cities and are a convenient way to get around.
  • Buses: Jharkhand has a state-run bus service that connects all major cities and towns.
  • Auto Rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation for short distances.

Where to Go Next from Jharkhand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jharkhand is a great starting point for exploring the eastern region of India. Here are some nearby destinations worth checking out:

  • Bihar: The neighboring state of Bihar is home to several cultural and historical attractions, including the ancient city of Nalanda and the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya.
  • Odisha: The neighboring state of Odisha has an array of natural and cultural attractions, including the Konark Sun Temple and Chilika Lake.
  • West Bengal: The state of West Bengal is home to the bustling capital city of Kolkata, as well as several natural attractions like Darjeeling and the Sundarbans National Park.

Conclusion

Jharkhand is a state that’s a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip to Jharkhand with ease and make the most of your time in this vibrant and diverse state.

Location of Jharkhand Location of Jharkhand


    Betla National Park
    Dassam Falls
    Giridih
    Jamshedpur
    Madhupur
    Parasnath Hills
    Ranchi