Giridih Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Giridih in Jharkhand, India? Check out our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top places to visit, hiking/biking routes, local food scene, and more.


Introduction to Giridih

Giridih is a town located in the state of Jharkhand in Eastern India. It is a beautiful town situated amid the rolling hills of Chotanagpur plateau. It is known for its lush green forests, scenic waterfalls, and ancient temples. The town is a perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

List of Places to Visit in Giridih

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Parasnath Hills: These are the highest hills in Jharkhand and an important pilgrimage site for Jains. It is believed that 20 out of 24 Jain Tirthankaras achieved enlightenment here.
  • Khandoli Park: This is a beautiful park situated at the foothills of Parasnath. It is a popular picnic spot and a perfect place for nature walks.
  • Usri Falls: It is a scenic waterfall located 14 km from Giridih town. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 39 feet and is surrounded by lush green forests.
  • Madhuban: It is a popular historical site located 14 km from Giridih. It was once the seat of an ancient kingdom and has several temples dating back to the 12th century.
  • Harihar Dham: It is a famous temple located on the banks of the river Usri. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts several devotees every year.

Natural Attractions of Giridih: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pindari Dam: It is a scenic reservoir located 8 km from Giridih town. It is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
  • Birsa Zoological Park: It is a popular zoo and wildlife sanctuary located 10 km from Giridih. It has several species of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, and deer.
  • Jharkhandi Dham: It is a picturesque temple located on a hill near Giridih town. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
  • Khandoli Hill Station: It is a beautiful hill station located near Giridih. It is a popular spot for trekking, hiking, and camping.
  • Hundru Falls: It is a scenic waterfall located 67 km from Giridih town. It is situated on the Subarnarekha River and is surrounded by lush green forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Giridih

Parasnath Hills Trek

The Parasnath Hills Trek is a popular trekking route that takes you to the summit of the Parasnath hills. It is a challenging trek that takes around 5-6 hours to complete. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Khandoli Hill Trek

The Khandoli Hill Trek is a moderate trek that takes you to the top of Khandoli Hill. It is a short trek that can be completed in 2-3 hours. It provides panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Best Things to Do in Giridih: Activities and Tours

  • Paragliding: Giridih is a popular destination for paragliding enthusiasts. You can enjoy a thrilling paragliding experience at the Parasnath Hills.
  • Wildlife Safari: You can take a wildlife safari at the Birsa Zoological Park and explore the diverse wildlife of the region.
  • River Rafting: You can enjoy river rafting on the Subarnarekha River near Hundru Falls.
  • Spiritual Tour: Giridih is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment. You can take a spiritual tour of the town and visit several ancient temples and shrines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Giridih

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Giridih, relax
2 Trek to Parasnath Hills
3 Visit Khandoli Park
4 Explore Madhuban
5 Enjoy river rafting
6 Take a spiritual tour
7 Depart from Giridih

Food and Drink Scene of Giridih

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dhuska: It is a popular snack made from rice and lentils. It is served with a spicy potato curry.
  • Pittha: It is a type of dumpling made from rice flour and stuffed with a spicy filling of mashed lentils or vegetables.
  • Handia: It is a locally brewed rice beer, which is slightly sour in taste.

Local Beverages

  • Chaach (Buttermilk): It is a refreshing and healthy drink made from curd and water, seasoned with spices.
  • Aam Panha: It is a tangy and sweet drink made from raw mangoes.

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

  • Hotel Ankita: It is a budget hotel located in the heart of Giridih town.
  • Hotel Yugantar: It is a mid-range hotel offering comfortable rooms and amenities.
  • Giridih Tourist Lodge: It is a government-run guesthouse located near the Parasnath Hills.

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

  • Handwoven Textiles: Giridih is famous for its handwoven textiles, including blankets and shawls made from natural fibers.
  • Stone Sculptures: The town is known for its exquisite stone sculptures made by local artisans.
  • Spices: You can buy locally grown spices, including cardamom, turmeric, and cumin, from the local market.

Local Culture and Customs of Giridih

The local culture in Giridih is deeply rooted in tradition and religion. Most of the people in Giridih follow Hinduism and Jainism. The town is known for its colorful festivals, including Holi, Diwali, and Chhath Puja. Chhau dance is a popular traditional dance form of the region.

Best Time to Visit Giridih

The best time to visit Giridih is between October and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The town experiences moderate rainfall during the monsoon season, which lasts from July to September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Giridih

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly while visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Carry insect repellent and sunscreen.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Do not disrespect religious and cultural sentiments of the locals.
  • Do not engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Giridih

Giridih is a safe place to visit, but you should take basic precautions like not venturing out alone at night, avoiding deserted areas, and not carrying large sums of money.

Health in Giridih

Giridih has adequate medical facilities, but it is advisable to carry basic medicines and a first-aid kit. It is essential to drink bottled water and avoid street food.

Getting to Giridih: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Giridih

The nearest airport to Giridih is the Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is around 200 km away.

Bus Stations Near Giridih

Giridih has a well-connected bus network, and several buses run from major cities like Ranchi and Patna.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi or a private car to reach Giridih.

How to Get Around in Giridih

Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for local transportation in Giridih. You can also hire a bike or a car to explore the town and nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Giridih: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rajrappa: It is a popular pilgrimage site located 50 km from Giridih. It is known for its ancient temples and scenic waterfalls.
  • Deoghar: It is a holy city located 100 km from Giridih. It is known for its Baidyanath Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
  • Hazaribagh: It is a beautiful town located 60 km from Giridih. It is known for its scenic hills, dense forests, and ancient temples.

Conclusion

Giridih is a charming town that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Giridih is a perfect destination for you. With its scenic beauty, ancient temples, and delicious food, Giridih is a must-visit place for every traveler. Plan your trip today and experience the beauty of Giridih for yourself.