Search Destination

Jharkhand

Jharkhand Best Visit Time

Best Time to Visit:

Summer:

Winter:

Monsoon:

Introduction
Jharkhand is a beautiful state in eastern India, located on the picturesque Chhota Nagpur Plateau. The state's natural bounty has been well maintained due to the tribal population, which controls the majority of the territory and strives to conserve nature at its finest. Jharkhand is home to lush green forests, lofty hills, glistening waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and a plethora of migrating birds.
 
Jharkhand has more to offer than just scenic beauty, with museums, temples, and wildlife reserves strewn throughout the province. Formerly a part of Bihar, Jharkhand was carved out as a separate state almost two decades ago, thus forming the basis for a glorious history, vibrant culture and tribal simplicity that the state can now call it's very own.
 
While natural resource mining is the backbone of Jharkhand's economy, the tourism sector also contributes significantly to the state's growth. The Indian Brand Equity Foundation estimates that 33.56 million visitors visited the state in 2016. Jharkhand is bordered on the north by Bihar, on the west by Chhattisgarh, on the south by Orissa, and on the east by West Bengal.
 
For nature lovers, adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts, the land of green valleys and forests is a paradise. Jharkhand is known for its rich variety of flora and fauna, and its name implies that it is "the land of forests." The scenic beauty of the Lodh Falls' trees, hills, and plateaus enchants visitors, while the lush green forests that surround the stature enchant locals.
 
Several hill ranges adorn the state, including Parasnath Hill, Rajmahal Hills, Trikut Hills, and Tagore Hill. Among the major rivers flowing through the state are Son, Subarnarekha, Damodar, Sankh, South Koel, North Koel, Lilajan, and Mayurakshi. While the state experiences humid subtropical climatic conditions in the north, the south-eastern parts undergo tropical wet and dry climate.
 
One of the reasons why you can have a panoramic view of nature and its beauty is because nature is considered a crucial and important part of the life of tribal people who are native of the state. The best time to visit Jharkhand is between October and February, when the weather is pleasant enough for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
 
Traditions and Culture
Jharkhand is the fourteen largest state in terms of population and the 15th largest state in terms of territory. Ranchi is the state's capital, and Dumka is its sub-capital, while Jamshedpur is the state's largest and busiest industrial city. Rur is a mineral state and is known as the "Rur of India" because of its rich mineral reserves.
 
Jharkhand culture is rich and complex, making it distinct in its own right. Jharkhand culture considers visitors as God and serves them and takes care of them as if they are a part and parcel of the family itself. Pre-Harappa pottery, pre-historic cave paintings, and rock art have all been discovered in Jharkhand by archaeologists. That hint at ancient, civilised civilizations inhabiting the region. 
 
Since several tribes have settled in this area of the world, it has become a significant multi-ethnic state. The Santhals, Oraons, Mundas, Kharias, Hos, and Cheros are among the thirty indigenous groups in Jharkhand, with the Santhals, Oraons, Mundas, Kharias, Hos, and Cheros being among the most prominent. People are influenced by Buddhism and Jainism, the Mughals, and Hindu rulers, and the state is a mix of tribal cultures.
 
Jharkhand is home to a diverse range of languages from three different language groups. Angika, Bhojpuri, Khortha, Nagpuri, Sadri, Hindi, Urdu, Oriya, and Bengali are Indo-Aryan languages. Kurmali, Korku, Santhali, Mundari, Bhumij, Kharia, and Ho are Munda languages, as are the Dravidian languages Korwa, Oraon(Kurukh), and Paharia (Malto). The most popular languages are Santhali, Mundari, Kurukh, Khortha, Nagpuria, Sadri, Khariya, Panchparagnia, Ho, Malto, Karmali, Hindi, Urdu, Bangla, and others. Angika is the primary language of communication in the Santhal Parganas area.
 
Nature has been given paramount importance in every sphere of life and culture in this tribal-dominated state. Sacred tree branches are carried into the courtyards and ceremonially planted. The portions of the tree identified with gods/goddesses are then worshipped by devotees.
 
Tribal life is not complete without dance and music. By bringing people together, they foster a sense of belonging and communal living. Most villages in the state have akharas, or gathering places, where young men and women gather almost every evening to dance to local music and celebrate special occasions. These dances can go on for days. Some of the famous tribal dance of Jharkhand are Hunta Dance, Mundari Dance, Barao Dance, Jitia Karam, Jenana Jhumur, Mardani Jhumur, Seraikella Chhau, Ghora Naach, Domkach, Laha Suya, Jhitka and Danga.
 
In Jharkhand, women wear sarees and blouses, with high-end Tussar silk sarees available. Parthan and Panchi are commonly worn by tribal women. Non-tribal women, on the other hand, dress in western costumes or a sari with a blouse. Women prefer gold and silver jewellery, which is often made of beaded ornaments.
Men wear Bhagwan, which is a single piece of fabric. Santhals and Paharis are worn by the men of the Santhal Pargana tribe to give them a distinct appearance. Men also dress in kurta-pyjamas or dhotis, as well as shirts and trousers.
 
Fair and Festivals

Fairs and Festivals of Jharkhand:

Jharkhand is a fascinating Indian state with its own culture and traditions. There are so many traditional and tribal festivals in Jharkhand that it is impossible to keep track of them all. The festivals' history, traditions, and tenets are heavily influenced by Bihar and Chhattisgarh, which adds to their appeal. Here are some of the major ones:

  • Sarhul: Sarhul is celebrated in the springtime, when the Saal trees bloom with fresh flowers. It is a type of worship dedicated to the village deity, who is revered as the tribes' protector. When new flowers bloom, people sing and dance a lot. Saal flowers are used to worship the gods. Players of traditional drums such as the Dhol, Nagara, and Turhi continue to drum and perform while Pahan chants prasad.
  • Sohrai: Sohrai is well-known for caring for domestic animals including cows and buffaloes. Since these animals are so important in an agricultural society, taking good care of them and ensuring their health is an important Sohrai practise. It is observed on the new moon day, immediately after Diwali. Earthen lamps are lit in the evening. The cattle are washed the next day, and vermilion mixed with oil is applied to the cattle.
  • Chhath Puja: Chhath puja is a Vedic festival held to honour the sun (Surya), also known as Surya Shashti. It is an ancient and mediaeval festival. Essentially, Chhath puja is one of the Jharkhand festivals that is held to express gratitude to the sun for sustaining life on Earth and to grant specific wishes.
  • Karam: The worship of Karam devta is the focus of this festival (God of power as well as youthfulness). On the 11th of the moon in the month of Bhadra, the Karam festival is held. Villagers form factions and travel to the jungle to gather wood, flowers, and fruits. These are needed during God Karam's Puja. People dance and sing in groups during this time.
  • Rohini: Jharkhand's first festival is probably Rohini. It's a festival dedicated to planting seeds in the ground. Farmers begin sowing seeds on this day, but unlike other tribal festivals, there are no dances or songs, just a few rituals. Rohini is also associated with other festivals such as Rajsawala Ambavati and Chitgomha.
  • Tusu Parab or Makar: This festival is often observed in the Jharkhand region between Bundu, Tamar, and Raidih. TUSU is a winter harvest festival held on the last day of the Poush month. It's also for girls who aren't married. Girls use coloured paper to decorate a wooden/bamboo frame, which they then donate to a nearby hilly river.
  • Jawa: This festival is mainly conducted in the hopes of improved fertility and a healthier household. The single women adorn a small bin with sprouting seeds. It is thought that a respect for good grain germination will boost productivity. The girls give green melons to the gods as a symbol of son, revealing the prehistoric anticipation of human beings.
 
Must Visit Place

Must Visiting Places in Jharkhand:

This naturally created state, endowed with unparalleled natural wonders such as hills, mountains, woods, and waterfalls, makes for an ideal vacation destination, especially for those seeking a meeting with nature. Many natural attractions about Jharkhand contribute to the trade of Jharkhand along with the holy temples, museums, and life sanctuaries. These top tourist attractions in Jharkhand are not to be missed:

  1. Jamshedpur- Jamshedpur, Jharkhand's largest city fondly called as ‘Tatanagar’, is a well-planned township with appealing infrastructure and landscape. Jamshedpur is the world's eighth-largest steel manufacturing company and India's first planned city, set against the beautiful Dalma Hills.
  2. Ranchi- It is Jharkhand's capital and is known as the "City of Waterfalls." Ranchi is a city in India that is so rich in natural resources that it has been dubbed the "Manchester of the East." Ranchi, surrounded by peaceful mountains and hills and drenched in heavenly waterfalls, never disappoints its visitors, instead offering them a simple sojourn to remember.
  3. Giridih- Parasnath is a well-known Jains' religious site in this region. It is the state's tallest peak. One of the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras, it is thought to be. In addition, boating is available in Khandoli. The hilltop of Khandoli resembles a volcanic cone.
  4. Deoghar- Millions of travellers and backpackers have flocked to this low-key, laid-back, and less-commercialized beach destination, making it one of Karnataka's most well-known destinations. Gokarna is also a major Hindu pilgrimage centre, with numerous ancient temples within its borders. Relaxing on the pristine beaches, participating in fun water sports, and taking a thrilling catamaran ride have all contributed to making it a fascinating trip.
  5. Hazaribagh- Because of its lush vegetation, beautiful hills, and pleasant climate, Hazaribagh is a major contributor to Jharkhand's life economy. Hazaribagh, as its name implies, is a town of a thousand gardens; however, this does not mean that the town only has gardens; there are numerous temples, hills, waterfalls, and life sanctuaries that provide visitors with a nice experience.
  6. Palamu- Palamu welcomes visitors from all over the country. It is home to a life sanctuary and a park, and it provides a great opportunity for character lovers, trekkers, and life lovers to explore the town's lush surroundings. Palamu life Sanctuary, Betla park, Palamu Fort, Ghaghri Waterfalls and Lodh Falls are places of interest here.
  7. Netarhat- Netarhat, in the Latehar district, is also known as Chotanagpur's Queen. This position is located at an altitude of 1128 metres above sea level. There are several water slides, as well as Sunrise and Sunset Points.
  8. Bokaro- Bokaro is a city of lakes, greenery, and beautiful parks, making it a relaxing and peaceful location. Apart from being the epicentre of India's industrial revolution in the 1960s and 1970s, Bokaro has established itself as one of the country's most well-planned cities. Some places worth visiting here include Bokaro Steel City, Bokaro Ispat Pustakalaya, Jagannath Temple, Gayatri Mandir, ChasKali Mandir and Aaiyappa Mandir.
  9. Dhanbad- Dhanbad is also known as the ‘Coal Capital of the Republic of India.' Dhanbad is one of India's fastest-growing cities, providing visitors with an excellent opportunity to experience the country's unique natural wonders. A great deal of devotees visit Dhanbad to pay a visit to Dalmi, a holy place where the idols of eternal Durga, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesa, and Nandiar are placed. Town has many Buddhist and religious belief sites too that offer visitors and a lot of enlightening travel experiences.
 

 

Cuisine
Jharkhand is a state where mouthwatering delicacies are not commonly associated, but it, like all other states, has some staples and a delicious treasure trove of recipes. Jharkhand's cuisine is similar to that of its neighbouring Bihar. It is truly sublime and features a distinct cooking style that distinguishes it from the rest.
 
Some worth trying dishes are:
  • Dhuska: Dhuska, a savoury dish deep fried and served as a snack with sauce and chutney, one of the popular cuisines. Rice, powdered chana daal, and sometimes boiled potatoes are the main ingredients. These foods are not often seen in restaurants since they are a popular snack that can be easily prepared at home.
  • Chilka Roti: Rice flour and besan are used to make Chilka Roti. During the festive seasons and special occasions, it is prepared in the homes. It's usually served with a yam curry, mutton curry, or chana dal chutney made with elephant's foot yam (known as "oal" in the region).
  • Arsa Roti: The first Jharkhand food dish that is shared between the bride's and groom's families. It is a custom that both sides adhere to. The sweet dish is indicative of a healthy harvest and the housewives' cooking strategies. A slight error will result in the loss of a lump of rice flour dough. As a result, when making arsa, one must be very cautious and conscious.
  • Rugra: A type of mushroom found only during the monsoon season, usually in the forest. Only the forest's locals will be able to find it because it grows under the soil. Due to its seasonal and unique development, it can be described as a unique state cuisine that no one wants to leave.
  • Litti Chokha: Jharkhand is a state with a large religious population. This makes the cuisine dominated by vegetarian dishes. Since this state borders Bihar, many of its food items have a Bihari influence. Litti is a common food item in the state, and locals enjoy it. Yogurt, Baingan Bharta (Chokha), Alu Bharta, or Papad are served with it.
  • Anarsa: During festivals, you'll often see people making Anarsa, a sweet dish made of sugar or jaggery. So, this dish is a special occasion dish that is mostly enjoyed during festivals such as Diwali or Holi, and it can be packed for picnics or used as part of a kitty party menu.
  • Handia: Handia is a drink which is prevalent in the state. It's a rice beer made by the residents of the area. It's made from a 'ranu' tablet, which is a mixture of 20-25 herbs that's mixed with boiled rice and fermented. This drink is ready in about a week.
  • Thekua: This sweet dish is a part of the Prasad during the popular Chhath puja and is loved all over India. The dish cooked in Ghee, which has a Bihar influence, has an aroma that will whet your appetite for good food. A healthy evening snack made with wheat flour, fennel seed, and sugar or jaggery syrup. It's a delectable Jharkhand delicacy that you'll never tyre of.
  • Pitha: It's stuffed with Jharkhand's popular Aloo ka Chokha, various boiled Dals (gramme, black lentil, Masoor ki dal/green lentil), and Khoa (thickened milk). The Pitha's structure makes it more appealing.
 
FAQ’s

Jharkhand is a region rich in culture and heritage and is home to the Lohara and Lodha people. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, animal reserves, and palaces, Jharkhand draws travellers from all over the world. With its huge woods, wildlife sanctuaries, hill ranges, and fascinating tribal culture, Jharkhand makes for the ideal vacation spot.
 

The ideal time of year to visit Jharkhand depends on what you plan to do while you're there. The best months to visit if you want to go trekking and engage in outdoor activities are from October through February when the weather is cooler. There will always be enjoyable things to do and see in Jharkhand no matter what time of year you decide to vacation there.

 

While rice, roti, daal, tartari, and desserts serve as the country's main courses, there are several vibrant and traditional variations and sides that give rise to a less well-known but no less delicious cuisine. The food here also has a faint air of grandeur because of the Mughal influence that is discernible in the dishes. Additionally, the state provides for the requirements of both vegetarians and non-vegetarians equally. The cuisine of Jharkhand is well-known for its Handia, Bamboo shoots, Mitha Khaja, Thekua, Litti, Dhuska, Arsa Roti, and other ingredients.
 

The most popular Jain pilgrimage destination in Jharkhand is Shikharji atop Parasnath hill.

 

The varied festivals of Jharkhand provide a spiritual backdrop for heartfelt celebrations in the 28th state of the Indian subcontinent. The festivals that are held in Jharkhand represent the extensive and varied cultural heritage of our country. The Karam festival honours Karam devta, the deity of strength, youth, and youth. On the eleventh of the month in the month of Bhadra, karam is performed. In the Jharkhand region between Tama, Raidih, and Bundu, the Makar festival is frequently observed. It is a wintertime harvest festival held on the final day of the Poush month. The largest celebration observed by the tribal people of Jharkhand is Sarhul. The verbal definition of Sarhul is "worship of the Sal tree." As a form of nature worship, Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, is revered as "Dharti Mata" by the villagers in Sarhul. One can witness one of these festivals during their Jharkhand Tour.


 

Jharkhand is a state in eastern India, bordered by Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Uttar Pradesh. Its capital city is Ranchi.

  • By Air: Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport connects the state to major Indian cities. Other airports include Deoghar Airport and Dhanbad Airport.
  • By Train: Jharkhand has a strong rail network with major stations like Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Dhanbad, and Hazaribagh.
  • By Road: The state is well-connected by national highways, and buses and taxis are available for travel from nearby states.
  • Dassam Falls: A picturesque waterfall near Ranchi.
  • Netarhat: Known as the "Queen of Chotanagpur," a hill station with stunning views.
  • Betla National Park: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
  • Parasnath Hill: A sacred site for Jains and trekkers.
  • Dimna Lake: A serene spot near Jamshedpur.
  • Baidyanath Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas in Deoghar.

Yes, Jharkhand offers family-friendly destinations like Dimna Lake, Ranchi Zoo, and Betla National Park, which are great for nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences.

Jharkhand is known for its:

  • Waterfalls, such as Hundru and Dassam Falls.
  • Tribal culture and heritage.
  • Dense forests and wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Mineral-rich landscapes, earning it the nickname "Land of Forests."

Travellers can enjoy:

  • Trekking at Parasnath Hill and Netarhat.
  • Rock climbing and rappelling in Patratu Valley.
  • Wildlife safaris at Betla National Park.
  • Boating at Dimna Lake.

The primary languages include Hindi, Santhali, Kurukh, and Nagpuri. English is commonly understood in urban and tourist areas.

Yes, Jharkhand’s proximity to cities like Kolkata, Patna, and Ranchi makes it suitable for a weekend getaway to places like Netarhat, Dimna Lake, or Betla National Park.

Tour Itineraries