Jharkhand, the “Land of Forests“, is a hidden gem in eastern India waiting to be explored. This young state, carved out of Bihar in 2000, is blessed with abundant natural beauty, rich tribal culture, ancient temples, and thrilling wildlife. From the majestic waterfalls and lush green forests to the vibrant festivals and delectable cuisine, Jharkhand has something to offer every kind of traveler.
Let me take you to experience Jharkhand in the best way possible. This blog will help you plan for your next trip to Jharkhand comfortably and easily without much restrictions. Join me as I take you through the roads of Jharkhand on your next virtual travel expedition.
Location of Jharkhand
Jharkhand is located in the eastern part of India. It shares its borders with West Bengal to the east, Odisha to the south, Chhattisgarh to the west, Uttar Pradesh to the northwest, and Bihar to the north. The state lies on the Chota Nagpur Plateau, which is known for its rich mineral deposits and dense forests.
The capital city of Jharkhand is Ranchi, which is also the largest city in the state. Other major cities include Jamshedpur, Dhanbad, Bokaro, and Hazaribagh. The state is well-connected to the rest of India by air, rail, and road.
History of Jharkhand
Jharkhand has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The region was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Mughals. The British East India Company also had a significant presence in the area during the colonial era.
The name “Jharkhand” means “land of forests” in Hindi. The state was created on November 15, 2000, by carving out the southern districts of Bihar. The movement for a separate state of Jharkhand had been going on for several decades, with the tribal communities demanding greater autonomy and recognition of their distinct identity.
Why is Jharkhand famous?
Jharkhand is famous for its natural beauty, tribal culture, and rich mineral resources. The state is home to several stunning waterfalls, including Dassam Falls, Hundru Falls, and Jonha Falls. The dense forests of Jharkhand are also a major attraction, with several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Famous Cities of Jharkhand
Ranchi
Ranchi is the capital city of Jharkhand, known for its pleasant weather, beautiful waterfalls, and historic temples.
Jamshedpur
Jamshedpur is the largest city in Jharkhand, known as the “Steel City” due to the presence of Tata Steel, one of the largest steel companies in India.
Dhanbad
Known as the “Coal Capital of India“, Dhanbad is an important industrial city with several coal mines and factories.
Famous Tourist Attractions of Jharkhand
Betla National Park
A popular wildlife sanctuary known for its tigers, elephants, and other exotic animals.
Baidyanath Dham
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, this ancient temple attracts millions of devotees every year.
Parasnath Hill
Parasnath Hill is the highest mountain in Jharkhand, considered sacred by the Jain community.
Tagore Hill
Named after the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore, this hill offers stunning views of Ranchi city.
Famous Food Items of Jharkhand
Jharkhand is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the tribal communities of the state. Some of the famous food items include:
Litti Chokha
A traditional dish made with whole wheat dough balls stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and served with mashed potatoes and eggplant.
Dhuska
A deep-fried snack made with rice and lentil batter, often served with a spicy potato curry.
Rugra
A type of mushroom that is commonly found in the forests of Jharkhand and is used to make a variety of dishes.
Handia
A traditional rice beer that is popular among the tribal communities of Jharkhand.
Famous Festivals and Cultures of Jharkhand
Jharkhand is home to several tribal communities, each with their own unique culture and traditions. Some of the famous festivals celebrated in the state include:
Sarhul
A spring festival celebrated by the tribal communities to mark the beginning of the new year.
Karam
A festival celebrated by the tribal communities to worship the Karam tree, which is considered sacred.
Tusu Parab
A harvest festival celebrated by the tribal communities to give thanks for a bountiful harvest.
Political Condition of Jharkhand
Jharkhand has had a relatively stable political environment since its formation in 2000. The state has seen several changes in government, with different political parties coming to power over the years. However, the state has largely remained peaceful and has not seen any major political unrest or violence.
The current government in Jharkhand is led by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) party, which formed a coalition with the Indian National Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) after the 2019 state assembly elections. The state is considered safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and a friendly local population.
Budget To Travel Jharkhand
Jharkhand is a relatively affordable destination for travelers, with a wide range of options available for accommodation, food, and transportation. The cost of traveling in Jharkhand will depend on your personal preferences and the type of activities you want to do.
On average, you can expect to spend around Rs. 1000-1500 per day on a budget trip, which includes basic accommodation, local food, and public transportation. For a more comfortable trip with better amenities, you can expect to spend around Rs. 2000-3000 per day. Of course, if you want to stay in luxury hotels and indulge in expensive activities, your budget will be much higher.
Area Covered by Jharkhand
Jharkhand covers an area of 79,716 square kilometers (30,778 square miles), making it the 15th largest state in India by area. The state is divided into 24 districts, each with its own unique culture and attractions.
Travel Jharkhand
Jharkhand is well-connected to the rest of India by air, rail, and road, making it easy for travelers to reach the state from any part of the country.
How to reach Jharkhand
How To Reach Jharkhand By Air
Jharkhand has one major airport, the Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is connected to several major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. There are regular flights operated by major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet.
How To Reach Jharkhand By Train
Jharkhand is well-connected to the rest of India by rail, with several major railway stations located in the state, including Ranchi, Dhanbad, and Jamshedpur. There are regular trains from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai to Jharkhand.
How To Reach Jharkhand By Road
Jharkhand is also well-connected by road, with several national and state highways passing through the state. There are regular bus services from major cities in the neighboring states to Jharkhand. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle to reach the state.
Connectivity
Jharkhand is well-connected to the rest of India by air, rail, and road. The state has a good network of highways and railways that connect it to the neighboring states and the rest of the country.
Distance of Jharkhand from Delhi
Jharkhand is located approximately 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) from Delhi, the capital city of India. The distance can be covered by air, rail, or road, depending on your preference and budget.
Connected States via Railway
Jharkhand is connected to several states via railway, including:
- Bihar
- West Bengal
- Odisha
- Chhattisgarh
- Uttar Pradesh
There are regular trains from these states to Jharkhand, making it easy for travelers to reach the state by rail.
Highways Passing Through Jharkhand
Several national and state highways pass through Jharkhand, connecting it to the neighboring states and the rest of the country. Some of the major highways include:
| Highway | States Crossed | Total Distance |
| NH-2 | Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal | 1,465 km |
| NH-33 | Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha | 820 km |
| NH-75 | Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh | 511 km |
Best Time To Travel
The best time to visit Jharkhand is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. During this time, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The summer months from April to June can be very hot and humid, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. This is not the best time to visit Jharkhand, as the heat can be unbearable and make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.
Average Temperature in Jharkhand
The average temperature in Jharkhand varies depending on the season and the location within the state. During the summer months from April to June, the average temperature can range from 30°C to 45°C, with high humidity levels.
During the winter months from November to February, the average temperature can range from 10°C to 25°C, with cool and pleasant weather. This is the best time to visit Jharkhand, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Concluding The Journey To Jharkhand
Jharkhand is a beautiful and diverse state that offers something for every kind of traveler. From the stunning natural beauty of its waterfalls and forests to the rich tribal culture and delicious cuisine, Jharkhand is a destination that should not be missed.
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Jharkhand has it all. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of this amazing state. I hope this blog has helped you plan your trip to Jharkhand and given you a glimpse of what this incredible destination has to offer.
FAQs About Traveling Jharkhand
When is the best time to visit Jharkhand?
The best time to visit Jharkhand is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Does Jharkhand have an airport?
Yes, Jharkhand has one major airport, the Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is connected to several major cities in India.
What is Jharkhand famous for?
Jharkhand is famous for its natural beauty, tribal culture, and rich mineral resources. The state is home to several stunning waterfalls, dense forests, and ancient temples.
Is Jharkhand safe for women?
Yes, Jharkhand is generally safe for women travelers. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone.
Is Jharkhand safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Jharkhand is safe for solo travelers. The state has a low crime rate and a friendly local population. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Is Jharkhand a good place to travel as a couple?
Yes, Jharkhand is a great place to travel as a couple. The state offers several romantic destinations, such as the stunning waterfalls and scenic hills, that are perfect for a romantic getaway.
What should I eat when in Jharkhand?
Jharkhand is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the tribal communities of the state. Some of the must-try dishes include Litti Chokha, Dhuska, Rugra, and Handia.
Which is the best place in Jharkhand?
Some of the best places to visit in Jharkhand include Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Betla National Park, Baidyanath Dham, and Parasnath Hill. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience and is worth visiting.
Is Jharkhand safe at night?
Yes, Jharkhand is generally safe at night. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and avoid traveling alone in isolated areas late at night.
Does it snow in Jharkhand?
No, it does not snow in Jharkhand. The state has a tropical climate and does not experience snowfall.
Which language is spoken in Jharkhand?
The official language of Jharkhand is Hindi, but the state is home to several tribal communities that speak their own languages, such as Santali, Ho, and Mundari.
Can I travel to Jharkhand with friends?
Yes, you can definitely travel to Jharkhand with friends. The state offers several group activities and attractions that are perfect for a fun-filled trip with your buddies. Just make sure to plan your itinerary in advance and book your accommodations and transportation accordingly.
