Jharkhand, a state in eastern India, is a land of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From historic temples to picturesque landscapes, Jharkhand offers a wide range of attractions that cater to all kinds of travellers, especially families looking for a memorable vacation. Let’s explore the top seven most visited tourist places in Jharkhand, each offering its unique charm and allure.
- Jagannath Temple
The Jagannath Temple perched atop a hill, stands as a prominent religious landmark in Ranchi. Its history dates back to 1691 when it was established by King Ani Nath Shahdeo of the Barkagarh Jagannathpur estate. The temple’s architecture mesmerizes visitors with intricate carvings and vibrant decorations made from colourful stones. What sets this temple apart from others in India is the wooden idol of Lord Jagannath, a rare and extraordinary feature that draws devotees from far and wide.
The temple’s annual Rath Yatra is a grand spectacle, similar to the famous one in Puri. Each year, during the auspicious month of Aashaadha, a fair is held, and a rath yatra takes place, welcoming thousands of devotees not only from Jharkhand but also from neighbouring villages and towns. The sight of the chariot procession, with devotees pulling the chariot and chanting hymns, is a spiritually uplifting experience.
- Tagore Hill
Dedicated to the renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore, Tagore Hill in Ranchi offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city below. Its serene surroundings and solitude have inspired many artists, including Tagore himself, who found solace here to pen his masterpieces. The hill was initially known as Morabadi Hill and was later renamed Tagore Hill to honour the great poet’s association with the place.
Apart from being a vantage point, Tagore Hill also serves as an adventure hub, inviting enthusiasts for activities like rock climbing and hiking. The Ramakrishna Mission Retreat Centre located at the foot of Tagore Hill adds to its spiritual significance, making it an ideal spot for family picnics and short getaways away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Baidyanath Temple
Located in the small town of Deoghar in the Santhal Parganas region, the Baidyanath Temple, also known as Baba Baidyanath Dham, holds immense religious significance for Hindus. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva.
Legend has it that Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, worshipped Lord Shiva at this site to obtain immortality. Impressed by Ravana’s devotion, Lord Shiva blessed him with the Jyotirlinga, which later became known as Baidyanath Jyotirlinga. The temple complex consists of 21 other temples, but the main centre of devotion remains the Jyotirlinga.
During the Shraavana Mela in July and August, millions of pilgrims from all over India converge here to offer holy Ganges water to the deity, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere. The festival’s fervour, coupled with the serene setting of the temple, makes it a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
- Pahari Mandir
This spectacular Lord Shiva temple is at an elevation of 2140 feet above sea level, offering a panoramic view of Ranchi city below. It takes a tedious hike of around 15 minutes to reach the Pahari Mandir from the base, but the effort doesn’t concern the devoted souls.
In July and August, during the auspicious period of Shravan, thousands of devotees come here to seek blessings and forgiveness from the lord. The temple is adorned with colourful lights during this time, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Ranchi Lake, at the bottom of the mountain, has a ghat at which pilgrims can take a holy dip before climbing the steps to the Pahari temple. The temple’s history is also intertwined with India’s struggle for independence. Before the country’s independence, the British had control of the Lord Shiva temple on the mountain, where they also used to hang the freedom fighters who revolted. Since Independence, every year on Independence Day and Republic Day, the national flag is also hoisted here in memory of and in honour of those martyred freedom fighters.
- Kanke Dam
The Kanke Dam is about 8 kilometres from Ranchi city’s railway station and 12 kilometres from the Birsa Munda Airport, also known as the Ranchi airport. The dam’s vast lake sits against the massive Gonda hills, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.
Kanke Dam is ideal for a day trip with friends or a weekend family trip to Jharkhand. It is truly the perfect place to unwind after a long week at work, with crystal clear waters surrounded by lush green hills. You can also rent a boat to sail along the shallow water while admiring the setting sun.
On the lake’s rim, there are numerous water hyacinths, enhancing the natural beauty of the place. If you get hungry, you can also explore the variety of foods made available by nearby vendors, including local delicacies and snacks.
- Rock Garden
The Rock Garden in Ranchi is a testament to human creativity and artistic brilliance. Built solely from local stone, it is a wonderful architectural masterpiece with waterfalls, sculptures, art, and incredible views. The garden was conceptualized and designed by a resident, Kanhaiya Lal, who worked tirelessly for over a decade to bring his vision to life.
The scenic beauty of the garden is stunning, with the rocks carefully placed to create various forms and structures. The real attraction, however, is the one-of-a-kind iron footbridge backed only by two poles, a perfect example of architectural excellence and engineering ingenuity.
A guided tour is also available at Ranchi’s Rock Garden for kids, giving them a chance to learn about the creative process and the stories behind the sculptures.
The Rock Garden is also a popular picnic spot for families and large groups of people to relax and enjoy together. Because of its central location in Ranchi, visitors to the Rock Garden can also explore other tourist attractions in the surrounding area, making it a delightful addition to any travel itinerary.
- Jubilee Park
Located in the Indian city of Jamshedpur with an urban outlook, Jubilee Park is a popular tourist destination for families seeking a day of leisure and recreation. The park was donated to the city of Tatanagar (Jamshedpur) by the Tata Steel Company during its golden jubilee celebrations, hence the name Jubilee Park.
The park is spread over a vast area and offers a range of attractions, making it a favourite spot for families to spend quality time together. It features a community recreation centre, fountains, and a zoo, among other recreational facilities. The park’s well-maintained pathways are popular with joggers and cyclists.
For kids and families, Jubilee Park offers the chance to explore a zoological park, an amusement park, a children’s park, Jayanti Sarovar (Zoo Lake), a rose garden, and a bat island as well. The various attractions ensure that visitors of all ages have a delightful experience.
Jharkhand is a hidden gem in India, offering a diverse range of attractions that cater to all kinds of travellers, especially families. The state’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and religious significance make it a perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.
The seven most visited tourist places in Jharkhand provide a glimpse into the state’s rich history and offer unique experiences for visitors:
- The Jagannath Temple in Ranchi is a captivating religious landmark with its wooden idol of Lord Jagannath, making it a must-visit for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.
- Tagore Hill, dedicated to Rabindranath Tagore, offers a peaceful retreat with its panoramic views of Ranchi city and serves as an adventure hub for rock climbing and hiking.
- The Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar holds immense religious significance as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, attracting millions of pilgrims during the Shraavana Mela.
- Pahari Mandir, a spectacular Lord Shiva temple on a hill, offers a spiritual experience for devotees and a historic reminder of India’s struggle for independence.
- Kanke Dam, with its serene lake against the backdrop of Gonda Hills, is an ideal destination for family picnics and leisurely boat rides.
- The Rock Garden in Ranchi showcases human creativity and architectural brilliance, making it a unique and enchanting spot for families to explore.
- Jubilee Park in Jamshedpur is a well-maintained urban oasis, offering a range of attractions and recreational facilities for families to enjoy.
Whether seeking spiritual solace, adventure, or leisure, these seven destinations have something to offer everyone in the family. Travellers can witness the beauty of historic temples, immerse themselves in nature’s tranquillity, and marvel at the artistic creations of the Rock Garden. Moreover, Jharkhand’s warm hospitality and friendly locals add to the overall experience, making visitors feel at home during their journey.
Planning a trip to Jharkhand has become easier with the help of modern technology, such as Cleartrip’s website and app, which offer convenient flight and hotel bookings. Travellers can explore last-minute deals to save on expenses and maximize their experiences during the trip.
Jharkhand is a treasure trove of diverse attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, adventure, or a peaceful family getaway, these seven tourist places offer an enriching and unforgettable experience. With Cleartrip’s assistance in booking flight tickets and hotels, planning your trip to Jharkhand becomes a seamless process. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the wonders of this enchanting state.
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