Are you looking for a peaceful and picturesque destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Do you want to explore the rich history and culture of a lesser-known region in India? If yes, then you should definitely visit Ghatshila, a hidden gem of Jharkhand tourism.
Ghatshila is a small town in the East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, situated on the banks of the Subarnarekha River. It is about 240 km from Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand, and 40 km from Jamshedpur, the steel city of India. Ghatshila has a population of around 40,000 people and a pleasant climate throughout the year.
Ghatshila is not only a beautiful place to relax and rejuvenate, but also a treasure trove of history and culture. It is the birthplace of the famous Bengali writer Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay, who wrote the classic novel Pather Panchali. It is also home to several ancient temples, monuments, and caves that reflect the glorious past of the region.
Ghatshila has something for everyone, whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a culture enthusiast. You can enjoy the scenic views of hills, lakes, waterfalls, and forests; visit the historical sites and temples; learn about the local traditions and festivals; or indulge in some adventure activities like boating, fishing, trekking, etc.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Ghatshila tourism, including the top tourist spots, how to reach, where to stay, and best time to visit. So read on and get ready to plan your next trip to Ghatshila with Tripoto.
History and Culture of Ghatshila
The name Ghatshila means “rocky landing of a river” in Bengali. It is derived from the fact that the Subarnarekha River flows through rocky terrains in this area. According to legend, Ghatshila was founded by a king named Shilaaditya, who built a fort on a hill near the river.
Ghatshila has been ruled by various dynasties over the centuries, such as the Mauryas, Guptas, Palas, Senas, Nagvanshis, Mughals, Marathas, and British. It was also a part of the Bengal Presidency during the British Raj. Ghatshila witnessed several battles and revolts during its history, such as the Kol Rebellion (1831-32), the Santhal Rebellion (1855-56), and the Quit India Movement (1942).
Ghatshila is also known for its cultural and literary significance. It is the birthplace of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay (1894-1950), one of the most acclaimed writers in Bengali literature. He wrote several novels and short stories based on his experiences and observations of rural life in Bengal. His most famous work is Pather Panchali (1929), which was later adapted into a film trilogy by Satyajit Ray.
Ghatshila celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year that showcase its rich culture and heritage. Some of the major festivals are Durga Puja, Kali Puja, Basant Panchami, Holi, Diwali, etc. Ghatshila also hosts an annual literary festival called Bibhutibhushan Utsav in October-November to commemorate the birth anniversary of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay.
Top 15 Tourist Spots in Ghatshila
Ghatshila has a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to different tastes and interests. Here are some of the top tourist spots in Ghatshila that you should not miss:
Rankini Mandir:
A temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located on a hilltop overlooking the Subarnarekha River. It is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Jharkhand and attracts many devotees and tourists. The temple has a unique architecture and a serene atmosphere.
Dharagiri Falls:
A spectacular waterfall that cascades from a height of 20 meters into a pool surrounded by lush greenery. It is a popular picnic spot and offers a refreshing escape from the heat. You can also enjoy some adventure activities like rappelling and zip-lining at the falls.
Phuldungri Hills:
A scenic hill range that offers a panoramic view of Ghatshila and its surroundings. It is also the place where Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay lived and wrote his novels. You can visit his house, which has been converted into a museum, and see his personal belongings and manuscripts.
Burudi Lake:
A serene lake that is ideal for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. It is also home to a variety of aquatic plants and animals. You can spend some quality time with your family or friends at the lake and enjoy the natural beauty.
Jubilee Park:
A well-maintained park that has a musical fountain, a children’s playground, a rose garden, and a zoo. It is a great place for family outings and relaxation. You can also visit the Tata Steel Zoological Park, which is adjacent to the Jubilee Park, and see some exotic animals and birds.
Galudih Dam:
A massive dam that regulates the flow of the Subarnarekha River and provides irrigation and electricity to the region. It also offers a scenic view of the river and the hills. You can take a walk on the dam or enjoy a boat ride on the river.
Pancha Pandav Cave:
A cave that is believed to have been used by the five Pandava brothers during their exile in the Mahabharata epic. It has five chambers with carvings and inscriptions on the walls. You can explore the cave and learn about its history and legends.
Rakha Mines:
A copper mine that was established by the British in 1900. It is one of the oldest and largest copper mines in India. You can visit the mine and see how copper is extracted and processed. You can also see some old machinery and equipment used in the mining operations.
Ram Krishna Math:
A branch of the Ramakrishna Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda, a renowned spiritual leader and philosopher. It is a place of worship, meditation, and social service. You can visit the math and participate in its various activities, such as prayer, bhajan, yoga, etc.
Narwa Forest:
A dense forest that is rich in flora and fauna. It is a haven for wildlife lovers and photographers. You can spot some rare and endangered species of animals and birds, such as elephants, leopards, deer, peacocks, etc. You can also enjoy some trekking and camping in the forest.
Ratmohona:
A scenic spot that offers a stunning view of the sunrise and sunset over the Subarnarekha River. It is a romantic place for couples and nature lovers. You can also see some migratory birds that flock to the river during winter.
Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary:
A wildlife sanctuary that was named after Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay in 2017. It covers an area of 414 sq km and hosts a variety of animals and birds, such as tigers, bears, monkeys, parrots, etc. You can take a safari tour of the sanctuary and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.
Chitreshwar Temple:
A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on a hill near Ghatshila. It is one of the oldest temples in Jharkhand and has a beautiful architecture and sculpture. You can climb up the hill and visit the temple, which also offers a splendid view of the town.
Mosabani Mines:
Another copper mine that was established by the British in 1902. It is also one of the oldest and largest copper mines in India. You can visit the mine and see how copper is extracted and processed. You can also see some old machinery and equipment used in the mining operations.
Gourikunj:
A hot spring that is believed to have medicinal properties. It is located near Ghatshila on the way to Dharagiri Falls. You can take a dip in the spring and relax your body and mind.
How to Reach Ghatshila
Ghatshila is well-connected by air, train, and road from different parts of India. Here are some of the ways to reach Ghatshila:
By air:
The nearest airport to Ghatshila is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is about 240 km away. You can take a flight from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, etc., to Ranchi and then take a taxi or bus to Ghatshila.
By train:
The nearest railway station to Ghatshila is Ghatshila Railway Station, which is about 2 km from the town center. You can take a train from major cities like Kolkata, Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Patna, etc., to Ghatshila. Some of the trains that pass through Ghatshila are Howrah-Mumbai Mail, Howrah-Ranchi Shatabdi Express, Howrah-Barbil Jan Shatabdi Express, etc.
By road:
You can also reach Ghatshila by road from nearby cities and towns. There are regular buses and taxis available from Jamshedpur, Ranchi, Kolkata, etc., to Ghatshila. The road condition is good and the journey is scenic. You can also drive your own car or bike to Ghatshila.
Where to Stay in Ghatshila
Ghatshila has a range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, resorts, guest houses, homestays, etc., depending on your comfort and convenience. Here are some of the best places to stay in Ghatshila:
Hotel Royal Retreat:
A luxury hotel that offers spacious rooms, modern amenities, a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, a spa, a gym, and a conference hall. It is located near the Subarnarekha River and has a beautiful view of the surroundings. The price range is Rs. 3000-5000 per night.
Hotel Bibhuti Vihar:
A budget hotel that offers cozy rooms, basic facilities, a restaurant, and a garden. It is located near the Rankini Mandir and has a peaceful atmosphere. The price range is Rs. 1000-2000 per night.
Hotel Akash:
A mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms, decent amenities, a restaurant, and a banquet hall. It is located near the Ghatshila Railway Station and has a convenient location. The price range is Rs. 2000-3000 per night.
Hotel Green Park:
A resort that offers cottages, tents, and dormitories, along with a restaurant, a playground, a bonfire area, and a picnic spot. It is located near the Burudi Lake and has a natural setting. The price range is Rs. 1500-2500 per night.
Hotel Pather Panchali:
A homestay that offers rooms in the house of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay’s son Taradas Bandopadhyay. It is located near the Phuldungri Hills and has a historical and cultural value. You can also interact with the host and learn more about the life and works of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay. The price range is Rs. 1000-1500 per night.
Best Time to Visit Ghatshila
Ghatshila has a tropical climate with hot summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall. The best time to visit Ghatshila is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of visiting Ghatshila in different months:
October-November:
These are the ideal months to visit Ghatshila as the temperature is moderate and the sky is clear. You can enjoy the beauty of nature and witness some festivals like Durga Puja and Kali Puja. You can also attend the Bibhutibhushan Utsav and celebrate the literary legacy of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay.
December-January:
These are the coldest months in Ghatshila when the temperature drops to around 10°C at night. You can enjoy the chilly weather and cozy up in your hotel or resort. You can also see some migratory birds at Ratmohona and Burudi Lake.
February-March:
These are the pleasant months in Ghatshila when the temperature rises slightly and the flowers bloom. You can enjoy some outdoor activities like boating, fishing, trekking, etc., and witness some festivals like Basant Panchami and Holi.
April-May:
These are the hottest months in Ghatshila when the temperature reaches up to 40°C during the day. You can avoid visiting Ghatshila during these months as it can be uncomfortable and exhausting. However, you can still visit some places like Dharagiri Falls and Narwa Forest to cool off.
June-September:
These are the rainy months in Ghatshila when the monsoon arrives and brings heavy showers. You can visit Ghatshila during these months if you love rain and greenery. However, you may face some inconveniences like roadblocks, landslides, waterlogging, etc.
Planning a Roadtrip to Ghatsila? Know How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Ghatshila: A Guide for Kolkata Travellers
Ghatshila is a hidden gem of Jharkhand tourism that offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts. It has a plethora of tourist attractions, such as scenic hills, lakes, waterfalls, temples, historical sites, etc., that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable. It also has a rich history and culture that will fascinate you and inspire you.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Ghatshila with Tripoto and experience the beauty and charm of this amazing destination.
If you liked this article, please share your feedback, comments, questions, or suggestions with us. We would love to hear from you.