Ghatshila is a small town in the East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, India.
It is a hidden gem that offers a perfect escape from the chaos of city life.
The town is famous for its refreshing natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and history.
Ghatshila is situated on the banks of the Subarnarekha River. The town is situated in the hilly terrain of Jharkhand. Lush green forests, rolling hills, and many small springs and waterfalls surround the town. It offers a picturesque landscape for visitors.
The town is also home to several temples and ancient ruins that testify to its glorious past.
The warm hospitality of the locals adds to the charm of this beautiful town. Besides, the region’s cuisine is delicious and worth trying.
Ghatshila is also known for its rich legacy of the British Raj.
The town has many old mansions and bungalows that have been turned into heritage hotels. These hotels offer visitors a glimpse of the colonial era.
Visitors can hike through the dense forests, take a dip in the cool waters of the waterfalls, or explore the town’s historic landmarks.
Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a history buff, Ghatshila has something to offer everyone.
Ghatshila is the perfect destination if you are looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating weekend getaway.
The town’s scenic beauty, rich culture, and history make it an ideal place for visitors to relax. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquillity of nature.
So, pack your bags, leave behind the stress of daily life, and come to explore the beauty of Ghatshila.
Note: Often, tourists and sometimes locals misspell Ghatshila as Ghatsila.
Join our knowledgeable Ghatshila Tour Guide to discover the awesome hidden gems of this enchanting town, where natural beauty and cultural heritage intertwine.
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What does the word Ghatshila mean?
The word “Ghatshila” is derived from two words: “ghat,” which means a mountain pass, and “shila,” which means a rock.
Therefore, the literal meaning of Ghatshila is a “rocky mountain pass.”
Best Tourist Places in Ghatshila:
Here are some of the popular tourist spots in Ghatshila that you must sightsee during your trip:
Dharagiri Falls:
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ghatshila is Dharagiri Falls.
It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It is 16 km away from Ghatshila.
The waterfall is situated amidst dense forests and offers a serene and peaceful environment.
It is one of the most visited destinations for landscape photographers.
At Dharagiri Falls, you also get lots of colorful butterflies and lizards to be photographed.
The waterfall cascades down from a height of 25 feet.
Lush green forests surround the Dharagiri waterfall.
It is an ideal spot for capturing stunning landscapes.
Phuldungri Hill:
Phuldungri Hill is a beautiful hilltop at a height of 800 feet above sea level.
It is at a distance of about 5 km from the main town.
The hill offers a complete aerial view of Ghatshila, including the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.
Photographers must plan to visit this place to capture wide-angle landscape photos from the top of the hill.
The best time for landscape photography at Phuldungri Hill is early morning or late afternoon. During these times, the light is softer and more favorable for photography.
You can experiment with different compositions, angles, and camera settings to capture stunning landscape photos.
Ghatshila Rankini Mandir:
Rankini Mandir is a famous Hindu temple situated in the heart of Ghatshila.
It is just 2 km away from Ghatshila Railway Station.
It is the main attraction for tourists visiting the historical town.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is visited by many devotees
every year.
Maa Rankini Temple is the oldest Kali Temple around Ghatshila. The temple is maintained by local authorities.
Maa Rankini Mandir is also a great location for portrait photography. The temple and surrounding landscape provide a perfect backdrop for portrait shots.
Burudi Lake or Burudi Dam:
Burudi Dam is a beautiful natural lake.
Please note that ‘Burudi Dam’ and ‘Burudi Lake’ terms are used simultaneously to refer to the same location.
Burudi Lake is at a distance of 11 km from the township. The state government of Jharkhand takes responsibility for maintaining it regularly.
Lush green forests surround the Lake and offer visitors a serene and peaceful environment. Boating facilities are also available at Burudi Lake.
Apart from Landscape photography, it is also popular for sightseeing and Bird Photography. The Lake is home to several species of birds, including kingfishers, egrets, and cormorants.
During winter, many visitors organize a picnic at this serene spot for a change of weather. It is great to spend some quality time in nature.
Note: Tourists sometimes spell the spot Burudih Dam or Burudih Lake. That is, ‘Burudi’ with an extra alphabet ‘H’. It is completely wrong. Burudih is a different place which is about 46 km from Ghatshila. It is important to note the above difference if you are driving to this Lake, referring to any map.
Gauri Kunj Heritage Site:
Gauri Kunj is a popular heritage site located in Ghatshila.
The heritage site was once the house of Bengali writer Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay. He is best known for his novels “Pather Panchali” and “Aparajito.”
After his death, the house was converted into a museum. Now, the museum showcases the life and work of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay. The museum contains various artifacts, including the writer’s personal belongings, manuscripts, and photographs.
Visiting the Gouri Kunj can be a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts. They can capture architectural photos of the heritage site and document the famous writer’s legacy.
The museum and surrounding gardens provide a perfect backdrop for photography. You can experiment with different angles and compositions to capture stunning photos.
The lush greenery and natural surroundings of Gouri Kunj make it an ideal habitat for several bird species.
Some of the birds that are commonly spotted in the area are:
Indian Pied-Myna, Common Tailorbird, Asian Koel, Spotted Dove, Indian robin, Black drongo, Red-Vented Bulbul, and Woodpeckers.
Thus, Gouri Kunj can be an excellent location for bird photography enthusiasts. They can capture stunning shots of these bird species in their natural habitat.
Note: It is advisable to carry a zoom lens to capture detailed shots of the birds from a distance without disturbing them.
Raatmohana:
Raatmohana is another tourist spot of attraction in Moubhandar. The place is just 2.5 km away from Ghatshila. Visitors can enjoy an amazing view of the sunset in the hills from the refreshing banks of the river Subarnarekha. By the way, the word ‘Subarnarekha’ means Golden Streak.
At Ratmohana, there is a waterfall known as Ratmohana Waterfalls. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. It is known for its tranquil ambiance.
Several nature enthusiasts and photographers visit Ratmohana Falls. The waterfall has a height of around 30 feet. The waterfall is sourced from the rolling small hills that surround the town.
During the monsoon season, the waterfall is at its best, with the water gushing down in full force, creating a spectacular sight.
Ratmohana Falls offers an excellent opportunity to capture stunning wide-angle shots of the waterfall and its natural surroundings. The lush greenery and the crystal-clear water of the falls provide a perfect backdrop for photography.
Additionally, the surrounding forest area is home to several bird species, making it an excellent spot for bird photography.
Note: It is essential to be cautious while visiting the waterfall. Especially during the monsoon season, the rocks around the falls can be slippery and dangerous. It is advisable to wear proper shoes and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Panch Pandav:
Panch Pandav is a group of five natural rock formations located near Ghatshila. The rock formations resemble the five Pandavas (five men) from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. It is a popular destination for nature and mythology lovers.
Ghatshila Rajbari:
Ghatshila Rajbari is a famous heritage site located in Ghatshila. The site was once the Ghatshila Royal Family’s house and is now converted into a museum.
Galudih Dam:
Galudih Dam is a beautiful dam located near Ghatshila. Lush green forests surround the Dam and offer visitors a serene and peaceful environment. Boating facilities are also available at Galudih Dam.
These are some of the best places of tourist attractions in Ghatshila that one can visit to explore the natural beauty and historical landmarks of this charming town.
Bird Photography Guide – Local Bird Species Found in Ghatshila:
It is home to various bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.
The birdlife in Ghatshila is primarily influenced by its location in the Chota Nagpur plateau region and the Subarnarekha river valley.
The region has a mix of deciduous and evergreen forests, grasslands, and wetlands, providing habitats for various bird species.
Here are some of the bird species that can be spotted in Ghatshila:
Black Drongo:
The Black Drongo is a small, black bird with a distinctive forked tail. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen throughout the year. It feeds on insects and small reptiles and is known for its aerial acrobatics.
Black-Hooded Oriole:
The Black-Hooded Oriole is a medium-sized bird with a striking yellow body and black head. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and orchards. It feeds on insects and fruits and is known for its musical call.
Brown Rock Chat:
The Brown Rock Chat is a small, brown bird with a white patch on its wings. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen near rocky areas. It feeds on insects and is known for its sweet and melodious song.
Chestnut-Tailed Starling:
The Chestnut Tailed Starling is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive chestnut-colored tail. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and orchards. It feeds on fruits and insects and is known for its melodious song.
Common Tailorbird:
The Common Tailorbird is a small, olive-green bird with a distinctive long tail. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and forests. It feeds on insects and is known for its loud and repetitive call.
Greater Coucal:
The Greater Coucal is a large, black bird with a distinctive red eye. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen near thickets and forests. It feeds on insects, small reptiles, and fruits and is known for its loud and deep call.
Indian Pied Myna:
The Indian Pied Myna is a medium-sized bird with striking black and white plumage. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and orchards. It feeds on insects and fruits and is known for its mimicry abilities.
Olive-Backed Sunbird:
The Olive-Backed Sunbird is a small, brightly colored bird with a distinctive curved bill. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and forests. It feeds on nectar and insects and is known for its sweet and melodious song.
Oriental Magpie Robin:
The Oriental Magpie Robin is a medium-sized bird with striking black and white plumage. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and forests. It feeds on insects and is known for its loud and melodious song.
Purple Sunbird:
The Purple Sunbird is a small, brightly colored bird with metallic purple plumage. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and forests. It feeds on nectar and insects and is known for its sweet and melodious song.
Purple-Rumped Sunbird:
The Purple-Rumped Sunbird is a small, colorful bird with metallic purple upperparts and a bright yellow underside. It has a distinctive long, thin bill. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and forests. It feeds on nectar and insects and is known for its sweet and melodious song.
Red-Vented Bulbul:
The Red-Vented Bulbul is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive red vent under its tail. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and orchards. It feeds on fruits and insects and is known for its melodious song.
Red-Whiskered Bulbul:
The Red-Whiskered Bulbul is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive red whisker under its eye. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and orchards. It feeds on fruits and insects and is known for its melodious song.
Rufous Treepie:
The Rufous Treepie is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive rufous-colored body and a black crest on its head. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen near forests and gardens. It feeds on insects, small reptiles, and fruits and is known for its loud and raucous call.
Spotted Dove:
The Spotted Dove is a medium-sized bird with distinctive spotted plumage. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and forests. It feeds on seeds and grains and is known for its soft and melodic cooing.
White Pigeon:
The White Pigeon is a medium-sized bird with distinctive white plumage. It is a resident bird of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and urban areas. It feeds on seeds and grains and is known for its gentle cooing.
House Sparrows:
The House Sparrows are small, brownish-grey birds with distinctive black bibs on their chin. They are resident birds of Ghatshila and can be seen in gardens and urban areas. They feed on seeds and insects and are known for their chirping calls.
Overall, Ghatshila is a birdwatcher’s paradise with a diverse range of bird species found in the area.
From the colorful sunbirds and orioles to the melodious mynas and robins, the birdlife in Ghatshila will fascinate and delight any nature enthusiast.
With the right equipment and techniques, bird photography in Ghatshila can also be a rewarding experience.
Best Time to Visit or Travel Ghatshila:
The best time to visit Ghatshila is during the winter months, from October to February. Temperatures during this period are comforting, ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The winter months are also the driest period in Ghatshila. Thus, exploring the town and its surrounding areas is easier without the hassle of monsoon rains.
From mid-January to March, spring is also a suitable time to visit Ghatshila. During this time, colorful blossoms of various flowers cover the lovely town. The weather is also pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
The monsoon season from July to September is also enjoyable to visit, as the waterfalls and forests are lush and green. But it is difficult to travel during this season as heavy rainfall can make roads and transportation difficult. Yet, if you are a nature lover, you can witness the beauty of Ghatshila’s lush green forests and waterfalls during this time.
It is important to note that during the summer months, from April to June, the temperature can reach 40°C, making it extremely hot and uncomfortable. Thus, we do not recommend visiting during this time.
Ghatshila is a year-round destination. The best time to visit depends on individual preferences. Some prefer the chilly winter weather, while others enjoy the monsoon season’s vibrant atmosphere. The town has something to offer everyone.
So, plan your trip according to your preference and enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ghatshila.
How to reach Ghatshila?
Here is how to reach Ghatshila through various modes of transportation:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Ghatshila is the Sonari Airport in Jamshedpur, which is around 45 km away. It is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Ghatshila.
By Train:
Ghatshila has a Railway Station connecting major cities like Kolkata (Howrah), Mumbai, and Delhi.
The town’s location on the Kharagpur-Tatanagar railway line, a crucial junction on the Howrah-Mumbai track, is easily accessible for travelers from various parts of the country.
Some popular trains running through Ghatshila Railway Station via Kharagpur Junction are:
- Howrah-Delhi Rajdhani Express – 12301 (Up) / 12302 (Down),
- Howrah-Tatanagar Steel Express – 12813 (Up) / 12814 (Down),
- Howrah-Titlagarh Ispat Express – 12871 (Up) / 12872 (Down),
- Howrah-Ranchi Intercity SF Express – 22891 (Up) / 22892 (Down),
- Kalinga Utkal Express – 18477 (Up) / 18478 (Down), etc.
You can hire a taxi or an autorickshaw or take a bus from the railway station to reach your destination.
By Road:
Ghatshila is well connected to the neighboring cities and towns by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Kolkata, Jamshedpur (Tata), Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar to reach Ghatshila. The town is located on the NH 33, which makes it easily accessible by road.
For example, the picturesque town is just 45 km from Jamshedpur (Tata), a major industrial hub in Jharkhand. For those traveling to Bhubaneswar, the temple city is 350 km from Ghatshila. At the same time, Kolkata, the city of joy, is just 240 km away.
By Local Transport:
Once you reach Ghatshila, you can use local transport options for local sightseeing. You can either board a bus, hire an autorickshaw, or book taxis to get around the town and visit nearby attractions. You can also rent a bike or a car to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace.
Ghatshila is one of the prominent tourist destinations in Jharkhand. The Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation promotes Ghatshila Tourism. Thus, Ghatshila is well-connected to major cities and towns through air, rail, and road. You can choose the mode of transportation that suits your budget and convenience to reach this serene town and explore its wilderness.
Conclusion:
Ghatshila is a town that is a paradise for both casual tourists and photography enthusiasts.
It is located in and around the forests of Jharkhand. Therefore, its stunning natural beauty, small springs, waterfalls, and greenery makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
For photography enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, diverse bird species, and historical landmarks.
Whether you’re a casual traveler or an avid photographer, Ghatshila is a place worth visiting. The town’s serene environment and scenic beauty will leave you mesmerized.
Overall, Ghatshila is a relatively less known path to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and head out to explore the wonders of Ghatshila!
