Chatra is a serene destination blessed with a verdant landscape, interesting picnic spots, and cascading waterfalls. The place is also popular for its unique cultural inclusivity as people of different faiths live here in harmony. Although the destination is considered the seat of the Shakti cult, it boasts many Muslim shrines peppered through the area. This eclectic blend of intermingling faiths and religions makes Chatra an interesting place for travelers. It is also a perfect place for nature lovers as it gives an opportunity to explore dense forests, caves, waterfalls, and many other natural wonders. Several amazing tourist attractions like vibrant fairs attract people from far and wide areas. Reflecting a unique cultural fabric, the famous Kundri Mela and Bhadii Mela of Chatra are worth witnessing. Also, the land of Raja Rammohan Roy, this gem of Jharkhand, finds its place in our historical struggle for independence. A treasure trove of natural and cultural delights, Chatra is an amazing offbeat place in India where travelers can grab an enriching experience.
Best Time to Visit Chatra
Chatra enjoys a moderate climate all through the year. Months between October to March are the best as there are no drastic fluctuations in temperature and the weather is perfectly pleasant to explore the place without any discomfort.
History of Chatra
Also referred to as the gateway of Chotanagpur, Chatra enjoys a rich historical past. As per historical records, the place was governed by Great Emperor Ashoka in 232 BC. Chatra was part of a vast area ruled by Ashoka, and collectively this area was called the Atavika states. All these states, including Chatra, accepted the rule of Ashoka’s Maurya Empire. Later, the place was annexed by the Delhi Sultanate during Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s reign, making it a part of Bihar Subah under the sovereignty of the Mughal Empire. In 1769, the area came under the control of the British East India Company. During this time, Raja Rammohan Roy played a vital role in bringing monumental societal reforms working as a Serestadar. The Battle of Chatra was another highlight that made this quaint place very popular. This battle was fought between Britishers and insurgents during the first war of independence in 1857. A lot of lives were lost in this battle. Today, this destination enjoys popularity as a tourist destination, known for its scenic splendours and natural beauty.
Major Attractions Of Chatra Jharkhand
Chatra is a beautiful destination with loads of natural and man-made attractions to offer discerning travellers. Here, we bring you a well-curated list of some of the most amazing attractions of Chatra that will keep you mesmerised with its beauty.
1. Kauleshwari Devi Temple
Kauleshwari Devi Temple is nestled in the lap of nature. Perched atop Kolhua Hill, this 10th Century old temple attracts many devotees. They visit the temple to seek the blessings of the divine deity and pray to get their dreams fulfilled. During festivals, the temple witnesses huge crowds. This area is also popular among Jain devotees as it birthplace of Sitala Swami, the tenth Jain Tirthankara.
2. Kunda Fort
This fort is an integral part of Kunda Palace which lies in ruins today. This 17th-century old fort is in a very dilapidated condition today but speaks volumes about ancient times when the fort used to be one of the striking structures of this area. It is approximately 3 to 4 miles away from Kunda Village. Visitors love checking out Kunda Caves, located half a mile away from Kunda Palace. A narrow path connects the cave with the palace. While walking through this path, a small stream accompanies you, adding to the natural beauty of this place.
3. Goa Waterfall
Nature lovers would love to check out this stunning waterfall that lies on the way to Maloodah from Chatra. It lies 6.5 km west to Chatra, where approximately 4.5 km distance is completed in a jeep and rests on foot to reach the waterfall with gushing waters cascading down from a height of 30 feet into a reservoir below. Shrawan maas attracts many visitors to this waterfall who love taking a dip in cool water with rains beating down on their heads. The area around this waterfall is perfect for family picnics.
4. Duari Hot Water Spring
Near the bed of Balbal, Duari is a natural hot spring and is known for its medicinal qualities. The locals frequently visit this spot to get rid of their skin diseases. The gurgling waters, along with the amazing scenic views surrounding this place, are amazing. Itis, hands down, is a special gem of Chatra tourism.
5. Kolhua Hill
Kolhua Hill is another tourist destination that you can reach from Hunterganj by crossing the Lilangen River. Situated at an immense height of around 1,575 ft, the Kolhua Hill offers a distinctive feel and vibe to travelers. The top of the hill is very impressive in looks and is referred to as ‘Akash Lochan’ or Sky Eye. It, honestly, is one of the best places to visit in Chatra, Jharkhand.
6. Itkhori Festival
This annual festival is celebrated in the Bhadrakali Temple premises. The main objective of this festival is to instill cultural harmony among people and cultivate a sense of international identity through performances of artists around the globe.
7. Bhaduli or Bhadrakali Temple
It is a very famous temple located in Itkhori. Dedicated to Maa Bhadrakali, this temple is also a base for the confluence of three religions in the area- Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The temple attracts a lot of devotees from different religions, making this place distinctive and known for religious harmony.
How To Reach Chatra
Chatra is a historical city located in the ‘land of forests and gold’ Jharkhand. The place is developing at a rapid pace and is soon going to have its own aerodrome and railway station. Presently, it enjoys an extensive network of roads that connects it with nearby areas. Visitors can reach Chatra using diverse modes of transportation. Here we bring you details of travel to this place using air, rail, and road transport services.
- Nearest Major City. Gaya
- Nearest Airport. Gaya Airport.
- Nearest Railway Station. Gaya Raiilway Station.
- Distance From Gaya. 78.8 Km
By Air
The nearest aerodrome is the Gaya Airport. From here, Chatra lies at a distance of around 73 km. This airport is well connected with other Indian cities like Delhi, Pune, Chandigarh, etc.
- Distance from Gaya Airport. 73.9 Km
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Chatra
By Train
Chatra is not very well connected with train routes. The nearest railway station is located at Gaya which is at a distance of around 83 km. After deboarding the train, you will need to take a cab or an auto-rickshaw to reach your destination.
- Distance From Gaya Railway Station. 83 Km
By Road
Chatra is well connected via the road network to nearby places. Bus services are frequent as well. You can also hire cabs/taxis to reach here.
- Distance From Gaya. 78.8 km
- Distance From Bodh Gaya. 69.2 Km
- Distance From Hazaribagh. 60.3 Km
- Distance From Ranchi. 107.4 Km
- Distance From Bokaro. 130.7 Km
- Distance From Dhanbad. 166 Km
- Distance From Patna. 155.8 Km
- Distance From Delhi. 1128 Km
- Distance From Pune. 1673 Km
- Distance From Chandigarh. 1336 Km
- Distance From Mumbai. 1786 Km
Frequently Asked Questions About Chatra, Jharkhand
Ques 1. Which are the major attractions in Chatra?
Ans 1. Chatra is famous for attractions like Bhadrakali Temple, Kauleshwari Devi Temple, Duari Hot Water Spring, Goa Waterfall, Kolhua Hill, and more.
Ques 2. Is it possible to reach Chatra by air?
Ans 2. Chatra doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airport to reach this place is in Gaya, which is 78.8 Km away from Chatra.
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