The Beautiful Jewel of Jharkhand: Exploring The Splendor of Giridih's Parasnath Hills

Parasnath Hills is a mountain range located in the Giridih district of Jharkhand, India. It is also known as Shikharji, and is considered to be the most sacred of all Jain pilgrimage sites. The Parasnath Hills are part of the Hazaribagh Plateau and form the highest peak in the state of Jharkhand, with an elevation of 4,479 ft (1,368 m).

The Parasnath Hills are home to several ancient Jain temples, believed to have been built between the 9th and 12th centuries. These temples are dedicated to the 23rd Jain tirthankar, Parshwanath. The temples are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting various aspects of Jain mythology.

The hills are a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, and are home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, tigers, elephants, and a wide range of bird species. There are also several ancient caves within the hills, which have been used by Jain monks for centuries.

Parasnath Hills is also home to a number of hot springs, believed to have healing properties. Pilgrims often bathe in these hot springs to cleanse themselves spiritually and physically.

Ideal For:

Parasnath Hills is an ideal destination for a variety of activities. Situated in the Giridih district of Jharkhand, India, this hill range is the highest peak in the state. The hills provide an ideal backdrop for trekking, camping, nature walks, and bird-watching. The area is abundant in wildlife, and visitors can also enjoy spotting monkeys, wild boars, and various species of birds. 

Parasnath Hills is also a great spot for a spiritual retreat. The hills are home to numerous Jain temples and ashrams, making it an ideal place for pilgrims to seek solace and spiritual enlightenment. There are also many temples dedicated to Hindu gods, making it a great place to visit for people of all faiths.

For those who love adventure, Parasnath Hills is an ideal destination. The hills provide a great opportunity for rock climbing, rappelling, and other adventure activities. There are also several caves in the area, making it a great spot for spelunking. 

The hills are also popular with photographers and nature lovers. The variety of flora and fauna, as well as the stunning views, make it a great spot for capturing amazing shots. 

Whether you’re looking for a spiritual retreat, an adventure, or just a chance to explore nature, Parasnath Hills is the perfect destination.

How to reach

Reaching Parasnath Hills is relatively easy and can be done in a few simple steps: 

1. By Train - Parasnath Station is the closest railway station to the hills. It is located at a distance of about 10 km from Parasnath Hills. Trains from Kolkata, Patna, and Delhi are available to Parasnath Station.

2. By Bus - Regular buses are available from major nearby cities like Kolkata and Patna to reach Parasnath Hills.

3. By Road - You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle to reach Parasnath Hills. The roads are well maintained and offer a smooth drive.

Once you reach the hills, you can take a cable car ride to the top. The view from the top is breathtaking and worth the effort.

Climate and best time to visit:

The climate of Parasnath Hills is generally pleasant throughout the year. Summers (March-June) are hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 37°C. Monsoons (July-September) bring heavy rainfall and the temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C. Winters (October-February) are cold and the temperature can fall to as low as 0°C.

The best time to visit Parasnath Hills is from October to March. The weather during this time is pleasant, with cool breezes, blue skies, and lush green foliage. This is the ideal time to explore the numerous temples and caves in the area and to take part in the various religious festivals. The hill station also serves as a great escape from the heat of the summer months and the humidity of the monsoon season.
 

Ideal Duration:

The ideal duration to stay in Parasnath Hills depends on the type of activities and experiences you are looking for. If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing holiday, then two to three days would be sufficient. You can spend your time exploring the nearby villages, visiting local temples and monuments, and exploring the nearby wildlife sanctuaries.

If you are looking for a more adventurous holiday, then four to five days would be the best duration. You can go for trekking, mountain biking, rappelling, and paragliding in the hills. You can also visit various waterfalls, caves and other attractions in the area.

No matter what kind of vacation you are looking for, Parasnath Hills has something for everyone. The best time to visit the hills is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are cooler.

Places to Stay:

When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options for tourists looking to stay in Parasnath Hills. Here is a list of some of the best places to stay in Parasnath Hills:

1. Parasnath Tourist Lodge: The Parasnath Tourist Lodge is a great option for those looking for a comfortable stay near the hills. This lodge provides a range of rooms and amenities, including air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a bar.
2. Parasnath Hill Resort: This luxury resort is located close to the hills and provides guests with a variety of amenities and services, including a spa, a restaurant, and a gym. The resort also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
3. Hari Om Tourist Lodge: Located in the foothills of Parasnath Hills, this lodge is a great option for budget travelers. It provides clean and comfortable rooms with all the modern amenities.
4. Parasnath Hill View Hotel: This hotel is located in the middle of the hills and provides guests with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. It offers a range of rooms and facilities, including a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a bar.
5. Parasnath Forest Lodge: Located in the thick of the forests, this lodge provides travelers with an opportunity to explore the flora and fauna of the area. It provides comfortable rooms and facilities, including a restaurant and a bar.

No matter what your budget or preferences are, there are plenty of great places to stay in Parasnath Hills. With the right accommodation, you can ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in this beautiful destination.