Exploring Navratna Garh Fort: A Historical Gem In Jharkhand

Ancient ruins of Navratna Garh fort.

Navratna Garh Fort is situated in Navratna Garh, which earlier was one of the capital forts of the Nagvanshi dynasty, who reigned over parts of the modern state of Jharkhand in India. It is nestled in the Sisai block, Gumla district. It was also declared a national heritage site in the year 2009. This fort is five-storeyed and there are 9 rooms on every floor. There used to be temples surrounding the fort and one could go to the fort with the help of the tunnel constructed in the temple. Tourists visit this site for its deep history.

Location

The way to fort in Gumla District.

Photo: Peter Potrowl / Wikimedia Commons

Navratnagarh Fort is the heritage of Nagvanshis in the Sisai block of Gumla district in the state of Jharkhand and it was established by Nagvanshi king Durjan Shaal.

How To Reach

Highway to reach Navratna Garh Fort.

Photo: Tantrik7 / Wikimedia Commons

By Road : Gumla Bus Stand is only about an hour away from the fort and you can also hail a taxi or a private car to travel to and fro from the site.

By Air : The nearest airport to the fort is the Birsa Munda Airport of Ranchi.

By Train : Gumla Railway station is about 55 minutes away from the fort.

Places To Visit Near Navratna Garh Fort

1. Ketunga

An old shiva temple at Ketunga near Navratna Garh Fort.

Photo: Abhicomet / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Ketunga Dham is a famous destination in the state that attracts many tourists and devotees every year. It is a gorgeous and serene place along the Subarnarekha River’s banks and surrounded by lush green forests. The main attraction of Ketunga Dham is the Shiva temple, one of the oldest temples in the state. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built during the 12th century. The temple is a fine example of ancient Indian architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple complex also houses several smaller shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities.

Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: No entry fee

2. Lodh Waterfalls

Heavy waterfall near Navratna Garh Fort.

Photo: Rohitkisku0 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

It is located on the Burha River, deep in the forest of the Latehar district of the Chota Nagpur Plateau. The Lodh Falls (also known as Budha Ghagh) is a waterfall in a mid-forest of Palamau Tiger Reserve, in the south division of the Latehar district in Jharkhand state in India. It is the highest waterfall in Jharkhand and the 21st highest waterfall in India. It is located on the Burha River, deep in the forest of the Latehar district of the Chota Nagpur Plateau. The Lodh Falls is a tiered waterfall with multiple distinct drops in a relatively close succession.

Timings: 9:30 AM To 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free entry

3. Birsa Munda Museum

Exquisite artwork at Birsa Munda Museum.

Photo: Msfolklore / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

On November 15, 2021, the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Museum and Memorial Park in Ranchi, Jharkhand was inaugurated. The day marked the 146th birth anniversary of the tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda, also known as Dharti Aaba or father of the land. Along with Birsa Munda, the museum also celebrates several other tribal freedom fighters from the region. Today, the museum has paved the way for the building of other tribal museums. And 10 such museums will soon be built across the various tribal belts of the country, including Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.

Timings: 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100

4. Yogoda Satsanga Sakha Math

Greenery at a place near Navratna Garh Fort.

Photo: Sarwateashwin / Wikimedia Commons

For the last hundred years, the Yogoda Satsanga Society of India (YSS) has been devoted to carrying forward the spiritual and humanitarian work of Paramahansa Yogananda, the founder and widely popular father of Yoga in the West. It was here, in Ranchi, in 1917, that Paramahansa Yogananda began his life’s work with the founding of an ashram and a “How-to-Live” school for boys, and to make available the universal teachings of Kriya Yoga. Tourists can visit the ashram centres, and retreats, where the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere offer refreshment to mind and spirit.

Timings: 7:30 AM to 9 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM

5. Palamu Fort

The ancient ruins of Palamu Fort near Navratna Garh Fort.

Photo: Paramanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons

About 5 Kms from Lalmathar of District Palamu Fort District. It is situated in the west direction in the distance. Here are two forts, called an old fort and the second new fort. The old fort was built in the time of the Cheras King Medini Rai. It is 75 feet wide and there is also a mazjid. The new fort has been constructed on the upper slopes of the hill. Its main entrance is also known as the Nagpurpuri gate. These heritage structures in Palamu are in need of care and conservation.

Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 – 100

Where To Stay

A hotel near Navratna Garh Fort.

Photo: Neelabh2007 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There are multiple options to stay near the fort. These hotels range from budget-friendly hotels to exquisite places. Pilkhi More, OYO Sisai Palace and Ejril Hotel are some great options to explore to stay near Navratna Garh Fort.

Where To Eat

Special food served near a local eatery near Navratna Fort.

Photo: Curcumaamada / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Many local eateries and restaurants serve authentic food from the local cuisine of the region. The Kav’s Restaurant, Prana Lounge, Vyanjan Restaurant and Pa Pa Ya Ranchi are some very good options to check out near Navratna Garh Fort in Jharkhand.

Best Time To Visit

A serene place to visit in Jharkhand.

Photo: Abhishekjha786 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The best time to visit Jharkhand is during the winter months of October to March, when the weather is cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C. This makes it a great time to explore the state’s greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife

Other Factors To Consider

Parking near Navratna Garh Fort.

Photo: Ashish Choudhary / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Before travelling to a tourist place, it is important to keep in mind certain things for a better holiday experience.

Average Cost Of Trip:

To enter the temple, there is no entry charge. Travel cost is something that you will have to take care depending on the mode of travel. The bus journey from Ranchi to Gumla can take between 2 hours and 5 hours. The price of a ticket can range from around INR 713 to INR 800, depending on the type of bus.

Tips For Travellers:

  • Opt for public transport while travelling within the city, it is easier and cheaper.
  • Always carry an emergency first-aid kit.

Jharkhand is a state that is rich in history and culture and its tourism has been growing each year. There are multiple places to visit in Jharkhand with the most famous one being Navratna Garh Fort. This fort is an ancient site to witness and promises both a cultural and historical time. With several other attractions to visit near this fort, a trip to this place promises a memorable time. Don’t forget to plan an amazing trip to Jharkhand this year with TripXL!

Cover Photo: Ans.anshu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Jharkhand is known as Land of Forest and it is quite popular for its parks and sanctuaries. There are many wildlife sanctuaries and National Parks including Betla National Park, Hazaribag Wildlife Sanctuary, Gautam Budha Wildlife Sanctuary, and Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary.
The folk music and dance represent the main culture of Jharkhand. The tribal communities inhabiting the state majorly contribute to maintaining and bringing the charisma of the music and dance practised in Jharkhand.
The state of Jharkhand celebrates many festivals, marking harmony and prosperity throughout the year. Some of Jharkhand's famous festivals such as Karam, Sarhul, Makar, Rohini, and Sohrai.
During the time of Mahabharat, the area was called ‘Kark Khand’. Later on during the Mughal period, it was named Kukara and in the year 2000, it was renamed as ‘Jharkhand’.
Rajendra Market, Purana Bazar and Park Market are some popular shopping areas in the state of Jharkhand.

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