Hazaribagh, literally meaning ‘a thousand gardens’, is a fine health and hill resort, perched on the central plateau at a height of 2,019 ft. The picturesque town surrounded by thickly wooded hills is also noted for its salubrious climate.
Hazaribagh Lake: It is a popular picnic spot. Water sports facilities are available.
Canary Hills: It has a well – laid out park, three small lakes, and an observation tower. One can enjoy fine views of Hazaribagh and its surroundings from the top of the hill.
Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary: The scenic sanctuary sprawls over an area of 184 sq. kms. amidst low hilly terrain with thick tropical forests and grass meadows. The thickly wooded hills are a haven for rich and varied animal life. Key fauna – wild bear, nilgai, sambar, chital, barking deer, sloth bear, leopard, and tiger, etc. Best season – October to November and February to March.
Around Hazaribagh
Bishnugarh (41 kms.)
It is famous for a waterfall located about 15 kms. from here. There is also an ancient shrine of Goddess Bhagwati Mahamaya at Bansao.
Rajrappa (68 kms.)
This holy site on the confluence of Damodar and Bhera rivers is famous for the temple of Maa Chhina Mastika Devi. A large fair is held on Makar Sankranti (Jan.) and during the ‘Kali Puja’ festival, many rituals and ceremonies are performed. The Bhera river plunges from a height of20 feet and merges with the Damodar river, forming a spectacular fall.
Tilaiya (63 kms.)
The dam on the Patna – Ranchi highway was built under the Damodar Valley Scheme and is a fine picnic spot. Nearby is the Urwan Tourist Complex.
