Have you ever heard of Jonha Falls? If not, you are missing out on one of the most beautiful and underrated attractions in India. Jonha Falls is a spectacular waterfall that plunges from a height of 43 meters into a deep gorge. It is located in the Ranchi district of Jharkhand, about 40 km from the capital city. Jonha Falls is also known as Gautam Dhara, as it is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha bathed and meditated. It is a popular picnic spot and a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus alike.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Jonha Falls, including the best time to visit, the legend behind its name, the places to visit near it, and how to reach it. We will also share some tips and tricks to make your trip to Jonha Falls memorable and hassle-free. So, read on and discover why Jonha Falls is a hidden gem in Jharkhand that you should not miss.
Best Time to Visit Jonha Falls
The best time to visit Jonha Falls is during the monsoon season, which lasts from July to October. This is when the waterfall is at its full glory, with a huge volume of water gushing down the rocks. The surrounding landscape also becomes lush and green, creating a contrast with the white foam of the waterfall. The weather is pleasant and cool, with occasional showers that add to the charm of the place.
However, if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some solitude, you can also visit Jonha Falls in the winter season, which lasts from November to February. This is when the waterfall is less voluminous, but still impressive. The weather is cold and dry, with clear skies and sunny days. You can also witness some fog and mist in the mornings and evenings, which create a mystical atmosphere.
The Legend of Jonha Falls
There is an interesting legend behind the name of Jonha Falls. According to the local folklore, there was once a young boy named Jonha who lived near the waterfall. He was an orphan who was adopted by a widow. He was very fond of fishing and would often go to the river to catch fish. One day, he caught a big fish that was actually a shape-shifting demon. The demon begged Jonha to spare his life and promised to grant him any wish in return.
Jonha agreed and asked for a beautiful bride who would love him unconditionally. The demon agreed and took him to a nearby village where he introduced him to a lovely girl named Sita. Jonha and Sita fell in love and decided to get married. However, on their wedding day, the demon revealed his true identity and snatched Sita away from Jonha. He told him that he had tricked him and that he would never see Sita again.
Jonha was heartbroken and ran after the demon. He reached the edge of the waterfall where he saw Sita being dragged into the water by the demon. He jumped into the water to save her, but it was too late. Both Jonha and Sita drowned in the river and their bodies were never found. The locals named the waterfall after Jonha as a tribute to his love and sacrifice.
Places to Visit Near Jonha Falls
Jonha Falls is not only a stunning waterfall but also a gateway to explore some of the other attractions in Jharkhand. Here are some of the places that you can visit near Jonha Falls:
Gautam Dhara:
This is another waterfall that is located close to Jonha Falls and has a religious importance for Buddhists. It is believed that Gautama Buddha bathed here during his visit to Jharkhand. There is also a temple dedicated to Buddha near the waterfall.
Sita Falls:
This is a picturesque waterfall that is surrounded by lush greenery and rocks. It is named after Sita, the heroine of Ramayana, who is said to have spent some time here during her exile. There is also a cave near the waterfall where Sita used to meditate.
Hirni Falls:
This is a spectacular waterfall that cascades from a height of 120 meters and offers a panoramic view of the valley. It is located about 70 km from Jonha Falls and can be reached by road or trekking. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in Jharkhand.
Budhu Buru:
This is a hill that is famous for its rock paintings and tribal festivals. It is located about 40 km from Jonha Falls and can be reached by road. It is a cultural and historical site that showcases the art and lifestyle of the tribal people of Jharkhand.
Ranchi Lake:
This is a man-made lake that is ideal for boating and picnicking. It is located in the heart of Ranchi, about 40 km from Jonha Falls. It was built by a British officer in 1842 and is surrounded by gardens and hills.
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How to Reach Jonha Falls
Jonha Falls is easily accessible from different cities or towns in Jharkhand or nearby states. Here are some of the ways to reach Jonha Falls:
By road:
The easiest and most convenient way to reach Jonha Falls is by road. It is about 40 km from Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand. One can take a bus, taxi, or car from Ranchi to Jonha Falls via NH-75. The road is well-maintained and scenic, passing through forests and fields.
By train:
The nearest railway station to Jonha Falls is Tatisilwai, which is about 20 km away. One can take a train from Ranchi or other major cities to Tatisilwai and then hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Jonha Falls. The train journey is comfortable and affordable, with frequent services available.
By air:
The nearest airport to Jonha Falls is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is about 45 km away. One can take a flight from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, or other cities to Ranchi and then take a bus, taxi, or car to Jonha Falls. The flight journey is quick and convenient, with regular flights operating.
Jonha Falls is a hidden gem in Jharkhand that deserves more attention and appreciation. It is a natural wonder that offers a serene and scenic escape from the city. It is also a place of history and culture, with a legend that touches the heart and a pilgrimage that soothes the soul. It is also a base for exploring some of the other attractions in Jharkhand, such as Gautam Dhara, Sita Falls, Hirni Falls, Budhu Buru, and Ranchi Lake.
If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Jharkhand, you should definitely plan your trip to Jonha Falls soon. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Jonha Falls today and discover the beauty and charm of this hidden gem in Jharkhand.
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