Hazaribagh

State

Hazaribagh, nestling in low hilly terrain, is famous as a health resort and for Hazaribagh National Park (17 km from city). It is located in the north eastern region of the Chhota Nagpur Plateau and is counted amongst the top hill resorts in India, famous for its calm and peaceful nature.

History

Hazaribagh town and its panoramic view mesmerize all its visitors and tourists. Historians claim that there is an interesting history of Hazaribagh. Thus the history of this town dates back to as early as the eighteenth century. It was formed in the year 1790 as a cantonment town. At that time it was a part of Ramgarh district. Then in the year 1834 it has gained the status of being a district headquarter. However it retained its status of cantonment till the year 1884. One advantage of being a cantonment town is that large portion of the town was formed following a plan.

Boddam Bazar is the name of this portion of the town, which has been christened after the officer who established its foundation. Quite a number of English men have built their settlements in Hazaribagh at the time of British era. They constructed huge “bungalow type houses”, most of which have got slanting roofs. They were renowned for their hunting skills.

The Hazaribagh Central Jail, a landmark, also has got its place in the rich history of Hazaribagh. During the Indian Freedom struggle, eminent personalities were imprisoned and were taken into this jail. Dr rajendra Prasad, who became the first president of India, was also prisoner of this jail. Another prisoner is Jayaprakash Narayan. He was a distinguished leader and was arrested and then took into this jail. It was during Quit India Movement that was held in the year 1942. Legend says that he had a blood escape from the prison fooling the security. The localities also helped heim to escape.

Accessibility

Rail: Nearest railway station is Koderma which is 59 kms away or alternately one can apporach the National Park from Hazaribagh Road railway station (67 kms) on the Howarh-Delhi Grand Chord line.

Road: Hazaribagh town is connected by road to Ranchi 91 kms, Dhanbad 128 kms, Gaya 130 kms, Patna 235 kms, Daltonganj 198 kms, Calcutta (via Asansol-Govindapur-Barhi) 434 kms.

Bus: The Hazaribagh National Park is 19 kms from the Hazaribag town. Regular bus services connect the town with Koderma, Hazaribagh Road rly station, Patna, Gaya, Ranchi, Dhanbad, Dalotongunj and other nearby places.

Accommodation

Tourist Bungalow, Hazaribagh : Reservation Manager, TB.
BSTDC Forest Rest House, D.F.O.
Hazaribagh Rest House, with canteen inside the sanctuary: D.F.O., Hazaribagh.
Besides there are many hotels in the town.

District
Hazaribagh district
STD Code
06546
Best time to visit
October to April