When one conjures images of Goa, the sun-drenched beaches often dominate the mindscape. Yet, as the monsoon weaves its magic, Goa transforms into an emerald lush of a haven. As the beaches skirt the state, magnificent waterfalls cascade their symphony in monsoons.

Goa transforms into a haven of natural beauty during the monsoon season, boasting some of the most stunning waterfalls in India. Dudhsagar Falls, one of the highest in India, becomes a spectacular sight as torrents of water cascade down the rocky cliffs amidst lush greenery, creating a milky-white appearance that justifies its name, “Sea of Milk.”

Tambdi Surla Waterfall, located near the ancient Tambdi Surla Temple, offers a serene and picturesque setting, with the surrounding Western Ghats coming alive with vibrant flora. The Arvalem Waterfalls, also known as Harvalem, present a captivating view as water plunges into a scenic pool, enhanced by the nearby Arvalem Caves and Rudreshwar Temple.

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, here is a selected list of waterfalls in Goa that provide an immersive experience with its pristine surroundings and the chance to spot diverse wildlife. The monsoon season accentuates the beauty of these waterfalls, turning Goa into a lush paradise where nature’s splendour is at its peak.

Kuskem Waterfall, South Goa

Situated in the picturesque Kuskem village within Canacona Taluka, this waterfall is 20 km from the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary off NH 17. The waterfall is approximately 12 km from Hathipal, the sanctuary’s entry point, where visitors can stay in the forest department’s eco cottages. Anvli waterfall, situated nearby additionally complements this attraction. Reaching Kuskem involves a hike with breathtaking views of the lush forest and clear waters, ideal for a refreshing dip.

Netravali Waterfall, South Goa

This waterfall is located in Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, about 50 km from Margao. Accessible by road, visitors can reach the falls after a 20-30 minute trek through lush forest. The waterfall forms a pool with its curtain-like cascade. Due to its rich biodiversity, the sanctuary is idle for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Netravali Waterfalls’ visit is highly commendable as it is an incredible spot for picnics, nature walks, and photography.

Dudhsagar Falls, Goa-Karnataka border

Dudhsagar Falls, located on the Goa-Karnataka border, becomes a mesmerizing spectacle during the monsoon season. As one of India’s tallest waterfalls, it plunges approximately 310 meters in a four-tiered cascade, resembling a sea of milk as torrents of rainwater gush down the rocky cliffs. The surrounding Western Ghats come alive with lush, verdant foliage, enhancing the dramatic scenery.

The heavy monsoon rains amplify the volume and force of the waterfall, creating a thundering roar and a misty spray that envelopes the area, providing a refreshing respite for visitors. The falls are accessible via a scenic trek through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary or a thrilling jeep safari, both offering breathtaking views of the dense forest and rich biodiversity.

The railway bridge passing in front of Dudhsagar Falls adds to the charm, with occasional trains providing a unique vantage point for travellers. This natural wonder, with its ethereal beauty during the monsoons, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers exploring Goa.

Kesarval Waterfalls, South Goa

Kesarval Springs is distanced 22 kilometres from Panaji near the Verna plateau and the Zuari River. Accessible by a short trek, it is surrounded by tropical woodlands and betel-nut palms. The spring is famed for its medicinal properties, believed to heal skin and eye ailments due to the mineral-infused waters.

Bamanbudo Waterfall, South Goa

Located in Canacona, near Ambe Ghat, this waterfall resembles a waterslide, featuring high-force water sliding down the rocks, forming a stream at the bottom. Considering its easy access, it is perfect for family picnics.

Hivrem Waterfalls, North Goa

Hivrem offers stunning views of the Sahyadris and the Hivrem Waterfall. A 45-minute trek leads to this waterfall. The waterfall, surrounded by a heavy forest, is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Tambdi Surla Waterfall

During the monsoon season, Tambdi Surla Waterfall in Goa transforms into a tranquil and breathtaking retreat amidst the dense forests of the Western Ghats.

Located near the 12th-century Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple, this hidden gem becomes particularly enchanting with the onset of heavy rains. The waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, cascades down the rocky terrain, creating a serene and picturesque landscape. The monsoon rains invigorate the flora, resulting in a vibrant and verdant canopy that enhances the natural beauty of the falls.

The journey to Tambdi Surla Waterfall involves a scenic trek through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, offering glimpses of diverse wildlife and rich biodiversity along the way. The peaceful ambience, coupled with the soothing sound of cascading water, makes Tambdi Surla a perfect spot for nature lovers seeking solitude and rejuvenation during the monsoon season.

An invitation to explore the untamed, verdant Waterfalls of Goa

The earthy scent of rain-soaked soil fills the air as adventurers walk these trails trekking through lush hinterlands to discover hidden waterfalls and serene pools. Picnics become tales of laughter and joy. Visiting these waterfalls is not merely an escape into nature’s embrace but an invitation to explore the untamed, verdant heart of Goa. So, as we listen to the cascading waterfalls hum their melodies when monsoon bestows their beauty, let us also be stewards of its preservation.

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In our fast-paced, modern world, the natural beauty of the night sky is often obscured by the pervasive glow of artificial lights. Yet, there are special places where the heavens still reveal their full, awe-inspiring splendour. These are known as dark sky destinations—sanctuaries where light pollution is minimal or entirely absent, offering crystal-clear views of the cosmos.

Dark sky destinations are increasingly popular among travellers seeking to reconnect with the natural world and experience the universe’s grandeur. Far from the glare of city lights, these locations provide an unobstructed view of stars, planets, and celestial phenomena. They are perfect for stargazing, astrophotography, and simply soaking in the serene beauty of the night sky.

Visiting a dark sky destination is more than just an opportunity to see stars. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in nature, learn about astronomy, and gain a deeper appreciation for the vastness of the universe. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or a curious traveller, dark sky destinations offer a unique and profoundly moving experience, reminding us of our place in the cosmos and the timeless beauty of the night sky.

Gazing up at a star-studded sky has always held a magical allure, drawing us to ponder the vastness of the universe. In an age where artificial light dims our view of the cosmos, dark sky destinations offer a sanctuary for stargazers seeking a pristine celestial experience.

These special locations, far from urban light pollution, provide an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the night sky’s beauty and mystery.

Pench Tiger Reserve, India

Recently recognized as India’s first dark sky destination and the fifth in Asia, Pench at Madhya Pradesh in India has earned this title for its efforts in protecting the night sky and preventing light pollution, making it an ideal spot for astronomy enthusiasts.

Pench is emerging as a premier dark sky destination, offering a celestial haven for stargazing enthusiasts. Located within the Pench National Park, this region boasts minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot for observing the night sky’s splendour.

The clear skies and pristine environment provide a perfect backdrop for astronomy lovers to marvel at constellations, planets, and the Milky Way in their full glory. The tranquillity and natural beauty of Pench enhance the stargazing experience, making it a memorable retreat for those seeking to connect with the cosmos.

The park’s efforts to preserve its natural darkness have earned it recognition as a dark sky reserve, where the nocturnal environment is protected and cherished.

Activities

Apart from stargazing, travellers at Pench can enjoy wildlife safaris to spot tigers and leopards, guided nature walks and trekking, bird-watching tours, cultural experiences in nearby tribal villages, and camping under the stars with bonfires and storytelling, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Red Sea International, Saudi Arabia

Around the world, efforts to protect dark skies are gaining momentum, highlighting the impact of light pollution on local environments. Saudi Arabia’s desert landscape remains one of the few places with pristine dark skies, and few organizations are as committed to preserving these natural beauties as Red Sea Global. With a strong focus on supporting local communities and ecosystems, The Red Sea aims to become the only certified Dark Sky Reserve in the Middle East.

The Red Sea is on track to earn global Dark Sky Reserve status from DarkSky International, emphasizing the deep connection between the stars and Arabian culture. This connection dates back to nomadic peoples who relied on the night sky for navigation. Red Sea Global collaborates with this leading organization to create new lighting standards for the hospitality industry.

Adopting a ‘nature first’ approach, The Red Sea’s luxury resorts, including the newly opened Six Senses Southern Dunes, implement innovative lighting strategies. These provide sustainable lighting for guests without emitting harmful levels of light. The resorts use programmable digital lighting control systems with astronomical timers to adjust artificial lighting according to seasonal changes. This strategic use of lighting optics minimizes light pollution, protecting the surrounding wildlife.

Guests at The Red Sea can enjoy activities like astrophotography sessions, campfire storytelling, and stargazing excursions, with the chance to see the Milky Way—a sight now obscured by light pollution for one-third of the global population. Red Sea Global also plans to work with nearby villages and cities to reduce sky glow and enhance sustainable lighting practices.

Reducing light pollution not only preserves the dark sky but also protects both nocturnal and diurnal wildlife. Many endemic creatures rely on natural light cycles for their behaviour and survival, and light pollution can be incredibly harmful to these animals. By maintaining natural lighting conditions, these initiatives support the health and balance of local ecosystems.

Activities

At Red Sea, travellers can enjoy guided stargazing tours, capturing the cosmos in astrophotography workshops, and desert camping under the stars. These activities offer a unique opportunity to explore the night sky, learn from experts, and experience the serene beauty of the desert landscape at night.

Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA

Mauna Kea, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is one of the world’s most renowned dark sky destinations. Standing at an impressive 13,796 feet above sea level, its summit is far above much of the Earth’s atmosphere, providing unparalleled clarity for stargazing. The location’s unique geographical features, including its high altitude, dry environment, and stable airflow, contribute to some of the clearest and most stable viewing conditions on the planet.

Free from the interference of light pollution, the night skies above Mauna Kea reveal a breathtaking array of stars, planets, and celestial phenomena that are often obscured in other parts of the world. 

This pristine visibility has made Mauna Kea home to some of the most advanced telescopes and observatories, drawing astronomers and researchers from around the globe. Beyond its scientific significance, Mauna Kea is also a place of cultural and spiritual importance to the native Hawaiian people, adding a rich layer of history and tradition to the stargazing experience. Visitors to Mauna Kea can immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos, gaining a deeper appreciation for both the natural wonders of the universe and the cultural heritage that surrounds this majestic mountain.

Activities

Travellers to Mauna Kea can engage in a variety of activities that cater to both adventures. For those interested in hiking, the Mauna Kea Summit Trail offers a challenging ascent with breathtaking views of the island and beyond. The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station, located at 9,200 feet, provides educational programs, displays, and guided stargazing sessions. Additionally, cultural tours offer insights into the significance of Mauna Kea in Hawaiian mythology and traditions.

Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand

Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, located in the heart of New Zealand‘s South Island, is a premier destination for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. Covering 4,300 square kilometres, it is one of the largest dark sky reserves in the world and was the first in the Southern Hemisphere to receive this designation. The reserve encompasses the Mackenzie Basin, which is renowned for its clear skies, low humidity, and minimal light pollution, creating ideal conditions for observing the night sky.

Visitors to Aoraki Mackenzie are treated to spectacular views of the Milky Way, the Southern Cross, and the Magellanic Clouds, all of which are often obscured by light pollution in other regions. The reserve’s commitment to preserving its dark skies is evident through local lighting regulations and community efforts to minimize artificial light.

At the heart of the reserve lies the Mount John Observatory, which hosts some of New Zealand’s most powerful telescopes and is a hub for astronomical research and public tours. The reserve is also a place of natural beauty, with stunning landscapes including lakes, mountains, and open grasslands. Whether you are a seasoned astronomer or a casual stargazer, Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve offers a unique and awe-inspiring opportunity to connect with the wonders of the universe in one of the most pristine environments on Earth.

Activities

Popular activities include stargazing tours, where visitors use high-powered telescopes to explore the night sky and learn about constellations from expert guides. Hiking the Mauna Kea Summit Trail offers a challenging ascent with stunning views of the island. The Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station provides educational programs, displays, and guided stargazing sessions. Cultural tours offer insights into the mountain’s significance in Hawaiian mythology, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada

Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada, is a mesmerizing dark sky destination perfect for stargazing enthusiasts. As the second-largest dark sky preserve in the world, it offers an unparalleled view of the night sky, free from the interference of light pollution.

Imagine standing under a blanket of countless stars, with the Milky Way stretching across the horizon in vivid detail. The park’s vast wilderness, clear skies, and high altitude make it an ideal spot for observing constellations, meteor showers, and even the elusive Northern Lights. 

Every October, Jasper hosts the annual Dark Sky Festival, where visitors can participate in astronomy workshops, guided stargazing sessions, and listen to talks by renowned astronomers. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or simply looking to reconnect with nature, Jasper National Park offers a magical experience that will leave you in awe of the universe’s beauty.

Activities

Travellers at Jasper National Park can enjoy a variety of activities that highlight its stunning natural beauty and dark skies. Popular options include guided stargazing tours, where expert astronomers help you navigate the night sky, and photography workshops to capture the breathtaking celestial views.

NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia

NamibRand Nature Reserve in Namibia is a captivating destination renowned for its exceptional stargazing and breathtaking landscapes. As one of Africa’s largest private nature reserves, it spans over 215,000 hectares of pristine desert wilderness. The reserve’s remote location and strict light pollution controls make it an ideal spot for observing the night sky.

Here, you can see the Milky Way in all its glory, along with countless stars, planets, and other celestial wonders. The Namib Desert’s iconic red dunes, dramatic mountain ranges, and expansive plains provide a stunning backdrop for these nighttime views.

The diverse landscapes of Namibia’s NamibRand Nature Reserve offer more than just picturesque dunes and breathtaking scenery; they also provide a gateway to the cosmos. As the sun dips below the horizon, a new world awakens in the darkened Namib Desert night sky.

Namibia’s enchanting celestial wonders have garnered international recognition, turning the NamibRand Nature Reserve into a prime destination for stargazing enthusiasts and seasoned astronomers alike.

Activities 

Travellers to NamibRand Nature Reserve in Namibia can enjoy a variety of activities that highlight its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Guided nature walks and wildlife safaris offer close encounters with oryx, zebras, and other desert-adapted species. For a unique perspective, hot air balloon rides provide breathtaking views of the reserve’s iconic red dunes and vast plains. Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot numerous bird species, while photography buffs will find endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the desert.

Far from the glare of city lights, these locations provide an unobstructed view of stars, planets, and celestial phenomena. They are perfect for stargazing, astrophotography, and simply soaking in the serene beauty of the night sky.

Visiting a dark sky destination is more than just an opportunity to see stars. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in nature, learn about astronomy, and gain a deeper appreciation for the vastness of the universe. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or a curious traveller, dark sky destinations offer a unique and profoundly moving experience, reminding us of our place in the cosmos and the timeless beauty of the night sky.

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Time and patience are key, but with a little love, you can reap the rewards. Though growing a Bonsai tree is a hobby practiced by many people around the world, its Asian origin is still obvious.

Derived from an ancient Chinese horticulture practice and redeveloped under the influence of Japanese Zen Buddhism, Bonsai is a Japanese term that translates to ‘planted in a container.’ It has been around for well over a thousand years and there are types of Bonsai trees that are hundreds of years old.

As a hobby bonsai requires a lot of patience and time and can be very rewarding at the end of it. All one requires are a few basic materials and some basic tools. There are many popular Bonsai tree types ranging from a Bonsai Cherry tree to a Bonsai tree apple, a Jade Bonsai tree, or a Maple Bonsai tree.

One can buy a ‘Bonsai tree,’ but learning to grow it is wonderful, because it is an art to take any type of tree or shrub and grow it and trim it in ways so that it remains small, yet the proportions and uncanny look of its larger counterparts. The ultimate goal of growing a Bonsai is to create a miniaturised but realistic representation of nature in the form of a tree.

Most commonly kept under four feet (or about a meter) in height, these are not genetically dwarfed plants. Techniques such as pinching buds, pruning, and wiring branches, and carefully restricting but not abandoning fertilisers are used to limit and redirect healthy growth.

However, plants with smaller leaves do make these compositions easier to design. Any plant species that has a woody stem or trunk grows true branches, can be successfully grown in a container to restrict its roots/food storage capability, and has smaller or reducible leaves, which can be used to create a Bonsai.

The ultimate goal of Bonsai is to create a realistic depiction of nature. As it gets smaller (even down to a few inches/ centimetres) it increasingly becomes abstract, as opposed to resembling nature in a more precise way.

Several classifications of Bonsai have been put forward, and although the exact size classifications are disputed, they help to gain an understanding of the aesthetic and botanical aspects of it. The classifications are originally based on the number of men needed to lift the actual tree.

The containers for these trees could be of interest to Bonsai growers. Traditionally made in China and then Japan, these shallow containers of mostly fired earthenware are increasingly crafted by both professional and amateur artisans around the world.

The matching up of a pot to a designed tree can be a wonderful challenge, for the pot must support the tree as well as be an attractive but non-intrusive frame to the Bonsai’s picture.

The Indian Bonsai Association 2013 has been hosting an annual Bonsai Exhibition at the National Bonsai Park, Lodhi Garden, New Delhi.

Interesting facts about Bonsai trees

Bonsai trees are a popular art form that has become increasingly prevalent in modern culture. Often referred to as miniature living works of art, bonsai are meticulously crafted trees grown in containers.

Bonsai artists take great pride in the careful shaping and pruning necessary to create these miniature replicas of natural landscapes. Here are some interesting facts about bonsai trees.

The origin of the term “bonsai” is Japanese and translates to “tray planting” in English.

The first documented use of this term dates back to the 12th century during the Heian period when it was used to describe small container gardens.

Bonsai are traditionally propagated from cuttings or by carefully transferring newly rooted plants from soil to container.

In some cases, larger species of trees can be started from seed in a small pot and then trained over time into the desired shape.

There is no single “right” way to care for a bonsai. Caring for a bonsai requires knowledge of the particular species and its preferred growing conditions, pruning techniques, and soil types.

Some species of trees can live to be hundreds of years old when maintained properly.

Bonsai trees are often regarded as family heirlooms that can be passed down from generation to generation.

Bonsai trees have been used as a symbol of life and inner peace by many cultures throughout history. The meticulous care and attention devoted to the shaping and pruning of bonsai are regarded as a spiritual practice that brings its practitioners closer to nature.

Bonsai trees are living works of art that provide a unique link between our natural world and the artistry of handcrafted miniature landscapes.

Whether used as a symbol of life or inner peace, bonsai trees are sure to captivate the minds of admirers for generations to come.

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If an enchantment is what one seeks, one should visit Jharkhand state. A place as ancient as time itself, it bowls you over at every turn with its overwhelming natural beauty.

Jharkhand, located in eastern India, is a beautiful state known for its lush green forests, hills, and valleys. Apart from this, the state’s long tradition binds the past to the present in a fascinating way. Jharkhand’s past can be captured and described in varied ways – as a meeting ground, the commonplace of Indian history, a plural embracing of religious beliefs, a multitude of heroes, gods, and goddesses – the remnants of which rub shoulders with the living.

The Chotanagpur region in the state has an abundance of fossil remains and prehistoric artefacts, all of which point to the possibility of the transformation of homo erectus to homosapiens having occurred here. With such a rich history, priceless heritage, and nature’s bounty, it is unsurprisingly a highly coveted destination and leads the way for tourism in Jharkhand.

But what truly sets Jharkhand apart from other states is its magnificent waterfalls. With the state being home to over 25 waterfalls, it’s a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Its many waterfalls are not only scenic but are excellent picnic spots and are among the most popular places to visit in Jharkhand.

While in Jharkhand, have a rendezvous with Nature, as you experience 6 famous waterfalls that you must visit on your trip to Jharkhand:

Dassam Falls

About 40km away from Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, on Tata Road lies a village called Taimara, near which flows the Kanchi river. Falling from a height of about 144ft, the Kanchi River morphs into a pretty fall called Dassam Falls. It is also known as Dassam Ghagh. The waterfall is enclosed by verdant landscapes which embellish its beauty. The river also offers tourists the chance to engage in some recreational activities like river rafting, swimming, and other water sports.

Getting There: Situated about 40km from Ranchi off the Ranchi Tata highway, you take a right turn from NH-33 at Taimara. 3km after crossing Taimara, there’s a diversion from where a left turn takes you to Dassam.

Hundru Falls

One can locate Hundru falls about 45km away from the town of Ranchi. The Swarnarekha River, falling from a height of 320ft, is known as the Hundru Falls. A beautiful pool is formed at the base of the fall which allows visitors to enjoy themselves in various ways – bathing, enjoying a picnic, and other activities.

The diverse shape of the rocks found here which has been shaped from attrition by the continuous fall of water, thus enhancing its beauty. The ‘Gazetteer of India,’ penned by an English writer during the British Raj, extols the place highly, saying that it’s a place worth visiting despite its remoteness.

Getting There: Tourists can visit the Hundru Falls from Ranchi via the Ormanjhi- Sikidiri route.

Jonha Falls

Jonha is named after the nearest village and is also known as Gautam Dhara, due to a widespread belief that Lord Buddha bathed here. A temple and ashram dedicated to Buddha were built atop Gautam Pahar by the sons of Raja Baldevdas Birla. It’s also called Gunga Nala because the stream apparently has its origins in the Ganga ghat. A descent of 453 steps leads one to the base of the waterfall and to the far-flung villages of Konardih and Duarsini on the other side of the stream.

Getting There: From Ranchi, take the NH-32 to Angarha. From there, a left turn takes you 2km to Hundru, whereas the straight road takes you to Jonha and Sita. 16km from Angarha is Amrutbagan Chowk, from where a 5 km drive will take you to Jonha.

Usri Falls

Usri Falls, a waterfall located in the Giridh district of Jharkhand, is a popular tourist and picnic spot. The Usri River, a tributary of the Barakar River, flows down a steep gorge, before finally falling about 39ft in three separate streams. The scenery encompassing it is breathtaking, and therefore a favourite spot for picnic lovers.

Getting There: Giridh is well connected through both railway and road. Private taxis, tongas, and auto-rickshaws are available. There are regular bus services available from Giridih to other parts of the town. The nearest railway station is Giridh. The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi.

Lodh Falls

Deep within the dense forests of Jharkhand, lies the spectacular Lodh Falls – the highest waterfall in Jharkhand that is situated in the Latehar district. With a height of around 468 feet, the waterfall is a sight to behold, and the surrounding landscape is equally beautiful. This natural wonder is a testament to the raw, untouched beauty of the Indian wilderness, and a must-visit for any nature enthusiast or traveller seeking an offbeat adventure.

The waterfall itself is an awe-inspiring sight, with water cascading down a series of rocky cliffs to form a pool at the bottom. The sound of rushing water and the misty spray of the falls make for a truly immersive experience that leaves visitors feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Tourists can enjoy a variety of activities in and around the falls, including hiking, swimming, and camping. The surrounding forests are home to a variety of wildlife, and visitors may be lucky enough to spot some of the rare and exotic creatures that call the area home. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, there are also plenty of spots to simply sit back and take in the natural beauty of the falls.

For those looking to explore the area more extensively, there are several nearby attractions that are worth a visit. The Hundru Falls, another stunning waterfall in the region, is just a short drive away, as is the Panch Gagh Falls. There are also several ancient temples and historic sites in the area that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Jharkhand.

Getting There: The nearest major city is Ranchi, which can be reached by rail, road, or air. From Ranchi, visitors can hire a car or take a bus to reach the falls, which are located about 80 km away. The journey takes around two hours, and the scenic route offers plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning landscapes of Jharkhand.

Sita Falls

Nestled amidst the dense foliage of the forests, lies a beautiful waterfall named Sita Falls. Located near Netarhat in the Latehar district, Sita Falls is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests. The waterfall is formed by the Koina River, which falls from a height of around 35 meters. The waterfall gets its name from the Hindu mythology epic, Ramayana, where it is believed that Goddess Sita took a bath in these falls during her exile.

As you approach the falls, you can hear the sound of the cascading water and feel the cool mist on your face. The waterfall is a sight to behold, with water gushing down from a height of over 50 feet into a natural pool below, surrounded by lush greenery.

Tourists can indulge in a variety of activities at Sita Falls, starting with a refreshing dip in the natural pool. The water is clean and cool, providing the perfect respite from the heat and humidity of Jharkhand. You can also go for a relaxing swim or spend some time lounging by the pool, admiring the stunning surroundings.

For adventure enthusiasts, Sita Falls offers a range of activities such as trekking and rock climbing. The surrounding forests are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and trekking through the area is an excellent way to explore the region’s natural beauty.

Getting there: The nearest railway station to Sita Falls is Ranchi railway station, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sita Falls. The best way to reach Sita Falls is by road. The nearest town to Sita Falls is Gumla, which is around 30 kilometers away. From Gumla, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sita Falls.

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WelcomHeritage Connaught House has a charming “typical English” cottage appeal, tucked away in a quiet and peaceful fold of the green and lovely Mount Abu, once the summer capital of Rajasthan. The resort is set amidst shady gardens and is within walking distance of the town and the famous Nakki Lake.

The private property of the Maharaja of Jodhpur, it was used by Jodhpur’s last English Chief Minister, Sir Donald Field, in the 1930s and 1940s. The restored interiors of the main bungalow reflect the authentic heritage and contain fascinating memorabilia.

With an exquisite garden, Connaught House is a perfect retreat; an ideal base from which to explore the forests and visit the sensational Delwara Jain Temples. The cottages and rooms are most valued for the repose and charm they offer. The delightful English country cottage in which I stayed was reminiscent of Victorian charm with a sunroom that opened onto impeccably maintained gardens and really old trees with name plates recording name and age standing as majestic sentinels of time.

One of the most charming features of the property is the manner in which chairs, benches, and swings are provided in shady alcoves, private verandahs, picturesque porticos, and imaginative settings.

I remember a particular sit-out perched thoughtfully above a massive black boulder that plateaued onto a flat large area. There were cane chairs and a table, where I spent a lovely half day, reading and writing under a thick canopy of leaves provided by ancient Banyan trees.

The bird life is rich as are the shrubs, trees, and foliage which bear little tags announcing their names..Magnolia, Silver Birch, Hibiscus, Oak, Blackberry, Mango, and so on.

WelcomHeritage Connaught House has 10 cottages with facilities like television, Internet, safety lockers, etc. It has a cottage dining hall and an upper wing dining hall serving authentic Marwari cuisine, North Indian cuisine, and Chinese and Continental cuisine. It offers indoor games, bird watching, sightseeing and picnics at the Lakeside, campfire dinners, and Theme Dinners at different locations on the premises.

While staying in Mount Abu, you can experience the town’s local and street food, which includes Dal Bati, Desi Chhach, Mirchi Bada, Churmaa, Govind Gatta, Bajreka Kheech, Rajasthani Khichdi, Mutton Sula, Maas Bootha, Lal Maas and Bajreka Sogra.

You can also take excursions to Adhar Devi Temple, Guru Shikhar, Shri Raghunathji Temple, Achal Garh Temple, Shankar Math, Brahma Kumari Park, Gyan Sarovar, Peace Park, Gaumukh, Sunset Point, and Honeymoon Point.

The hotel is easily accessible. It is 185 km from Udaipur airport and 30 km from the railway station at Abu Road.

Poem: Lovely as a tree

A poem as lovely as a tree! It describes so aptly the hours I spent in the cool shade under old canopied trees, their leaves rustling in the wind, their branches glistening in the sunlight. Standing tall and proud, the way each branch reached out to catch the breeze so gracefully was both inviting and calming.

The simple yet powerful imagery of deep dark foliage has been a source of comfort and peace throughout my life. As lovely as a tree, remains an enduring symbol of strength and hope, a reminder of resilience and determination.

I am
A travelling stranger
Stopping by.
Catching my breath
On this unused bench.

I look around–
I feel a rush of rest,
Like I belong
Here,
In the arms
Of this ancient Banyan tree.

I’m tiny,
As I nest under
This giant sunshade,
Old, old,
As can be.
Thick and silver
Knotted branches
Spread low, low,
Just above my head.
I can reach out,
Touch its rough
Aged, ringed surface.
Rest against a branch
U turned into the earth.

My body echoes the deep sigh
Released by
Hanging roots.
Like sculpted pipes
Pulled straight down
By gravity,
Into crusted black rocks
And boulders
In search of earth.

A soft breeze rustles
Resting leaves.
They move
Before turning over
Into sleep.
The sky,
Clean and washed,
Sparkles through
Each green leaf cluster,
Fresh and silently watchful.

The sound of squirrels,
Bird calls, tweets, and chants
Break the stillness.
Now and then
Wafting shrub scents
Tease the senses,
Which have gently settled
In a rare repose.

I breathe,
The tree breathes.
It’s just a moment
In a sun-drenched winter garden,
Painted with wild colours
Of Hibiscus, Bougainvillea, and ferns,
High in the hills of Abu.

– Kamal Gill
Connaught House, Mt. Abu

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