Not many would think of Jharkhand as a travel destination, but very close to Ranchi lays a heritage site that will make you feel as if you have travelled back in time. Not only does the place hold the enchantment of history, but you can also actually meet the King who still reigns the Palace, albeit nominally.

Your first destination would be Chaibasa, which is at the southern tip of the state of Jharkhand and just an hour’s drive from Jamshedpur. From there, it is a short drive to Saraikela. But the ride of 45 minutes is enough to realise that you are slipping through time in an era gone by.

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The landscape is very picturesque with farmland, railway tracks, ponds, and a small hill to greet you on the way. It is easy to spot the derelict palace, which though in ruins still holds a glorious position in the vicinity.

The palace is maintained with the rigor of the past days of royalty. Each room has marks and photographs of what it must have been to live in those days. Even today, the king arrives here with a great pomp of drummers and dancers. Though he does not hold court, he is held in high reverence in the region.

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The Maharaja belong to the Singh Deo family who ruled the princely state of Saraikela. This kingdom was founded in the year 1620 by Raja Bikram Singh. He was said to be a descendant from the Rathore clan of Rajputs.

There is also a beautiful temple of Durga near the palace. the villagers hold local feasts and fairs around the temple. This is also an opportunity to see the local Chauu dance.

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It is a great chance to experience the local culture of a place, far removed from the usual beaten tracks of many travellers. The cuisine and culture are very different from the ones you would have read in photo-essays and blogs.

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You can drive to Saraikela from Jamshedpur, the nearest railhead and airport. It is also the best place to find accommodation.

So, if you are ever in Jharkhand, and want to explore a part of living history, you should not miss Saraikela.

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