Things To Do
in Gumlā
Gumla is a quiet town on the Chotanagpur Plateau in Jharkhand, surrounded by forests and winding rivers. It serves as a gateway to nearby hill stations, wildlife habitats, and tribal culture, with a relaxed pace that invites slow travel. The region is known for its scenic viewpoints, pine forests around Netarhat, and traditional Nagpuri-speaking communities.
Visitors can savor rustic Jharkhand flavors, learn welcome customs, and use Gumla as a base for broader exploration of central India's countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Maa Danteshwari Temple, where you can absorb the tranquility and spiritual essence of this revered site. Enjoy the beautiful early morning sun filtering through the temple’s intricately carved stone architecture. Engage with local devotees and learn about the rituals that take place during morning prayers.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, head to the historic Gumlā Fort, a testament to the region's rich history. Walk through the fort’s ruins, imagining the battles fought here, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Spend some time at a local handicraft market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and interact with artisans.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the banks of the Gumlā River, where the reflections create a beautiful scene. Gather for a traditional Chhattisgarhi dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Cap off the evening by attending a cultural performance, where folk music and dance bring the local heritage to life.
Begin your morning with a guided nature walk in the nearby Gumlā Wildlife Sanctuary, where the sounds of chirping birds fill the air. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife, including deer and various bird species, as you traverse the lush trails. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the serene forest setting, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a visit to the sanctuary's educational center, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna. Participate in a bird-watching session with an expert guide, identifying colorful species that inhabit the area. Wind down with a picnic lunch under the shade of towering trees, soaking in the tranquil environment.
As dusk approaches, return to Gumlā and explore a local village to experience the lifestyle of the indigenous tribes. Enjoy a walking tour of the village, learning about their customs and traditional crafts. End your day with a communal dinner, sharing stories and enjoying homemade dishes prepared by local families.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🌯Street food snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕One-way local transport (auto-rickshaw) | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.4-1 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel night | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, natural scenery and easy access to hill stations
- Low costs and warm hospitality
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Rural roads can be challenging during the monsoon
- "Namaste" - Hello/Good morning
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya madad karen" - Please help
- "Mujhe jagah chahiye" - I need a place to stay
- "Aap kitne baje hain?" - What time is it?
Places to Visit in Gumlā
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic highland vista famed for sunrise photography amid pine forests and misty mornings.
Forest clearings and watchpoints ideal for wildlife and landscape photography, especially at dawn and dusk.
Riverbanks and skyline scenes around Gumla’s outskirts offer calm sunset shots and street photography opportunities.
Food in Gumlā
Gumlā Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Deep-fried gram flour dumplings served with chokha (mashed roasted potatoes and eggplant with spices); a quintessential Jharkhand snack.
Must-Try!
Crisp, honey- or jaggery-sweet flat cookies made with wheat flour; popular during festivals and gatherings.
A staple combination found in homes and simple eateries, featuring steamed rice, lentil curry, and greens cooked with mild spices.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh produce, pulses, spices, and local snacks; great for a quick bite and people-watching.
Tiny stalls along market lanes serving hot samosas, kachori, chaat, and light poha for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in rural areas; greet with Namaste or a polite nod, and use the right hand for giving and receiving.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in ceremonies or tribal settings; avoid photographing sensitive areas without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Gumlā
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% in nicer restaurants and small tips for guides and hotel staff are common.
Cash is widely used; many places in towns accept cards, and mobile wallets (Paytm, PhonePe) are increasingly common in shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry conditions with daytime temps often in the 30s Celsius; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak heat.
Heavy rainfall (roughly July–September) with high humidity; roads can become slippery and some rural tracks may flood.
Cool to mild days with chilly nights (often 5–20°C); layering is essential for comfort after sunset.
Mild and pleasant with blooming vegetation; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Gumlā at Night
Hiking in Gumlā
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, moderately challenging hike to higher viewpoints with pine forests and sweeping valley views.
Forest trails through teak forests; suitable for wildlife viewing and nature photography.
Airports
How to reach Gumlā by plane.
The major regional airport serving the area; connected to several Indian cities and a common entry point for travelers.
A regional airport serving Deoghar and surrounding communities; alternative entry point for visitors heading to western Jharkhand.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the region’s major tribal communities with distinctive crafts, music, and weaving traditions.
Another significant tribal group, culturally diverse with unique customs and attire.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in schools and streets.
Casual street football and organized games are enjoyed in towns and villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gumlā.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; look for dals, vegetables, and paneer dishes; inform staff if you avoid onion/garlic.