Saranda, the largest Sal forest in Asia, is located 122 kms from Jamshedpur. Famed for its multifarious flora and fauna, it has also been in the limelight due to its rich mineral reserve. Saranda, meaning ‘the land of seven hundred hills’ is spread over around 900 sq. kms and has mesmerised and fascinated nature-enthusiasts for decades. The spectacular sunset, here against the backdrop of tall dark silhouettes of Sal, would simply make you gaze wide eyed as the sky dons the hues of crimson, orange and grey, before the flaming ball of fire calls it off for the day.
Situated on the southern border of the state, the forest is home to endangered species of flying lizards and hundreds of elephants and is also an integral part of the migratory elephant corridor.
Sal, Mahua and Kusum are the major trees found in the forest, which is also home to the Ho tribe, and used to be a private hunting ground for the erstwhile royal family of Seraikela.
The main access point for getting into Saranda forest by road is Chaibasa, 60 kms southwest of Jamshedpur. Saranda can also be reached via the towns of Chakradharpur (89 kms from Jamshedpur) and Manoharpur (170 kms from Jamshedpur), on the main Bombay-Howrah rail line.
