When my friends from Kolkata mentioned they were coming to visit Ranchi, I knew exactly where to take them for a memorable day out—Dassam Falls. Dassam Falls, with its majestic cascades and tranquil surroundings, promised to be the ideal escape for city dwellers yearning for a breath of fresh air.

The Journey Begins

We set off early in the morning, the sun just beginning to peek over the horizon. My friends, already enchanted by Ranchi’s greenery, were eager to experience the natural beauty the city had to offer. The drive to Dassam Falls from Ranchi is about 40 kilometres, taking roughly an hour, but time flew by as we chatted and caught up on life’s happenings.

Dassam Falls, locally known as Dassam Ghagh, is a stunning waterfall near Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, India. Set amidst the verdant forests of the Chotanagpur Plateau, the falls are formed by the Kanchi River, a tributary of the Subarnarekha River. The name “Dassam” comes from the Mundari language, where “Da” means water and “Sam” means to pour, aptly describing the cascading stream.

The journey itself was a delight. As we left the city behind, the landscape gradually transformed into a lush green expanse. The roads, flanked by towering sal trees and the occasional glimpse of local tribal life, were a refreshing change from Kolkata’s bustling streets. The air, crisp and cool, carried the earthy scent of the forest—a reminder that we were leaving the urban jungle behind and heading into the heart of nature.

Welcoming Rhythms and Crowded Celebrations

We were greeted by a vibrant Adivasi dance as soon as we arrived, adding a cultural touch to our visit. Being the first Sunday of the year and the holiday season, the area was bustling with a huge crowd, all eager to witness the beauty of the falls.

The First Glimpse of the Falls

As we neared the falls, the distant roar of the water began to grow louder, heightening our anticipation. We parked the car and made our way down a well-marked trail, with the sound of the falls guiding us. The walk wasn’t strenuous, but it did involve navigating a few steps and rocky paths, adding a sense of adventure to the experience.

The sight that awaited us was mesmerizing. The waterfall appeared as a white curtain of water cascading from the sky, with the bright sun creating rainbows in the mist. Captivated by the view, we took numerous photos and videos to capture the moment.

When we finally caught sight of the falls, it was nothing short of breathtaking. Dassam Falls, locally known as Dassam Ghagh, is where the Kanchi River plunges nearly 144 feet into a rocky gorge, creating a spectacular waterfall that sprays mist into the air. The sheer force of the water, combined with the surrounding greenery, created a scene straight out of a nature documentary. My friends, camera phones at the ready, were quick to capture the moment.

The Adventurous Path to the Base

Eager to get a closer look, we followed a narrow, steep, and slippery path leading to the waterfall’s base. Although the trek required caution, it was well worth the effort. Standing at the base, we could feel the sheer power and force of the water as it crashed onto the rocks. The spray from the falls drenched us, but the refreshing mist was invigorating.

Geological Marvel

Dassam Falls is an example of a nick point caused by rejuvenation. A nick point represents slope breaks in the longitudinal profile of a river caused by rejuvenation, where the break in channel gradient allows water to fall vertically, giving rise to a waterfall. This fascinating geological feature added an educational element to our adventure.

A Bit of Local Flavour

No trip to a place as beautiful as Dassam Falls is complete without indulging in some local food. After spending about an hour marvelling at the beauty and majesty of the waterfall, we climbed back up to the platform. Hunger led us to a nearby restaurant, where we enjoyed some delicious aloo chop (potato fritters) and tea, a perfect snack to complement our outdoor adventure.

Heading Home

Reluctantly, we decided it was time to head back to Ranchi. Our visit to Dassam Falls was an unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty with cultural richness and geological intrigue. The drive back was quiet, each of us lost in our thoughts, still under the spell of the falls. As we neared the city, the sounds of traffic gradually replaced the soothing roar of the waterfall, and we knew our little escape was over.

But the memory of Dassam Falls stayed with us, a reminder of nature’s power and beauty, just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of city life. My friends left Ranchi with a piece of its natural splendour in their hearts, promising to return for more such adventures.

If you ever find yourself in Ranchi, make sure to take a day trip to Dassam Falls. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Dassam Falls offers something for everyone. It’s more than just a waterfall—it’s a place where nature speaks to you if only you take the time to listen.