Chatra District forms the north-eastern parts of the North Chota Nagpur division of Jharkhand. The district is situated in the extreme northwest part of the state with its headquarters at Chatra. It is bounded on the north by Gaya District, on the east by Hazaribagh District and on the west by Palamu and Gaya District. The major portion of the Chatra district is covered by forest and it accounts for more than 60 per cent. The region has scattered settlement patterns. Previously, Chatra District was a sub-division of Hazaribagh District and was created as a separate district in 1991 under the notification government of Bihar. Chatra District occupies a total area of 3,706 sq kms.
History of Chatra District
Chatra District is known for its rich past and historical sequences. The history of Chatra District is divided into ancient, medieval and modern periods. Chatra district has also contributed significantly in the national independence movement of the country. In the past, Chatra District was a sub-division of Hazaribagh District. It came into existence in 1991 as an independent district of Jharkhand.
Administration of Chatra District
Administration of Chatra District comprises one sub-division, ten development blocks, 125 Panchayats and 1479 Revenue Villages. However, there is only one municipality - that is at the district head quarters of Chatra. There are nine police stations in Chatra District. A full-fledged judgeship has started functioning from 16th of June 2001 under District and Session Judge, assisted by Additional District Judge, Chief Judicial Magistrate and Judicial Magistrates. The forest portion comprises four territorial divisions (North, South Chatra, Koderma and Hazaribagh West) and two state trading divisions.
Culture of Chatra District
Culture of Chatra District is vibrant and colourful comprising several fairs, festivals, music and traditional dance forms. Kunda Mela, Kolhua Mela, Chatra Mela, Kundri Mela, Kolhaiya Mela and Tutilawa Mela are some of the popular fairs organized in this district. People of this region actively participate in all the festivals and their culture also reflects their religious beliefs and traditions. People also celebrate Holi, Diwali, Dussehra and several other festivals. Folk music and tribal dances are an integral part of the culture of Chatra District.
Tourism in Chatra District
Tourism in Chatra District includes several sightseeing options and the natural beauty of the place enhances to the entire exploring pleasure. Here, one can experience pilgrimage, nature and leisure tourism. The tourist spots attract the travellers from various parts across the world. Kolhua Hill, Barura Sharif and Kunda Cave are some of the places of religious importance. There are several waterfalls in Chatra District that are meant to give a serene tourism experience. Tamasin, Bichkiliya, Duari, Khaya Banaroo, Keridah, Maloodah, Bhaduli and Gogri are some of the other attractions of this region.
The forest of Chatra is full of variety of medicinal plants, Kendu leaves, Bamboo, Sal, Teak, other timber species and a wide range of carnivorous and herbivorous wild animals. The district has one wild life sanctuary also known as the Lawalong Wildlife Sanctuary, which hosts even tigers. 82 villages are located within the sanctuary area. The area of the sanctuary is 26, 886.23 hectares. In the sanctuary, tigers, leopards, bear, nilgai, sambhar, peacock, wild boar and deer, variety of snakes and birds are found.