Megaliths are the earliest surviving man-made monuments, derived from the Latin mega (large) and Lith (stone). Megaliths were constructed either as burial sites or as commemorative memorials. In India, archaeologists trace the majority of the megaliths to the Iron Age (1500 to 500 BCE), though some sites precede the Iron Age, extending beyond 3000 BCE. The scientists and researchers, who study the movements of the Sun, verify with these megaliths, as observatories from prehistoric times.
The Punkri Barwadih megalith site of Hazaribagh is a famous group of megaliths of the state. The megaliths have been proven to date back to 3000 BCE. The megaliths or huge stones are used for astronomical purposes. The megaliths are arranged in such a manner that two of the most distinguished megaliths create the alignment for the formation of an Equinox point.
On every 21st March and 23rd September, many villagers, tourists, and researchers visit this place to observe the Equinoxes. The observation takes place for 30 minutes. The scientists and researchers, who study the movements of the Sun, verify with these megaliths, as observatories from prehistoric times.
Punkri Barwadih megalith site of Hazaribagh has been proven to date back to 3000 BCE. The observatory can be reached from Hazaribagh, on the Hazaribagh–Barkagaon Road, just before Barkagaon, the megaliths can be seen on the left side of the road.
