Ranchi Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural heritage, local food scenes, and adventure activities in Ranchi, Jharkhand, India.


Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand, is a hidden gem with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventure activities. The city is situated amidst the rolling hills and dense forests of Eastern India, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adrenaline junkies. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, see, and eat in Ranchi, along with practical information to plan your trip.

Introduction to Ranchi

Ranchi is located in the Chota Nagpur Plateau region of Eastern India, surrounded by hills, forests, and waterfalls. The city is named after the local bird ‘Rinchi,’ found in abundance in the region. Ranchi has a rich history, with evidence of pre-historic settlements and a legacy of British colonialism. Today, Ranchi is a cosmopolitan city with modern amenities, while still preserving its local traditions and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Ranchi

There are several tourist attractions in Ranchi, ranging from museums and historic monuments to natural wonders and adventure activities. Here are some of the places you must visit during your trip to Ranchi:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Tribal Research Institute and Museum - Displaying artifacts and art pieces of the rich tribal culture and traditions of Jharkhand.
  2. Jagannath Temple - A significant religious hub among Hindus, dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
  3. Angrabadi Temple - Dedicated to the Goddess of power, Angrabadi Temple is a famous pilgrimage site for locals and tourists.
  4. Hundru Falls and Dassam Falls - Two of the most famous waterfalls in Ranchi, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and take a dip in the natural pool.

Natural Attractions of Ranchi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Rock Garden - A beautifully landscaped garden built on the Dialki Hill, offering a panoramic view of the city.
  2. Pahari Mandir - A temple located on the top of the Ranchi Hill, the highest peak in the city, providing a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
  3. Birsa Zoological Park - A wildlife sanctuary spread over 104 hectares of the Tata Steel Zoological Society, providing an up-close view of the animals, birds, and the tranquil green surroundings.
  4. Hirni Falls - A hidden waterfall in Ranchi, where you can take a plunge into the natural pool and have a picnic with your family.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ranchi

Ranchi is blessed with natural surroundings, and hiking and biking are some of the popular activities here. The city has several hiking and biking trails surrounded by hills, forests, and waterfalls. These are some of the popular ones:

  1. Ranchi Hill Circuit - A popular route for beginners where one can hike or bike and enjoy the scenic views of the city.
  2. Patratu Valley Circuit - A moderately difficult route known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and pristine beauty.
  3. Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary - An advanced-level biking and hiking route, known for its wildlife sightings and serene landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Ranchi: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and sightseeing, there are several fun activities and tours you can take part in Ranchi:

  1. Hot-air Ballooning - A popular activity for adventure lovers where you can get an aerial view of the scenic beauty of Ranchi from a balloon.
  2. White Water Rafting - If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a white water rafting trip along the Subarnarekha River.
  3. Cave Exploration - Ranchi has several caves worth exploring, such as the Jonha Cave and the Panch Gagh Waterfall Cave.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ranchi

If you’re planning to spend a week in Ranchi, here is a sample itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day 1-2: Visit the historical places in Ranchi, such as the Tribal Research Institute and Museum, Angrabadi Temple, Jagannath Temple, and stroll around the city

Day 3-4: Spend time in the midst of nature at Hirni Falls, Rock Garden, and Pahari Mandir. You can also opt for a trek to the Birsa Zoological Park.

Day 5-6: Get the adrenaline pumping with white water rafting, hot air ballooning, and exploring caves.

Day 7: Relax and spend a leisurely day exploring local markets and shopping for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Ranchi

Ranchi has a vibrant food and drink scene, with a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages are:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Dhuska - A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and lentils.
  2. Thekua - A sweet delicacy made with flour, jaggery, and ghee.
  3. Litti-Chokha - A popular street food dish made with wheat flour, stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour), and served with a side of mashed brinjal or potato.
  4. Chana Ghugni - A spicy and tangy curry made with boiled gram, potatoes, and a mix of spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Handia - A cheap and popular fermented drink made from rice and herbs.
  2. Kadaknath Poultry - A rare and exotic breed of chicken, known for its rich flavor and nutritional value.

Where to Stay in Ranchi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ranchi has several accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses. Here are some options for different budgets:

  1. The Radisson Blu Hotel Ranchi - A luxury five-star hotel located in the heart of the city, with modern amenities and a superb view of the city.
  2. OYO Rooms - A popular chain of budget hotels and guesthouses, spread across various neighborhoods of Ranchi.
  3. Zostel Ranchi - A backpacker-friendly hostel, with dorms and private rooms, providing a glimpse of the local culture and traditions.

What to Buy in Ranchi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ranchi offers several unique and interesting souvenirs and local products to take back home as a reminder of your trip. Some of the popular items include:

  1. Tribal Handicrafts - The local tribes in Jharkhand are skilled artisans, producing exquisite handicrafts such as bamboo baskets, wooden sculptures, terracotta items, and paintings.
  2. Tussar Silk - Jharkhand is famous for its silk production, and Tussar Silk is a unique variety of silk made from wild cocoon.

Local Culture and Customs of Ranchi

Ranchi is a culturally rich city, with a mix of tribal and modern traditions. Some of the local customs and traditions include:

  1. Festivals - Ranchi celebrates several festivals throughout the year, such as Sarhul, Karma, and Dhanbad.
  2. Tribal Traditions - The local tribes have a rich cultural heritage, known for their unique dance forms, handicrafts, and rituals.
  3. Hospitality - Ranchi is known for its warm and friendly locals, who welcome visitors with open arms.

Best Time to Visit Ranchi

Ranchi enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year, with the monsoon season from June to September. The best time to visit Ranchi is during the winter months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ranchi

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Try the local cuisine.
  3. Learn about the local history and culture.

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  3. Smoke or drink in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ranchi

Ranchi is a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always advisable to take basic precautions and not venture into isolated areas alone, especially at night.

Health in Ranchi

Ranchi has several hospitals and healthcare facilities, both public and private. However, it’s always advisable to carry necessary medication and travel insurance for any emergency situations.

Getting to Ranchi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ranchi is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are some options to reach Ranchi:

Airports Near Ranchi

  1. Birsa Munda Airport - The nearest airport, located about 7 km from the city center, is well-connected to major cities in India.

Bus Stations Near Ranchi

  1. Ranchi Bus Station - The main bus station, located in the heart of the city, is well-connected to neighboring towns and cities.

Other Options

  1. Train - Ranchi has several railway stations, well-connected to major cities in India.
  2. Taxis and Private Cars - You can also hire taxis and private cars to travel within the city and neighboring areas.

How to Get Around in Ranchi

Ranchi has several transportation options, such as buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws, making it easy to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Ranchi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Ranchi, there are several nearby destinations worth visiting, such as:

  1. Dassam Falls - A popular tourist destination, located about 40 km from Ranchi, known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails.
  2. Hazaribagh National Park - A wildlife sanctuary, located about 93 km from Ranchi, known for its flora and fauna.
  3. Netarhat - A hill station located about 160 km from Ranchi, known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails.

Conclusion

Ranchi is a city worth exploring for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, local cuisine, and adventure activities. With this comprehensive travel guide, we hope to help you plan your visit to this hidden gem of Eastern India. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Ranchi has something to offer for everyone.