When Bihar was split in 2000 into Bihar and Jharkhand, Ranchi was made the capital of Jharkhand. Ranchi is also one of the oldest cities in Jharkhand and nicknamed the City of Waterfalls.
A close friend of ours whose mom (Pushpa ji) lives in Ranchi, had helped in arranging for a car and driver to take us around Ranchi. Although we spent a whole day in Ranchi, we were not able to cover all the sites. You need to spend at least 3 days to cover all the sites including some of the waterfalls.
Brunch with Pushpa ji – We landed in Ranch in the morning and the driver picked us up at the airport and took us to our dear friend, Pushpa ji’s house. Pushpa ji had cooked a delicious breakfast for us.
Tagore Hill – After breakfast, we visited Tagore Hill which owes its name to the great poet Rabindranath Tagore, who is believed to have spent a lot of time here. To reach the top, you have to climb 250 steps. You get a 360 degree view of the city of Ranchi from here.
Patratu Valley and Dam – A 40 min drive from Ranchi along a scenic and zig-zag road takes you to Patratu Valley. The view of the valley as we drove to Patratu Dam was amazing.
The Patratu dam is built upon the river Nalkarni to supply water to Patratu Thermal Power Station. One can take a boat ride on the river and there are many spots to have a picnic lunch.
Jagannath Temple – The first thing that strikes you about Jagannath Temple is its resemblance to the temple in Puri in the neighboring state of Odisha. Located about 10 km from the main city, this 17th-century shrine is a popular place and as the temple is built on a hill, you will have to climb several stairs to reach there. You also get a splendid views of the city from the top.
Rock Garden – Located in the heart of the city and on a hilltop, this place has a wonderful garden with flowers, fountains, greenery and rock formations. It is a great place for an evening stroll or picnicking.
Ranchi Lake – You get a great view of the Ranchi Lake from the Rock Garden. We walked around and watched the sunset.
Ranchi Capital building – This gorgeous building called the Vidhan Sabha was constructed on 39 acre land and was inaugurated in 2019. It was beautifully lighted in the night. I am not sure if you are allowed to tour the inside of the building. We did not try to do so.
We were not able to make it to the following 2 waterfalls but heard they were a great place to visit if you have some extra time.
Hundru Falls – It is among the 50 highest waterfalls in India, and one of the most popular places to visit in Ranchi, especially during the monsoon as the waterfall is in all its glory. But even in the dry season, you can head to this beautiful site for a picnic and to enjoy some of the best views of the Chota Nagpur Plateau.
Jonha Falls – is considered one of the symbols of the city of Ranchi. Breathtakingly beautiful, the first glimpse of these hanging valley falls is unforgettable and will stay with you long after you have left. The Gunga and Raru rivers merge and fall from a height of 141 ft. to make it one of the most amazing falls.