Known as the “City of Waterfalls” and encircled by thick forests, Ranchi offers a lovely fusion of untouched landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and enlightening spiritual experiences. Ranchi has become a vacation spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers thanks to its nice climate, beautiful scenery, and wealth of tourist attractions.
This article will take you through some of Ranchi’s must-see locations that exhibit the charm and allure of the city.
1. Rock Garden
The state capital Ranchi has a beautiful rock garden amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Just 4 km from Albert Chowk, stepping into the garden is like entering a different world of calmness and serenity. The garden houses numerous rock formations sculpted into various shapes and sizes, with landscaped lawns and flower beds.
Small water ponds and fountains provide the soothing sound of trickling water. Spending a few hours in the rock garden is an ideal way to escape the stress of daily life and reconnect with nature in the city’s heart.
How to Reach: This beautiful garden is located on Gonda Hill on Kanke Road. To reach it, you can take a flight to Birsa Munda Airport, which is 15 km away, or a train to Ranchi Railway Station, which is 9 km away. You can take a bus or a taxi to the garden, 9.5 km from Khadgadha Bus Stand.
2. Jagannath Temple
If you are looking for a historical and spiritual Place to Visit in Ranchi, visit the Jagannath Temple. This temple is a smaller replica of the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu.
It was built by the king of Barkagarh Jagannathpur Thakur Ani Nath Shahdeo in 1691 and is located atop a hill. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the temple and witness the annual Rath Yatra festival that attracts thousands of devotees.
Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm, 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
How to Reach: It is about 6 km from Birsa Munda Airport and 11km from Ranchi Railway Station. You can take a taxi or a bus from either of these places to the temple, which is near Line Tank Road Taxi Stand
3. Tagore Hill
Tagore Hill, a popular tourist spot in Ranchi, offers scenic views and a slice of history. Located at an elevation of 300 feet, the hill summit, also known as Morabadi Hill, is surrounded by lush greenery. It was a place of solitude where Rabindranath Tagore went to work on his writing, composing many famous works.
Rock climbing and hiking are popular activities here. The hill is 9 km from Ranchi Railway Station. You can hike up the trail or climb the steps cut into the hill to reach the top and enjoy stunning panoramic views.
How to Reach: Take a train to Ranchi railway station around 9 km from Tagore Hill. Take a bus or taxi to Khadgadha Bus Stand, around 7 km from Tagore Hill. Take another bus or taxi from the bus stand to Morabadi Road, where Tagore Hill is located.
4. Ranchi Lake
Ranchi Lake, located in the city’s heart, offers scenic views and peaceful environs. Excavated in 1842, the lake offers space for family picnics, boat rides, and a relaxed evening. The well-maintained grounds and facilities make it popular with tourists. The climb up the hill passes a small Shiva Temple perched on top, adding a spiritual dimension. You can experience spectacular 360-degree views of the city from the hill peak.
Timings: Always Open
How to Reach: To reach Ranchi Lake, you can take a taxi or bus from the Ranchi Railway Station or Bus Stand. The lake is located about 17 kilometers from the city center. You can also walk to the lake from the city center, but it will take about an hour.
5. Pahari Mandir
The Pahari Mandir atop Ranchi Hill offers panoramic city views from its lofty perch at 2,140 feet. This temple is devoted to Lord Shiva, a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees who climb the300+ steps to reach it. During the month of Shravan, thousands of pilgrims ascend the hill to participate in the annual celebration.
The hilltop location and height make the temple one of the most spectacular sights in Ranchi. Devotees firmly believe the temple holds spiritual powers that can grant their wishes.
Timings: 4:30 am to 9:00 pm
How to Reach: You can take a taxi or an autorickshaw to reach Pahari Mandir from Ranchi railway station. The journey will be 8 km. To reach Pahari Mandir from the Ranchi bus stand, you can take a taxi or an autorickshaw. The journey will take about 15 minutes.
6. Patratu Valley
Patratu Valley is another scenic spot in the picturesque Khudiya Hills. Dense forests and winding dirt roads make it a haven for nature lovers seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of city life.
You can explore the valley’s tranquil streams and waterfalls and its rich plants and wildlife, including leopards, deer, and more than 200 species of birds. For adventurous people, activities like trekking, camping, and rappelling can be organized in the hills surrounding the valley.
How to Reach: To reach Patratu Valley Ranchi, you can take a train to Patratu Railway Station or a bus to Patratu Bus Stand. You can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to the valley from there. The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport, about 20 kilometers away.
7. Sun Temple
The Sun Temple is another best pilgrim places to visit in Ranchi. Built in the characteristic Chariot architecture with 18 wheels pulled by 7 horses, the temple houses idols of numerous Hindu deities alongside the Sun God. Within the temple complex lies a sacred pond adding to the divine aura of the place.
The temple sees a steady stream of devotees and tourists daily, offering a glimpse of Ranchi’s religious heritage. You can enjoy the scenic surroundings of the temple on the hill while soaking in the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
How to Reach: The temple is 40 km from Ranchi railway station, with good highways. Buses from Birsa Bus Terminal go there. Buses and jeeps from the terminal are convenient.
8. Bhagwan Birsa Zoological Park
The Bhagwan Birsa Zoological Park in Ranchi is a wildlife lover’s paradise spread over 104 hectares of hilly, forested land. Mildly undulating terrain, natural vegetation, and water bodies create a habitat that feels like entering the wild to view animals in their element. Just 16 km from the city center, the zoo is home to many animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, hyenas, foxes, wild cats, and barking deer.
Divided into two sections by a highway, the larger area houses the wild animals while the smaller one focuses on botanical gardens. You are treated to an experience of nature, tranquility, and abundance with a relaxing atmosphere that appeals to all ages.
Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday closed.
How to Reach: Birsa Zoological Park in Ranchi is 28 km from Ranchi railway station. Depending on traffic, it takes 30 to 40 minutes from most parts of Ranchi to reach the park. The park takes around 4 hours to explore fully. Battery rickshaws are available within the park.
Conclusion
Ranchi beckons travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. From the majestic scenery of Paratu Valley to the artistic marvels of the Rock Garden, the city offers a diverse range of attractions that will leave visitors spellbound. As you explore the mesmerizing places in Ranchi, you’ll not only witness the natural splendor but also connect with the city’s rich cultural heritage.
So, plan your visit to Ranchi and immerse yourself in this charming city’s serenity and magnificence.
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Safe and happy travels.
