Ranchi, the center of the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand, has a rich history, unique beauty, and ideal setting. Due to its location, which is 651 m (2136 ft) high above sea level, Ranchi became a well-known hill station and a summer capital during the British empire. This mineral-rich city boasts natural wonders, from a wide collection of flowers and fauna to striking waterfalls and hills. Tourists can stay in luxury hotels or if they prefer a homier stay, Airbnb vacation rentals in Ranchi. This city, with a plethora of natural charm, is one of the most sought-after destinations in India and is known for many things. Check out the top 10 things Ranchi is famous for.
Good to know:
- While Ranchi doesn't have a website of its own, the Ranchi district has a government portal where visitors can see a map of the district, learn about its history and attractions, and more.
- According to the District Ranchi website, although Ranchi has an airport of its own, those who prefer alternate methods of travel will not face any trouble getting to it either. There are three national highways that intersect here, namely NH 7, NH 47, and NH 68.
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1. Waterfalls
Ranchi boasts breathtaking waterfalls. Ranchi’s waterfalls are one of the best places of interest in this area. Seasonal trekkers and even amateurs will explore beautiful hiking trails. Perhaps, a day picnic in a natural landscape is a great idea of family bonding or a romantic set up for lovers. The waterfalls are also a striking backdrop for photography. Panch Gagh Waterfalls, Dasham Falls, Hundru Falls, and Jonha Falls (or Gautamdhara Falls), are some of the best waterfalls that you can visit in Ranchi. Lodh Falls shines among the rest. It is the highest waterfall in the state and a favorite place of plenty of visitors. Whether you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy other things to do - the waterfalls of Ranchi are the best place to visit.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Do wear comfortable shoes for your visit to Jonah Falls as there are lots of steps to get to the falls.
The area around the waterfall is pretty quiet and makes for a good picnic spot if you can pack your own meal. At the top of the stairs going down to the falls are small shops serving tea and packaged snacks to go along with your food.
2. Ethnic Handicrafts
With numerous tribal communities in Ranchi, it is not surprising to see limitless ethnic handicraft items. Among the ethnic handicrafts here, jewelry is a popular buy. Bangles, rings, anklets and necklaces - all have a unique character and pattern. Situated in Sainik Market, Tribes India is a local store that offers an extensive number of ethnic handicrafts. Meanwhile, Gandhi Khadi Bhandar is a must-visit store, which offers genuine and quality handicrafts made by ethnic groups.
3. MS Dhoni
Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MS Dhoni) not only changed the face of Indian cricket but contributed significantly to his home town, Ranchi. This bustling industrial city is not as famous as it is now. Thanks to MS Dhoni’s sharp leadership qualities and unbeatable skills in the game, Ranchi became a “household name in the cricketing world.” It was in 2011 that the Indian national team had won the Cricket World Cup and the start of MS Dhoni’s prominence.
4. Metal Works
Situated in the mineral heartland of India (Ruhr of India), it’s not surprising Ranchi became the major force of mineral-based activities by the 21st century. With the region’s limitless mineral resources, from iron ore to manganese ore, Ranchi became the home to plenty of mineral-based industries. If you are looking for quality metal works in India, Ranchi is one of the best places to find and buy one.
5. Ranchi Rhinos
Owned by Patel-Uniexcel Group, Ranchi Rhinos takes pride to be a field hockey team from the beautiful city of Ranchi. The owners and HIL management had a dispute in 2014, causing Ranchi Rhinos to change its name to Ranchi Rays. The management and players of Ranchi Rhinos continue to promote and revive the honor of this sports legend in India.
6. JSCA international stadium complex
JSCA International Stadium Complex is established in 1935 by committed cricket lovers. This is one of the best stadiums in India, which includes plenty of amenities and services for players like restaurants, a gym, and a swimming pool. Comfortable seating, lighting, amazing games, foods, refreshments - all contributed to making this complex a good place to relax and keep your adrenaline rush.
JSCA International Stadium Complex
Address: HEC Township, Birsa Nagar, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
Website: JSCA International Stadium Complex
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5:35am - 10:44pm; Sat: 6am - 11pm; Sun: 6:30am - 11pm
7. Military Cantonments
During the 18th and 19th centuries, military cantonments in India were semi-permanent. It was only in the 20th century when they turned to permanent garrisons. Overall, there are 64 cantonments in India. Bathinda Cantonment is not only the largest cantonment in India but in Asia, as well. It has 55 sq. km (21.24 sq. mi), but despite having the biggest area, it has quite a small population. Meanwhile, Ramgarh Cantonment or also known as Ramgarh Cantt is one of the most popular cantonments.
8. Rock Garden
If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle, Rock Garden is a must-visit. It is a solace place with immense beauty of nature and a popular place of interest for those people who want to take a break from the world. It was made out of rocks from the Gonda Hill. Situated in the middle of the city, it is considered the second in significance after Jaipur Garden. Unique forms of sculpture, Kanke Dam, waterfalls - all blend in making Rock Garden more beautiful.
Rock Garden
Address: Gandhi Nagar, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
9. Rich tribal heritage
There are more than 30 indigenous communities in Jharkhand. Ranchi became more colorful and exciting, thanks to the abundant festivals of these tribal groups. If you want to learn more about the rich tribal heritage of Ranchi, attending several colorful festivals is the key. During the Karam festival, locals bring branches of Karam tree, place them on the ground, and pour them with rice beer, and milk. Sohrai, on the other hand, is a cattle festival. Cattles are bathed and offered afterward. Perhaps Phaguwa or Sarhul will ring a bell. It is a spring festival, wherein you can see sal flower blossoms on roofs. There are plenty of special dances and songs, as well.
10. Tagore Hill
Nestled at around 914 m (3,000 ft) and 4 km (2.49 mi) away from Albert Ekka Chowk, Tagore Hill is a place for romance and inspiration. The hilltop has some connection with Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s works and this place continues his legacy. Tagore’s beauty and its surroundings have captured the hearts of many, and is an ideal place to witness sunrise and sunset. Today, Tagore Hill functions as an art museum.
Tagore Hill
Address: Morabadi Rd, Van Vrindavan Colony, Morabadi, Ranchi, Jharkhand 834008, India
11. Pahari Mandir Ranchi
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Pahari Mandir Ranchi is a temple located at the top of a hill in Ranchi. It is commonly known as Shiva Temple, and its location on a hill means you’ll get a breathtaking view of the city. This place is frequented by worshipers of the Hindu god Shiva who gather in this place for prayer. Additionally, the age-old Pahari Mandir is located close to the railway station and not far from the airport, so it’s easily accessible.
Pahari Mandir
Address: Kumhar Toli, Ranchi, Jharkhand 834001
Website: Pahari Mandir
12. Jagannath Temple
Jagannath Temple in Ranchi is said to have been rebuilt in the year 1691 after being looted by the erstwhile King Thakur Ani Nath Shahdeo of Barkagarh, which is now known as Jagannathpur. On a marble slab placed outside the sanctum is information about the founder and the year of foundation of this temple.
Jagannath Temple was believed to have been erected to revive the Hindu religion, as many of the Hindus were converting to other religions in the 17th century. The temple had collapsed in the year 1990, but the Bihar government at that time renovated the temple and it has regained its lost glory now.
Jagannath Temple
Address: Jagannathpur Chowk Khataal, Sector 1 Jagannathpur hec, Dhurwa, Ranchi, Jharkhand 834004, India
Popular spots close to Ranchi
13. Birsa Deer Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Birsa Deer Park is located in a lush sal forest in Khunti. As the name suggests, this park has hundreds of species of deer in it. Initially, it started with just 15 deer, but it has since grown in leaps and bounds. There are very few deer parks in India that can boast such a high population of deer and so many species in one place.
One of the main attractions of this park is the park safari, which gives visitors a clear view of the animals in the park. If you’re traveling with kids, they will be delighted to see the deer roaming freely here.
Birsa Deer Park
Address: Ranchi-Khoonti Road, Ranchi
14. Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park
Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park houses different kinds of wildlife animals and a wide variety of vegetation. It is located in Jharkhand Ranchi and is called Jaivik Udyan. This park was built for the preservation of wildlife as well as for animal adoption programs. It attracts a lot of visitors because of its quite unique collection of different species of mammals, which have made it popular not only in the state but all over the country of India.
Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park
Address: Main Road National Highway 33, Ormanjhi, Chakla, Ranchi, Jharkhand 835219
Website: Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park
Tip from Trip101 local expert
If you're coming here during monsoon, be sure to keep an eye out for gorgeous peacocks dancing in their enclosure.
The park is set away from the city, so plan to make a day of it and take along your own food to enjoy with your loved ones in a quiet spot before you head back.
15. Patratu Valley
Contributed by Trip101 Local Expert, Shrimayee Thakur
Only about an hour’s drive from Ranchi, this gorgeous spot and its winding valleys are somewhere I’ve been to several times. Not only is it postcard-worthy, it’s also a great spot to come and sit alone with your thoughts. My favorite thing to do here is drive to the top and stand there taking in the view and the fresh air. The journey here is a delightful experience in itself, so keep your camera ready for some great photos.
I’ve also gone boating in the nearby dam. If you don’t enjoy going out on the water, you can sit on the shore. Do remember to bring a blanket or something to sit on as the area can get muddy, especially during monsoon.
Discover the famous things in Ranchi
With Ranchi’s natural beauty, ethnic tribes, historic sites, unique art, and culture, this mineral-rich city is a great place to explore and find inspiration. There are also ultimate places for biryani in Ranchi worth checking out. If your next trip is to this eclectic city, make sure to read our list of the things Ranchi is famous for.
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