Enchanting Jharkhand: Ranchi's Waterfalls & Netarhat's Serenity

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Day 1: Arrival in Ranchi & City Exploration

Wednesday, January 21, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Arrival in Ranchi

Birsa Munda Airport / Ranchi Railway Station
Pre-book a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Ola/Uber for a convenient transfer to your hotel.

Check-in at Hotel Capitol Hill

Hotel Capitol Hill, Main Road, Ranchi
Alternative options include Radisson Blu for luxury or Hotel Le Lac for a good mid-range choice. Book in advance as January is peak season.

Lunch at Kaveri Restaurant

Kaveri Restaurant, Main Road, Ranchi
Try their thali for a taste of multiple dishes. It's often crowded, so expect a short wait.

Visit Tagore Hill

Tagore Hill, Morabadi, Ranchi
The climb involves some stairs, so wear comfortable footwear. The area is also home to the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram.

Explore the Rock Garden

Rock Garden, Kanke Road, Ranchi
Located next to Kanke Dam, you can also enjoy views of the reservoir. It's a popular spot for locals in the evening.

Dinner with Local Flavors

Aja-Aji Ke Rasoi, Kanke Road, Ranchi
This restaurant is known for its traditional tribal food served in an authentic setting. It's a must-try for a genuine cultural experience.
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Day 2: Chasing Waterfalls around Ranchi

Thursday, January 22, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Hire a Private Car for the Day

From your hotel in Ranchi
Book the car a day in advance through your hotel or a reliable local travel agent. Confirm the itinerary and total cost beforehand.

Marvel at Hundru Falls

Hundru Falls, Ranchi
The steps can be strenuous, so assess your fitness. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. Avoid swimming in strong currents. In case of rain, the steps can be slippery; the view from the top is a safe alternative.

Discover Jonha Falls (Gautamdhara)

Jonha Falls, Ranchi
There's a rest house and a Buddhist shrine dedicated to Lord Gautam Buddha at the top. This fall is generally considered more family-friendly than Hundru.

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

On the Ranchi-Purulia Highway
Ask your driver for recommendations. These dhabas offer an authentic taste of the region. Carry bottled water.

Witness the Power of Dassam Falls

Dassam Falls, Taimara, Ranchi
The area is rocky and can be slippery. Be extremely cautious and stay within the designated safe zones. Swimming is strictly prohibited due to strong undercurrents.

Relaxed Dinner in Ranchi

Radisson Blu Hotel, Kadru, Ranchi
If you prefer something more casual, explore the many dining options on Main Road.
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Day 3: Journey to Netarhat, the 'Queen of Chotanagpur'

Friday, January 23, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Scenic Drive to Netarhat

Ranchi to Netarhat
It's best to use the same hired car from the previous day. The drive takes 4-5 hours, so start early to make the most of the day. The last stretch is a ghat road, offering beautiful views.

Check-in at Hotel Prabhat Vihar

Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat
Booking for this hotel must be done months in advance, especially for January. It offers basic but clean amenities. The sunrise view from the hotel is its main attraction.

Lunch in Netarhat

Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat
Inform the hotel about your meal preferences in advance if possible.

Witness the Sunset at Magnolia Point

Magnolia Point, Netarhat
Reach at least 30-45 minutes before sunset to find a good spot. It can get chilly in the evening, so carry a jacket or shawl. The point is named after a British girl, Magnolia, who, according to legend, jumped to her death from here for her unfulfilled love.

Dinner under the Stars

Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat
Netarhat gets very quiet and dark after sunset. It's best to stay within the hotel premises for the evening.
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Day 4: Netarhat's Sunrise and Departure

Saturday, January 24, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Spectacular Sunrise from Sunrise Point

Sunrise Point, Netarhat
Check the exact sunrise time the previous day. It gets very cold in the morning, so dress in warm layers. This is a highlight of the trip, so don't miss it!

Breakfast with a View

Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat
Enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee to ward off the morning chill.

Visit Koel View Point

Koel View Point, Netarhat
This is a great spot for some final photos of the beautiful landscape.

Journey back to Ranchi

Netarhat to Ranchi
The return journey will again take around 4-5 hours. Plan your departure from Ranchi accordingly.

Lunch En Route

En route to Ranchi
You can stop in the town of Lohardaga for more food options.

Departure from Ranchi

Birsa Munda Airport / Ranchi Railway Station
Ensure you have enough buffer time to account for any traffic delays on your way back to Ranchi.
Travel FAQs

Q.What are the must-visit places in Ranchi and Netarhat?

In Ranchi, the key attractions are the waterfalls: Hundru, Jonha, and Dassam Falls. Also, visit Tagore Hill and the Rock...

Q.What is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Ranchi and Netarhat is from October to March. The weather is pleasant and cool, and the post-mons...

Q.How to reach Ranchi and Netarhat?

Ranchi is well-connected by air (Birsa Munda Airport - IXR) and rail (Ranchi Railway Station - RNC). To reach Netarhat f...

Q.What are the famous local food items to try?

You must try Dhuska (a fried pancake of rice and lentils), Litti Chokha, Rugra (a type of local mushroom available durin...

Q.What are some local tips and do’s/don’ts?

Do book hotels and transport in advance, especially for Netarhat. Do carry cash, as digital payments may not be availabl...

Q.What should I pack for a trip in January?

Pack light woolens, jackets, and sweaters, as mornings and evenings, especially in Netarhat, can be very cold. Wear comf...