Ranchi

Named after the great poet Rabindranath Tagore, Tagore Hill is the perfect spot to admire the city from. It is said that Tagore used to frequently visit these hills in order to enjoy the solitude and write his books. Situated at a height of about 300 feet, it is famous for adventure sports like rock climbing and trekking. As it is located away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is an ideal spot for family picnics as well.Visitors have to climb around 200-250 stairs in order to reach the top.  Once you reach the top, the view of the distant mountains is unrivaled. Visitors can also enjoy a bird’s eye view of Ranchi from the top of the hill. The lush greenery surrounding the hill also adds to its beauty. Not to mention, the breathtaking sunsets that can be enjoyed from up there. At the base of the hills is the famous Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, along with the Agrarian Vocational Institute and a center for Divyayan.Location: Near Albert Ekka Chowk, 4 km towards the north of Ranchi.Best Time to Visit: Winter months of October to February, when the weather is pleasant.It is recommended that you visit early in the morning or late in the evening in order to enjoy the sunrise and sunset respectively.

A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this scenic place of worship stands at an altitude of 2140 feet. Even though devotees have to climb around 300 steps to reach the temple, the breathtaking view of the entire city makes the climb absolutely worth it. Hundreds of devotees flock to this hilltop temple every year, especially around the time of Shravan, which typically falls between the months of July and August.It is widely believed by the devotees that Pahari Mandir has the power to fulfill their wishes. At the foot of the hill is the Ranchi lake which hosts a ghat where visitors can cleanse themselves before they climb the steps towards the Pahari temple.Location: Near Ratu Road, 8 km from Ranchi Railway Station.Timing: 4:30 am to 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.Best Time to Visit: July-August.

Located right next to the famous Rock Garden, Kanke dam is one of the best places to visit in Ranchi. Whether it is an outing with friends or a couple’s getaway you are looking for, Kanke dam has got you covered. With crystal water surrounded by sprawling hills, it is truly the ideal place to unwind after a long day at work. Take a boat ride along the calm waters as you enjoy the beauty of the setting sun. Boating is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, every day.If you prefer to admire its beauty from the safety of the land, you can enjoy a picnic with a striking view of the water. If you are lucky, you might even be treated with a glimpse of the occasional bird catching a fish. The dam is quite a popular spot for bird watching. While you are there, don’t forget to indulge in the delicious local cuisine served near the dam. The foodie in you will thank you for it!Location: Gonda foothills, 7 km from Ranchi Railway Station.Timing: 8 am to 8 pm.Best Time to Visit: Early morning and late evening, so that one can enjoy the sunrise and sunset respectively.

One of the most popular historic landmarks of the city, this hilltop temple is definitely worth a visit. Its origins can be traced back to 1691. The temple is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and colorful stones, forming a small replica of the famous Jagannath temple in Puri. Unlike most temples in India where idols are made of clay or stone, the idol of Lord Jagannath in the Ranchi Jagannath temple is made of wood, making it one of a kind.Once you climb to the top, you will be treated with a view to remember. Even though the temple attracts devotees all year round, it sees huge crowds during the festival of Rath Yatra,  which is the only occasion where the idols are taken out of the shrine.Location: 10 km from Albert Ekka.Timing: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.Best time to visit: June-July.

An urban park located near Raj Bhawan, Nakshatra Van is definitely a crowd-puller. As the name suggests, the park is based on the concept of Nakshatras or stars.  It is believed that each Zodiac sign corresponds to a tree that has medicinal, aesthetic, social and economic value. Divided into various sections based on these nakshatras or zodiac signs, they offer a unique experience to those visiting.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the park based on your zodiac sign and find out more about yourself! Set in the middle of the park is a fountain worth mentioning. You can sit under the beautiful musical fountain or explore the surrounding scenic pathways. To make the experience even more special, grab a picnic lunch and share it with your loved ones.Location: Near Raj Bhawan.Timing: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm (Closed on Mondays).Best time to visit: Evenings.

Located at the base of the picturesque Ranchi hills, the Ranchi lake is the perfect spot for a lazy brunch or a relaxing afternoon boat ride. Constructed in the year 1842 by Colonel Onsely, its charm still remains intact, making it one of the best places to see in Ranchi. The fact that it is quite well maintained further adds to its appeal.Whether it is a quiet evening by yourself or a gossip session with friends you are looking for, Ranchi lake is the perfect spot for you. Spread over 52 acres, it offers a few moments of peace to its visitors. Most locals and tourists enjoy indulging in a picnic at the banks of the Ranchi Lake, especially during the winter months when the sun acts as a respite from the cold.Location: Near Upper Bazar.Timing: Open 24*7.Best time to visit: Mornings and nights.

Surrounded by native vegetation and lush greenery, Biodiversity Park is one of the most popular tourist places in Ranchi. Constructed with the mission of protecting medicinal plants and herbs, the Biodiversity park is every Botanist’s dream. It is managed by the forest department of Ranchi and offers a variety of natural experiences such as trekking and hiking .If you are interested in plants, head over to the park and spend some time reading up on your green friends. You can also grab a cycle and ride through the numerous trails. Spread across a vast area, it is divided into various sections such as the Rose Garden, the Aquatic Park and the Chinese Garden, all of which are worth visiting. It even has a children’s park to keep your young ones entertained. If you are lucky, you might even get to buy some delicious tidbits from the tribal women selling their fare.Location: 15 km from Ranchi airport.Timing: 10 am to 5 pm.Best time to visit: Evenings and winters.

Built entirely from the rocks of Gonda Hill, Ranchi’s Rock garden is complete in itself with waterfalls, sculptures, art and unrivaled views. Located on a small hill by the Kanke Dam, it is an impressive place to relax during your free time. Surrounded by lush greenery, the view from the garden is striking.  Do not miss out on the sunset that will surely leave you wanting for more! The small statues and sculpture scattered liberally across the Rock Garden also adds to its beauty.The main attraction, however, is the uniquely constructed iron footbridge which is supported only by two poles, a true example of architectural brilliance.If you are looking for some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city, grab a book and spend a few hours amidst the greenery here. If you are interested in knowing more about its history, you can even hire a guide who will take you through the garden.Location: Kanke Road, 4 km from Albert Akka Chowk.Price: Nominal entrance fee.Timing: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.Best time to visit: Evenings.