Ranchi is a bustling capital city that celebrates its ancient culture through temples and museums while also providing contemporary entertainment and dining within its lively centre. A gateway to Betla National Park, Ranchi is surrounded by scenic waterfalls and lakes that attract outdoor adventurers.

Things to do

Learn more about Ranchi’s fascinating history at the State Museum Hotwar, which boasts displays on the region’s ethnographic heritage and paintings and sculptures by local artists. Explore the engaging Tribal Museum to see exhibits on the tribal communities in Jharkhand, including traditional clothing, instruments, ceramics, tools and weapons.

Are you visiting Ranchi with your family? Take the kids to the Ranchi Science Centre, where they can learn and play on interactive exhibits and watch live science demonstrations. They’ll also love seeing the animals at the 104-hectare Bhagawan Birsa Biological Park Zoo, home to Himalayan black bears, bison, spotted deer and leopards, along with numerous birds and reptiles.

If you want one of the best views in town, walk up Tagore Hill, which offers panoramic city and countryside vistas from its lookout. Get out among nature at Rukka Dam, where you can fish or relax with a picnic on the grass. Nakshatra Van offers scenic nature closer to the city, along with a serene pond, children play areas and seasonal flowers.

Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the nearby Betla National Park, where you can take jeep tours through the verdant wildlife preserve. It’s also home to a tiger reserve and offers the opportunity to spot sloth bears, monkeys and mouse deer.

Getting around

Ranchi is easily reached by flying into Birsa Munda Airport, six kilometres away, or catching trains into Hatia railway station. Ranchi is best explored by using the auto rickshaws or taxis, while a hire car lets you easily access the surrounding sights.