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Things to Do in Ranchi

Things to Do in Ranchi

Ranchi Jharkhand, India Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Ranchi's natural surroundings provide opportunities for hiking, boating, and exploring wildlife in a captive environment.

Hiking and Trekking

Short Hikes

Possible around city waterfalls like Jonha Falls (requires steps) and Tagore Hill for rewarding views.

Longer Treks

Organized in forest areas surrounding Ranchi or towards Netarhat, often with local guides. Difficulty levels are generally moderate.

Swimming Safety

Swimming in natural waterfalls or rivers is not recommended due to strong currents, hidden rocks, and unpredictable water depth.

Water Sports & Wildlife

  • Boating available at Ranchi Lake, Kanke Dam, and Getalsud Dam.
  • Birsa Zoological Park provides opportunity to view captive animal species.
  • Wildlife safaris require travel to Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary or Palamau Tiger Reserve.
  • Cycling on less trafficked roads around Kanke Dam or inside Birsa Zoological Park.

Adventure Sports

  • Not much formal infrastructure.
  • Local operators might offer rappelling.
  • Rock climbing in surrounding hills.
  • Inquire with local adventure clubs.

Camping

  • Organized camping is limited.
  • Permits are generally needed for forest camping.
  • Private properties might offer camping experiences.
  • Schedule with experienced local guides.

Organized Expeditions

  • Specialized tour operators arrange nature trips.
  • Focus on biological diversity and local ecology.
  • Include guides and transport.
  • Advance booking generally applies.

Safety Warning

Mountain biking on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy traffic and a lack of dedicated space. Exercise extreme caution.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Ranchi's rich tribal heritage through workshops, performances, and festivals.

Workshops & Community Tourism

  • Ask local cultural organizations for tribal art forms (Sohrai, Kohvar painting).
  • Opportunities for traditional music and dance.
  • Community-based tourism in parts of Jharkhand for tribal interaction.
  • Learn basic Hindi phrases; language apps or phrasebooks.

Cultural Performances & Ceremonies

Traditional Dances

Occasional performances of tribal dances, like Chhau or Paika, at cultural centers or during festivals.

Event Schedules

Check local event listings, especially those organized by the Jharkhand Tourism Department.

Authentic Insights

These events provide a glimpse into the regional performing arts and spiritual practices.

Sarhul

Significant spring festival of tribal communities, usually in March/April, marking the new year.

Karma Puja

Harvest festival celebrated in August/September, involving traditional dances and rituals.

Chhath Puja

Major festival dedicated to the Sun God, observed with great fervor in October/November.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for rejuvenation in Ranchi, from hotel spas to natural escapes.

Spa and Wellness Centers

  • Upscale hotels like Radisson Blu offer spa facilities.
  • Massages and treatments are available.
  • Standalone modern spas and salons are in commercial areas.
  • Ranchi itself does not have prominent hot springs; some are day-trip distance away.

Yoga & Traditional Healing

Yoga and Meditation

Limited dedicated retreats exist. Some local yoga studios have lessons for various levels.

Traditional Healing Practices

Exist in rural Jharkhand but are generally not tourist experiences within Ranchi city.

Pools and Recreation

Ranchi is an inland city; some hotels have swimming pools available for guests.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music & Performances

Dedicated live music venues are limited. Hotels or restaurants might feature live music on specific evenings. Auditoriums host plays and cultural shows.

Nightclubs & Bars

A few pubs and lounges offer music and dancing, often within hotels or commercial complexes. Ranchi does not have a specific "bar district."

Late-Night Options

Most establishments typically close by 11 PM or midnight. Nightlife is not a primary attraction, and the city generally becomes quiet after these hours.

Shopping & Markets

Ranchi's markets offer a chance to discover local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Traditional Markets & Artisan Crafts

  • Daily Market (Bada Bazar) for fresh produce, spices, local snacks, and household goods.
  • Upper Bazar is known for wholesale goods, clothing, and traditional items.
  • Government emporiums or local handicraft shops for tribal art (Sohrai, Kohvar painting), bamboo products, wooden crafts.
  • Local textiles, especially Tussar silk, are a specialty of Jharkhand.

Souvenirs & Ethical Shopping

Souvenir Recommendations

Consider tribal art, bamboo crafts, wooden artifacts, Tussar silk products, regional spices, and honey.

Ethical Shopping

Purchase from reputable stores, government-run emporiums, or artisan cooperatives to support local artisans directly.

Luxury & Boutique

Ranchi has limited luxury shopping. Boutiques offering modern fashion and local designs can be found in commercial areas like Thelpur and Main Road.

Shipping

Inquire with sellers about international shipping options for bulky goods.

Customs

Be aware of your home country's customs regulations, especially for textiles or cultural items.

Receipts

Keep receipts for all purchases, especially for items of higher value, for customs.

Experiences & Tours with GetYourGuide

Book Local Activities
  • Discover and book unique local activities.
  • Find guided tours and excursions.
  • Secure your spots in advance.
Seamless Travel Planning
  • Plan your itinerary with ease.
  • Access expert local guides.
  • Visit GetYourGuide for adventures.

Shopping Tip

Bargaining is a common practice in local markets. Approach it with a friendly demeanor and a smile.

Activity Planning Summary

Do's for Activities

  • Engage with local culture through festivals and unofficial workshops.
  • Explore nature through guided hikes and boating at dams.
  • Support local artisans by purchasing handicrafts from reputable sources.
  • Seek out unique dining experiences in natural settings.

Don'ts for Activities

  • Avoid swimming in natural waterfalls due to safety concerns.
  • Do not be ready for a late-night entertainment scene.
  • Rely solely on formal cooking classes; informal experiences are more common.
  • Undertake treks in unknown forest places without a local guide.