Best Road Trip Routes from Ranchi: A Traveler’s Guide

Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, is a city blessed with natural beauty, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes. Surrounded by waterfalls, dense forests, and serene countryside, it offers travelers the perfect base for exploring nearby destinations by road. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer road trip, the scenic routes around Ranchi promise an unforgettable experience.

For those who love the freedom of driving through breathtaking landscapes, opting for car rental in Ranchi is the ideal choice. With a well-maintained rental vehicle, travelers can enjoy flexibility, comfort, and a stress-free journey. From cascading waterfalls to cultural heritage sites, here’s a guide to the best road trip routes from Ranchi.

Ranchi to Netarhat – The Queen of Chotanagpur

Netarhat, often referred to as the "Queen of Chotanagpur," is a mesmerizing hill station located about 156 km from Ranchi. The drive to Netarhat is nothing short of magical, as the route takes you through dense forests, rolling hills, and misty valleys. The cool climate and panoramic views make it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

Along the way, travelers can stop at famous attractions such as Lodh Falls, Jharkhand’s highest waterfall, and Magnolia Point, a stunning sunset viewpoint. The journey is best enjoyed in a comfortable rental car, allowing travelers to soak in the beauty of the surroundings at their own pace. With well-maintained roads and picturesque landscapes, this road trip is ideal for those seeking relaxation and serenity.

Ranchi to Patratu Valley – A Scenic Escape

One of the most popular short road trips from Ranchi is the journey to Patratu Valley, located just 40 km away. The drive to Patratu is known for its breathtaking views, with winding roads cutting through lush green hills. The sight of the Patratu Dam, surrounded by hills and dense forests, is a treat for travelers who love photography and nature.

The early morning drive to Patratu offers a surreal experience, with fog-laden roads and golden sunlight piercing through the hills. A rented car ensures that travelers can stop at various viewpoints along the way, capturing the beauty of the valley without any time constraints. The road conditions are excellent, making it a smooth and enjoyable drive for both solo travelers and families.

Ranchi to Hundru Falls – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

For those who love waterfalls and adventure, a road trip to Hundru Falls is a must. Located approximately 45 km from Ranchi, this stunning waterfall cascades down from a height of 98 meters, making it one of the highest waterfalls in Jharkhand. The journey to Hundru Falls takes travelers through small villages, lush forests, and winding roads, adding to the thrill of the drive.

Upon reaching the falls, visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool formed at the base or simply relax amidst the scenic surroundings. Traveling in a rental car allows visitors to carry picnic essentials, extra clothes, and other necessities without any hassle. The drive is comfortable, and having a personal vehicle ensures a flexible itinerary for exploring nearby attractions.

Ranchi to Betla National Park – A Wildlife Adventure

For wildlife enthusiasts, a road trip to Betla National Park is an experience like no other. Situated about 170 km from Ranchi, this national park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, deer, leopards, and even tigers. The journey to Betla takes travelers through thick forests, tribal villages, and scenic landscapes, making it an exciting and immersive road trip.

Exploring Betla National Park is best done in a personal or rented vehicle, as it provides the convenience of traveling through different zones of the park without relying on public transport. Additionally, a comfortable ride ensures that travelers can fully enjoy their safari experience without worrying about return transportation. The park also features historic forts and watchtowers, adding a touch of history to the wildlife adventure.

Ranchi to Deoghar – A Spiritual Journey

For those seeking a spiritual road trip, Deoghar is an excellent destination. Located about 250 km from Ranchi, Deoghar is famous for the Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially during the Shravan month, making it an important pilgrimage site.

The drive to Deoghar is long but comfortable, with well-maintained highways and scenic landscapes along the way. Travelers can stop at various roadside dhabas for local delicacies and experience the rural charm of Jharkhand. Renting a car for this journey ensures that pilgrims and travelers can make stops at nearby attractions such as Naulakha Temple and Tapovan Hills without any time constraints.

The Joy of Road Trips with a Rental Car

Exploring the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Jharkhand is best done by road, and having a comfortable vehicle makes the experience even better. Opting for car rental in Ranchi provides travelers with the freedom to create their own itinerary, make spontaneous stops, and travel at their own pace. Whether it’s a short trip to Patratu Valley or a long journey to Deoghar, a rental car ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

With the increasing popularity of road trips, many rental services now offer a variety of vehicle options, from compact hatchbacks to spacious SUVs. This allows travelers to choose a car that suits their trip requirements, whether they need extra luggage space for camping gear or a luxury sedan for added comfort.

Jharkhand’s diverse landscapes, from waterfalls and forests to spiritual sites and wildlife sanctuaries, offer endless possibilities for road trip enthusiasts. With easy access to reliable rental cars, travelers can embark on these journeys with confidence, knowing they have the flexibility to explore at their own pace. For those looking to experience the beauty of Ranchi and beyond, hitting the road with a rental car is undoubtedly the best way to do it.