Did you know Netarhat also referred as “The Queen of Chotanagpur”?

At 3514 ft from sea level and around 154 KMs from Ranchi (Capital of Jharkhand), Netarhat offers magnificent views of sunrise and sunset. Dense virgin forests, waterfalls, panoramic views of the hill and smell of nature make Netarhat one of the most visited hill stations in Jharkhand.

Mahatma Gandhi once said – “When I admire the wonders of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in the worship of the creator.”

Best time to be there

Visiting Netarhat during Spring, Autumn and Summer is most suitable due to clear sky conditions. It is a good idea to be there at Netarhat to escape summer heat for few days as the weather does not get very hot during the season. Monsoon is not advisable as the main attractions (Sunrise and sunset view) might not experience due to cloudy sky conditions. Winter normally gets foggy at Morning, hence not a preferable time to visit Netarhat.

How to reach

Netarhat is well connected from Ranchi and Betla by Road. It’s around 95 KM driving distance from Betla to Netarhat which takes around 2.5 hours in normal weather condition. It takes around 4.5 hours to reach Netarhat by drive from Ranchi.

It’s preferable to combine Netarhat with Betla trip in the itinerary. If you are not then, get down at Ranchi either by Train or Flight and then hire a cab to Netarhat. There are regular bus services available as well from the Ranchi to Netarhat.

Accommodation

There are not many quality accommodations available in Netarhat as of today. Hotel Parvat Vihar operated by Jharkhand State Tourism Development is the best choice between the available choices. Situated at the sunrise viewing spot itself, it offers you spectacular views of the hill at the time of sunrise. It is recommended to book rooms at least 60 days prior to the actual visit as high demand causes unavailability of rooms at a later point. While boarding, try to choose east facing rooms to enjoy the nature from the room itself.

“Ravi and Sashi Lodge” is the other option you have. Around 15 minutes walking distance from the sunrise spot, does not provide you good natural views as compared to the earlier option. Availability is higher than “Parvat Vihar”, making it the second popular choice.

Weather

Similar to Betla, the temperature difference between day and night is significant. Winter wears are only necessary during late November to early March.

Notable places in Betla

Magnolia Point

The sight of setting Sun presents a breathtaking view from Magnolia point. Named after a British maiden (Legends say she jumped off from this spot after failing to unite with her beloved) is known for a panoramic view of nature during sunset. Reserve a cab in advance from your hotel / local agents to reach the spot by 4:30 at evening.

Sunset from Magnolia point, Netarhat

You could enjoy local snacks while waiting for the sunset. At the time be ready with your camera and capture the nature view as never before.

Lower Ghaghri Waterfall

Located within one of the dense forests of Netarhat, the Lower Ghaghri waterfall is another must visit spot during your stay at Netarhat. It ranks 33rd among the highest waterfalls in India. Sound mix of waterfalls, birds and the forest makes the environment magical. Ideal place for nature lovers to spend a relaxing hour in this alluring spot.

Pine Forest

Netarhat Pine forest is a used to be the Governor’s summer residence till some time back. Take a walk around the forest to feel the nature, the temperature is slightly lower due to ample vegetation around. You would also find series of Asian pear trees in the forest. As per the localities, it is one of the favorite places for black bears in monsoon.

Suggestions

• Keep your travel documents and Government provided identity cards handy at all time.
• Bus service is quite available during the day time. There is no advance booking required if you are traveling to/from Netarhat by Bus.
• If you are looking for cheap and good quality food, reach out to the Ddhabas located at Netarhat bus station.
• Carrying necessary cash while on Netarhat a good idea as the place does not have much operational ATM service available.
• Beware of the price while booking the site-seeing packages from locals. Bargaining skills would help to reduce the said rates.