Ever dreamed of watching others winding through lush forests and valleys from a mountain range then Koel viewpoint in Netarhat’s Jharkhand is your perfect destination. Perched on the edge of Netarhat’s plateau the viewpoint offers an amazing view of north Koel river flowing gracefully through the green folds of the chota Nagpur hills. It’s peaceful, scenic and deeply soulful, a perfect place for you if you’re looking forward to reconnecting with nature. In 2025 a lot of travellers are looking for less crowded and eco friendly destinations and if you are one of them then Koel point is just your best bet.
Where is the Koel Viewpoint Located?
Koel viewpoint is located in Netarhat’s hill station in the latehar district of Jharkhand. It lies around 2 kilometres from Netarhat’s town and about 155 kilometers from Ranchi the state capital. The scenic point overlooks the north Koel river, a tributary of the Son River which flows through the dense forests of Palmau and forms an important part of Jharkhand’s ecosystem.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Netarhat, Latehar District, Jharkhand |
| Distance from Netarhat Town | 2 km |
| Altitude | About 1,100 meters above sea level |
| Famous For | Panoramic view of North Koel River and valley |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Ideal Duration | 1–2 hours |
| Nearby Attractions | Magnolia Point, Upper Ghaghri Falls, Lower Ghaghri Falls |
The North Koel River
Before exploring the viewpoint, you need to understand the North Koel River, the star of the natural landscape. The river originates from the Netarhat’s plateau itself and flows through Palamu Tiger Reserve before merging into the Sun River in Bihar. It is surrounded by dense forests that are home to elephants, deer and many bird species. For centuries the river has sustained local tribal communities who rely on it for drinking water, fishing , agriculture and rituals. Koel river is not just a water body here, it’s a part of the region’s cultural and spiritual identity.
What Makes the Koel Viewpoint So Special?
Standing at the viewpoint you will see the north Koel river snaking through miles of green forests and rolling hills. During sunrise and sunset the entire valley glows with golden and orange colors. You can capture anomic landscape of the Koel valley and get the best shots during early morning light or sunset. Unlike crowded tourist spots Koel viewpoint remains peaceful. The only sounds are of birds’ wind and rustling leaves.
How to Reach the Koel Viewpoint?
From Ranchi you can take a private cab or Jharkhand tourism bus to Netarhat’s. The airport is around 155 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is latehar That is around 90 kilometers away. Regular trains are from Ranchi Patna and Kolkata. By Rd. also you can travel. It takes around five hours via NH 75 from Ranchi. From Netarhat’s town to Koel, the viewpoint is 2 kilometers and 10 minutes by car. The drive is completely beautiful with pine forests, gentle slopes and occasional viewpoints along the way.
Best Time to Visit:
| Season | Months | Experience |
| Winter | November – February | Pleasant weather, clear skies, perfect for sunrise views |
| Summer | March – June | Warm but breezy, light crowd, golden landscapes |
| Monsoon | July – September | Misty, green, romantic, but roads can be slippery |
Things to Do at Koel Viewpoint
You can visit early in the morning to see fog drifting across the valley. The sunset is equally beautiful and the Koel river shines like liquid gold. bring a camera, a smartphone with a wide angle lens. Photography and videography is just great for landscape and drone shots. Early morning light enhances the depth and texture of the valley. You can walk from Netarhat’s down to Koel viewpoint which passes through forested roads ideal for short treks.
Where to Stay in Netarhat’s?
Koel viewpoint is very close to Netarhat’s town where you will find various stay options. You must book in advance during winter and festive occasions.
Recommended Accommodations:
- Netarhat Tourist Lodge (JTDC) – Government-run, affordable, with a great view of forests.
- Forest Rest Houses – Perfect for travellers who enjoy rustic stays and nature.
- Eco Huts – Managed by local communities promoting sustainable tourism.
- Private Resorts & Guest Houses – Offer more comfort, family rooms, and local meals.
Local Food Experience
After visiting Koel viewpoint you can try some traditional jar candy dishes at local eateries or your lodge .
Must-Try Local Foods:
- Chilka Roti (rice pancake)
- Thekua (sweet snack made from wheat and jaggery)
- Pitha (stuffed rice cakes)
- Handia (traditional rice-based drink)
- Dal-Pitha and forest honey
Cultural and Ecological Importance
Spiritual bond with nature
For the local tribes rivers and forests are sacred. The coal river is believed to be blessed by forest deities and people offer prayers before finishing or farming.
The North Koel River nourishes:
- Palamu Tiger Reserve
- Forests of Latehar and Daltonganj
- Villages and farmlands downstream
Essential Travel Tips for First-Timers
You can carry light volumes, especially from November to February. You can bring your hats, sunglasses and sunscreen for daytime visits. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if the path has mild slopes. Avoid standing too close to 2 Cliff edges. You must visit during daylight hours to avoid staying too late after sunset. During monsoon, the path can be really slippery. Walk carefully. You should not litter and take your waist back. Avoid loud noises and respect the peaceful vibe. It’s very important for you to support the local shops and guides instead of big chains.
So above all you need to know that Koel viewpoint is one of the most beautiful and underrated destinations of Jharkhand. It represents everything that makes Netarhat’s special unspoiled nature serene beauty and timeless charm. Standing at the Cliff as you watch the north Koel river flow through the Green Valley you will feel a deep sense of peace and connection with the earth. Whether you visit for a day trip or make it a part of your Netarhat’s itinerary, this viewpoint promises moments that stay in your memory forever.
