Netarhat is a small hill station in Jharkhand and is known as the Queen of Chota Nagpur Plateau because of its pristine beauty. There is extensive vegetation of Sal, Kendu, Eucalyptus, Mahua, Pine, and Pear trees here.
If you are a nature lover then you will find Betla National Park is the best place to visit in Netarhat. During the time of the British, Netarhat was a favourite vacation spot. They used to come here to rejuvenate and unwind, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
This mesmerizingly beautiful Netarhat is located at a height of 3700 feet. It is surrounded by the Vindhyan range and verdant green forests. Throughout the town, you will find many gardens or orchards that present a beautiful landscape. Netarhat is a lesser-known tourist destination in India. Ranchi is about 156 kilometers west of Netarhat. It is also known for the prestigious Netarhat School which has been functioning since 1954.
6 Best Places to Visit in Netarhat
In this blog we will discuss the list of top 6 tourist places to visit in Netarhat such as Magnolia Point, Lodh Waterfalls, Lower Ghaghri Falls and many more.
Netarhat boasts some favourite tourist places that add to the charm of your itinerary. Since it’s an offbeat tourist spot not many people know about it. Let’s explore some beautiful places at Netarhat.
1. Magnolia Point
The Netarhat sunset point located at Magnolia Point is well-known. There may be fog at the time of sunrise, but the sunsets are breathtaking. Magnolia Point provides a scenic view.
If you observe closely, you can see the sun’s movement, from glowing hot red to gently seeking shelter behind the spectacular Vindhya Mountain ranges.
According to mythical stories, Lord Hanuman once swallowed the sun. He mistakenly thought it was a delicious fruit. Netarhat is considered to be the location where he ate the sun and Lord Hanuman was born in the nearby village of Anjan in the Jharkhand region.
Things to do: Enjoy the scenic views, nature walks, photography, stargazing
Nearby Places to visit: Latehar, Ranchi
2. Lodh Waterfalls
Lodh Falls is Jharkhand’s highest waterfall. According to stats, it is India’s 21st highest waterfall. The most interesting part about the fall is that its depth is unknown. What’s more no one has ever succeeded in measuring it.
The dark blue hills and verdant greenery give it a surreal setting. Since there is a monastery dedicated to Lord Budha in the vicinity, the Lodh Falls is also known as Budha Ghag Falls. The Lodh Falls are 60 kilometers away from Netarhat.
Things to do: Organise picnics, camps and trekking
Nearby Places to visit: Sita Falls, Hirni Falls, Gautamdhara Falls
3. Lower Ghaghri Falls
Lower Ghaghri is Netarhat’s second-highest waterfall. Lower Ghaghri Fall is 10 kilometers from Netarhat and is surrounded by greenery. The Lower Ghaghri Falls enjoy a tropical climate.
The best time to visit to truly admire the beauty of the fall is during the monsoon season, particularly in August when the water level is high.
This location is well-known as a picnic site. Picnicking in the middle of the natural beauty is enjoyable.
Things to do: Explore the ruins of the fort, trekking, bird watching
Nearby Places to visit: Betla National Park, Palamau Fort
4. Koel View Point
The river Koel is approximately 2 kilometers from the bus stop to the Koel View Point, which is located in the rainforest.
Tutua Paani, a highland settlement in the area, is the source of this water. It is a beautiful sight to behold especially on moonlit nights. The water seems like a silvery stream, enchanting the tourists with its beauty.
On the river bank, there are clusters of small towns that are inhabited by primitive tribes such as Saarna Toli and Chaatan Jori. If photography is something that interests you, get hold of a camera and start documenting the fascinating lifestyle of these tribes.
Things to do: Nature photography, sightseeing
Nearby Places to visit: Upper Ghagri Waterfalls, Sadni Waterfalls
5. Pine Forest and Pear Orchard
Netarhat’s natural attractions are enhanced by the presence of a pine forest and pear orchards. It’s an ideal location for Instagrammers because of the long pine trees and pear orchards. Until recently, it served as the governor’s vacation residence.
We bet you will get lost in the beautiful woodlands to get away from the stress of city life. We are sure you will immensely enjoy your communion with nature as you travel through the pine forest. The temperature is slightly chilly here.
Things to do: sightseeing, trekking, birdwatching
Nearby Places to visit: Betla National Park, Ranchi
6. Betla National Park
Betla National Park is a well-known national park that is spread over the hilly terrain west of Ranchi In Jharkhand. One of the most popular national parks of the North East, the park stretches over an area of around 979 sq. km. It has the status of being one of the first 9 tiger reserves that were established in India.
Due to its diversified ecosystem, the Betla National Park has a huge variety of wildlife. There are luxuriant sal and bamboo trees around. Betla stands as an acronym for Bison, Elephant, Tiger, Leopard and Axis. What makes this park different from the rest is the presence of two forts inside its premises. The main attraction here is observing wildlife from a close range.
Things to do: Trekking, birdwatching, photography, jeep safari
Nearby Places to visit: Betla Fort, Netarhat Sunrise Point
Weather & Best Time to Visit Netarhat
March and April months are the best times for visiting Netarhat. The best time to come is between November and February if you want to enjoy the harsh winters. In Netarhat monsoon is mesmerizing as nature seems inviting with its pristine beauty.
How to reach Netarhat from Ranchi?
The way to reach Netarhat from Ranchi is by road or flight. Ranchi airport is 156 km away from Netarhat. You can hire a taxi from Ranchi to reach Netarhat. By road, it takes approximately 3 hours to reach Netarhat from Ranchi.
How to reach Netarhat by flight?
The nearest airport to Netarhat is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi which is 109 km from Netarhat. You can take a car, bus, or taxi to reach Netarhat from Ranchi airport.
How to reach Netarhat by road?
Netarhat is well connected by road, so the best way to reach Netarhat is directly by road. Regular state and private buses run to Netarhat from Ranchi. You can also board a cab or taxi to travel on sharing from the capital to Netarhat.
How to reach Netarhat by train?
The nearest Railway Station to Netarhat is Latehar and Lohardaga Railway Station which is around 33 km and 80 km from Netarhat. You have to hire a local taxi or take a bus to reach Netarhat.
Best Sightseeing Places in Netarhat
The top attractions to visit in Netarhat are Magnolia Point, picturesque views of the Koel River Valley, and Netarhat Dam for a tranquil retreat amidst nature.
The Lower Ghaghri Falls is a cascading waterfall nestled amongst lush greenery. Then there is the Pine Forest with tall pine trees providing a hasty retreat from the ills of life. The Betla National Park is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts having diverse flora and fauna.
Stay Options: Best Hotels & Resorts in Ranchi Netarhat
There are some great places to put up with for tourists at Netarhat and that too at an affordable price.
1. Netarhat Retreat
Netarhat Retreat is nestled in a picturesque landscape and offers cozy rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and mesmerizing views of the surrounding hills.
2. Forest Glade Resort
Forest Glade resort is an eco-friendly resort offering cozy cottages, a bonfire area, and trekking facilities.
3. Vikas Bhawan Tourist Complex
It is located in the heart of Netarhat and offers well-furnished rooms and a beautiful garden.
4. Palash Residency
If you are looking for luxury amidst nature, then Palash Residency is the ideal place in Netarhat.
5. Sunrise Point Resort
Located near the sunrise point, this resort offers comfortable accommodations and a serene ambiance.
Top Restaurants in Netarhat
While Netarhat is known for its tranquillity, it may have limited options when it comes to upscale dining. However, the local flavors are simply delicious. The following restaurants are worth a visit.
1. Netarhat Rest House Dining Hall
The Netarhat Rest House offers a dining hall serving homely-cooked local meals. You will enjoy the rustic setting here.
2. Sunrise Point Resort Restaurant
Sunrise Point Resort Restaurant offers a menu with local specialties, providing tourists with a delectable taste of the region.
3. Pine N Peak Hotel Restaurant
If you are putting up at Pine N Peak Hotel, their in-house restaurant might be a good option for a variety of dishes.
You can savor local flavors and enjoy a quiet dining experience here.
Final Thoughts
The undiscovered beauty of Netarhat Hill station will capture your attention at first sight. The rich, untamed, and surreal surroundings will make you return to it time and again.
Netarhat is famous for its lush green beauty and panoramic views. Some well-known tourist spots are Sunrise Point, Lower Ghagri Waterfalls, Upper Ghagri Waterfalls, and Koel View Point.
The best time to visit Netarhat is from October to March.
A 2 to 3 days trip may be enough to explore the major attractions in Netarhat.
The round trip Netarhat package for 3 Night 4 Days is around 9k to 12k per person.
On average, per day travel cost in Netarhat may range from INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per day. This includes accommodation, meals, and local transportation.
The distance between Ranchi and Netarhat is approximately 156 kilometers and travelling time is around 5 hours by road.
The travel cost for a 3-night 4-day trip could range from INR 9,000 to INR 12,000. This includes accommodation, meals, local transportation, and any additional expenses.
