Ranchi, in the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand, is a city described, confusingly, as a city with the feel of a hill station. As it is on the southern part of the Chota Nagpur plateau, Ranchi is located on hilly terrain at an elevation of approximately 651 meters (2,140 feet) above the level of the sea. The hilly terrain and dense tropical vegetation create a cooler, pleasant climate that feels almost like a different world from the hotter plains of India. Ranchi was even regarded as the summer capital of the undivided state of Bihar, due precisely to Ranchi’s cool weather and refreshing environment.
Ranchi may be officially classified as a city, but its geography and natural beauty make it feel like a hill station. Surrounded by hills, waterfalls and rivers, Ranchi draws visitors, both tourists and nature-loving people alike. Ranchi’s moderate temperatures, especially in summer and winter, offer consumers a comfortable climate that they seek out when visiting a hill station.
Let’s have a look at what makes Ranchi special and allows it to present the experience of being a hill station.
1. IS RANCHI A HILL STATION?
Technically, Ranchi is not a classic hill station like Shimla, Mussoorie, or Darjeeling, which were built by the British as summer retreats in the mountains. But Ranchi sits at an altitude of about 651 metres (2,136 feet) above sea level and enjoys pleasant weather, which makes it feel like one.
2. WHAT MAKES RANCHI FEEL LIKE A HILL STATION?
- Mild Weather: Ranchi’s weather remains mild all year round, unlike most other cities in Jharkhand. Just like you would expect a hill station to be.
- Hills: Its rolling hills and raised structure make it feel like a hill station naturally.
- Nature: The forests, waterfalls, and rivers characterise Ranchi as a refreshing place to visit or live.
- Historical Context: Ranchi was, during the British Raj, a hill station because of its cool climate, it was considered a summer retreat.
Ranchi is surrounded by small hills, forests, and famous waterfalls like Hundru, Dassam, and Jonha. The weather is generally cooler than in many parts of northern and eastern India, especially during summer, giving visitors a refreshing break from the heat.
3. POPULAR TOURIST SPOTS IN RANCHI
Besides the waterfalls, Ranchi has many other attractions:
- Tagore Hill for city views and sunset
- Rock Garden built on Gonda Hill
- Ranchi Lake is in the heart of the city
- Patratu Valley is known for its scenic drive and lush green landscape.
These places add to Ranchi’s charm and natural beauty.
4. WHY PEOPLE VISIT RANCHI
People come to Ranchi to relax in nature, enjoy cooler weather, and explore nearby villages and forests. It’s not overly crowded like some famous hill stations, which makes it peaceful and perfect for family trips or weekend getaways.
5. RANCHI: A CITY THAT FEELS LIKE A HILL STATION
Ranchi, while not officially a hill station, has a hill station-like atmosphere due to its mild climate, lush greenery, and beautiful natural sites. As the state capital of Jharkhand, it blends modern city life with tranquillity, offering peaceful waterfalls and scenic hills for those seeking a cooler climate and a connection to nature.
In the end, Ranchi may not be a traditional hill station, but it truly offers the beauty, weather, and peaceful vibe that travellers look for when they head to the hills.
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