This City Has History, Mystery, And Magic – Here Are The 10 Facts Every Traveler Needs To Know
The capital city of Jharkhand in eastern India, Ranchi, offers a unique mix of nature, culture, and modern infrastructures. Being one of the beautiful cities in India, it is famous for lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and tribal cultures, which makes it known as the “City of Waterfalls.” Here are 10 facts about this alluring city that every traveler or enthusiast should know. Ranchi also has a lot of unexplored places which are exquisite.
1. The Capital of Jharkhand
After Jharkhand was built by splitting Bihar, Ranchi became the capital on 15th November 2000. This was the turning point in the geography as it provided administrative development to the tribal areas of southern Bihar. This fictional place is still one of the preferred centers of economy and politics for Jharkhand.
2. A City With Ancient Roots
Ranchi is an Oraon tribal word, which means a piece of land surrounded by three hills. The area is considered to be the home of several indigenous tribes such as Munda, Oraon, and Santhal communities. From the available archaeological records, it can be concluded that some form of human settlements existed there in prehistoric times.
3. The Home of Beautiful Waterfalls
Ranchi is well known for its beautiful waterfalls. The most visited ones are:
Dassam Falls (Dassam Ghagh): This waterfall is located 40 kilometers from Ranchi. This waterfall also has a unique shape resembling a horseshoe and is approximately 144 feet high.
Jonha Falls (Gonda Falls): These waterfalls are roughly 40 kilometers away too and surrounded by nature which increases their beauty.
Hundru Falls: Hundru Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the region, standing at 320 feet. It is one of the most visited Waterfalls in India with billions of tourists each year.
The many waterfalls located in Ranchi make it the perfect destination for tourists.
4. Tribal Culture and Their Different Heritages
Ranchi is also famous for having over 30 indigenous tribes. These tribes have their own unique culture and this diversity adds to the cultural beauty of the city. One of the most famous Sarhul is a festival celebrated by the Oraon tribe, marking the onset of a new spring. The festival involves rituals honoring the sacred Sal tree. The way of life of the tribal people can be found in the Tribal Research Institute Museum, which has many artifacts, crafts and tribal photographs.
5. Educational Hub of Eastern India
Ranchi is fast becoming one of the important educational centers in eastern India. Some of the important institutions are:
Ranchi University: Established in 1960, it is one of the oldest universities in the region.
National Institute of Foundry and Forge Technology (NIFFT): Renowned for its metallurgy branch.
Central Institute of Psychiatry (CIP): A premier mental health hospital in Asia.
These institutions draw students not only from Jharkhand but also from other bordering states.
6. Rock Garden and Kanke Dam
The Rock Garden in Ranchi is one of the major beauty spots in the city, built on a hillock overlooking Kanke Dam. It is designed similar to Delhi’s renowned Rock Garden which comprises sculptures made of waste materials alongside picturesque paths for walking and fountains. Close to it is the peaceful Kanke Dam that provides opportunities for boating as well as captivating views of the entire area.
7. Birsa Munda – A Revolutionary Leader
Ranchi is known in history concerning its association with Birsa Munda, a noted freedom fighter who started tribal revolts against British rule in the 19 Century. He is remembered today in places like Birsa Zoological Park and Birsa Jaivik Udyan, which are both named after him. Furthermore, Jharkhand celebrates Birsa Jayanti (his birth anniversary) as a public holiday.
8. Climate and Geography
Ranchi is situated at an altitude of around 2,140 feet above sea level. Its climate is exceptionally moderate through the year, enjoying pleasant summers (March to June) and cooler winters (November to February). The region receives substantial rainfall during the monsoon season (July to September) due to its proximity to the Chota Nagpur Plateau, which impacts its weather patterns.
9. Religious Significance
Ranchi possesses a number of religious places that attract thousand of devotees from different parts of the country:
Jagannath Temple: It is one of the leading pilgrim centers of Hindus and was constructed as a replica of Puri Jagannath Temple located in Odisha.
Pahari Mandir: This temple is located on top of a hill which is a bird eye view of the city, and also almost 300 steps that need to be scaled to access the temple.
Sun Temple: Built in the form of a colossal chariot, this temple built in honor of Lord Surya captures the imagination of worshipers who come to receive his blessings.
These holy places demonstrate Ranchi’s culture.
10. New Areas for Industry
Much of the reserves of Ranchi lie in natural resources, but there is fast growth in industrial resources. The city contains steel plants, manufacturing industries, and IT parks which are major contributors to the economy of Jharkhand. The establishment of SEZs (Special Economic Zones) has further enhanced the employment potential and infrastructural growth of this area.
Final Remark
Ranchi city is rich in natural beauty and waterfalls, deeply rooted in tribal culture, and urbanized, all at once. It is a blend of traditions and development. Ranchi is ideal for everyone who is interested in history, nature, and travels across regions and cultures in India. Despite ongoing developments, the city is a unique example of the balance between humans and nature, and has many places to visit— a true jewel of Jharkhand.
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