Best Day Trips from Ranchi by Rental Car
Published: 19 September 2026
Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, is surrounded by waterfalls, forests, temples, wildlife destinations, and scenic countryside. While many attractions are accessible by public transport, renting a self-drive car in Ranchi gives you the flexibility to start early, explore multiple places at your own pace, and return to the city the same day.
Whether you are travelling with friends, family, or alone, there are plenty of places to explore within a comfortable driving distance from Ranchi.
Here are some of the best day trips from Ranchi by rental car.
1. Dassam Falls – A Perfect Waterfall Escape
Located near Taimara, Dassam Falls is one of the most popular waterfall destinations around Ranchi. The Kanchi River creates a spectacular multi-stream waterfall surrounded by greenery.
The drive itself is enjoyable, particularly during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
Approximate distance from Ranchi: 40–45 km
Ideal for: Friends, couples, families, photography
Suggested time: Half day to full day
Start early from Ranchi, spend a few hours around the waterfall, and return to the city before evening.
2. Hundru Falls – Experience One of Jharkhand's Famous Waterfalls
Hundru Falls is another must-visit destination for anyone exploring Ranchi.
The Subarnarekha River drops dramatically over the rocky landscape, creating one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. The surrounding forest and hills make it a great destination for a short road trip.
Approximate distance from Ranchi: 45–50 km
Ideal for: Nature lovers, families, photographers
Suggested time: 4–6 hours
With your own rental car, you can leave Ranchi early, explore Hundru Falls, stop for refreshments along the way, and return comfortably.
3. Jonha Falls – A Peaceful Day Trip
Jonha Falls, also known as Gautamdhara, is situated around 40 km from Ranchi. The waterfall is surrounded by forests and rocky terrain, making it a refreshing escape from the city.
The destination also has religious significance, with temples located around the area.
Approximate distance from Ranchi: 40 km
Ideal for: Families, couples, nature lovers
Suggested time: Half day
A self-drive rental is particularly convenient because you can decide when to leave and spend as much time as you want at the destination.
4. Patratu Valley & Patratu Dam – A Scenic Drive from Ranchi
If you enjoy driving, Patratu Valley is one of the most enjoyable road-trip destinations near Ranchi.
The winding roads through the hills provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Patratu Dam adds another scenic stop to the journey.
Approximate distance from Ranchi: 40–50 km
Ideal for: Road trips, couples, friends, photography
Suggested time: Full day
This is one destination where having your own rental car makes the journey part of the experience.
5. Birsa Zoological Park – A Family-Friendly Trip
For a family day out, Birsa Zoological Park near Ranchi is a convenient option.
The zoo provides an opportunity to see a variety of animals and birds while spending a relaxed day away from the city.
Approximate distance from Ranchi: 25 km
Ideal for: Families and children
Suggested time: 3–5 hours
You can combine the visit with nearby attractions and return to Ranchi on the same day.
6. Panch Gagh Falls – A Hidden Natural Escape
Panch Gagh Falls near Khunti is a beautiful option for travellers looking for a less urban environment.
Unlike a single large waterfall, Panch Gagh consists of several streams flowing through the rocky landscape. The surrounding greenery makes it especially attractive during and after the monsoon.
Approximate distance from Ranchi: 55–65 km
Ideal for: Nature lovers, friends, photographers
Suggested time: Full day
Pack some refreshments, start early, and enjoy a relaxed drive through the countryside.
7. Deori Mandir – A Spiritual Road Trip
Deori Mandir, located near Tamar, is an important temple destination in Jharkhand and is also well known for its distinctive traditional architecture.
For visitors interested in combining spirituality with a road trip, Deori Mandir can be included in a day-trip itinerary from Ranchi.
Approximate distance from Ranchi: 60 km
Ideal for: Families, pilgrims, cultural travellers
Suggested time: Half day to full day
8. Netarhat – Better for an Extended Road Trip
Netarhat is one of Jharkhand's most scenic hill destinations. Known for its forests, viewpoints, and pleasant landscape, it is a popular road-trip destination.
However, Netarhat is better suited to an overnight trip rather than a rushed day trip from Ranchi. If you have more time, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
Why Choose a Rental Car for Day Trips from Ranchi?
Public transport can work for some destinations, but a self-drive car rental in Ranchi offers several advantages.
Flexible departure times
You don't have to plan your day around bus or train schedules. Leave Ranchi early in the morning and return whenever you're ready.
Visit multiple destinations
With your own car, you can combine nearby attractions. For example, you can plan a waterfall trip and add a temple or scenic viewpoint to the same itinerary.
Comfortable for groups
Travelling with family or friends can be much easier when everyone travels together in one vehicle.
More privacy
A self-drive vehicle lets you enjoy the journey without sharing the vehicle with strangers.
Explore beyond the main tourist spots
Some of Jharkhand's best views are found along the roads between major attractions. Having a rental car allows you to stop at suitable places and enjoy the journey.
Sample One-Day Itinerary from Ranchi
If you want to make the most of your rental car, here's an example itinerary:
6:30 AM – Leave Ranchi
Start early to avoid traffic and make the most of the day.
8:00 AM – Reach your first destination
Spend time exploring and taking photographs.
11:00 AM – Breakfast or refreshment stop
12:00 PM – Visit the next attraction
2:00 PM – Lunch
3:00 PM – Scenic drive or final destination
5:00 PM – Start your return journey
7:00 PM – Reach Ranchi
The exact timing will depend on the destination, road conditions, weather, and time spent at each attraction.
Make Your Jharkhand Road Trip Easier with Drigo
Planning a day trip from Ranchi becomes easier when you have a reliable car and the freedom to choose your own route.
Drigo Self Drive Cars offers rental cars for travellers looking to explore Ranchi and destinations across Jharkhand. Whether you're planning a quick waterfall trip, a family outing, or a longer road trip, you can choose a vehicle that suits your travel requirements.
From compact cars for economical trips to SUVs for longer journeys, renting a self-drive car gives you the flexibility to explore Jharkhand on your own schedule.
Planning a road trip from Ranchi? Book your self-drive car with Drigo and start exploring Jharkhand your way.
Website: drigo.in
Phone: 95720 90249
Final Thoughts
Ranchi is an excellent starting point for exploring Jharkhand by road. From Dassam Falls and Hundru Falls to Patratu Valley, Jonha Falls and Panch Gagh Falls, there are plenty of destinations that can be explored in a day.
If you're planning your next weekend outing, consider renting a self-drive car in Ranchi and turning the journey itself into part of the adventure.