Ranchi

Welcome to the Manchester of the East, Ranchi. The city is the capital of the relatively new state of Jharkhand.

The city derives its name from a scared bird called Rinchi. In ancient times, the area in and around Ranchi was occupied by Munda and Oraon tribes. It was a part of the powerful Magadha Empire. After their decline, the territories passed to the Nag dynasty, then the Mughals and finally the East India Company. The city was at the forefront of the India’s struggle for independence.

Present day Ranchi is an upcoming industrial hub. It accounts for 50% mineral production of the state and 18% of nation's mineral production. It accounts for 35.5% of the country's known coal reserves, 90% of its cooking coal deposits, 40% of its copper, 22% of its iron ore, 90% of its mica and huge deposits of bauxite, quartz and ceramics. It is also home to the largest steel plant in India, Bokaro. The locals are dependant on agriculture as well.

Hindi and Santhali are the primary languages. Many tribal languages are also spoken here. 
 Ranchi has a humid subtropical climate. Owing to the forests around the city, the weather remains rather pleasant. In May, temperature are known to reach 40 degrees but winters are dry and mild.

Sightseeing:
Tagore Hills – On the outskirts of Ranchi lies the famous Tagore Hill. It is named after India’s most renowned writer, Rabindranath Tagore. It is believed that he wrote a part of his famous work Gitanjali here.

Jagannath Temple – This 17th century temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It attracts a lot of pilgrims around the year and more so during June when the annual Ratha Yatra is held. It is a lovely sight to see the devotees pulling the Rath.

Nakshatra Van – This is a park created by the Jharkhand Forest Department next to the Goevrnor’s Residence. It derives its name from Nakshatras or ‘constellation fo stars Indian astrology states that each constellation of the zodiac is associated with a tree. There are many species of trees here, of medicinal, social, aesthetic and economic value.

Jonha Falls – This waterfall is situated at the edge of the Ranchi plateau. The Gunga river hangs over Raru river and forms these magnificent falls. You have to climb down 500 steps to get the best view.