Patratu Valley in Ranchi, Jharkhand – a stunning destination with a beautiful lake, dam, lush hills, and the thrilling Entartica SeaWorld. Plan your trip for natural beauty, adventure, and cultural exploration in this hidden gem.
Introduction to Patratu Valley
Patratu Valley is a scenic location in Ranchi, Jharkhand, known for its beautiful lake, dam, green hills, and cultural heritage. It is frequently referred to as a hidden gem in India and is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, adventure, or historical exploration.
| Patratu: Patratu is a census town in the Patratu (community development block) in the Ramgarh subdivision of the Ramgarh district in the Indian state of Jharkhand. Patratu is located at 23°40′N 85°17′E / 23.67°N 85.28°E. | |
| Country | India |
| State | Jharkhand |
| District | Ramgarh |
| Area | 1.392 km2 (0.537 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 405 m (1,329 ft) |
Geography and Location
Patratu Valley is situated approximately 40 km from Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand. It is located in the Ramgarh district and is notable for its lush green landscapes and the Patratu Dam. The valley is accessible by road or rail, with Patratu Junction being the nearest railway station, connecting to Ranchi and other major cities.
Travelers can also reach Patratu Valley by bus or taxi from Ranchi, a journey that typically takes about an hour and offers scenic views of winding roads, forests, and villages. The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, approximately 45 km away.
History and Culture
The Chhinnamasta Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Chhinnamasta, is located on a hilltop overlooking the lake and is known for its unique architecture and tantric practices. Another cultural site is the Tribal Museum, which exhibits the art, craft, lifestyle, and traditions of Jharkhand’s tribal communities.
Natural Beauty and Landscape
Patratu Valley is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse landscape, making it a significant tourist attraction in Jharkhand.
Lush Greenery and Rolling Hills
The valley is characterized by its lush greenery and rolling hills, creating a picturesque environment that attracts nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers. The entire valley is surrounded by dense trees. From elevated viewpoints, visitors can observe zig-zag roads cutting through the hills, providing scenic vistas.
The scenery is often compared to hill stations, with numerous hill ranges and tall trees. Ranchi, being on the Chota Nagpur plateau at an elevation of 651 meters, contributes to the valley’s distinct topography as it descends towards Ramgarh.
Scenic Roads and Panoramic Views
The roads leading to Patratu Valley are described as clean, clear, and winding in S or Z shapes, cutting through mountains and offering splendid sights, including a bird’s-eye view of the valley. These winding roads meander through the hills, providing breathtaking panoramic views at every turn, which are ideal for photography. The drive itself is considered an adventure, with sharp, blind turns, especially on the hill roads.
Patratu Lake and Dam
A central feature of Patratu Valley is the Patratu Lake, a man-made reservoir created by the Patratu Dam. The lake is surrounded by hills and forests, forming a picturesque backdrop. From the valley viewpoint, visitors can see the winding roads descending towards the plains of Ramgarh, with Patratu Lake and the chimneys of a nearby cement factory visible in the distance. The dam is one of the largest in India and includes a park and garden for visitors to relax.
Flora and Fauna
The valley is rich in biodiversity, home to various flora and fauna. Tree species like Shal, Mahua, and Teak are spread throughout the area. The natural environment is appealing for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers, with opportunities for sightings of vibrant birds and unique wildlife during early morning visits. The area is also known to host animals such as tigers, elephants, and deer.
Major Attractions in and Around Patratu Valley
- Dassam Falls: Approximately 60 km from Patratu Lake, this waterfall plunges 144 feet and is ideal for photography and nature walks.
- Jonha Falls (Gautamdhara): About 70 km from Patratu Lake, this waterfall is surrounded by thick tropical forest and has a small Buddhist shrine. Visitors can descend over 500 steps to reach the base.
- Pahari Mandir: Situated atop Ranchi Hill, this temple offers panoramic views of Ranchi city and holds historical significance as a flag-hoisting site during the independence movement.
- Jagannath Temple: Located about 45 km from Patratu Lake, this temple built in 1691 by King Thakur Ani Nath Shahdeo, is an architectural marvel with similarities to the Puri temple in Odisha.
- Rock Garden: Approximately 50 km from Patratu Lake, this garden features sculptures and installations made from rocks and scrap materials, adjacent to Kanke Dam.
- Maa Dewri Mandir: About 55 km from Patratu Lake, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Dewri and is known for its unique sixteen-armed idol and local folklore.
- Yogoda Satsanga Ashram: Located 42 km from Patratu Lake, this ashram established by Paramahansa Yogananda, provides a serene environment for meditation and spiritual introspection.
- Birsa Zoological Park: Situated near Ormanjhi, about 45 km from Patratu Lake, this large zoo houses diverse animals and offers educational sessions and eco-friendly rides.
- Activities and Experiences
- Patratu Valley offers a variety of attractions and activities catering to different interests, from nature and history to adventure and leisure.
Nature and Scenery
The primary attraction is Patratu Lake, an artificial reservoir formed by the Patratu Dam. The lake is surrounded by picturesque hills and forests, where visitors can enjoy boating and admire the valley views. The Patratu Dam, one of India’s largest with an 81 MW capacity, features a park and garden for relaxation and picnics.
The Patratu Thermal Power Station, a coal-based power plant, is also a notable site, with a 275-meter high chimney visible from a distance. The drive through Patratu Valley is considered one of Eastern India’s most beautiful road routes, with serpentine roads through sal forests and breathtaking vistas.
Adventure and Leisure
Patratu Valley provides opportunities for adventure and leisure activities. Biking is popular due to some of India’s best biking trails in the valley. Camping near the lake or hills offers a chance to experience nature under the stars. Boating, trekking, hiking, photography, picnicking, cycling, and bird watching are also popular activities.
Entartica SeaWorld Water Recreational Theme Park
Located on Patratu Lake, Entartica SeaWorld is a floating adventure zone offering various water activities such as jet skiing, speed boating, banana rides, aqua cycling, pontoon boat rides, and private cruises.
The park also hosts floating event setups for birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate events. Safety is prioritized with professional standards and trained lifeguards.
Best Time to Visit
The most pleasant time to visit Patratu Valley is between October and March, when the weather is cool and comfortable, and the valley is at its greenest. Visiting during the monsoon season is also recommended, as the lake and dam are full, creating a spectacular sight.
How to Reach Patratu Valley
By Road
From Ranchi: Patratu Valley is approximately 40 km from Ranchi. You can take a bus or a taxi, which typically takes about an hour, and the journey is scenic, passing through winding roads, forests, and villages.
From Kolkata: Driving from Kolkata to Patratu covers a distance of 236.1 miles and takes approximately 5 hours 49 minutes.
Local Transport in Patratu Valley: Once in Patratu Valley, local transport options include auto-rickshaws and taxis. It is advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand or ask for the meter to be used.
By road: Route details from Ranchi and other major cities
By Rail
From Ranchi or Other Major Cities: The nearest railway station is Patratu Junction, which has connections to Ranchi and other major cities via regular trains.
From Kolkata: You can take a train from Howrah Junction directly to Patratu. This journey takes approximately 8 hours 26 minutes and costs between $2 and $55. Indian Railways operates this daily service.
From Ranchi: A direct train service is available from Ranchi to Patratu, departing twice daily on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours 6 minutes and costs between $1 and $19. Indian Railways operates these services.
By Air
From Ranchi Airport: The nearest airport to Patratu is Birsa Munda Airport (IXR) in Ranchi. From the airport, you can hire taxis or use public transportation to reach Patratu.
From Kolkata to Ranchi (and then Patratu): The fastest way to get from Kolkata to Patratu is by taking a train from Sealdah to Dum Dum, then flying from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) to Birsa Munda Airport (IXR). This option takes approximately 3 hours 43 minutes and costs between $69 and $166.
Accommodation and Food Options
Patratu Valley offers various dining and accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, homestays, and guesthouses. Local cuisine of Jharkhand, influenced by tribal culture, can be enjoyed, with dishes like Dhuska (deep-fried rice cake), Litti Chokha (baked wheat ball), and Rugra (edible mushroom).
Accommodation options include Patratu Valley Resort, Patratu Hill View Homestay, and Patratu Guest House, catering to different budgets and preferences. The Sarovar Vihar, Patratu Lake Resort, is also situated on the banks of Patratu Dam.
Travel Tips and Safety Guidelines
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Patratu Valley is during the winter months, from September to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. While the monsoon season offers lush landscapes, roads can be slippery.
Duration of Visit: A half-day trip is often sufficient to enjoy the valley and dam, but some suggest spending a couple of nights to fully experience the scenic beauty.
Photography: The valley provides ample opportunities for photography, especially with its unique valley views and during sunrise or sunset, and it’s a popular spot for selfies and pre-wedding shoots.
Local Cuisine: While visiting, you can explore local eateries and resort restaurants, with fish items often recommended for their freshness and taste.
Accommodation: For those wishing to stay overnight, options near Patratu Lake include Patratu Valley Resort, Birsa Guest House, Ranchi Haveli, and Capital O Residences. Ranchi and Ramgarh are also nearby options for hotels.
Car Travel: If driving your own car from Kolkata, no extra papers are needed if you have the necessary documentation to enter Ranchi.
Road Safety
Driving Conditions: The roads in Patratu Valley, especially the hill roads, have extremely sharp blind turns. It is crucial to drive carefully and avoid overtaking at these turns.
Night Travel: It is not recommended to visit the valley late in the evening due to the absence of streetlights, making night driving on winding hill roads unsafe.
Parking: There are no designated parking spaces, so tourists park their vehicles on the side of the road. Ensure to apply hand brakes and keep gears engaged as a backup when parking to prevent the car from rolling.
Water Activities and General Safety
Boating and Water Sports: While boating and water sports are available at Patratu Lake, safety is paramount. Activities at Entartica SeaWorld follow professional standards, and trained lifeguards are always present.
However, older reports mention that villagers operating boats at Patratu Dam had no training for emergencies, and lifeguards were absent in that specific area. Swimming in the lake is generally not recommended; instead, use the swimming pool at Paryatan Vihar if you wish to swim.
Carrying Essentials: It is advisable to carry sufficient water, regional snacks, and bottled water, especially if you plan to trek or spend extended periods outdoors.
Footwear: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and trekking.
Tourist Crowds: During weekends, the valley can become a nightmare due to improper parking and accumulating trash at the prime viewpoint. It’s better to be back in Ranchi or Ramgarh after sunset.
Security Situation: While the area around Ranchi and major tourist attractions like Patratu Valley are generally considered safe, it is vital to check the security situation before venturing into other parts of Jharkhand. Avoid traveling at night by road anywhere in the state.
Exploring Off-Path: Exploring the valley and forest through hiking tracks is not explicitly mentioned as possible or safe due to the isolated nature of some areas.
FAQ’s for Patratu Valley
The best time to visit Patratu Valley is during the winter months, from September to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant for outdoor activities.
Patratu Valley is approximately 40 km from Ranchi. You can reach it by road via bus or taxi, by rail to Patratu Junction, or by air to Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, followed by a taxi or bus.
The main natural attractions include the lush greenery, rolling hills, the scenic Patratu Lake, and the Patratu Dam, all contributing to breathtaking panoramic views.
Yes, the hill roads have extremely sharp blind turns, so it is crucial to drive carefully. Night travel is not recommended due to the lack of streetlights.
Visitors can enjoy boating and water sports at Patratu Lake (like at Entartica SeaWorld), trekking, hiking, photography, picnicking, and simply admiring the beautiful scenery.