Ranchi to Dhanbad; A Travellers Guide to the Coal Capital of India

Wondering about a short trip during the weekend to re-energise yourself and thinking about a journey to somewhere lesser known, but do not want to compensate for the natural beauty? Worry not, as we are here to bring you just the perfect guide to a trip from Ranchi to the Coal Capital of India, Dhanbad. Dhanbad, a city in Jharkhand, which witnessed the beginning of the Quit India Movement during the freedom struggle, later became the largest coal-producing city in India. The journey from Ranchi to Dhanbad itself is rewarding in terms of greenery and experiences. Well, in this guide, we shall go about the journey and the details of what to do and where to go in Dhanbad

How to Reach Dhanbad from Ranchi


Dhanbad and Ranchi are 150 km apart from each other, and both the journeys by Train and road take around four to five hours. The most convenient option is to take a train from Ranchi Railway Station. The Shaktipunj Express runs daily between these two cities, taking three hours on the journey. You can also board trains like the Ranchi - Dhanbad Intercity Express and the Vananchal Express. On the road, the journey would take around 4 hours following the NH 320. Public buses, private buses, personal cars, choose your transport as per your convenience, as the roads are well connected to fuel your journey.

a train running on railway tracks with two signals and trees in the background
a cascading waterfall

Where to go in Dhanbad


Explore various tourist attraction spots in Dhanbad, starting with spending time at the Birsa Munda Park, a park with green scapes, family activities and an artificial lake. Move ahead to the Shakti Mandir, and pay a religious visit to Goddess Durga. One more religious place to visit in Dhanbad is the Lilori Sthan Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the temple is known for its spiritual aura. Nature lovers can find the perfect place to explore in Dhanbad at the Bhatinda Falls. Set amidst rocky landscapes, the atmosphere here is one to be experienced. In the end, two of the most beautiful places to behold in Dhanbad are the Topchanchi Lake, a serene lake which offers an atmosphere of tranquillity and the Maithon Dam, the largest dam in Jharkhand, which generates a huge share of the hydroelectric power in the region.

What to do in Dhanbad


When in Dhanbad, make sure to experience the industrial sites there. Interested individuals can pay a visit to the Bharat Coking Coal Limited official exhibit to understand how the whole coal industry works. Apart from the coal field visit, make sure to also explore the local cuisine. Try out local delicacies such as Litti Chokha and Thekua. Do not miss out on the Jungle Mutton Curry paired with either hot steamed rice or freshly cooked chapatis.

Large vehicles in a field with elevated surface on either sides.

Now that we have come to the end of our guide, we would like to conclude with one suggestion, when you plan for your trip from Ranchi to Dhanbad, make sure to choose a comfort-defining stay which will contribute to your exploration trip in Dhanbad at Wedlock Greens Resort & Spa, Dhanbad. Choose from a range of differently capacitated rooms, all draped in the cloth of comfort and relaxation. Enjoy exclusive amenities along with accessibility to all prime locations in Dhanbad by choosing our hotel.