Some places are like hidden gems, waiting to be discovered and cherished. One such jewel that I had the opportunity to visit in 2018 was the Blue Pond in Ranchi, Jharkhand, India. Nestled amidst the lush greenery and serene landscapes of Ranchi, the Blue Pond, also known as Neel Kund, is a mesmerising natural water body that captures your heart with its crystal clear azure waters.
I had planned my trip during the monsoon season in August. The weather in Ranchi around this time is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. The lush greenery is at its best, and the pond is filled to the brim. However, the area can get a bit slippery, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable footwear and carry an umbrella.
The Travel
I drove into Ranchi’s from Bokaro. The drive was comfortable, and it took me a little over 2 hours to reach the hotel Chanakya in Ranchi. Blue Pond is located about 50 km from Ranchi, making it an ideal day trip.
The Stay
I stayed at a 3.5-star hotel Chanakya, in the heart of Ranchi. The staff was warm and welcoming, and the rooms were cozy and clean. The best part was that the hotel was located near major attractions like Pahari Mandir, Ranchi Lake and Tagore Hill, which I planned to explore during my stay.
Sightseeing
The next day, I embarked on my journey to the Blue Pond. The drive was enchanting, with the road meandering through dense forests and hilly terrains. The pond is tucked away from the hustle-bustle and is a haven of tranquillity. The crystal clear blue water of the pond against the backdrop of lush greenery was a sight to behold.
I spent the day exploring the area, taking in the tranquillity and soaking up the beauty of the surroundings. The pond is also known for its vibrant aquatic life, and I spent some time bird watching and identifying different types of fish.
Other Tourist Spots
Besides the Blue Pond, Ranchi is home to several breathtaking tourist spots. I visited the Dassam Falls, a spectacular waterfall cascading from a height of 144 feet, and the Hundru Falls, another natural wonder in Ranchi. The Jonha Falls and Panch Gagh Falls were also on my list. Additionally, the Sun Temple, with its unique architecture, was a sight to behold.
The Cuisine
Jharkhand’s cuisine is something that we all can relish on with a perfect balance between the traditional Indian food to the western cuisine. There are various joints who are known for their cuisines. The local delicacies like Thekua, a type of sweet biscuit, and Dudhauri, a dish made with rice and milk, were absolutely delicious and how can you forget the famous Litti Choka, a dish which has been there through the ages loved by people from all walks of life (healthy and rich in protein). I also tried local tribal dishes like Rugda, a type of mushroom, and Handia, a traditional rice beer.
The Best Time to Travel
While I visited during the monsoons, the best time to visit Ranchi is during winter, from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The Blue Pond looks equally mesmerising in winter and is less crowded.
The Return Journey
After a satisfying stay in Ranchi, I returned to my city, Bokaro basking in the beauty of the Blue Pond one last time. The return journey was as comfortable as the onward one, and the memories of the trip kept me company.
The Unique Souvenirs
No trip is complete without bringing back a piece of the place with you. In Ranchi, I found the local handicrafts very appealing. The tribal dokra art, bamboo crafts, and hand-loomed fabrics were not only enchanting but also told a tale of the region’s rich cultural heritage. These made for perfect souvenirs and gifts for my loved ones back in Dubai.
The Endnote
My visit to the Blue Pond in Ranchi was an experience of a lifetime. The untouched beauty of the place, its serene ambiance, and the warmth of the locals left an indelible impression on me. The trip was a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delight.
If you are someone who enjoys being in nature and loves exploring offbeat locations, then the Blue Pond in Ranchi should definitely be on your travel list. The place promises a delightful experience, one that will remain etched in your memories for a very long time.
In the end, I left Ranchi with a heavy yet content heart, carrying along the serene images of the Blue Pond, the taste of the local cuisine, the sound of the rustling leaves, and the scent of the monsoon-soaked earth.
The Blue Pond of Ranchi taught me one thing – some places need no embellishments; their raw and rustic charm is what makes them truly beautiful.
Mindful Musings 