“Chasing the First Light” — NS 200 Solo Ride to Netarhat
Episode 3 • Kolkata to Netarhat — A cinematic journey through Jharkhand’s hidden hills, winding ghats, and tranquil valleys.
Perched over 3,600 feet above sea level, Netarhat is often called the “Queen of Chotanagpur.” Wrapped in mist, tall sal forests, and endless curving roads, it’s one of Jharkhand’s least explored hill stations — beautiful in its silence and raw in its nature. Unlike the usual tourist hills, Netarhat feels untouched — a place where the hum of your motorcycle merges with bird calls and the scent of damp earth.
This was my third episode in the solo NS 200 ride series — a stretch that began in Kolkata, crossed Ranchi, and climbed the winding ghats to this hilltop haven. It’s not just a road trip; it’s a personal story of finding calm in motion, and discovering how much beauty hides in India’s heartland.
Setting off — first impressions and the ring road
Early morning ride, solo on my NS 200 — cold start, luggage packed, and the sun just rising. The Ranchi ring road made for a perfect exit: wide, smooth, and quiet. I had entered Ranchi the night before and left at first light; the emptiness of the road gave that rare feeling of ownership — as if the highway was mine for a while.
Right off the ring road I spotted Dhoni Farm House in the distance — well-kept and visible from quite far — a small reminder of the pleasant surroundings before the route tightened into countryside and ghats.
Route overview — NH 43, Lohardaga, Ghaghra and beyond
I left Ranchi via the ring road, took NH 43 towards Lohardaga, then turned left to Ghaghra (about 24 km) and continued right towards Netarhat. The route has a mix of double-lane stretches, canopy-covered roads, diversions, and narrow ghats — expect everything from open highway to steep tree-lined bends.
Distance signboards I noted on the way showed: Netarhat 87 km → 54 km → 25 km → 14 km → and finally about 8 km near the town. Nearby attractions you can combine with this route include Betla National Park and several scenic viewpoints.
Early morning atmosphere & small discoveries
Riding at dawn felt magical — cool air, the first rays of sunlight, and very little traffic. I passed villages waking up, fields, and distant mountains. Small moments stood out: a dog darting across a field, a waterfall trickling down a rock face, clouds forming over a long clear sky — the valley felt calm and almost untouched.
“Right now I am far and wide alone here. There is no vehicle in front or behind. This is huge.”
The smell of crushed leaves was unmistakable — rub one and you can actually smell the forest. These sensory details are what make early rides unforgettable.
Ride footage — watch the short clip
Netarhat & Lodh Waterfalls — what to expect
Netarhat shows up on signboards as you climb. Look out for viewpoints like Magnolia Sunset Point and Koyal View Point — they offer broad, mixed-hue valley views that are stunning during sunrise or sunset. Lodh Waterfalls is a short ride further and worth the extra time — paths can be slippery during monsoon, so wear proper footwear.
- Netarhat: Cooler temperatures, hill-station views, great photo stops.
- Lodh Waterfalls: Requires extra ride time; paths may be wet/slippery in rains.
- Nearby: Betla National Park — consider a next-day visit if you have time.
Final thoughts
The ride to Netarhat is more than reaching a destination — it’s about changing landscapes, quiet stretches, and mountain vistas. Plan fuel stops, keep a tea/refreshment stop in the itinerary, respect ghat rules (inner line on bends), and enjoy the scenery. If you love biking, offbeat travel, and green valleys, this Jharkhand stretch from Ranchi to Netarhat (and onwards to Lodh Waterfalls) belongs on your must-ride list.