Some journeys linger long after the ride ends. My recent biking trip to the Tropic of Cancer at Ormanjhi—just a short ride from Ranchi—was one such experience, blending geography, nature, and nostalgia into a perfect morning adventure.

For those who love geography or astronomy as much as I do, the Tropic of Cancer is more than just a line on the map. It marks the northernmost latitude—23.5°N—where the Sun stands directly overhead during the summer solstice. This invisible yet significant line travels across Africa, Asia, and North America… and, quite fascinatingly, passes right through Jharkhand.

So when I learned that this remarkable geographical marker lay barely an early-morning ride away, I knew I had to experience it firsthand. And what better way to do it than on my newly purchased Royal Enfield Classic 350 Signal? The plan was spontaneous—my father and I simply decided one morning to fire up the engine and head toward Ormanjhi, with the promise of tea at a roadside joint as our only agenda.

The Ride to Ormanjhi

The route is about 20 kilometres one way—an easy, pleasant half-hour ride. The smooth highway, flanked by emerald fields and cheerful village life, made the journey as delightful as the destination. Cows grazing lazily, bursts of wildflowers along the roadside, and villagers waving with effortless warmth—all added a rustic charm to the ride.

We soon spotted the monument marking the Tropic of Cancer, on the western side of the highway.

Arriving at the Tropic of Cancer

Just outside Ormanjhi, on the western side of the highway, stands a small monument marking the Tropic of Cancer. This spot was inaugurated on June 21, 2017, by Shrimati Draupadi Murmu, then Governor of Jharkhand.

I parked my Enfield beside the sign—couldn’t resist capturing a few photos—and spent a quiet moment on that imaginary yet immensely meaningful line. I imagined the Sun directly overhead on the summer solstice and wondered how many people cross this geographical boundary daily without even realizing its significance.

It was a strangely grounding moment.

Tea, Kulhar, and the Charm of Highway India

On our way back, we stopped at a nearby dhaba—Bindas Bawarchi. The tea, served in a traditional kulhar, tasted earthy and refreshing, as if steeped in the essence of rural Jharkhand itself. Simple pleasures often make the best memories.

A Simple Journey, A Lasting Impression

Ormanjhi is more than a pin on a map. It’s a rare blend of natural charm and geographical importance, wrapped in the peaceful warmth of Jharkhand’s countryside. This biking trip to the Tropic of Cancer turned out to be one of those simple yet profound experiences that remind you of the planet’s quiet wonders—and how close they often are.

If you ever find yourself around Ranchi, take this short ride. Stand on that line. Sip that kulhar chai. Let the geography classroom come alive beneath your feet.

You’ll remember it—just as I will. Stand on that line. Sip that kulhar tea. And let the geography textbook come alive beneath your feet.