On the evening of 6 September 2025, my sister-in-law, Abishka, arrived in Ranchi. She had spent a few days in Rourkela visiting her cousin, who had recently married and shifted there. Since there’s no direct public transport to her hometown Dumka, she decided to break the journey and stay with us for a few days. It felt like the perfect opportunity for some family time.

By 10 September, I had a day off from work. The timing was perfect. I suggested to my wife Tania and Abishka that we take a short trip to Patratu Valley and Dam — one of the most scenic escapes around Ranchi. With Rajnath uncle behind the wheel of our Ciaz, we set off around 2:30 PM.

Through the Ghats into the Valley

Our route first took us through the Ring road, then onto Pithoria Road, and finally to the winding ghats of Patratu Valley. The drive itself was an experience — the valley stretched endlessly, carpeted in lush green, with mist swirling between trees and the occasional drizzle adding freshness to the air.

As we descended into the Patratu region, the view grew more dramatic. Rolling hills, winding bends, the shimmer of water in the distance — it felt like we were entering a painting brought to life.

A Quieter Patratu Dam

We soon reached Patratu Dam. The Van Vihar Resort & Park, managed by the Jharkhand state government, felt unusually quiet compared to my earlier visits. Fewer tourists, fewer crowds — and honestly, that made the experience even more serene.

At the gate, the guard not only guided us to the parking spot but also gave directions for boating tickets. We first purchased entry tickets (₹15 per head) to access the banks of the dam. From there, a short stroll led us to the temporary docking area for boats.

The original docking station had been submerged due to the heavy monsoons this year. In fact, July’s record rains had pushed water levels across the Chotanagpur plateau’s dams to near danger mark, forcing authorities to open multiple gates at Patratu to release excess water. The swollen waters stood as proof of how unpredictable and powerful the monsoon can be.

Choosing the Long Ride

At the ticket counter, we were given three choices:

1. A short ride across the dam.
2. A ride to the island and back.
3. A longer tour — including fish cages, dam gates, the island (with a halt), and return.

Naturally, we chose the longest ride. Life jackets strapped, excitement high, we stepped into a speedboat. With a sudden thrust, the boat rocked forward, water splashing against its sides. The adventure had begun.

Fish, Gates & Island

Our first stop was at the fish cages — floating enclosures where different species are farmed. The boatman explained how fish are brought here from multiple regions for cultivation. We clicked a few pictures, watching the rippling water, before moving on.

Next came the majestic dam gates. Standing before them, steel and concrete holding back an immense water body, was a humbling experience. The power of nature restrained by human engineering — both equally awe-inspiring.

Finally, we approached the island in the middle of the dam. The boatman circled it once for thrill — tilting, rocking, raising cheers — before dropping us off at the temporary dock (again, the original one submerged this year).

Exploring the Island

The island welcomed us with open space and green lawns. At its centre stood a statue of Birsa Munda, a reminder of the region’s tribal heritage, with a solitary tree beside it whose story no one seemed to know.

A boundary wall encircled the island, low enough to give uninterrupted views of the waters yet strong enough to mark its limits. Alongside were wide walking paths, shaded spots under big trees with built-in sitting areas, perfect for resting.

Two watchtowers stood tall — one at the front entrance, one at the back. From the back tower, we got a holistic view of the dam: the fish cages glimmering in the distance, the dam gates strong against the water, the wide expanse merging into hills.

There was also a small restaurant, though we didn’t stop there. Instead, Tania and  Abiksha went about clicking photos under the trees while I strolled lazily around, soaking in the breeze.

The Return Journey

After a good while of exploring, we decided to return. At the dock, there was no boat in sight. As instructed earlier, I called the helpline number on our tickets. Soon, in the distance, a boat appeared — at first a silhouette, slowly growing larger as it approached. Watching it come closer was strangely mesmerizing; there’s something magical about seeing something small on the horizon swell into presence.

Before docking, the boatman pulled a playful stunt — drifting the boat sharply to rock it, making us laugh and hold on for balance. A last dash of thrill before landing back on the mainland.

Tea at a Peculiar Stop

With evening setting in, we began our drive back. On the way, we paused at a viewpoint overlooking the valley. From there, the entire landscape unfolded — the lush valley below, Patratu Dam nestled at the foot of the hill, and the towering chimneys of the NTPC Thermal Power Plant releasing smoke into the sky. Nature and industry, side by side.

As we descended further, one peculiar tea shop caught my attention. Earlier I had spotted it on the way up, and I was determined to stop on our return: “Breakup Chai Wala & Fast Food.”

So, we pulled in. Tania and I enjoyed tea with omelette, while Abishka, who avoids eggs, munched on chips. We laughed over the unusual name of the shop, sipping our tea with the valley air cooling around us.

Back Home

By nightfall, we were home again. I had to head for my ER night duty, but the day’s experiences stayed fresh in mind.

The trip wasn’t just about visiting Patratu; it was about family, slowing down, and discovering familiar places anew. From drizzles in the ghats to the rocking boat ride, from the quiet island park to tea at an oddly named shop — every moment stitched together a memory.

If you’re in Ranchi or passing through Jharkhand, a trip to Patratu Valley and Dam is a must. Go after the rains, when the valley is lush and the waters brimming — but also quieter than peak tourist season. It’s not just a destination, it’s an experience.