The Jharkhand government on Thursday launched a Jungle Safari in the scenic Netarhat forests of Latehar district, marking a major push to strengthen eco-tourism in the state.
State Tourism Minister Sudivya Kumar, who inaugurated the initiative, said the Safari will simultaneously promote sustainable tourism and create crucial livelihood opportunities for local communities.
“Tourists will now be able to experience the forests, wildlife and untouched beauty of Netarhat from much closer and feel the thrill of this wonderful natural treasure even more intensely,” he said. Kumar also directed concerned departments to prioritise tourist safety, high-quality facilities, and environmental conservation.
A Natural Haven in the ‘Queen of Chotanagpur’
Nestled at an altitude of 3,622 feet, Netarhat—popularly known as the ‘Queen of Chotanagpur’—is famed for its verdant hills, serene waterfalls, dense forests, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
नेतरहाट दर्शन अब होगा और भी रोचक एवं प्रकृति के दुर्लभ एवं अद्भुत नज़ारों से भरपूर।
झारखण्ड पर्यटन विभाग एवं वन विभाग झारखण्ड के सहयोग से नेतरहाट आने वाले पर्यटकों के लिए जंगल सफ़ारी की एक अद्भुत पहल की गई है। इसका शुभारंभ आज माननीय पर्यटन मंत्री श्री सुदिव्य कुमार ने किया। pic.twitter.com/8CN0msZ078
— Jharkhand Tourism (@VisitJharkhand) November 20, 2025
Old-timers say the name comes from a British-era phrase referring to the region as ‘Nature’s Heart’. Located about 157 km from Ranchi, it remains one of Jharkhand’s most enchanting destinations.
Safari Routes, Timings and Attractions
Deputy Director of the Palamau Tiger Reserve (buffer zone) Kumar Ashish said three tourist vehicles have already been deployed. “If we find good response, five more vehicles will be provided,” he added.
नेतरहाट दर्शन अब होगा और भी रोचक एवं प्रकृति के दुर्लभ एवं अद्भुत नज़ारों से भरपूर।
झारखण्ड पर्यटन विभाग एवं वन विभाग झारखण्ड के सहयोग से नेतरहाट आने वाले पर्यटकों के लिए जंगल सफ़ारी की एक अद्भुत पहल की गई है। इसका शुभारंभ आज माननीय पर्यटन मंत्री श्री सुदिव्य कुमार ने किया। pic.twitter.com/8CN0msZ078
— Jharkhand Tourism (@VisitJharkhand) November 20, 2025
Two major routes with multiple attractions have been finalised:
Morning Safari (5:30 am – 10:00 am)
Begins at the iconic Koel View Point (sunrise point) and ends at the forest rest house.
Evening Safari (2:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
Covers popular scenic and cultural spots across Netarhat.
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Tourists will get to explore Upper Ghaghri and Lower Ghaghri waterfalls, the famous sunset point, Tahir fall, the historic Netarhat Residential School, and the colonial-era Chalet House.
Safari Rates and Vehicle Options
Safari pricing has been kept affordable for a wider audience:
- ₹300 per person
- ₹4,100 for a 16-seater vehicle
- ₹3,000 for a 10-seater vehicle
- ₹3,000 for an open Safari from the Netarhat Forest Rest House to Suggabandh, or Lodh Fall
With scenic routes, natural beauty, and improved accessibility, the government hopes this initiative will make Netarhat a major eco-tourism hub in eastern India.
