Gaya Ranchi

straighten 167 km
schedule 3h 30m

Gaya to Ranchi Complete Travel Guide 2026

Planning a trip from Gaya to Ranchi? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 167km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.

straighten Distance
167 km
Total Distance
directions_car By Car
3h 30m
Drive Time
₹1,595
₹399/person (4 pax)
train By Train
~5-7h
Est. Time
₹189 – ₹799
Min – Max
directions_bus By Bus
~6-8h
Est. Time
₹238 – ₹1,844
Min – Max
info

All prices are estimates. Train: Check IRCTC. Bus: Prices vary 25-50%, check redBus (not recommended >2,500km). Flight: Check airlines for current rates. Drive: Costs assume 4 travelers; fuel/tolls may vary.

info
Train availability: Prices shown are estimates based on distance. Please check IRCTC or train booking platforms for actual availability, routes, and current ticket prices as they vary by class, train type, and booking time.

analytics Travel Comparison: Gaya to Ranchi

Mode Duration Estimated Cost
directions_car Private Car 3h 30m ₹1,595 Fuel & Tolls
train Train 12h – 16h ₹166 – ₹491
bus Bus 12h – 16h ₹238 – ₹1,844

How to Travel: Gaya to Ranchi

Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.

directions_car

By Car

Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips

3h 30m
Duration
167 km
Distance
₹1,595
Fuel + Tolls
train

By Train

Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly

20h
Duration
~167 km
Distance
₹800-2500
Train Fare
directions_bus

By Bus

Budget travel, multiple stops

8h
Duration
~167 km
Distance
₹500-800
Bus Fare

lightbulb Our Recommendation

For this 167km journey, driving is your best option. The 3h 30m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.

Before You Leave Gaya

Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:

restaurant

Local Specialties

  • local_dining
    Litti Chokha - A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try it at local dhabas).
  • local_dining
    Sattu Paratha - A flatbread stuffed with roasted gram flour and spices (available at most local restaurants).
  • local_dining
    Khaja - A sweet, flaky pastry (try it at Gaya's sweet shops).
location_on Recommended Restaurant

Basant Vihar • Central Gaya

Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route

These cities are within 50km of your Gaya to Ranchi route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:

location_city

Bodhgaya

schedule Approximately 15-30 minutes off the main route
Stop #1
location_city

Bodh Gaya

schedule Approximately 15-30 minutes off the main route
Stop #2

Top Attractions in Ranchi: What to See and Do

Once you arrive in Ranchi, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:

→ Complete Ranchi Travel Guide with More Attractions

Where to Eat in Ranchi: Local Cuisine Guide

Must-Try Dishes in Ranchi

Don't leave Ranchi without tasting these local specialties:

Recommended Restaurants in Ranchi

Yellow Sapphire

Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)

Specialty: Indian and Continental dishes

Elegant ambiance, good service, extensive menu. A fine-dining experience.

📍 Main Road

Kaveri Restaurant

South Indian • ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two)

Specialty: Dosas and Idlis

Authentic South Indian flavors, casual atmosphere, quick service. A good option for a quick and tasty meal.

📍 Near Railway Station

Seventh Heaven

Bakery & Cafe • ₹₹ (₹300-500 for two)

Specialty: Cakes and Pastries

Cozy cafe with a variety of baked goods and snacks. A great place to relax and enjoy a coffee.

📍 Circular Road

The Great Kabab Factory

Indian • ₹₹₹ (₹1000-1500 for two)

Specialty: Kababs

Serves a variety of Indian kababs in a buffet style. The restaurant has a great ambiance.

📍 Radisson Blu Hotel

Where to Stay in Ranchi: Accommodation Options

Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)

Hotel Green Horizon

Price: ₹800-1200/night

Location: Near Railway Station

Basic but clean rooms, convenient location for transport. Good for a short stay.

OYO Rooms Ranchi

Price: ₹700-1100/night

Location: Various locations in the city

Affordable rooms with essential amenities, good value for money. OYO provides consistent standards.

Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)

Radisson Blu Hotel Ranchi

Price: ₹3000-5000/night

Location: Main Road

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, on-site restaurant and bar. A reliable chain hotel.

Hotel AVN Grand

Price: ₹2500-4000/night

Location: Near Airport

Well-appointed rooms, good service, convenient if you need to be near the airport. Offers a comfortable stay.

Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)

The Capitol Hill

Price: ₹5000+/night

Location: Circular Road

Luxurious rooms with city views, rooftop restaurant, excellent service. Offers a premium experience.

Hotel Park Prime Ranchi

Price: ₹4500+/night

Location: Station Road

Elegant rooms, multiple dining options, spa and wellness center. A luxurious and relaxing option.

Best Time to Travel from Gaya to Ranchi

Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Ranchi:

Best Time: October to March

Temperature: 10-25 degrees C

Weather: Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities. The waterfalls are at their fullest after the monsoon season.

Why Visit: The weather is perfect for sightseeing and exploring the natural landscapes. This is also the time when many cultural festivals take place. The waterfalls are at their most impressive during this period.

Important Note: Expect slightly higher prices and more tourists, especially during peak festival times. Booking accommodation and transportation in advance is recommended.

Shoulder Season: July to September

Temperature: 25-32 degrees C

Weather: Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and humidity. The landscape becomes lush and green.

Why Visit: The waterfalls are at their peak volume, creating stunning views. This season offers a different perspective of Ranchi's natural beauty. It's also a less crowded time to visit.

Important Note: Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make some attractions inaccessible. Humidity can be uncomfortable.

Avoid: April to June

Temperature: 35-45 degrees C

Weather: Extremely hot and dry weather makes outdoor activities difficult. The waterfalls are reduced to a trickle.

Why Visit: There are few reasons to visit during this period due to the intense heat.

Important Note: The heat can be unbearable, and many attractions are less enjoyable. It's best to avoid visiting Ranchi during these months unless you have no other option.

Practical Travel Tips for Ranchi

💰 Money & Budget

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Widely available

Payment Methods: Cash is useful for small transactions, cards accepted at larger establishments

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares

🏥 Health & Safety

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants or well-maintained street food stalls. Be cautious of unhygienic conditions.

Common Health Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, stomach infections. Carry sunscreen, ORS, and basic medications.

📱 Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage, costs ₹200-300, requires ID and address proof

WiFi Availability: Available at hotels and some cafes

👕 What to Wear

Light and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Frequently Asked Questions: Gaya to Ranchi

What is the distance from Gaya to Ranchi?
The distance from Gaya to Ranchi is 167 kilometers by road.
How long does it take to drive from Gaya to Ranchi?
It takes approximately 3h 30m to drive from Gaya to Ranchi, depending on traffic conditions and the number of stops you make along the way.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Gaya to Ranchi?
The most budget-friendly option is usually by bus or train. Driving costs approximately ₹1,595 for fuel and tolls. Buses are typically the cheapest, while trains offer a good balance of comfort and affordability.
What are the best stops between Gaya and Ranchi?
Popular stops along the route include Bodhgaya, Bodh Gaya. These cities offer interesting attractions, local cuisine, and comfortable rest facilities.
What is the best time to travel from Gaya to Ranchi?
The best time to visit Ranchi is during Best Time: October to March. The weather is perfect for sightseeing and exploring the natural landscapes. This is also the time when many cultural festivals take place. The waterfalls are at their most impressive during this period.

Related Routes from Gaya

Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Gaya:

Other Routes to Ranchi

Traveling to Ranchi from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:

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