Arrive from Kolkata around noon, check in to your hotel and freshen up after the morning journey; most hotels allow check-in by midday if pre-informed.
Have a hearty North Indian thali or Bengali-style fish at a reputable Dhanbad hotel restaurant or a busy local eatery; lunch service typically midday 12:00–3:00pm.
Scenic reservoir with gardens and boating (best in afternoon light); the park area and boating usually operate 6:00–18:00, great for a relaxed stroll and photos.
Visit Maithon Dam on the Barakar River for short boat rides and waterside views — boating typically runs 9:00–5:00; it's a pleasant late-afternoon stop.
Visit the park visitor center and short nature trails; safaris run early morning and late afternoon, so confirm a late-afternoon jeep safari booking with the park office.
Take the scheduled late-afternoon jeep safari (wildlife viewing is best at dawn/dusk); pre-booking is recommended — safari slots usually around 16:00–18:30.
Head to Tagore Hill for panoramic city views and a quiet evening stroll; the hill area is open during daylight hours and is especially pleasant before sunset.
Visit Hundru Falls, one of Ranchi’s best-known falls — open sunrise to sunset, access paths can be steep so wear good shoes; best in morning or late afternoon.
Option: visit Jonha Falls (Gautamdhara) followed by a quick stop at Ranchi Museum to learn local history; falls and museum open during daylight hours (museum generally 10:00–17:00, closed Mondays).
Early start with breakfast and check-out — you have a full day to reach Betla and take a late-afternoon safari; hotels usually serve breakfast 7:00–10:00.
Short visit to the small Betla museum or nearby village trails to learn about the Palamu area before the evening safari; museum/trails open during daylight hours.
Take the late-afternoon safari — best wildlife viewing occurs at dusk; safaris typically run early morning and late afternoon (pre-book through park authorities or lodge).
Use the afternoon to visit other nearby viewpoints (e.g., Magnolia/Koel View) or relax at the lodge and enjoy the cool plateau air; viewpoints open sunrise–sunset.
Start the early morning drive from your Netarhat lodge to Latehar Station to catch onward trains or transfers back to Kolkata; allow buffer for rural roads.