Maithon Dam is a gigantic structure built on the Barakar River in Jharkhand. It has a length of 4789 m and goes up to a height of 50 meters. The name, Maithon means ‘Mother’s abode’.
It is just 48 kilometers from the city of Dhanbad and was built between 1953 and 1957. The dam is the attestation to the infrastructural development after India’s independence.
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Although the Dam was primarily designed for flood control, it also has an important role in power generation and irrigation. One of the features is the underground power station which was the first one of its kind in the entire South East Asia.
The Maithon Lake is the reservoir created by the dam. It takes up an area of 65 sq. kilometers while contributing to the beauty of the landscape. The place is simply a harmonious amalgamation of technology and nature. Therefore, it aids in the region’s development and also promotes tourism. It is also a popular picnic spot and attracts tourists from all over the state.
In this article, you will get to know the following points about Maithon Dam,
Let’s see each of these points in detail.
How to reach Maithon Dam
| Kolkata to Maithon Dam distance | 232 kilometers |
| Dhanbad to Maithon Dam distance | 42 kilometers |
| Asansol to Maithon Dam distance | 23 kilometers |
| Durgapur to Maithon Dam distance | 64 kilometers |
Traveling to Maithon Dam is quite easy and you can reach there either by car, bus, or train.
By Car:
The most convenient way to reach Maithon Dam by road is to hire a private cab from Kolkata. You can also take your own car The journey will take about five hours via the NH19 or the Durgapur Expressway. The distance is around 232 km.
By Train:
Another option is to take a train from Howrah to Kumardubi Station or Asansol Station, which are the nearest railway stations to Maithon Dam. You can choose from several trains, such as the Black Diamond Express, the Shaktipunj Express, or the CoalField Express.
From the station, you can take a car or Auto to reach Maithon Dam.
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By Bus:
You can take a Volvo or SBSTC bus from Esplanade to Asansol, which is the nearest city to Maithon Dam. From Asansol, you can take an auto, cab, or local bus to reach your destination.
The natural ambiance of Maithon Dam
Maithon Dam seamlessly blends both nature and technology. Being in the mesmerizing terrain of the Barakar River, the dam is a tranquil getaway amidst nature. The calming and glistening water, along with lush greenery, envelops the place.
The location also boasts rolling hills adorned with verdant foliage, creating a harmonious symphony of colors. Huge rocks are there lining the bank of the lake. The clear sky, different shades of green, cool waters, and the rhythmic chirping of birds make it a place worth a visit.
As you breathe in the crisp air, and hear the rhythmic chirping of birds, you’ll find yourself transported to a place of serenity. From the bank, the view is nothing short of extraordinary.
Things to do at Maithon Dam
Several activities are there which you can indulge in and enjoy while at Maithon Dam. Some of them are as follows:
- Boating on the stunning lake and seeing nature up close can be the first thing that you can do.
- Sit back and relish the cool air while on the boat.
- Spot the migratory birds that come to the lake during the winter months.
- Visit Spoon Island or the Chammach Pahar, which is in the middle of the lake. Explore the depths of the island and the wilderness inside.
- The dam area has well-maintained gardens. Select a spot and sit for a good picnic with your loved ones.
- Take a stroll through the pathways in the garden as well as by the lake to unwind the mind.
- Capture the marvelous settings of nature as well as all the candid moments of the place.
- Hang in there until the sunset. Witness the incredible vista of the setting sun together with the magical sky.
- Drop by the deer park that is very close to the dam. Look at the deer that are in there.
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Best time to visit Maithon Dam
The perfect time to visit Maithoon Dam is during the winter months. It starts from the end of October and lasts till the start of March. During this time, the weather remains pleasant and cool. Therefore, ventures during this time are not at all tiring and hectic. Also, it is the season of the migratory birds.
If you are planning to travel during the monsoon time, the views and setting are absolutely different. It starts in July and lasts till September. Explorations will not be possible but the scenery will be outstanding, with rain, cloud covers, and lush green colors.
Post-monsoon, which starts from the end of September and lasts till the middle of October, can also be the time which you might consider for the trip. The area gains life after the scorching summer. The weather also remains pleasant while nature is vibrant and flourishing with life. The dam is at its fullest and during these times, there are fewer people in the area. So, you will be able to enjoy in less crowd.
Avoid the summer months. It starts from the end of March and lasts till June. It is extremely hot during this time and therefore not at all pleasant to wander around.
Other attractions near Maithon Dam
| Attraction | Distance from Maithon Dam |
|---|---|
| Panchet Dam | 17 kilometers |
| Kalyaneshwari Temple | 3.5 kilometers |
So if you are looking for a place for a one-day trip, Maithon Dam can be a great option. It is a great spot to indulge in adventure, enjoy food amidst nature, and also go around to explore more.
Plan a trip and start your long drive. The unique nature is rejuvenating and will invite you in with open arms.
Do not wait any more, plan a trip on your day off and hit the road for an incredible journey to the destination that awaits you.
Other places to visit in West Bengal
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- Bishnupur (West Bengal) – 5 Interesting Points To Know About
- Sarbamangala Temple (Bardhaman) – Timings, History, & More
- Murti (Dooars) West Bengal – Things To Do, Best Time To Visit
- Maithon Dam (West Bengal) – How To Reach, Things To Do
- Lamahatta (Darjeeling) – How To Reach, Attractions, Homestays
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