Asansol is a bustling industrial city on the bank of the Damodar River and the second-largest city in West Bengal. It is the headquarters of Paschim Barddhaman district and a hub of cultural and historical attractions.
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You can find many temples, picnic spots, parks, old churches, and more to explore and enjoy not so far from the city. These surrounding places offer a refreshing escape from daily life.
In this article, you will get to know about the following places to visit near Asansol,
Let’s see each of these places in detail.
1. Maithon Dam
| Asansol to Maithon Dam distance | 26 kilometers |
Maithon Dam is a spectacular engineering marvel situated at Maithon, 26 kilometers away from Asansol. It spans 15,712 ft in length and 165 ft in height and was designed for flood control and power generation. The place also boasts an underground power station, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, and produces up to 60,000 kW of electricity.
The dam offers a captivating view of the surrounding landscape, with lush greenery and clear water. It is an ideal place to enjoy a picnic, relax, and admire the blue-green sights. You can also practice yoga and meditation in the serene atmosphere, or watch the sunrise and sunset near the dam. The Barakar River flows gracefully through the hilly terrain, creating a scenic vista.
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You can also have fun boating on the blue water and exploring its depth. You will see various birds perched on the trees and rocks in the middle of the water, creating a remarkable sight. These features make it one of the popular sites to visit in the Paschim Bardhaman district.
The best time to visit the dam is between October and February when the weather is cool and pleasant. If you want to avoid peak season crowds, you can also visit during the monsoon months, when the water level is high and the dam gates are opened, creating a spectacular spectacle of white water.
2. Panchet Dam
| Asansol to Panchet Dam distance | 31 kilometers |
Panchet Dam is another impressive structure built across the Damodar River at Panchet. Inaugurated in 1959, this is an earthen dam with a concrete spillway and has a catchment area of 10,961 square kilometers.
The dam is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with dense forests and hills. You can access the hilltop by a forest road and enjoy the panoramic view.
A small village, Telkupi, which was the capital of the Tilakampa Kingdoms, was submerged due to the construction of the dam. Ruins of the fort belonging to the Singh Deo Dynasty still stand there witnessing the rise of the present day.
Panchet Dam is a popular picnic spot, located just 31 kilometers away from Asansol. You can indulge in various activities like boating, fishing, bird watching, and trekking. You can also try rock climbing if you are looking for more adventure. Take a walk along the long-stretched road and feel the fresh breeze on your face. Another thing to do is witness the magic hour over the water when the sky turns orangish red.
The best time to visit the dam is right after the monsoon season, at the end of August or September. During this time, the water level is high and the water looks thrilling as it gushes out of the spillway. Winters are also great to enjoy all the activities and picnics with your loved ones.
3. Gar Panchakot
| Asansol to Gar Panchakot distance | 33 kilometers |
Gar Panchakot is a historical site located at the foothills of Panchet Hill, 33 kilometers from Asansol. It was once the capital of the Panchakot Kingdom, founded by Damodar Shekhar. The site was ravaged by the Bargi invasion in the 18th century, and now only the ruins remain.
The Panchkot Hill rises up to 2,000 feet and adds to the beauty of the place. The ruins are surrounded by dense greenery and create a mysterious atmosphere. The site is rich in flora and fauna, and the Damodar River flows below the hill.
Garpanchakot is perfect for some solace to the soul and refreshment from the urban chaos. Therefore it is considered one of the best weekend destinations near Kolkata. You can explore the history of the place while observing the damaged structures and the crumbling bricks. You can also admire the terracotta work on the temple there, which is simply incredible.
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The site offers a peaceful and tranquil environment, where you can enjoy nature’s bounty. You can also engage in some adventure activities like rappelling, rock climbing, and trekking through the nearby hills and forests. Garpanchkot pulsates with enchanting beauty in the backdrop of the lofty hills.
You can also interact with the local tribal communities there, who have their own unique traditions and cultures. You can buy some of the handmade paper masks, which are a specialty there. At the end of the day, you can relax and watch the sunset with its awe-inspiring views. The best time to visit the site is during the winter months when the weather is cool and pleasant. The chilly breeze will make your experience more memorable.
4. Kalyaneshwari Temple
| Asansol to Kalyaneshwari Temple distance | 20 kilometers |
Kalyaneshwari Temple is a 500-year-old shrine of Shakti worship, located by the Barakar River. It is dedicated to Maa Kalyaneshwari (a form of Goddess Kali). The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
The temple has a rich history and mythology associated with it. The idol of Goddess Kali is revered as a living deity and is highly sacred.
The temple complex is a calm and soothing place. There is a certain aura that is inviting and imparts bliss to the soul. Many people believe that the goddess grants the wishes of childless women who pray to her. You can also meditate and experience the purity of the place.
The temple celebrates an annual festival with great enthusiasm and devotion. It is a time when the temple is adorned with lights and flowers, and many devotees throng to the temple to worship the goddess. You can visit the temple during this time to witness the joy and glory of Maa Kali.
5. Ghagar Buri Temple
| Asansol to Ghagar Buri Temple distance | 6.4 kilometers |
Ghagar Buri Temple is a sacred shrine located on the outskirts of Asansol City. It is dedicated to Maa Ghagarburi, who is believed to be an incarnation of Maa Chandi. It was established in 1620, making it the oldest temple in Asansol. Though the area is small, the temple exudes a positive vibe that attracts many devotees.
The temple houses a stone idol of Goddess Kali, which is adorned with silver ornaments. The temple also has shrines of Lord Rama, Sita, Hanuman, and Lakshman. Next to the temple, there is a narrow rivulet stream that flows through, adding to the freshness of the place.
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Special worships are done at the temple on Tuesdays and Saturdays. You can also witness a country fair on January 15th. Many people visit the temple during this time to seek blessings from Maa Ghagarburi. The temple will allure you with its divine aura and serene atmosphere.
Outside the temple, there is a tea stall that sells some delicious ‘Malai Cha.’ You should not miss it as it is quite famous and tastes great.
6. Nehru Park
| Asansol to Nehru Park distance | 7.6 kilometers |
Nehru Park is yet another attraction located near Asansol. This public park is spread over an area of 72 acres and is famed for its lovely gardens, lake, and fountains.
The park is situated on the bank of the Damodar River and is blessed with natural beauty. Inside, there are a diverse collection of trees and plants providing shade and freshness. You can walk along the pathways in the park, relax by the serene lake, or go boating.
During winter, you will find Nehru Park filled with colorful flowers that make it more appealing. The park also has a children’s play area for your kids to enjoy playing on different rides. There is also a food court where you can have some snacks and drinks.
The park also has a small zoo where you can admire different types of birds and animals. The park is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
These are some famous places to visit near Asansol. So plan a trip to the city and explore all these attractions and more. You will have a memorable time discovering and relaxing in and around this city.
Asansol is well connected by the GT Road or NH19 with Kolkata and has good transport facilities.
Don’t forget to take your camera and capture your journey!
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