Basantrai Talab
Overview of the Tank : Basantrai Talab is a massive historic water body spread across 50 acres, built by Raja Basant Rai. This tank is shrouded in legends, the most famous being that no one has ever been able to cross it by swimming or boat. Local folklore suggests that any attempt to cross the mid dle of the tank leads to a mysterious watery grave. Historically, it was believed that the tank would miraculously provide utensils for social ceremonies if prayed to, which had to be returned after use. The tank is held extremely sacred by the Hindu community, and it serves as a vital water source for the region. The sheer scale of the tank makes it look like an inland sea during the full monsoon. The banks are lined with ancient trees and small shrines that add to the spiritual atmosphere. Every year, a massive Mela or fair is organized here starting from Chaita Sankranti, attracting thousands of pilgrims. The water is believed to have healing properties by many locals. The engineering of the tank, dating back centuries, showcases the advanced water management systems of ancient rulers. It remains the centerpiece of cultural life in the Basantrai block. The calm surface of the water reflects the sky, creating a meditative environment for visitors. Despite the scary legends, the beauty of the place is undeniable. It is a site where history and mystery blend seamlessly. The local administration maintains the ghats for the convenience of devotees. It is arguably the most famous historical landmark in Godda.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Visit Time : 2 to 3 Hours.Place Type:
Category : Heritage, Religion, and Folklore.Entry Fees:
Free Entry : Visiting the tank and the ghats is free for everyone.
Fair Entry : During the Mela, there might be small charges for specific attractions like rides or performances.
Puja Charges : Specific r...Free Entry : Visiting the tank and the ghats is free for everyone.
Fair Entry : During the Mela, there might be small charges for specific attractions like rides or performances.
Puja Charges : Specific religious rituals may have a nominal fee at the discretion of the temple committee.Timing:
Regular Timings : Open 24 Hours, but the best time is from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time : Early mornings are best for witnessing the spiritual rituals and the calmest water. ...Regular Timings : Open 24 Hours, but the best time is from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time : Early mornings are best for witnessing the spiritual rituals and the calmest water.Special Events:
Basantrai Vikas Mela : This is a massive 15-day fair starting on April 14th every year. It is a cultural extravaganza featuring folk performances and local trade.
Chaita Sankranti : A major religious event where devotees gather for a holy...Basantrai Vikas Mela : This is a massive 15-day fair starting on April 14th every year. It is a cultural extravaganza featuring folk performances and local trade.
Chaita Sankranti : A major religious event where devotees gather for a holy dip to mark the beginning of the new Hindu month.Best Photo Spots:
The Main Ghat : Capture the symmetry of the stone steps leading into the massive tank. The reflection of the morning sun on the water is magical.
The Banyan Tree : An ancient tree near the bank provides a frame for the lake.The Main Ghat : Capture the symmetry of the stone steps leading into the massive tank. The reflection of the morning sun on the water is magical.
The Banyan Tree : An ancient tree near the bank provides a frame for the lake.
Fairground Colors : During the Mela, the colorful stalls and traditional dresses offer a vibrant palette for street photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Holy Dip : Take a bath in the sacred waters of the tank, which is believed to wash away sins and heal skin ailments.
Visit the Mela : If you visit in April, participate in the 15-day Basantrai Mela, which features local folk music, traditional rides, and food stalls.
Explore the Legend : Talk to the local elders to hear the fascinating stories and myths associated with the "un-crossable" tank.
Boat Sightseeing : While crossing is forbidden by myth, you can enjoy the view from the safety of the reinforced ghats.
Temple Hopping : Visit the small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali located around the perimeter of the tank.
Photography : The vast expanse of water during sunrise pro...
Information
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Why Famous:
Mythological Mystery : Basantrai Talab is globally famous for the legend that it cannot be crossed by any man-made vessel. This "un-crossable" nature has made it a subject of curiosity for historians and travelers alike.
Historical Legacy :Mythological Mystery : Basantrai Talab is globally famous for the legend that it cannot be crossed by any man-made vessel. This "un-crossable" nature has made it a subject of curiosity for historians and travelers alike.
Historical Legacy : Built by Raja Basant Rai, it stands as a testament to the grand vision of local royalty and their contribution to water conservation in arid regions. -
Architecture:
Architectural Design of the Tank : The Basantrai Talab is a masterpiece of ancient hydraulic engineering, spanning a massive area of 50 acres. The tank is perfectly rectangular, with a length of about 2,000 feet and a width of 1,000 feet.
Gha...Architectural Design of the Tank : The Basantrai Talab is a masterpiece of ancient hydraulic engineering, spanning a massive area of 50 acres. The tank is perfectly rectangular, with a length of about 2,000 feet and a width of 1,000 feet.
Ghat Construction : The banks feature stone-paved ghats that are wide and shallow to accommodate thousands of bathers. The stone blocks used for the embankments are massive, fitted together without the use of modern mortar, showcasing the precision of medieval Indian masons. The depth of the tank is estimated to be over 40 feet in certain central areas. -
How To Reach:
By Air : Use Ranchi or Kolkata airports. The travel time by road from these airports is around 8-9 hours.
By Train : Godda Station is 25 KMS away. Alternatively, Jasidih Junction (80 KMS) is a major station with better connectivity.
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Near Tourist Places:
Pathergama (12 KMS), Yogini Temple (14 KMS), Sundar Dam (22 KMS), Godda Town (25 KMS), Meherma (30 KMS), Lalmatia (35 KMS), Mahagama (20 KMS), Bhagaiya (40 KMS), Sahibganj (95 KMS), Rajmahal (110 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety : Do not attempt to swim deep into the tank due to the legends and deep silt.
Packing : Carry a change of clothes if you plan to take a holy dip.
Accommodation : Government guest houses ar...
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