Gandacharra
Natural Splendor: This serene location is primarily known for the massive Dumboor Lake, which spans over 41 square kilometers. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and provides a breathtaking view of nature's bounty in the heart of Tripura. Visitors can enjoy the sight of 48 small islands with in the lake, making it a unique geographical marvel. The area is also home to the Gandacharra Wildlife Sanctuary, which hosts diverse flora and fauna. Wildlife and Conservation: The sanctuary provides a safe haven for various species including bison, deer, and several migratory birds. The dense forests of Gandacharra are perfect for those who seek tranquility away from urban noise. Conservation efforts here have helped maintain a pristine environment for ecological research and nature photography. It serves as a vital green lung for the state of Tripura. Cultural Context: The local tribal communities living around Gandacharra add a rich cultural layer to the visit. Their traditional lifestyles, handicrafts, and folklore are deeply connected to the lake and the surrounding forests. Engaging with the locals provides insight into the sustainable living practices of the Tripuri people. The area becomes vibrant during local festivals and community gatherings. Connectivity and Growth: Over recent years, the infrastructure around the lake has been improved to facilitate better tourism. Boat services and eco-lodges have been established to welcome travelers from across India. The region is becoming a hub for eco-tourism, balancing development with environmental preservation. It is an ideal spot for weekend getaways and school excursions.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Eco-Tourism / NatureEntry Fees:
Entry Charges: Generally, there is no entry fee for the lake itself, but the sanctuary and dam area may have a nominal fee of Rs.10 to Rs.20. Boat rentals vary from Rs.500 to Rs.1500 depending on the duration.
Parking Fees: Small fees for parking p...Entry Charges: Generally, there is no entry fee for the lake itself, but the sanctuary and dam area may have a nominal fee of Rs.10 to Rs.20. Boat rentals vary from Rs.500 to Rs.1500 depending on the duration.
Parking Fees: Small fees for parking private vehicles are applicable at the main jetty point.Timing:
Standard Hours: The lake and sanctuary are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is advised to conclude boating activities before sunset for safety reasons.
Best Time of Day: Early morning is the best time for bird watching and calm waters. Lat...Standard Hours: The lake and sanctuary are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is advised to conclude boating activities before sunset for safety reasons.
Best Time of Day: Early morning is the best time for bird watching and calm waters. Late afternoon offers the best light for photography.Special Events:
Pous Sankranti Mela: The most significant event is the Pous Sankranti Mela held in January. Thousands of people take a holy dip at the confluence of the rivers Raima and Sarma.
Boat Racing: During major local festivals, traditional boat rac...Pous Sankranti Mela: The most significant event is the Pous Sankranti Mela held in January. Thousands of people take a holy dip at the confluence of the rivers Raima and Sarma.
Boat Racing: During major local festivals, traditional boat races are organized on the lake. These races are high-energy events that showcase the physical prowess and teamwork of the local youth.Best Photo Spots:
Coconut Groves: The towering coconut trees on the islands provide a perfect tropical backdrop. These spots are ideal for portraits and landscape shots.
Lake Horizon: Capturing the vast expanse of the lake from the top of the dam or the watc...Coconut Groves: The towering coconut trees on the islands provide a perfect tropical backdrop. These spots are ideal for portraits and landscape shots.
Lake Horizon: Capturing the vast expanse of the lake from the top of the dam or the watchtowers provides a sense of scale. The blue water meeting the green hills is a classic shot.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
@@Natural Grandeur and Ecological Importance: Dumboor Lake is a vast, beautiful water body sprawling over approximately 41 square kilometers located at the confluence of the Raima and Saima rivers. Its name comes from the drum-shaped instrument, the 'Dumboor' or 'Damru', associated with Lord Shiva, reflecting its distinctive look from an aerial perspective. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and boasts 48 picturesque islands, with Narkel Kunja being the most famous one. This enormous reservoir is not only a major tourist attraction but also an important ecological site, serving as a catchment area for the Gomati River, which originates from a nearby point, and is home to a rich variety of aquatic life, including diverse species of fishes. The sheer scale and serene atmosphere of the lake offer a spectacular display of nature's beauty, making it a perfect spot for photography and peaceful relaxation. Its clear waters reflect the emerald greenery of the surrounding forests and hills, creating a captivating panoramic view for every visitor. The lake is a prime example of the unspoiled natural wealth of Tripura, playing a crucial role in the local ecosystem and supporting the livelihood of the indigenous communities, making its preservation a priority.
@@River Significance and Scenic Spot: The Manu River is one of the most important and the longest river in Tripura, originating in the Shakhantang Mountains and eventually flowing into Bangladesh. The 'View' in this context refers to a specific scenic spot along its banks, likely near the town of Manu or the area where it flows through the Dhalai district, offering panoramic views of the wide river, often bordered by lush forests or local settlements. The river's width can reach around 200 meters in some sections. This viewpoint provides a stark contrast to the lake-centered landscape of Dumboor, offering a glimpse into the riverine life and the agricultural dependence of the region on its perennial flow. The spot is ideal for witnessing the tranquil flow of the river, especially during the dry season when the water is clearer, and for appreciating the cultural link the river has with the local communities, who use it for fishing, transport, and ritualistic purposes. It’s a place of quiet reflection away from the main tourist hubs, embodying the peaceful, rustic beauty of inland Tripura.
@@Religious Significance and Annual Fair: The Pous Sankranti Mela Site is the sacred confluence point, known as Tirthamukh, which marks the origin of the revered Gomati River near the Dumboor Lake outlet. The site is famous for hosting the massive, annual Pous Sankranti Mela—one of the most important festivals in Tripura—held every year around January 14th (the last day of the Pousha month). The festival is a blend of Hindu and traditional tribal (Tripuri) rituals. Thousands of devotees, both tribal and non-tribal, congregate here to take a holy dip in the river at the auspicious moment of the Sun's northern course (Uttarayan Sankranti). The fair lasts for a couple of days and features elaborate religious ceremonies, traditional head-shaving rituals for departed ancestors, offerings to deities, and a bustling market of local handicrafts and goods. It's a profound display of the cultural and spiritual unity of the diverse communities in the state.
@@Spiritual and Geographical Source: Tirthamukh is an intensely sacred and geographically significant site, revered by both tribal (Tripuri) and non-tribal communities as the origin point of the holy Gomati River, the most important river in Tripura. The name literally translates to 'mouth of a holy place' (Tirtha-holy place, Mukh-mouth/origin). The river emerges here from the vast reservoir of Dumboor Lake through the outlet of the Gomati Hydel Project. This spot is a unique blend of spiritual significance and modern engineering. It is believed that a holy dip in the river at this location, especially during auspicious times, particularly the annual Pous Sankranti Mela, can wash away one's sins and bring merit. The serene natural setting, surrounded by the high hills of the area, adds to the profound spiritual appeal of the pilgrimage site. The site is a testament to the deep-rooted faith in nature and rivers that is characteristic of the region's diverse culture.
@@Forest Ecosystem and Species Diversity: Covering an area of approximately 289.54 square kilometers, the Gomati Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest protected forest area in Tripura. The sanctuary's core is characterized by semi-evergreen and evergreen forest pockets, making it incredibly rich in biodiversity. It serves as a vital catchment area for the Gomati and Khowai rivers. The habitat is home to an impressive list of flora, including over 230 varieties of plants, over 150 species of climbers, and over 400 species of herbs. The fauna includes large animals like Elephants, Bison (Gaur), Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, and the elusive Wild Goat (Serow). However, the sanctuary is particularly renowned for its high concentration of endangered primate species, such as the Hoolock Gibbon, Slow Loris, Capped Langur, and the threatened Phayre's Langur (Spectacled Monkey), which are a major draw for wildlife conservationists and researchers. The massive adjoining water reservoir (part of Dumboor Lake) also makes it a haven for both resident and migratory water birds, further enhancing its ecological value and importance.
@@Island Oasis and Tourist Hub: Narkel Kunja (literally 'Coconut Grove' or 'Coconut Island') is the most prominent and developed of the 48 islets within the massive Dumboor Lake. This small, beautifully maintained island is a key tourism destination, covered extensively with towering coconut palms and other tropical vegetation, offering a perfect tropical island feel in the heart of landlocked Tripura. The island is managed by Tripura Tourism and features a resort and basic amenities, making it the ideal spot for travelers to disembark, relax, and stay overnight amidst the serene waters of the lake. It provides a unique 360-degree view of the vast lake and the surrounding undulating hills, acting as a tranquil retreat away from the mainland. Its accessibility by boat is part of the adventure, and the clean, well-maintained environment makes it a highly appealing destination for couples and families. The island is not just a viewpoint but a complete leisure and relaxation spot.Show All
@@Geographical Feature and Lake Head: The Raima River Confluence is the precise geographical point where the Raima River (and its sister stream, the Saima River) merge, giving birth to the vast reservoir known as Dumboor Lake. This confluence is the 'head' of the lake, a crucial and beautiful spot where the distinct characteristics of the two rivers blend into the enormous lake body. The area is marked by tranquil waters, bordered by thick, emerald-green forests and the undulating hills that define the landscape of Dhalai and Gomati districts. It's a key spot for local fishermen and those seeking the quietest, most pristine part of the lake environment, offering a secluded alternative to the bustling Narkel Kunja. The confluence area is ecologically significant as it is where the majority of the silt and nutrients are deposited, influencing the lake's biodiversity.Information
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Why Famous:
Dumboor Lake: The place is famous for the Dumboor Lake, a vast water body resembling the shape of a small drum (Dumboor) used by Lord Shiva. This spiritual and physical resemblance attracts thousands of devotees and tourists annually.
Sanctuary...Dumboor Lake: The place is famous for the Dumboor Lake, a vast water body resembling the shape of a small drum (Dumboor) used by Lord Shiva. This spiritual and physical resemblance attracts thousands of devotees and tourists annually.
Sanctuary Presence: The Gandacharra Wildlife Sanctuary is a major draw for wildlife enthusiasts. It is one of the few places in the Northeast where one can witness such a dense concentration of rare avian species in their natural habitat. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style: The architecture in Gandacharra is primarily focused on eco-friendly structures and traditional tribal huts. These huts are built using bamboo, thatch, and local timber, showcasing the indigenous craftsmanship of the region.Architectural Style: The architecture in Gandacharra is primarily focused on eco-friendly structures and traditional tribal huts. These huts are built using bamboo, thatch, and local timber, showcasing the indigenous craftsmanship of the region.
The Dumboor Dam: A significant modern structure here is the hydroelectric dam, which features robust concrete engineering designed to harness the power of the Gomati River. Its massive walls and spillways are impressive examples of functional industrial architecture.
Island Gazebos: Small aesthetic gazebos and resting sheds are built on various islands within the lake. These structures use simple geometric designs to blend with the natural surroundings without being intrusive. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala. From there, one can hire a taxi to reach Gandacharra via road.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is in Ambassa. Regular trains connect Ambassa with Agartala ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Dumboor Lake (0 KMS), 2. Ambassa (55 KMS), 3. Agartala (115 KMS), 4. Unakoti (140 KMS), 5. Neermahal (145 KMS), 6. Udaipur (130 KMS), 7. Jampui Hills (180 KMS), 8. Sepahijala (135 KMS), 9. Pilak (160 KMS), 10. Chabimura (90 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Safety First: Always wear life jackets while boating on the lake. The waters can be deep, and sudden winds can cause waves.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Avoid littering in the lake or the sanctuary. Carry reusable water bottles and dispose of wast...
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