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Maithon Dam

Chirkunda, Jharkhand, India
Maithon Dam, part of the Damodar Valley Corporation, is one of the most successful multipurpose river valley projects in India. Built in 1957, it was primarily designed for flood control and hydroelectric power generation. What makes it truly unique is its underground power station, the first of it s kind in South East Asia. The dam creates a massive reservoir known as Maithon Lake, which covers an area of about 65 square kilometers. The name 'Maithon' is derived from 'Mai ka Than,' meaning the abode of the Goddess, referring to the nearby Kalyaneshwari Temple. The dam offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the blue waters surrounded by the green hills of the Eastern Ghats. It serves as a major tourist attraction, drawing people for its engineering brilliance and scenic beauty. The structure is an earth-fill dam with a concrete spillway that looks spectacular when the gates are opened during the monsoon. The area around the dam is well-maintained with gardens, viewpoints, and rest areas for tourists. It is a vital lifeline for the region, providing water for irrigation and industrial use to cities like Dhanbad and Asansol. For visitors, it offers a perfect blend of industrial tourism and natural retreat.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:
    Duration: 3 to 5 Hours
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    Place Type:
    Category: Engineering Marvel & Sightseeing
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    Entry Fees:
    No Entry Fee: Access to the dam and viewpoints is free for all visitors.

    Photography Charges: No fee for mobile cameras; professional equipment might require permission from DVC authorities. ...
    No Entry Fee: Access to the dam and viewpoints is free for all visitors.

    Photography Charges: No fee for mobile cameras; professional equipment might require permission from DVC authorities.
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    Timing:
    Regular Hours: Open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

    Ideal Visit Time: Late afternoon from 3:30 PM onwards to enjoy the sunset and cooler temperatures. ...
    Regular Hours: Open for visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

    Ideal Visit Time: Late afternoon from 3:30 PM onwards to enjoy the sunset and cooler temperatures.
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    Special Events:
    Independence Day: On August 15th, the dam is beautifully illuminated with tricolor lights, and the spillway is often opened for a majestic display. ...
    Independence Day: On August 15th, the dam is beautifully illuminated with tricolor lights, and the spillway is often opened for a majestic display.
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    Best Photo Spots:
    Photo Spots:

    The Spillway Viewpoint: Capture the massive concrete structure and the gushing water during monsoons.

    Sunset Point: Located on the western bank, it offers a clear view of the sun setting over the...
    Photo Spots:

    The Spillway Viewpoint: Capture the massive concrete structure and the gushing water during monsoons.

    Sunset Point: Located on the western bank, it offers a clear view of the sun setting over the lake.

Photo Gallery

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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Walk on the Dam: Take a long stroll across the dam's crest to enjoy the breeze and the views.

    Visit the Power House: With prior permission, explore the fascinating underground turbines.

    Bird Watching: The reservoir attracts migratory birds during the winter months.

    Photography: Capture the symmetry of the spillway gates and the reflection of hills in the water.

    Visit Kalyaneshwari Temple: Just a few kilometers away, this ancient temple is a must-visit.

    Garden Relaxation: Spend time in the manicured lawns near the DVC guest house.

    Sunset Viewing: The view of the sun dipping into the reservoir is one of the best in the state. ...

Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:
    Underground Power House: A pioneering feat of engineering in South East Asia located deep beneath the dam.

    Scenic Reservoir: Known for its vast expanse of clear blue water which is often compared to a mini sea. ...
    Underground Power House: A pioneering feat of engineering in South East Asia located deep beneath the dam.

    Scenic Reservoir: Known for its vast expanse of clear blue water which is often compared to a mini sea.
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    Architecture:
    Concrete & Earth-fill Hybrid: The dam features a massive concrete spillway and an earthen embankment.

    Dimensions: It is 15,712 feet long and stands 165 feet high, with a reservoir capacity of millions of cubic meters. ...
    Concrete & Earth-fill Hybrid: The dam features a massive concrete spillway and an earthen embankment.

    Dimensions: It is 15,712 feet long and stands 165 feet high, with a reservoir capacity of millions of cubic meters.
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    How To Reach:
    By Air: Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport is about 45 KMS away.

    By Train: Barakar Railway Station is the closest at 8 KMS, while Kumardubhi is 6 KMS away.

    By Road: Directly connected to Chirkunda via a well-paved r...
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    Near Tourist Places:
    Nearby Places: Maithon Lake (1 KM), Kalyaneshwari Temple (2 KMS), Chirkunda Market (5 KMS), Panchet Dam (15 KMS), Garh Panchkot (25 KMS), Asansol (20 KMS), Dhanbad (48 KMS), Snake Park (6 KMS), Gopalpur Ruins (8 KMS), Topchanchi Lake (55 KMS).

Tourism Tips

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    Health & Safety: Do not climb on the safety railings or venture into restricted power house areas.

    Packing: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a good camera.

    Accommodation: Stay at the DVC Majumdar Niwas for an a...

Reviews

Note:-

Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.

All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.

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