Murguma Dam and Lake
Introduction: Murguma Dam is a picturesque reservoir built on the Sahajhuri River, nestled at the foot of the Ajodhya Hills. It is often described as one of the most serene and romantic spots in Purulia, far removed from the more crowded tourist circuits. The dam creates a vast, crystal-clear lake t hat reflects the surrounding green hills and the changing colors of the sky, making it a paradise for nature lovers and landscape photographers. The area is surrounded by dense forests and small tribal hamlets, where the rhythm of life is slow and peaceful. Historically, the dam was constructed to provide irrigation and water to the drought-prone regions of Purulia, but its natural beauty quickly turned it into a premier eco-tourism destination. During the spring, the banks of the lake are covered with blooming Palash trees, their fiery red flowers contrasting brilliantly with the blue water. The lake also attracts several species of migratory birds during the Winter months, making it a hub for birdwatchers. The atmosphere at Murguma is one of total tranquility; the only sounds you hear are the gentle lapping of water against the shore and the rustle of the wind through the trees. Several eco-resorts and tented accommodations have come up around the lake, offering tourists a chance to camp right by the water. The sunsets here are particularly famous, as the sun dips behind the Sahajhuri Hills, painting the entire reservoir in shades of gold and purple. For those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature, Murguma is the perfect getaway. It serves as a base for exploring the northern slopes of the Ajodhya range, offering numerous hidden trails and waterfalls nearby.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 Day (Best for Overnight Stay)Place Type:
Leisure / Scenic / Eco-TourismEntry Fees:
Entry Fees: Free for the dam and lake area.
Boating: 200-500 INR depending on the duration and type of boat.
Resort Entry: Some resorts charge 100 INR for day visitors. ...Entry Fees: Free for the dam and lake area.
Boating: 200-500 INR depending on the duration and type of boat.
Resort Entry: Some resorts charge 100 INR for day visitors.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open 24 hours (though daytime is recommended).
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 3:30 PM to enjoy the afternoon light and the sunset. Early mornings at 6:00 AM are also magical. ...Regular Timings: Open 24 hours (though daytime is recommended).
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 3:30 PM to enjoy the afternoon light and the sunset. Early mornings at 6:00 AM are also magical.Special Events:
Palash Utsav: Celebrated in March, featuring local folk dances and songs amidst the blooming red trees.
Chhau Performances: Local troupes often perform in the village during the festival of Gajan in April. ...Palash Utsav: Celebrated in March, featuring local folk dances and songs amidst the blooming red trees.
Chhau Performances: Local troupes often perform in the village during the festival of Gajan in April.Best Photo Spots:
Sunset Point: The main dam wall looking towards the west.
The Reflection: Capturing the hills mirrored in the still water of the lake during the early morning.
Palash Frames: Using the red flowers in the for...Sunset Point: The main dam wall looking towards the west.
The Reflection: Capturing the hills mirrored in the still water of the lake during the early morning.
Palash Frames: Using the red flowers in the foreground with the blue lake in the background.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Boating: Rent a local country boat for a quiet ride across the lake, especially during the early morning mist.
Lakeside Camping: Spend the night in a tent by the reservoir, enjoying a campfire and the sounds of the forest.
Birdwatching: Spot migratory ducks and local kingfishers along the marshy edges of the lake.
Trekking to the Sahajhuri Hills: A short but steep climb from the dam offers a panoramic view of the entire reservoir.
Photography: The 'Golden Hour' at Murguma provides some of the best lighting for landscape shots in all of Bengal.
Visiting Charida Village: Located 12 km away, you can see artisans making the famous Chhau masks.
Nature Walks: Walk alon...
Information
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Why Famous:
Scenic Beauty: Known for its stunning lakeside views and the reflection of hills in the water.
Eco-Camping: Famous for providing a high-quality camping experience in the wilderness.
Palash Destination: A top...Scenic Beauty: Known for its stunning lakeside views and the reflection of hills in the water.
Eco-Camping: Famous for providing a high-quality camping experience in the wilderness.
Palash Destination: A top spot to see the Palash blooms in March. -
Architecture:
Dam Engineering: A standard earthen embankment dam with a concrete spillway designed to manage the flow of the Sahajhuri River.
Dimensions: The dam has a height of approximately 20-25 meters. The reservoir spans several square kilometers, v...Dam Engineering: A standard earthen embankment dam with a concrete spillway designed to manage the flow of the Sahajhuri River.
Dimensions: The dam has a height of approximately 20-25 meters. The reservoir spans several square kilometers, varying with the seasons. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Ranchi Airport (110 km) is the most convenient.
By Train: Purulia Junction (55 km) or Muri Junction (45 km).
By Road: Drive from Purulia via Baghmundi; the roads are well-paved but winding.
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Near Tourist Places:
Charida Village (12 km), Bamni Falls (20 km), Pakhi Pahar (15 km), Khairabera Dam (18 km), Turga Falls (22 km), PPSP Upper Dam (25 km), Lower Dam (24 km), Matha Forest (25 km), Marble Lake (22 km), Ajodhya Hill Top (28 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Avoid swimming in the deep parts of the reservoir as the currents can be unpredictable. Carry a power bank and a flashlight.
Packing: Warm clothes for winter nights, a good pair of binoculars, and mosquito repellent.
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