💧 Maithan Dam Riverside Tour – 2 Days
“Experience the Tranquil Charm of Jharkhand’s Blue Jewel
– A Perfect Riverside Escape for Weekend Wanderers”
The Maithan Dam Riverside Tour – 2 Days invites travelers into a serene world of glistening waters, forested hills, and rustic charm on the border of West Bengal and Jharkhand.
Situated on the Barakar River, this iconic dam is often called the “Blue Paradise of Jharkhand,” offering a perfect blend of relaxation, photography, and adventure.
Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat amidst nature, a scenic drive from Kolkata, or a family getaway filled with calm boating and breathtaking sunsets, Maithan provides an idyllic setting for all.
This short tour unites natural beauty, leisure, and cultural glimpses — making it one of Eastern India’s best weekend destinations.
🌿 Introduction – The Blue Heart of Jharkhand
Built across the Barakar River, a tributary of the Damodar, the Maithan Dam was commissioned in 1957 as part of the Damodar Valley Corporation project.
It stretches nearly 15,700 feet and stands as one of India’s oldest and most scenic multipurpose reservoirs.
Over time, it has evolved from a purely functional structure into a tourist magnet — surrounded by lush forests, small islands, and panoramic viewpoints.
With its glassy lake reflecting the sky and gentle breeze sweeping across the landscape, Maithan is a refreshing change from urban chaos, located conveniently close to Kolkata and Dhanbad.
📍 Major Attractions & Sightseeing Highlights
1. Maithan Dam
The star attraction, Maithan Dam itself, is a marvel of engineering and scenic splendor.
The reservoir extends over a massive area and is bordered by rolling green hills.
Visitors can stroll across the dam, capturing panoramic photographs of the vast expanse of blue water merging with the horizon.
The sunset view from the top of the dam is absolutely mesmerizing — a symphony of orange, gold, and violet hues over the still waters.
2. Maithan Lake (Reservoir)
At the base of the dam lies the calm and vast Maithan Lake, where boating is one of the most popular activities.
Rowboats and motorboats are available, offering leisurely rides through the shimmering water and nearby forested islands.
The soft rustle of leaves and distant birdcalls create an ambience of peace unmatched by any urban getaway.
3. Kalyaneswari Temple
Located just 5 km from Maithan, Kalyaneswari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kalyaneshwari — believed to be a form of Goddess Durga.
According to local legend, childless women visit this temple to seek blessings for motherhood.
Set amidst greenery, the temple’s spiritual aura and scenic backdrop make it a must-visit.
4. Deer Park
A small but well-maintained Deer Park near the dam adds a fun family element to the trip.
It houses deer, rabbits, and peacocks and offers shaded walking paths perfect for a short nature stroll.
Photography enthusiasts often visit this park for its soft light and natural setting.
5. Maithan Hydel Power Station
A visit to the Maithan Hydel Power Station offers an insight into the region’s industrial heritage.
Built under the Damodar Valley Project, this underground powerhouse generates electricity from the dam’s water flow.
Guided tours are sometimes arranged for tourists, subject to permissions.
6. Barakar Town
A few kilometers from Maithan lies Barakar, one of the oldest towns in the region.
The ancient Barakar Temple Complex, dedicated to Lord Shiva and dating back to the Gupta period, is an architectural treasure showcasing Bengal-style temple carvings.
7. Panchet Dam (Optional Detour)
About 30 km away, the Panchet Dam offers another scenic stop for those extending their tour.
Together with Maithan, it forms part of the Damodar Valley’s twin reservoir system and offers equally captivating views of water, hills, and sunrise scenes.
🗓️ Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Riverside Leisure
- Start early morning from Kolkata (approx. 240 km / 5 hours via NH19).
- Arrive at Maithan by noon; check into a riverside resort or tourist lodge.
- After lunch, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Maithan Lake.
- Visit Kalyaneswari Temple in the evening for a peaceful spiritual experience.
- Return to your resort; enjoy dinner while watching the shimmering reflection of moonlight on the dam.
Day 2 – Sightseeing & Return
- Wake up early for sunrise photography from the Dam Viewpoint.
- After breakfast, visit Deer Park and the Hydel Power Station (if open for visitors).
- Optionally, drive to Panchet Dam or explore Barakar Temple Complex.
- Return to Kolkata or Durgapur by evening.
📏 Major Distances & Travel Durations
- Kolkata → Maithan Dam: 240 km (Approx. 5 hours)
- Durgapur → Maithan Dam: 100 km (Approx. 2.5 hours)
- Asansol → Maithan Dam: 45 km (Approx. 1 hour)
- Maithan → Panchet Dam: 30 km (Approx. 1 hour)
- Maithan → Barakar: 8 km (Approx. 15 minutes)
🚗 How to Reach
By Road
Maithan is well connected by NH19 (Old NH2) – the Grand Trunk Road.
Regular buses and private cars operate from Kolkata, Durgapur, Asansol, and Ranchi.
The road journey itself is pleasant, passing through forests, villages, and open highways.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Asansol Junction, about 45 km away.
From Asansol, taxis and shared cars are easily available to reach Maithan.
Alternatively, Barakar Station (closer, around 8 km) also connects via local trains.
By Air
The nearest airport is Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, Andal (Durgapur), about 95 km away.
From there, travelers can hire a cab for a comfortable two-hour drive to Maithan.
🏨 Staying Options (Properties)
1. Maithan Tourist Lodge (Government Property)
Operated by Jharkhand Tourism, this government lodge is situated close to the lake and offers clean, comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the water.
Ideal for families and budget travelers.
2. Private Riverside Resorts
Several private resorts along the dam area provide cozy cottages and modern facilities.
Their manicured lawns and lakeside dining arrangements make them perfect for couples and small groups.
3. Forest Guesthouses
For those seeking a rustic experience, eco-lodges and forest rest houses near the Deer Park offer peace and proximity to nature.
4. Hotels in Asansol
If you prefer urban convenience, Asansol (45 km away) has a range of mid-range and business hotels suitable for travelers returning from Maithan.
🌦️ Best Time to Visit
- Winter (November–February): The best time to visit, with cool breezes and clear skies ideal for boating and sightseeing.
- Monsoon (July–September): The dam brims with water and greenery flourishes — perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Summer (March–June): Slightly warm but pleasant near the riverside, especially during evenings.
🎭 Local Culture & Festivals
The region around Maithan resonates with folk traditions and tribal culture.
During Durga Puja and Chhath Puja, the lakeside becomes alive with devotees offering prayers along the water’s edge.
Folk music and tribal dance performances are often arranged during winter weekends by local tourism authorities.
🥘 Culinary Experiences
The local cuisine around Maithan is a delightful blend of Bengali and Jharkhandi flavors.
Expect a variety of simple yet tasty dishes prepared with local ingredients and earthy spices.
- Must Try: Fish curry (especially Hilsa and Rohu), Aloo posto, Rice with lentils, and traditional sweets like Chanar jilipi and Mihidana.
- Local Snacks: Jhalmuri, Singara, and hot tea served in earthen cups near the lakeside stalls.
🧭 Travel Tips
- Carry sunglasses and a hat for daytime exploration.
- For boating, wear life jackets and avoid late evening rides for safety reasons.
- Respect local customs at Kalyaneswari Temple — photography inside is not allowed.
- Carry cash as digital payment options may be limited in remote areas.
- Book resorts in advance during winter weekends and holidays.
📅 Quick Tour Summary
- Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
- Destination: Maithan Dam, Kalyaneswari Temple, Barakar, Panchet (optional)
- Ideal For: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers, Weekend Travelers
- Activities: Boating, Riverside Walk, Photography, Temple Visit
- Best Season: November to February
🌺 Conclusion
The Maithan Dam Riverside Tour is a journey of calm reflection and gentle adventure — a place where water meets sky, hills whisper peace, and time slows down.
Whether it’s boating through still waters, watching the sun melt behind distant ridges, or simply breathing in the cool evening air, Maithan rejuvenates both heart and soul.
Its proximity to Kolkata makes it an ideal weekend retreat for those seeking nature’s serenity without traveling far.
With Nature Craft Tours, experience the perfect blend of comfort and discovery — as we curate your riverside escape through Jharkhand’s blue paradise, where every dawn begins with reflection and every dusk ends with gratitude.