Dhanbad, located in the Indian state of Jharkhand, is famously known as the Coal Capital of India due to its vast coal reserves and mining operations. It hosts major coal companies like Tata Steel, Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), Eastern Coalfields Limited, and Indian Iron and Steel Company (IISCO). The city is also an academic hub, home to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dhanbad, formerly known as ISM Dhanbad. Economically significant, the Dhanbad Rail Division ranks second in revenue generation across Indian Railways, just after Mumbai.
Top Places to Visit in Dhanbad
Maithon Dam
Built on the Barakar River, Maithon Dam is crucial for flood control and power generation, producing 60,000 kW. It houses Southeast Asia’s first underground power station.
Panchet Dam
An earthen dam with a concrete spillway, Panchet Dam spans a catchment area of nearly 11,000 sq. km, making it significant for water management.
Shakti Mandir
A devotional temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, Shakti Mandir is known for its spiritual events like bhajans, jagrans, and kirtans.
Kalyaneshwari Temple
A 500-year-old Shakti Peeth, believed to grant children to childless women. Though steeped in ancient lore, the current structure is relatively modern.
Baba Baidyanath Dham
Located near Dhanbad in Deoghar, this is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Bhatinda Fall
A picturesque waterfall cascading over rugged rocks, ideal for nature lovers and photography.
Topchanchi Lake
A large reservoir created by damming a stream, this lake is a popular picnic and tourist spot near Dhanbad.
Parasnath Temple
Located on Parasnath Hill, this Jain pilgrimage site is home to 20 statues surrounding the main Arihant idol, offering a serene religious atmosphere.
Chati Gobindpur
A historically significant village with two ancient pillars believed to date back to the times of Emperor Ashoka and Sher Shah Suri.
Best time to visit Dhanbad
The best time to visit Dhanbad is from September to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 46°C, making travel uncomfortable. Monsoons (July to September) bring moderate rainfall, adding some greenery but can disrupt outdoor plans. Winters (October to February) are the most enjoyable, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. These cooler months are perfect for exploring the city’s attractions comfortably.
