whatdo

Things To Do
in Dhanbād

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Dhanbad is a city in the Jharkhand state of India known for its rich coal reserves. It is considered the coal capital of India due to extensive mining activities in the region. The city has evolved into a major industrial hub with various coal mines, steel plants, and other industries contributing to its economy.

Dhanbad also has educational institutions, hospitals, and cultural attractions, making it a bustling urban center.

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8 Day Buddha trail Tour- Bodhgaya, Rajgir,Nalanda, Kushinagar, Vaishali, Lumbini

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Overnight Rajgir with Nalanda & Vaishali from Bodhgaya

  • "kiddan" - How are you?
  • "shukriya" - Thank you
  • "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
  • "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
  • "chalo" - Let's go

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.2 - $0.5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Dhanbd
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Maithon Dam, where you can enjoy the serene views and take some stunning photos. Afterward, grab a local breakfast at a nearby eatery to taste regional delicacies.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Bokaro Mall for shopping and leisure activities. Don't forget to try some delicious street food available here.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Shree Sidhant Hanuman Mandir to experience tranquility and witness evening prayers. End your day with a dinner at a local restaurant serving authentic Bihari cuisine.

day 2
Nature Retreat
morning
:

Begin your morning with a refreshing hike at the scenic Parasnath Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to pack some water and snacks for the journey.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at the serene Jain Temple nearby, known for its magnificent architecture and spiritual ambiance. Spend time exploring the temple grounds and its intriguing history.

evening
:

In the evening, visit the local marketplace to shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the banks of the Damodar River.

Dhanbād Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich in coal and mineral resources, contributing to industrial growth.
  • Well-connected by railways and highways, facilitating transportation.
  • A growing educational hub with several institutions and universities.
  • Cultural diversity with a mix of communities and traditions.
  • Access to picturesque landscapes and nearby natural attractions.
  • Air pollution due to coal mining and industrial activities.
  • Limited healthcare facilities compared to major urban areas.
  • Traffic congestion and poor road conditions in certain areas.
  • Frequent power supply issues and electricity shortages.
  • Socioeconomic challenges, including poverty and unemployment.

Best Activities in Dhanbād

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Bhatinda Falls

Enjoy the natural beauty, and take a short trek to reach the waterfalls for a refreshing experience.

Maithan Dam

Explore the scenic surroundings, take a boat ride, or enjoy picnicking by the riverside.

Topchanchi Lake

Relax by the lake, indulge in boating, and appreciate the serene atmosphere.

Places to Visit in Dhanbād

Visit one of these nice places.

Maithan Dam

Offers a breathtaking view of the dam and reservoir, as well as picturesque sunsets and sunrises.

Bhatinda Falls

A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, providing a stunning backdrop for photos.

Topchanchi Lake

Scenic lake with surrounding hills, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the area.

Food in Dhanbād

Dhanbād, located in the Indian state of Jharkhand, offers a diverse and flavorful cuisine influenced by regional traditions and local ingredients. The city's culinary landscape reflects a blend of indigenous tribal flavors, Mughlai delicacies, and traditional North Indian fare.

Dhanbād Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Litti Chokha

A popular traditional dish consisting of wheat-flour balls stuffed with roasted gram flour, spices, and herbs, served with mashed vegetables like eggplant, tomato, and potato.

Must-Try!

Thekua

A delectable sweet snack made of wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, often flavored with cardamom or nutmeg, and deep-fried until crispy.

Pitha

A range of sweet and savory rice flour dumplings, often filled with coconut, jaggery, or lentils, and steamed or fried to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dhanbād Bazaar

A bustling marketplace where street food stalls offer a variety of local delights like samosas, chaat, pakoras, and jalebis, providing an authentic culinary experience.

Weather

The region experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are typically prolonged and can be quite hot, with temperatures often soaring to around 40°C (104°F) during peak months like May and June. The monsoon season begins around June, bringing significant rainfall that generally lasts until September. This period is crucial for replenishing local water sources and supporting agriculture. Post-monsoon months, particularly October and November, see a gradual decrease in temperatures and humidity, making the weather more pleasant. Winters, from December to February, are mild with temperatures averaging between 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F), with January being the coldest month. The overall climate is influenced by its geographical location, leading to variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year, making it essential for residents and agriculture alike to adapt to these seasonal changes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Showing Respect

It is common to greet people with a traditional Indian greeting such as 'namaste' as a sign of respect. Use formal titles when addressing people, especially elders or those in positions of authority.

Understanding Personal Space

Respect personal space by avoiding standing too close to others, especially when conversing. Physical contact between people of the opposite sex should be minimized in public.

Respecting Religious and Cultural Sites

When visiting temples or other religious sites, remove your shoes before entering and dress modestly. Also, be mindful of local customs and traditions when attending cultural events or festivals.

Safety

Safety in this industrial city, known for its coal mining, can vary depending on the area and time. Generally, it experiences challenges related to crime, including theft and robbery, particularly in less populated areas or at night. It is advisable for residents and visitors to stay cautious, avoid displaying valuables, and remain aware of their surroundings. Public transport and crowded places may attract petty crimes; hence, it’s wise to keep personal belongings secure. In terms of civil unrest, occasional labor strikes or protests related to the coal industry may occur, which can disrupt daily life. While the presence of police and security forces helps maintain order, it is important to heed local advice regarding safe areas and times to travel. Engaging with the community and gaining insight from locals can also enhance personal safety when navigating the city's landscape. Overall, being vigilant and taking common-sense precautions can help ensure a safer experience in this bustling region.

Tipping in Dhanbād

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Dhanbād, India, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in the service industry. It is customary to leave a small tip of around 10% for good service in restaurants, and some hotels and taxi drivers may also appreciate a small tip for their services.

Payment

Payment practices in Dhanbād, India are predominantly cash-based, although major credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in larger establishments. It is common to pay for goods and services in local currency, and haggling is a common practice in markets and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Best time to visit Dhanbād, with cool and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, but still a good time to visit if you can tolerate the heat.

Monsoon

Expect heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes, but travel may be hindered due to the rainy weather.

Autumn

Mild and comfortable weather, good for exploring the city and nearby attractions.

Spring

Enjoy the pleasant weather and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for a visit to Dhanbād.

Dhanbād at Night

Nightlife in Dhanbād offers a unique and varied experience, although it may not be as bustling as the nightlife in metropolitan cities. Known primarily for its coal mining and industrial significance, Dhanbād provides a more laid-back and intimate ambiance when the sun goes down. Local eateries and cafes serve up delicious regional cuisine, often staying open late to cater to night owls. These establishments are popular hangout spots where friends and families gather to enjoy a meal and conversation. Street food vendors also become active during the evening, offering a range of mouth-watering snacks such as samosas, chaats, and kebabs, which are perfect for those looking to explore local flavors. For those seeking a bit of nightlife entertainment, several pubs and bars are dotted around the city center, playing a mix of popular Bollywood tracks and contemporary music. These venues usually provide a cozy atmosphere with options for dancing, live music, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand. Cultural events, such as traditional music performances, theater, and dance, occasionally take place in local auditoriums or outdoor venues, adding a touch of local flavor to the nightlife. Additionally, movie theaters in Dhanbād often showcase the latest Bollywood and regional films, providing a popular nighttime activity for both young and old. While Dhanbād may not have a nightlife scene as vibrant as larger cities, its charm lies in its community-centric and relaxed environment, offering a glimpse into the local way of life after dark.

Hiking in Dhanbād

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Topchanchi Wildlife Sanctuary

Located about 30 km from Dhanbād, this sanctuary offers scenic trails amidst rich biodiversity, making it perfect for hiking and wildlife observation.

Parasnath Hill

Approximately 55 km from Dhanbād, this is the highest peak in Jharkhand and provides a challenging trek along with breathtaking views.

Biharinath Hill

About 70 km away from Dhanbād, this hill is famous for its temple and offers several hiking paths with a rejuvenating experience.

Maithon Dam

Located around 45 km from Dhanbād, this picturesque dam area has walking trails along the water, ideal for light hiking and nature walks.

Bokaro Mini Golf and Nature Park

About 60 km from Dhanbād, this park offers walking trails and openness to nature, suitable for casual hiking and family outings.

Aiports

How to reach Dhanbād by plane.

Birsa Munda Airport (IXR)

Located in Ranchi, approximately 140 kilometers from Dhanbād, this is the nearest international airport offering various domestic and a few international flights.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)

Situated in Kolkata, about 250 kilometers from Dhanbād, this is a major international airport in Eastern India with extensive domestic and international flight options.

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU)

Located in Guwahati, Assam, roughly 540 kilometers from Dhanbād, this airport serves as an international gateway to the Northeast of India.

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI)

Located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, approximately 483 kilometers from Dhanbād, it serves both domestic and international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in urban areas refers to how friendly an area is to pedestrians. In the case of Dhanbād, several factors contribute to its walkability. The city's infrastructure features a mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces, which can promote walking as a mode of transport. Sidewalks are present in many areas, although their condition and continuity can vary greatly. The city has a relatively compact layout, which encourages walking for short distances. However, certain neighborhoods may face challenges due to traffic congestion, insufficient pedestrian crossings, and a lack of well-maintained walkways. Street lighting and safety are also important considerations for pedestrians, particularly in more crowded parts of the city. Public amenities, such as parks and schools, are often within walking distance for many residents, enhancing the walkable experience. Additionally, cultural factors, such as walking as a common mode of transport, contribute to pedestrian activity. Improvements in urban planning, including better sidewalk maintenance and pedestrian safety features, could further enhance the walkability of Dhanbād, encouraging more residents to rely on walking as a viable mode of transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Scheduled Castes (SC)

This group comprises various castes that traditionally belong to marginalized communities in India and have been allocated certain affirmative actions.

General Category

This group includes individuals who do not belong to any of the special categories such as SC, ST, or OBC.

Other Backward Classes (OBC)

OBCs are communities identified by the Indian government as socially and educationally disadvantaged.

Scheduled Tribes (ST)

This demographic includes various indigenous tribes recognized by the Indian government, which hold unique cultural backgrounds.

Minority Communities

This group includes various religious and ethnic minorities such as Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and others.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in Dhanbād, with a strong local following and numerous cricket clubs and tournaments.

Football

Football enjoys a significant fan base in Dhanbād, with many local teams and enthusiasts taking part in various competitions.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi is a traditional sport that is quite popular in Dhanbād, often played in local tournaments and festivals.

Badminton

Badminton has been gaining popularity as a recreational sport among the youth in Dhanbād, with several courts available.

Athletics

Athletics, including running and field events, has a following in Dhanbād, particularly in schools and colleges.

Traffic

Traffic in this industrial city can be quite congested, especially during peak hours. The roads are often bustling with a mix of heavy vehicles, two-wheelers, and pedestrians, creating a challenging environment for drivers. The presence of coal mines and numerous industries contributes to a significant number of commercial vehicles on the roads, which can lead to bottlenecks and delays. Narrow streets and ongoing construction work can further exacerbate the situation, making navigation difficult. Public transport options such as auto-rickshaws and buses are widely used, but they also add to the congestion. Additionally, road conditions can vary, with some areas having well-maintained roads while others may suffer from potholes and inadequate traffic management. Overall, managing traffic in this region requires careful attention to both urban planning and infrastructure development.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dhanbād.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as dal, vegetable curries, and roti, while specialized restaurants like Annapurna Vegetarian Restaurant cater specifically to these dietary preferences.

Healthcare

Dhanbād is a significant urban center known for its coal industry, which also shapes its healthcare landscape. The healthcare system in this region is a mix of public and private services, catering to a diverse population. Government healthcare facilities include hospitals and primary health centers that aim to provide essential medical services, especially to low-income residents. The quality and accessibility of these services can vary, with government hospitals often facing challenges such as overcrowding and limited resources. On the other hand, the private healthcare sector in Dhanbād has grown to meet the needs of those who can afford it. Private hospitals and clinics tend to offer better facilities and more specialized care, though the costs can be significantly higher compared to government institutions. In terms of specialist services, Dhanbād has a range of medical professionals, including general practitioners, surgeons, and specialists in fields like gynecology, pediatrics, and orthopedics. However, advanced medical treatments may require referral to larger cities such as Ranchi or Kolkata. Public health initiatives are also critical in the area, addressing issues such as maternal health, immunization, and communicable diseases. Awareness campaigns and healthcare programs are often organized to improve health literacy among the population. Despite the advancements, challenges remain such as healthcare accessibility for rural communities, the affordability of private healthcare for the economically weaker sections, and the need for enhanced medical infrastructure. Overall, healthcare in Dhanbād is evolving but continues to face obstacles that require improvement for better health outcomes.

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