Name: Jamshedpur
Rating: 4.0

Dimna Lake, Jamshedpur Overview

Dimna Lake in Jamshedpur is an ideal place to spend your day if you feel like getting away from the city and spending a quiet day with your loved ones or friends. Situated at a mere distance of 13 km away from the Jamshedpur city area, it is close to the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary. An artificial lake in the Steel City of Jamshedpur, it is located at the foothills of the Dalma mountain range and is famous for its serenity and pleasant greenery. The lake is pretty well-known as a picnic spot with its clear water and scenic surroundings, creating scope for mini treks into the hills, and water activities such as boating, rowing, and jet skiing among many others.

In stark contrast with its industrial surroundings, the serene lake is one of the most crucial structures in the area, since it is used as a reservoir to store and provide water for the steel plant, along with being the primary source of water for the city. Over the years, the need for a dam was felt to hold the water in the reservoir, so that it could be used as and when required optimally. The Dimna Dam was conceived to overcome a water deprivation situation in Tatanagar (as Jamshedpur is also known) and surrounding areas. Constructed under Tata Steel, the dam is built on River Kharkai under the administration of the Mirzadih Panchayat of Jamshedpur.

A gorgeous view of the sunrise coming up from behind the hills, with splendid greenery and melodious chirping of birds is what sets this artificial lake apart. It is a popular weekend getaway for the locals or as a recreational outing for tourists on an extended tour. Even the road to Dimna Lake with its undulations and greenery presents a spectacular drive.

Things To Do at Dimna Lake

The Dimna Lake and Dam are both enterprises of the TATA Steel Company. They own the lake as well as the area around it, which is open to the public for picnics, recreation, and relaxation. Cement flatbeds and benches are conveniently stationed all over the surrounding area, providing ample time and space to quietly sit and soak in the fresh air.

The land near the lake is seasonally populated with forests and foliage, providing a picturesque environment for a hike into the woods. There are several open spaces in the vicinity, where most people enjoy a game of badminton, or just set up a mat for some early morning yoga. Dimna lake is a great place for early morning joggers and cycling enthusiasts.

There are on ground boating and water sports opportunities, food stalls, bathroom facilities as well as a resting lodge (which requires prior reservation). The tranquil atmosphere has a calming effect, which remains unaffected by the modern industrialisation burgeoning around it. Despite being a hot spot for a mini holiday, there will not be too many people around at once, allowing for a quiet, fun time with family or a group of friends.

Tata Steel Adventures

Adventure sports on the lake are a central point of attraction for most visitors. The TATA Steel Adventure Foundation, a subdivision of the company that owns the land and the lake provides packages for treks and water sports such as rowing, boating, and jet skiing, among many others. The foundation also offers various camping expeditions into the northern Himalayan mountains, as well as short, moderate level treks into the nearby Dalma hill range.

For the adventure enthusiasts amongst you, this presents a safe opportunity to partake in exciting activities and learn essential outdoor skills such as tent-pitching, improvising raft construction and rowing. It may be even possible to cross the lake in a self-constructed raft! If interested, it would be advisable to contact the organisation beforehand to confirm availability, and also pre-book any activities. Those who do not participate in the camping expedition must leave the premises by nightfall, as the site closes daily.

Scenery and views at Dimna Lake

The pure, untouched water of the lake set against the backdrop of a beautiful landscape makes this place a must-visit for nature photographers. Several migratory birds can be seen at different times of the year (especially during the winter season), as per their individual feeding or mating cycles. The forests and hills flanking the lake are flawlessly reflected by the waters, instilling a sense of calm and mindfulness. There are also small islands present within the lake that serves as a habitat for water birds in the area.

A strong railing present around the edges of the lake prevents tourists from going too close to the waters, allowing for safe enjoyment of the view. If one is so inclined, you may also choose to take a TATA Steel tour that showcases the latest developments within the company. Despite being a man-made, artificially created structure, Dimna Lake is every bit as beautiful as any other natural attraction in India - possibly even more so because it is privately held, and hence well maintained.

Tips For Visiting Dimna Lake

1. Although there are a few eateries nearby, make sure to bring along some snacks and sufficient drinking water if planning a picnic
2. Reserve any activities beforehand to prevent any on spot issues.
3. Don't visit the place on weekends if you want to escape the crowd.

4. Keep the surroundings of the lake litter free.

How To Reach Dimna Lake

The lake is about 15 km from the main city, which makes for a 30-minute drive with a car, hired cab or bus. The cheapest method of transport though maybe a tempo or auto rickshaw, ideal if travelling in groups as well. There is no public transport available to reach the lake.

One way to reach the lake is to go all the way to the foot of the Dimna Dam and then ascend the 100 steps to the lake. You will be able to catch a mind-stirring view of the spectacular lake juxtaposed against the mighty mountains with the clouds playing hide and seek to render a breathtaking site.