The bustle and activity of Dhanbad’s coal mines fill the air with a continuous rumble, which is echoed in the busy streets, buzzing markets, and emerging flurry of concrete structures scattered about the city. Known as ‘The Coal Capital of India’ Dhanbad is a city pacing towards industrialization yet retaining its inherent tribal flavor. As you move along the streets, you witness diverse scenes that are blends of tradition and modernity, presenting to you the true essence of Dhanbad. Adding to its allure is the mesmerizing beauty of its natural surroundings.
Located in Jharkhand, Dhanbad is one of the state’s major industrial and commercial hubs. Rich in mineral resources, it became the flourishing ground for coal mines during the pre-independence period. It is now home to some of the largest coal mines in India and is among the largest coal producers in the country. The name Dhanbad is believed to have evolved from the word ‘Dhanbaid’, which means the land of paddy fields.
One of the popular tourist destinations in Jharkhand, Dhanbad promises an enjoyable experience to travelers. Though the city is industrialized to a large extent, a number of natural sites continue to grace the landscape. However, the prime attractions of Dhanbad are its coal mines. You can observe the various processes of mining and also watch the miners at work.
The cultural richness of Dhanbad is undeniable. The various religious festivals such as Holi, Diwali, Guru Purnima, and especially the Rath Yatra of Jagannath Temple, are ideal occasions to witness Dhanbad’s tribal glory. You can enjoy lively performances of folk music such as Thumar, Phaguwa, Daidhara, as well as tribal dance forms like Chhau, Ghatwari, Natua, and Choukara.
With rapid modernization, Dhanbad is recognized as one of the major shopping locations in the state. From western and traditional garments to electronic gadgets, you can buy almost everything in the Bank More market area. Yet, the small, local markets such as Purana Bazaar, Textile Market, and Rajendra Market continue to carry a unique charm. Ethnic folk arts such as the Paitkar paintings and bamboo artifacts can be bought here.
Do not forget to savor the delicious local sweets thekua, til barfi, and mitha khaja from the local confectioners.
Traveling within Dhanbad is easy as there are a number of different alternatives available in terms of local transport. Mini-buses are an affordable way of traveling through the major routes in the city. Auto-rickshaws are the most popular means of transport, especially among local commuters. While it allows you to venture into the smaller neighborhoods, the shared-auto system also makes it cost-effective. A slightly costlier, but more comfortable way of moving around the city is taxis, which can be hired directly from the road or booked from one of the city’s car rentals.
On a daily basis there are approximately 17 flights that operate at Birsa Munda Airport.IndiGo and Air India are the most popular airline brands that fly frequently to this airport.
By road Dhanbad is surrounded by Chas, Dishergarh, Giridih which are 19.07 km, 26.64 km, 28.85 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.
Dhanbad has a total of 9 hotels.There are 9 hotels in Dhanbad with the popular ones being Hotel Seventeen Degrees, Hotel Skylark, Cocoon Luxury Business Hotel, Sonotel Hotel, Hotel Madhulika, VIP Regency etc.