Bankura, West Bengal
Kangsabati River Banks Bankura Belt is a picturesque region in the Bankura district, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and the massive Mukutmanipur Dam. Known as the "Queen of Bankura," this area features the Kangsabati River meandering through lush green forests and rocky hillocks, creating a serene landscape that attracts nature lovers and photographers. The river's confluence with the Kumari River at Mukutmanipur forms a vast reservoir, often described as a necklace-shaped water body surrounded by verdant hills.
The Kangsabati River, also known as the Kasai River, originates from the Chota Nagpur Plateau and flows through West Bengal. The Mukutmanipur Dam, built across this river in the 1950s under the vision of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, is the second-largest earthen dam in India. It was constructed to provide irrigation to the drought-prone districts of Bankura, Purulia, and Midnapore, transforming the region into a thriving agricultural and tourist hub.
Boating: Enjoy a boat ride on the expansive waters of the reservoir, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and islands.
Picnicking: The riverbanks, especially near Jhilimili and Mukutmanipur, are popular picnic spots for families and groups.
Sunset Views: Witness mesmerizing sunsets where the sun dips into the water, painting the sky in hues of orange and red.
Pareshnath Hill: Visit the nearby hillock with Jain and Hindu shrines, accessible via a boat ride or the dam road.
Deer Park: A small boat ride takes visitors to the Bonpukuria Deer Park, located on an island within the reservoir.
Safety: Swimming in deep waters near the dam is restricted; follow local safety instructions.
Permits: Some areas like the dam road may require entry permits or have restricted vehicular access.
Cleanliness: Maintain the ecological balance by not littering, especially plastic waste, in the river or forest areas.
Timings: Boating services usually operate from morning until sunset; plan accordingly.
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 200 km
Major Railway Stations:
Bankura Junction – approx. 55 km
The area is well-connected by road from Bankura town. State buses and private taxis ply regularly to Mukutmanipur and Jhilimili.
The region is connected by good motorable roads. Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and totos for short distances. For exploring the riverbanks and dam area, hiring a private car from Bankura is the most convenient option. Boat services are the primary mode for visiting islands and viewpoints across the water.
The best time to visit the Kangsabati River Banks is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This season is ideal for boating, picnicking, and sightseeing. The monsoon season (July to September) transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise, offering a different kind of beauty, though boating may be restricted during heavy rains. Summers (April to June) can be quite hot, making daytime activities less comfortable.