Dhanbad is the renowned mining city of Jharkhand. Known as the “Coal Capital of India”, Dhanbad harbours the richest coal fields of India. It is surrounded by Bokaro and Giridih districts in the West. Dumka and Giridih bound the city on the North while Purulia District is on the East and South. Damodar river plays a very important role throughout the coal field area.
In the year of 1956, the district of Dhanbad was constructed by carving it out of the sub-division of Dhanbad, the police stations of Chas and Chandankiyari, which are located in the Sadar sub-division of the former district of Manbhum.
This location is famous for being situated right in the middle of the richest coalfields in India. The title of ‘coal capital of India’ has been given to Dhanbad. As many as 112 numbers of coal mines are present here. Several honorable institutes and organisations related to industry and socio-cultural streams are also found in Dhanbad. Development is being taking place at a steady yet fast pace here. Damodar, Katri and Jamunia are the names of the three rivers that flow in and around the town.
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.