The dam is an earthen embankment, built without the use of concrete or steel for its main structural body.
The reservoir acts as a major source of irrigation for nearly 8,000 square kilometers of agricultural land.
The project was inaugurated in 1965 to provide year-round water supply for the drought-prone regions of Bankura.
The Kangsabati River originates from the Chota Nagpur Plateau, contributing to the unique sediment composition of the reservoir.
The site hosts a Deer Park on the nearby island, which can be accessed via boat.
Mukutmanipur Dam is the second-largest earthen dam in India, constructed at the confluence of the Kangsabati and Kumari rivers. It serves as a vital irrigation project for the surrounding districts of Bankura, Purulia, and Midnapore in West Bengal. The dam structure stretches approximately 10.8 kilometers in length. The reservoir, known as the Kangsabati Reservoir, covers a vast area that attracts migratory birds during winter. Small rocky hillocks surround the water body, providing a distinctive landscape within the Chota Nagpur Plateau region. The dam functions as a reservoir for water storage while offering recreational boating opportunities for visitors. It remains a key point of interest for those exploring the geological transition zone between the plateau and the plains.
The crest of the dam during sunset offers a wide-angle view of the reservoir against the backdrop of the hillocks.
Bring polarized sunglasses to manage the high glare from the large expanse of water.
Carry your own water and snacks, as facilities directly on the dam structure are limited.
If planning to visit the Deer Park, ensure you arrive before the afternoon boat services conclude.
Do not attempt to swim in the reservoir due to unpredictable depth and currents.
Boat services may be suspended during extreme monsoon weather or high-water release periods.
Maintain silence near the water's edge to avoid disturbing birdlife; keep the area free of plastic waste.
