The Upper Dam is an important part of the Purulia Pumped Storage Project (PPSP), which is situated in the middle of the Ajodhya Hills. This 900 MW hydroelectric plant not only addresses peak electricity demand but also participates to the extent of stabilizing the power grid using a pumped-storage system. During off-peak hours, water is pumped to the Upper Dam for storage and let out in peak times to generate power.
Another thing that makes the Upper Dam even more special is the addition of a floating solar PV plant on the surface that produces clean and renewable energy. The presence of these floating water solar panels enhances the beauty of the dam and also helps in providing greener energy proportional to West Bengal.
The above Upper Dam and its surrounding green beauty and clean watery deck up a scenic and peaceful deck. It’s an ideal location for nature lovers, technology fanatics, and those who would like to see jaw-dropping scenery.
In a clever way, the Upper Dam has a unique impression on its inception within the creation of Marble Lake. Not only was stone required to construct the legendary Rock Bridge’s structure as a strong, rocky one, but also massive amounts of stone were used for its construction while it was built. These rocks were quarried at a place where over the years, and time naturally filled the region with rainwater and ground water to form the serene and scenic Marble Lake. This link makes not only the Upper dam but also a piece of land on which man-powers and natural magnificence have met at the end.
The Upper Dam is part of the PPSP, which will be carrying out the fluctuation of the electricity demand in west Bengal. The system involved in pumped storage consists of 2 reservoirs (upper and the down dam). If excess electricity is available in off-peak hours, water is brought to the Upper Dam. Such water is stored and is released when demand becomes high to produce electricity and ensure a stable supply. The construction of the dam and its technology makes it quite efficient even in areas that are challenging like the hills.
The charm of the Upper Dam is beyond any description – EVERY SEASON describes a unique beauty and characteristics with different experiences.
Here is a table showing the approximate distances from Upper Dam to nearby key locations in the Ajodhya Hills Range:
| Location Name | Details | Distance (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Dam | The Lower Dam, part of the PPSP in Ajodhya Hills, blends natural beauty with modern engineering. Surrounded by forests and fed by Bamni Falls, it offers stunning views but requires special permission to visit. | 5.2 km |
| Lahoria Shiva Temple | The Lahoria Shiva Temple, nestled on the edge of the Ayodhya Hills in Purulia, is a serene blend of spirituality and nature, offering peaceful surroundings, scenic views near Kestobazar Dam, and a deep-rooted cultural heritage that draws both pilgrims and travelers. | 7.7 km |
| Turga Dam | Turga Dam is a serene nature spot in Purulia, perfect for trekking, camping, and enjoying waterfalls. | 10.7 km |
| Turga Falls | Turga Falls is a scenic waterfall in Purulia’s Ajodhya Hills, perfect for bathing, trekking, and nature photography. | 7.6 km |
| Bamni Falls | Bamni Falls is South Bengal’s tallest waterfall, offering scenic beauty, a thrilling 500-step trek, and vital support to the Purulia Pumped Storage Project. | 5.6 km |
| Marble Lake | Marble Lake is a peaceful, scenic lake in Ajodhya Hills, formed from PPSP excavations, and known for its seasonal beauty and tribal charm. | 4.5 km |
Purulia Railway Station, located about 322 km from Kolkata, is well-connected by trains such as the Ranchi Vande Bharat Express (20898), Chakradharpur Express (18011), Purulia SF Express (12827), and Ranchi Intercity Express (18627). From the station, a private vehicle arranged by Purulia Travels will take you along Ajodhya Hill Road to the Hilltop Area. From there, the vehicle continues 4.6 km to Upper Dam More, takes a right turn, and drives another 1.8 km to reach the scenic Upper Dam.
Purulia is well-connected by road to cities like Bankura, Asansol, Bokaro, Jamshedpur, and Ranchi. From Kolkata, you can take a government or private bus from Esplanade, including AC options. These buses will drop you at Purulia Bus Stand, from where you can hire a private vehicle from Purulia Travels to Lower Dam. If driving, follow Ajodhya Hill Road to the Hilltop Area, then continue 4.6 km to Upper Dam More. From there, take a right turn, go 1.8 km to Upper Dam, and drive another 5.2 km straight to arrive at the scenic Upper Dam.
The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, about 117 km away, followed by Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport in Durgapur, around 164 km away. From either airport, you can take a train or bus to reach Purulia Town. Once there, a private vehicle from Purulia Travels will take you through Ajodhya Hill Road to the Hilltop Area. Then the same vehicle continues 4.6 km to Upper Dam More, takes a right, and drives 1.8 km to arrive at the peaceful Upper Dam.
Find quick answers to all your questions about visiting Upper Dam.
During the construction of the Upper Dam, rocks were excavated from a nearby site. This excavation site eventually filled with rainwater and groundwater over time, forming today’s serene Marble Lake.
Visitors can:
While the dam is open all year:
No special permissions are needed to visit the Upper Dam itself. However, visiting the Lower Dam does require permission due to safety regulations.
Yes, the area is safe, but caution is advised near water bodies and viewpoints. Always supervise children and follow basic safety rules while exploring.
Basic amenities like food stalls are available near the dam. However, restrooms are limited, so plan accordingly. Carrying essentials like water and snacks is recommended.
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