Dams are built to create reservoirs (artificial lakes) for various purposes, including water supply, hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and recreation.
On September 6, 2025, my sister-in-law Gungun visited Ranchi after family time in Rourkela. On my day off, we explored the scenic Patratu Valley and Dam. Enjoying a leisurely boat ride and exploring an island, our adventure was filled with laughter and memorable moments, highlighting the beauty of family and nature.
Bagore ki Haveli serves as a historical museum in Udaipur, showcasing Rajasthan's culture and daily life through its various chambers. An unexpected storm on Lake Pichola provided an enchanting experience during a boat ride, transforming the scene into a dramatic spectacle. Ultimately, unplanned local dining offered comfort after the storm, reflecting the joy in spontaneous experiences.
The author recounts a pleasant trip with his wife to Getalsud Dam, Ranchi, located 35km away from their home. The Dam, established in 1971 on the Subarnarekha River, offers a picturesque view of its expansive water reservoir and surrounding hills. It not only serves as Ranchi's drinking water source, but also for industrial uses and electricity generation. The couple enjoyed the tranquil environment and took photographs against the shimmering water reservoir. The author recommends Getalsud Dam for nature lovers seeking a serene getaway.
The author recounts a three-day New Year adventure. Beginning in Ranchi, the author and his wife embark on a motorbike road trip to Ghatshila, Jharkhand, visiting several picturesque sites, experiencing local culture, and overcoming challenges such as poor road conditions, wounds, and extreme cold. Highlights include Dharagiri Falls, Phuldugri Hill, Ratmohana River Bridge and Rankini Mandir. The trip concludes with a newfound eagerness for future adventures.
I grew up in Ranchi and Jamshedpur in Jharkhand, and for a long time, visiting Patratu Valley was just a dream due to Naxalite threats. Finally, it's safe, and we visited the mesmerizing valley and its serene dam. Surrounded by lush forests, the valley is a sight to behold, and the Patratu Thermal Power Station is a notable landmark. If you love exploring offbeat spots, Patratu Valley should definitely be on your bucket list.
The journey from Gangtok to Lachen initiated an unforgettable Himalayan adventure. The pristine beauty of North Sikkim, with its winding roads and serene landscapes, provided a tranquil escape from urban life. Lachen served as a gateway to higher altitudes, while Thangu became an essential acclimatization stop. The extraordinary Gurudongmar Lake, amid breathtaking scenery, evoked a sense of awe, merging spirituality with nature’s raw beauty, enriching the traveler’s experience.
The Ahwar of Southern Iraq, a UNESCO World Heritage site, encompasses the biblical Garden of Eden. Fed by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, these marshlands support diverse wildlife and house the Marsh Arabs' millennia-old culture. The site includes ancient Sumerian cities and has faced environmental and political challenges. Efforts to restore the marshlands symbolize the harmonious coexistence of nature and human civilization, preserving a vital ecological and cultural treasure.
On a crisp March morning, we set out from Gangtok toward Tsomgo Lake, a shimmering jewel at 12,400 feet. The winding roads revealed forests, waterfalls, and grazing yaks. When we finally reached the serene, mirror-like lake, its calm beauty was both humbling and magical. Between yak rides, steaming momos, and whispered legends, Tsomgo offered pure Himalayan enchantment.
