Nestled in the pristine embrace of lush green hills, Dumbur Lake is more than just a scenic marvel; it is a story waiting to be told. Shaped like a teardrop, this hidden gem of Tripura radiates serenity, inviting travelers to escape the chaos of the modern world. With its glassy waters mirroring the skies above and surrounded by whispers of tribal folklore.
How to Reach Dumbur Lake?
- By Air: The nearest airport to Dumbur Lake is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala, approximately 120 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or board a local bus to Ambassa or Gandacherra, the closest town to the lake.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Ambassa, around 50 km from the lake, well-connected to major cities in the region. From Ambassa, a scenic drive through rolling hills and forests takes you to Dumbur Lake. Private taxis and shared vehicles are readily available.
- By Road (Hired Cab or Local Transport): Dumbur Lake is accessible via well-maintained roads. From Agartala, it’s a 4-hour drive that lets you soak in the lush greenery and quaint villages of Tripura. Regular buses and shared cabs operate from Agartala and other nearby towns like Udaipur and Ambassa to Gandacherra.
- Once you reach Gandacherra, local boats are available to take you across the shimmering waters of Dumbur Lake, letting you explore its many islands and picturesque surroundings.
- Another road to get to Dumbur Lake, head towards Jatanbari town and follow the Raishyabari Road, which leads you directly to the lake’s serene shores.
From exploring its countless small islands to watching fishermen glide gracefully across its surface, the lake is a sanctuary for those seeking peace and wonder. Whether you’re drawn to its cultural richness or the sheer tranquility of its shores, Dumbur Lake promises an experience.
Reaching Dumbur Lake
Upon arrival, you’ll notice a well-organized queue for the boats, where each boat is assigned a serial number for a smooth experience.
The boat ride costs approximately 2000 rupees per boat. You can choose between a private boat for a more intimate experience or join a shared ride with other visitors to enjoy the scenic journey together.
The ride typically lasts around an hour, taking you to a beautiful resort area called Narikel Bagan (Coconut Garden) or Kunjo (Island). This picturesque spot, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a tranquil retreat by the shimmering waters of Dumbur Lake.
As you embark on the boat ride, the journey itself becomes a spectacle. On a clear, sunny day, the tranquil waters of Dumbur Lake mirror the vast blue sky, creating a breathtaking reflection that enhances the serenity of the surroundings.
Along the way, you might encounter local fishermen skillfully paddling their traditional boats, their hands guiding them through the calm waters in pursuit of their catch. The scene feels almost surreal—authentic and mesmerizing—offering a glimpse into the peaceful rhythm of life by the lake.
We decided to opt for a motor boat, and while the engine’s hum added a bit of noise to the otherwise peaceful surroundings, it didn’t take away from the excitement. As we crossed paths with other boats, the turbulence created by their wake sent ripples through the water, causing our boat to gently rock and shake. The experience was surprisingly fun—adding an element of thrill to the serene adventure.
After nearly half an hour of riding, Coconut Island slowly emerges on the horizon, its silhouette evoking the tropical charm of a Goan island. The sight is striking, with coconut trees swaying gently in the breeze, creating a picture-perfect escape. This idyllic spot is a favorite among visitors, especially during the New Year, when people flock here for picnics, or even as a unique and stunning wedding destination.
Reaching the Island
Upon reaching the island, we carefully made our way to the shore, unloading our cooking utensils in anticipation of a meal by the water. The island was a bit crowded that day, and finding a peaceful spot to cook proved to be a challenge. After about 10 minutes of searching, we finally discovered a quiet corner where we could set up our cooking space and settle down to relax. Despite the bustle, the serene atmosphere of the island made it all worthwhile.
We quickly got to work, dividing the tasks among ourselves to make the process smooth and efficient. Some of us took on the job of cutting vegetables, while others went to fetch fresh water from a nearby source. A few set up the gas stove and prepared the cooking area, ensuring everything was ready for a delicious meal. The teamwork made the whole experience fun and lively, as we worked together in the midst of the island’s natural beauty.
Hearty Meal
We prepared a delicious spread, starting with chicken and potato curry, complemented by a flavorful mixed vegetable fry. To make the meal even more authentic, we also cooked Godak, a spicy smashed vegetable dish with fermented fish, and Laiphang Chakhwi, a unique Tripuri specialty made from banana stem, rice flour, and soda.
By the time we finished cooking, it was already past 2 PM, and the sun began to dip lower in the sky. We quickly set the mat, eager to serve our meal before the daylight faded. The air was filled with the aromas of our hard work, and the feast felt like the perfect reward for the day’s adventure.
After enjoying our hearty meal, we cleaned up the cooking area and took some time to explore the surroundings. We wandered around the island, savoring the freshly plucked berries and admiring the natural beauty.
Wooden Log Cabin
As we explored the resort, we were struck by the unique wooden log cabins, each one crafted with intricate design and painted a warm brown color. The large glass windows allowed sunlight to flood the rooms, while each cabin boasted a private balcony, offering stunning views of the lake. Each cabin had a distinct name such as Raima, Saima, Gomati, adding to the charm and character of the resort. Its serene beauty and secluded atmosphere make it the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.
Activity
For adventure enthusiasts, a jet ski ride at Dumbur Lake is an absolute must-try! The adrenaline-pumping experience lets you glide across the shimmering waters, with the rider taking you on 2 to 3 thrilling rounds around the lake. Each ride costs just ₹400 per adult, making it an affordable way to add a dash of excitement to your visit. The combination of speed, splashes, and scenic beauty makes jet skiing a highlight of any trip to Dumbur Lake!
The Sunset
The sunset view from this spot was nothing short of magical. The golden hues of the setting sun cast a warm glow over the distant hills and swaying coconut trees, while the resting boats along the shore added a serene charm to the scene. The sunlight danced on the water’s surface, creating a mesmerizing glittering effect that felt like nature’s own masterpiece. As I stood there soaking at the moment, I captured the perfect photo—one that will forever remind me of this tranquil paradise and the beauty of the day.
The Return
After our hearty meal and the soul-stirring sunset, we made our way back to the boats. As we embarked on the return journey, I couldn’t help but admire the boatmen’s skill in managing the water traffic in the growing darkness. Using a combination of whistles and torchlight signals, they coordinated with remarkable precision.
Each torch signal had a specific meaning, creating a fascinating system of communication that ensured smooth navigation even in the dark. Watching this interplay of light and sound was both intriguing and impressive, adding a unique touch to the end of our adventure.
As we arrived back at the starting shore, we packed up our belongings and made our way to the car, ready to head home. The day had been nothing short of magical—a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cherished moments.
This journey to Dumbur Lake will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I’m thrilled to share it with all of you.
Thank you for joining me on this memorable escape through my words.
I hope you enjoyed reading about this enchanting destination as much as I loved experiencing it. Until the next adventure, stay inspired and keep exploring!