Bankabal Dam

Bankabal Dam is an irrigation dam located near Bankabal village in Bijatala block of Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. Built across the Khadkhai River, a tributary of the Budhabalanga, it creates a reservoir surrounded by forested hills and rural landscape. The dam is primarily used for irrigation and water conservation, while also serving as a quiet picnic and sightseeing spot for local visitors seeking natural scenery and reservoir views.

Visitors can expect a rural dam and reservoir set amid low forested hills and agricultural fields near Bijatala. The site offers views of the earthen dam structure, the water reservoir, and the Khadkhai River valley. There is open space along the embankment for walking, sightseeing and photography. The surroundings are quiet and natural, with limited commercial development, suitable for picnics and short nature visits during daylight hours.

Bankabal Dam was constructed as part of irrigation infrastructure in Mayurbhanj district to harness the Khadkhai River, a tributary of the Budhabalanga River, for agricultural irrigation, water conservation and seasonal flood moderation in Bijatala and adjoining blocks.