In a groundbreaking move, Jharkhand has become the first Indian state to introduce mining tourism, blending its industrial legacy with a unique travel experience. On Monday, July 21, 2025, Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced the launch of this pioneering project, developed in collaboration with Coal India subsidiary Central Coalfields Limited (CCL).
This initiative marks a significant shift in how Jharkhand plans to showcase its mineral-rich identity.
"Jharkhand has been known as a mining state. We have taken the first step towards mining tourism in the state with CCL. Now, the mining sector is open for tourists, common men and educational groups," said Tourism Minister Sudivya Kumar, highlighting the state’s move to democratize access to its industrial past.
A Vision Inspired by Global Mining Heritage
The announcement came shortly after CM Soren visited the Gava Museum of Mines in Barcelona, where he explored ancient mining techniques and relics from the Neolithic era. The visit inspired the state to envision a unique tourism experience—turning its rich mineral heritage (which accounts for 40 percent of India’s total minerals) into a compelling travel narrative.
Through this innovative project, Jharkhand aims to bring its tourism offerings to new heights while simultaneously encouraging sustainable tourism, conserving its cultural heritage and boosting economic growth in the state.
From MoU to Mining Experience
The Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation (JTDC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CCL to bring this vision to life, making coal mines and mining equipment accessible for public and academic tours.
“After three rounds of meetings with the minister and his team, the MoU was inked today. We will open more mines in future for the mining tourism circuit,” said CCL CMD Nilendu Kumar Singh, expressing gratitude to the state.
What Visitors Can Expect
The initiative will kick off with a pilot project at the North Urimari (Birsa) open-cast coal mine in Ramgarh district. Tours will run twice a week, with 10–20 visitors per group.
“Depending on the response and feedback, it will be expanded to other sites in due course,” said JTDC Managing Director Prem Ranjan.
Tourists can choose between two curated routes:
1. Rajrappa Route (Rs 2,800 + GST): Includes visits to Chinnamastika Temple and Patratu Valley.
2. Patratu Route (Rs 2,500 + GST): Covers Prayatan Vihar, followed by the coal mine experience.
Both packages include lunch and a guided exploration of mining operations, equipment, and safety protocols.
Eco and Religious Tourism Circuits in the Pipeline
To enrich the experience, the state plans to develop three interconnected circuits:
- Eco-Mining Circuit-1
- Eco-Mining Circuit-2
- Religious Tourism Circuit
These routes will merge industrial heritage with natural attractions like Palani Falls and Patratu Valley, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and education. The initiative also includes repurposing abandoned mines into experiential learning zones, thereby creating local jobs and reviving dormant economic sites.
Kumar also shared plans to collaborate with Bharat Coking Coal Limited to develop an additional circuit.
More Than Tourism: A Model for Inclusive Growth
This one-of-a-kind project aims to be more than just a tourism draw. It is envisioned as a catalyst for employment generation, community upliftment, and sustainable economic development.
By promoting the mining processes, the coal mines and the equipment, this theme park does not only aim to bring in tourists, but also generate a large number of jobs for the local guy in the street.
While revenue figures are yet to be estimated, officials remain hopeful.
“The project is just beginning. So, we have not made any estimation over economic point of view… we expect that the mining tourism would prove to be a great success in days to come,” said Ranjan.
(With inputs from PTI)
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