Jamshedpur: The Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, long known for its serene green valleys and rich elephant habitat, is set to transform into a major adventure tourism destination in Jharkhand. In the new year, Dalma is poised to add a landmark chapter to the state’s tourism map with the construction of Jharkhand’s first glass bridge and hanging restaurant, at an estimated cost of ₹100 crore.
Amid the silence of nature, the sound of adventure will soon echo through Dalma’s hills, offering visitors a unique blend of thrill, luxury, and natural beauty.
Sharing details of the ambitious project, Dalma DFO Saba Alam Ansari said the glass bridge will be developed on the lines of the Rajgir Glass Bridge in Bihar and the internationally renowned Hangzhou Glass Bridge in China. The transparent bridge will be constructed near the ancient Shiva temple at the Dalma hilltop.
The proposal for the ₹100-crore Dalma tourism project is pending approval. It has been sent to the forest department headquarters for approval. Once cleared, construction work will begin immediately. The goal is to develop Dalma into an international-standard tourist destination, ensuring visitors leave with unforgettable memories, the DFO added.
The proposed bridge will be around 200 feet long, connecting two hilltops with a deep gorge below. Walking on the transparent glass surface will give tourists the sensation of walking in mid-air, making it one of the most thrilling attractions in eastern India.
Designed as a fusion of engineering excellence and natural harmony, the glass bridge will offer a 360-degree panoramic view of Dalma’s dense forests and surrounding landscapes.
Adding to the excitement, a hanging restaurant—the first of its kind in Jharkhand—will be developed near the glass bridge. Built adjacent to the hilltop structure, the restaurant will be suspended at a height of 35 to 100 feet above the ground, offering diners a dramatic experience.
According to the DFO, the hanging restaurant will combine luxury dining with adventure, allowing visitors to enjoy gourmet food while soaking in breathtaking views of the forest canopy below—an experience comparable to scenes from an adventure film.
Alongside adventure tourism, the project also focuses on visitor comfort. Many tourists visiting Dalma wish to stay overnight, but limited accommodation has been a challenge. To address this, the department has approved the construction of 30 modern, eco-friendly cottages at a separate cost of ₹12 crore.
These nature-friendly cottages will allow visitors to experience the tranquility of the forest, far from urban noise, while ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
The project is expected to bring significant changes to local livelihoods and employment opportunities. DFO Saba Alam Ansari said increased tourist footfall will raise demand for local products, benefiting nearby villages.
Currently, locals earn a living by selling leaf plates (dona-pattal), mahua pickle, and souvenirs such as T-shirts. With world-class tourism infrastructure in place, new employment opportunities will open up for local youth, boosting income levels and strengthening the regional economy.
