Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh

Bilaspur is a historic town that has gone through several phases of governance and changes over the centuries. It was initially the capital of a state named Kahlur, founded in the 7th century by the Chandel Rajputs, who traced their lineage to the rulers of Chanderi in present-day Madhya Pradesh.

In 1663, the town of Bilaspur was founded, and it later became a princely state under British India’s authority, falling under the jurisdiction of the Punjab province. One of the notable events that occurred in Bilaspur was the visit of Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1665. Rani Champa of Bilaspur offered a piece of land to the Guru, which he accepted and named Nanaki after his mother. This settlement became an important Sikh pilgrimage site and is now known as Anandpur Sahib.

In 1932, Bilaspur became a part of the newly created Punjab States Agency and was later separated from it in 1936 to become a part of the Punjab Hill States Agency. In 1948, the local ruler, Raja Sir Anand Chand, the last ruler of the Chandel dynasty, acceded to the Government of India, and Bilaspur became a separate state under a chief commissioner.

However, on July 1, 1954, Bilaspur State was made a district of Himachal Pradesh by an act of the Indian Parliament. The construction of the Govind Sagar Dam on the Sutlej River led to the historic town of Bilaspur being submerged, and a new town was built on higher ground.

Today, Bilaspur is an important district in the state of Himachal Pradesh, with a rich cultural heritage and history. It attracts visitors from all over the world, who come to explore its ancient temples, shrines, and other landmarks that reflect its glorious past.

Geography & Climate

Bilaspur is located in the northern part of India at coordinates 31.33°N 76.75°E. It has an average elevation of 673 m (2,208 ft) and is situated at the foot of the Bandla Hills. The town is positioned along the left bank of the river Sutlej, which forms a picturesque landscape due to the creation of the Govind Sagar Dam on it. Bilaspur is the first major town that one encounters while entering Himachal Pradesh en route to Manali.

The climate of Bilaspur is characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Due to its location in a valley, the town is protected from the temperature extremes of the surrounding mountains. The monsoon season lasts from July to September and brings high rainfall to the region. From October to November, the lake created by the Govind Sagar Dam is completely full. The hottest months of the year are May and June, with temperatures typically around 37 °C (99 °F) and 38 °C (100 °F) and occasionally exceeding 40 °C (104 °F).

Culture & Heritage

The district of Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its vibrant fairs and festivals, which form an integral part of the local cultural heritage. A sense of community and social discipline is evident in the way these festivals are celebrated throughout the year. Some of the major fairs and festivals observed in Bilaspur are listed below.

Nalwari Fair is a four-five day-long annual cattle fair held in Bilaspur town in March or April. People from neighboring areas of Punjab and Nalagarh bring their cattle to the fair, where they are decorated and sold. Wrestling and other fun activities take place during the fair, attracting large crowds of visitors from far and wide.

Shivrari Fair is another important festival held at Shri Naina Devi Ji, a prominent place of worship in Bilaspur district. This temple witnesses a huge influx of pilgrims and devotees throughout the year, especially during the Navratras of Chaitra, Shravan, and Ashwin. A special fair is organized during these Navratras, which attracts millions of visitors from all over the country.

Other festivals celebrated in Bilaspur include Diwali, Dussehra, Holi, and Raksha Bandhan, among others. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and are a perfect reflection of the vibrant and diverse culture of the people of Bilaspur.

Activities in Bilaspur

Bilaspur offers a range of activities for tourists and locals alike. Here are some popular ones:

  • Visit the Govind Sagar Lake: The Govind Sagar Lake is a popular destination for tourists in Bilaspur. The lake offers boating facilities, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride while taking in the scenic views.
  • Attend the Nalwari Fair: The Nalwari Fair is one of the biggest events in Bilaspur and is held in March or April every year. Visitors can enjoy traditional wrestling, cultural performances, and other fun activities.
  • Explore the town: Bilaspur has a rich history and culture, and visitors can explore the town and learn about its heritage. Some of the popular landmarks include the Laxmi Narayan Temple, the Vyas Gufa, and the Ratanpur Fort.
  • Visit the Shri Naina Devi Ji temple: The Shri Naina Devi Ji temple is a significant religious site in Bilaspur and attracts a large number of pilgrims throughout the year. Visitors can attend the Navratri Fair held here during Chaitra, Shravan, and Ashwin months.
  • Go trekking: Bilaspur is surrounded by hills and offers some great trekking opportunities. Some popular trekking routes include the trek to the Kandrour Bridge and the trek to the Bandla Hills.
  • Enjoy local cuisine: Bilaspur is known for its delicious food, including the famous Choley Bhature and Madra. Visitors can explore local restaurants and street food stalls to indulge in some mouth-watering dishes.

Major Attractions in Bilaspur

Shimla, the capital of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular hill station and tourist destination. Here are some of the major attractions in Shimla that visitors can enjoy:

  • Naina Devi Temple: Naina Devi Temple is a famous Hindu temple located on a hilltop. It is dedicated to the goddess Naina Devi and is a popular pilgrimage site.
  • Bhakra Dam: Bhakra Dam is one of the highest gravity dams in the world. It is located on the Sutlej River and is a major source of hydroelectric power in the region.
  • Vyas Cave: Vyas Cave is a famous cave that is associated with the sage Vyas. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Vyas wrote the Mahabharata.
  • Rang Mahal: Rang Mahal is a beautiful palace that was built by Raja Umed Singh in the 18th century. It is known for its exquisite architecture and is a popular tourist spot.
  • Bachhretu Fort: Bachhretu Fort is a historic fort that was built in the 14th century. It is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kandrour Bridge: Kandrour Bridge is a historic bridge that was built in the 17th century. It is located on the Satluj River and is known for its beautiful architecture.
  • Markandeya Temple: Markandeya Temple is a famous temple that is dedicated to the sage Markandeya. It is located on a hilltop and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.

Overall, Bilaspur is a beautiful town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Staying in Bilaspur

Bilaspur offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors ranging from budget to luxury hotels. Here are some popular accommodation options in Bilaspur:

  • Hotel Lake View: Hotel Lake View is a popular budget hotel located near the Gobind Sagar Lake. It offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities at an affordable price.
  • Naina Resort: Naina Resort is a mid-range hotel located near the Naina Devi Temple. It offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities at a reasonable price.
  • Hotel Harsh: Hotel Harsh is a budget hotel located in the heart of Bilaspur. It offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities at an affordable price.
  • Hotel The Lake: Hotel The Lake is a popular luxury hotel located near the Gobind Sagar Lake. It offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and all modern amenities.
  • The Amara: The Amara is a luxury resort located in a serene location near the Gobind Sagar Lake. It offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, a spa, and all modern amenities.
  • Sunder Nagar Retreat: Sunder Nagar Retreat is a mid-range hotel located near the Sunder Nagar Lake. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities at a reasonable price.

These are just a few popular accommodation options in Bilaspur. Visitors can choose from a wide range of hotels and resorts based on their budget and preferences. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak season to avoid any inconvenience.

How To Get There

Bilaspur is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India and can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are the different ways to get to Bilaspur:

By Road

Bilaspur is well connected by road to various cities in North India. The town is located on National Highway 3, which connects it to major cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Bilaspur from these cities.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Bilaspur is Kiratpur Sahib Railway Station, which is approximately 57 km away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bilaspur.

By Air

The nearest airport to Bilaspur is the Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is approximately 85 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bilaspur.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bilaspur

What are some popular tourist attractions in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh?

Some popular tourist attractions in Bilaspur include Gobind Sagar Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Bhakra Dam, Vyas Cave, Rang Mahal, Bachhretu Fort, Kandrour Bridge, and Markandeya Temple.

What is the best time to visit Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh?

The best time to visit Bilaspur is during the months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. However, visitors can also plan a trip during the monsoon season to enjoy the lush green surroundings.

What is the nearest airport to Bilaspur?

The nearest airport to Bilaspur is the Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is approximately 85 km away.

Is Bilaspur safe for tourists?

Yes, Bilaspur is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is recommended to take normal precautions such as avoiding deserted areas at night, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of your surroundings.

What are some popular accommodation options in Bilaspur?

Some popular accommodation options in Bilaspur include Hotel Lake View, Naina Resort, Hotel Harsh, Hotel The Lake, The Amara, and Sunder Nagar Retreat. Visitors can choose from a wide range of hotels and resorts based on their budget and preferences.

District at a Glance

  • 31.33°N 76.75°E
  • India
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • 6522 Sq. Km.
  • 673 m (2,208 ft)
  • Bilaspuri, Himachali
  • 1591
  • 174001
  • 80%
  • UTC+05:30 (IST)