Bilaspur: General Information

Amidst the huge, gigantic peaks of Himachal Pradesh rests the cultural conurbation, Bilaspur. The town is blessed with picturesque beauty in plenty. Believed to be founded in 1663, Bilaspur is the first planned hill town of the country. The hill town is stationed on the boulevards of river Satluj. The Charm of this district provides the experience of an indispensable beauty in the lap of the nature.

Bhakra Dam in Bilaspur holds the distinction of being one of the highest gravity dams in the world. The dam was the vision and mission of our 1st Prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Bhakra dam is the world’s biggest multi-utility project and is the source of irrigation and electricity for millions. The dam is also responsible for the creation of the most beautiful lake in Himachal Pradesh, Gobind Sagar Lake. The eye-catching Gobind Sagar lake is famous for sightseeing, adventure activities, recreational fun, etc. The lake is a treat for nature lovers and adventure junkies.

Another worthy aspect is the wildlife of the district which is truly amazing and home to some endangered animals like Panther, Wolf, Chausinga, Sambar, Hyena, Sloth bear, Nilgai, Chinkara and wild boar. One can see all these animals on the bank of Gobind Sagar lake. In 1962, the lake was even recognized as the ‘waterfowl refuge.’

Nearby Bilaspur there are many sacred temples and caves. Vyasa Cave, the pious point where Saint Vyasa meditated is one of the famous tourist spots of Bilaspur. It is also said the name of the city (Bilaspur) has been derived from the name of the cave itself. Markandeya Ji and Naina Devi Temple are the two other important temples of Bilaspur. Naina Devi temple is one of the most significant ‘Shakti Peeths’ of India and was built by Raja Bir Chand. It is belived that the Goddess Sati’s eyes fall here, and consequently the temple was built. Within the vicinity of the district of Bilaspur, there are some famous contributions of Raja Bir Chand namely Sariun Fort and Kotkahlur Fort.

Adventure ActivitiesGovind Sagar reservoir in Bilaspur is the place to be for all the water sports lovers. Between the months of January and August, water sports activities like swimming, surfing, water-skiing, kayaking, rowing, canoeing, white water river rafting are organized here.

Where to stayOn a trip to Bilaspur, tourist can find some deluxe and medium budget accommodations. Hotel Lake View (HPTDC), Hotel Panchwati (NH21), and Neelam Hotel (Main market) are some of the easily accessible hotels.

Where to Eat:Sikhar Restaurant (National Highway 21), banarasi juice centre (bus stand road), pine valley restaurant (National Highway 21) and hill view restaurant (National Highway 21) are some of the best places to enjoy food in Bilaspur.

Weather and ClimateWinters (October to March): 19°C to 32°C
Summers (April to September): 22°C-38°C
Best time to Visit: July to September

How to Reach

By Airways: Nearest airport is Shimla Airport which is located at a distance of 86 km Second major airport is in Chandigarh which is 141 km away. It is well connected to the major cities like Amritsar, New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Goa, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and Leh.

By Railways: The nearest railway station is Kiratpur Sahib Railway Station which is located at a distance of 65 Kms from Bilaspur. It is well connected to major cities like New Delhi, Chandigarh, Manali, Kullu and Shimla etc.

By Roadways: Tourist busses and taxis are available from every city of Himachal Pradesh. Nearest places from Bilaspur are: