Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh – The Lake Town of the Hills

Bilaspur, a charming town in Himachal Pradesh, is often called the “Lake Town of the Hills” because of its stunning location near the man-made Govind Sagar Lake. Situated on the banks of the Satluj River, Bilaspur is a gateway to many destinations in Himachal, including Manali, Dharamshala, and Kinnaur. Known for its serene landscapes, temples, fairs, and water-based adventure activities, Bilaspur is a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

History of Bilaspur

Bilaspur has an interesting history that dates back several centuries. The town was once the capital of the princely state of Kahlur, founded by Raja Bir Chand in the 7th century. However, the original town of Bilaspur was submerged under the waters of Govind Sagar Lake after the construction of the Bhakra Nangal Dam in the 1950s. The present Bilaspur is a newly planned township, established on higher ground to replace the old one.

How to Reach Bilaspur

Bilaspur is well connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible for tourists from nearby states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport, about 135 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available to Bilaspur. The Shimla Airport (124 km away) is another option but has limited connectivity.

• By Train: The closest major railway station is Kiratpur Sahib (83 km). Another option is Una (122 km), from where you can take a taxi or bus.

• By Road: Bilaspur is well-connected by roads and national highways. Regular Himachal Road Transport (HRTC) and private buses operate from Delhi (around 360 km), Chandigarh (135 km), and Shimla (124 km).

Best Time to Visit Bilaspur

Bilaspur enjoys pleasant weather most of the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• Summer (March to June): Ideal for sightseeing, water sports, and temple visits.

• Monsoon (July to September): The region receives heavy rainfall, making it lush and green, though travel may be challenging.

• Autumn (October to November): Perfect weather with clear skies and stunning views of the lake.

• Winter (December to February): Cold and crisp, but enjoyable, especially for those who love hill station vibes.

Most tourists prefer visiting between March–June and October–November.

Attractions in Bilaspur

1. Govind Sagar Lake
   Formed by the Bhakra Dam, this vast man-made lake is the main attraction of Bilaspur. It offers boating, fishing, and breathtaking sunset views. The lake also supports water sports like sailing, kayaking, and rowing.

2. Bhakra Nangal Dam
   One of the highest gravity dams in the world, this engineering marvel is located near Bilaspur. Surrounded by beautiful hills and forests, the dam is a must-visit site.

3. Naina Devi Temple
   Situated atop a hill around 60 km from Bilaspur, this temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of India. Pilgrims climb the hill or take a cable car to reach the temple and enjoy panoramic views of the Govind Sagar Lake.

4. Kandrour Bridge
   Built across the Satluj River, this suspension bridge is one of the highest in Asia and a great spot for photography.

5. Markandeya Rishi Temple
   A sacred site dedicated to Rishi Markandeya, it is a peaceful spot surrounded by natural beauty.

6. Vyas Gufa (Vyas Cave)
   Believed to be the meditation place of Sage Vyas, who wrote the Mahabharata, this cave has great mythological significance.

7. Swarghat
   A small hilltop destination on the Chandigarh–Manali highway, Swarghat is known for its panoramic views and peaceful surroundings.

Fairs and Festivals in Bilaspur

Bilaspur is famous for the Nalwari Fair, held every March. This traditional fair, with cultural performances, cattle trading, and folk dances, showcases the vibrant Himachali culture. Tourists visiting during this time get to witness the town in its most colorful form.

Where to Stay in Bilaspur

Bilaspur has a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays catering to different budgets.

• Luxury & Mid-Range Hotels: Hotels like Swan Regency and Hotel Lake View offer comfortable stays with modern amenities.

• Budget Stays: Guesthouses and budget hotels are available near the main town and around Govind Sagar Lake.

• Homestays: Local Himachali families offer warm hospitality and delicious traditional food, giving travelers a homely experience.

Food in Bilaspur

The cuisine of Bilaspur reflects Himachali flavors. Local dishes like siddu, madra, dham, and babru are must-try foods. You’ll also find North Indian and Tibetan food in local dhabas and restaurants. Don’t miss enjoying tea with a view of the lake.

Travel Tips for Bilaspur

• Carry light woolens in summer and heavy jackets in winter.

• Respect local traditions, especially when visiting temples.

• Always check weather updates during the monsoon.

• Keep cash handy, as digital payments may not work everywhere.

Conclusion

Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, may not be as popular as Manali or Dharamshala, but it has its own unique charm. With its beautiful lake, spiritual temples, cultural festivals, and historical importance, the town offers a peaceful yet enriching travel experience. Whether you’re a pilgrim, a nature lover, or someone seeking an offbeat destination, Bilaspur will leave you with unforgettable memories of the hills.