District
Bilaspur
Bilaspur district, formerly known as Kahlur State, is regarded as the first planned hill town of Himachal Pradesh. The district headquarters, Bilaspur town, is situated at the foothills of the Bandla Hills along the left bank of the Sutlej River. It lies on the Chandigarh–Manali National Highway, making it an important transit point in the region.
About Bilaspur
City Beneath the Lake,
Town Above the Dam
Himachal's First Planned Hill Town
The original historic town of Bilaspur was submerged following the construction of the Bhakra Dam on the
Sutlej River, which led to the formation of the Gobind Sagar Lake, one of the largest man-made reservoirs
in India. The district is rich in limestone deposits, supporting a well-established cement industry.
Additionally, the presence of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Kothipura has
enhanced the district’s importance as a regional healthcare hub.
Economy & Local Life
The economy of Bilaspur district is primarily agrarian, with significant contributions from industry, fisheries, and animal husbandry.
Agriculture and Horticulture
Agriculture is a major occupation, with crops such as maize, wheat, and ginger widely cultivated.
Industrial Sector
The district has a strong industrial base, particularly in cement manufacturing, supported by abundant
limestone resources.
Fisheries
Fisheries play an important role in the local economy. Deoli village hosts one of Asia’s largest fish
breeding farms, contributing significantly to fish production and employment.
Animal Husbandry
Livestock rearing provides supplementary income to rural households.
Major Tourist Destinations
Waters, Wonders & Sacred Caves
Engineering marvels, mythological sanctuaries and the shimmering Gobind Sagar.
Bhakra Dam
Constructed between 1955 and 1962, the Bhakra Dam is one of the highest gravity dams in the world. It
was developed to address water scarcity and support irrigation and power generation. The dam continues
to supply water and electricity to several northern states.
Gobind Sagar Lake
Formed as a result of the Bhakra Dam, this man-made reservoir is named after Guru Gobind Singh. It
serves as a vital resource for irrigation and hydropower and is also a popular destination for tourism
activities such as boating, fishing, and bird watching.
Vyas Gufa
Located on the banks of the Sutlej River, this site is believed to be the cave where Sage Vyas
composed the Mahabharata. It holds religious and historical significance.
Sacred Bilaspur
Major Temples and Religious Sites
Hilltop Shakti Peethas, sacred springs and ruins that rise from the waters.
Shri Naina Devi Temple
Shakti Peetha · 1177 m Altitude
Shri Naina Devi Temple
This prominent shrine is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and is considered one of the major Shakti Peethas
in India. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,177 metres, it is believed to be the place where the
eyes of Goddess Sati fell.
Markandey Temple
Sacred Spring · Near Jukhala
Markandey Temple
Dedicated to Sage Markandeya, this temple is located near Jukhala and is known for its sacred water
spring.
Submerged Temples
Visible in Summer · Gobind Sagar
Submerged Temples
During periods of low water levels in the Gobind Sagar Lake, remnants of ancient temples from the old
Bilaspur town become visible, offering a glimpse into the region’s submerged heritage.
Major Products of District Bilaspur
Himflavours
Himflavours collaborates with local farmers, artisans, and self-help groups to promote district-specific products and value-added produce.
Agricultural produce such as maize, wheat, and ginger forms the backbone of the rural economy.
Fish and fisheries-based products are significant due to the presence of large reservoirs and fish farms.
Dairy and livestock products contribute to household incomes.
Industrial products, particularly cement, play a major role in the district’s economic profile.
These initiatives support livelihood generation, promote local resources, and contribute to the sustainable development of the district.
