Jewel of the Shivaliks
District
Sirmaur
Sirmaur district is located in the Outer Himalayas, commonly known as the Shivalik Range. It is bounded by Shimla district in the north, Uttarakhand in the east, Haryana in the south, and Solan district in the north-west. The district is characterized by scenic landscapes, a pleasant climate, and numerous historically and religiously significant sites that attract tourists.
About Sirmaur
Land of Fossils,
Faith & Frontier
Shivalik Heartland
The district is predominantly mountainous and rural in nature, with nearly 90% of its population residing
in villages. Nahan serves as the district headquarters. Culturally, Sirmaur forms part of the Mahasu
region. The district also holds historical significance as the birthplace of Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar,
the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.
Economy & Local Life
The economy of Sirmaur district is primarily agrarian, supported by agriculture, horticulture, and industrial development.
Agriculture and Horticulture
Over 80% of the population is dependent on agriculture and allied activities. Major crops include ginger,
garlic, apples, and off-season vegetables, which are also exported to other regions.
Industrial Development
The district has two प्रमुख industrial hubs at Paonta Sahib and Kala Amb. These areas host manufacturing
units, pharmaceutical industries, and cement plants, contributing significantly to employment and revenue
generation.
Tourism and Allied Activities
Tourism contributes to the local economy due to the district’s religious sites, natural beauty, and heritage
locations. Agro-based industries also play a supportive role in economic development.
Major Tourist Attractions
Nahan
Nahan town, founded by Raja Karam Prakash in 1621, is known for its historical significance and
well-planned layout. It features several temples, water tanks, and the historic palace located in the
heart of the town. Scenic walking routes such as Villa Round, Military Round, and Hospital Round offer
panoramic views. Ranital Bagh is a प्रमुख recreational spot.
Jaitak Fort
Constructed by Gurkha leader Ranjor Singh Thapa, Jaitak Fort holds historical importance as the site
of battles between the Gurkhas and the British. It offers commanding views of the surrounding hills
and valleys.
Shivalik Fossil Park (Saketi)
Located in the Markanda Valley, this park has been developed by the Geological Survey of India in
collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh Government. It preserves fossilized remains of prehistoric
animals dating back 1 to 2.5 million years. The park includes life-size models and a museum, making it
an important site for scientific, educational, and recreational purposes.
Haripur Dhar
Haripur Dhar is a prominent hilltop destination featuring a historic fort built by the rulers of the
erstwhile Sirmaur State. The area is known for its natural beauty and nearby wildlife sanctuary.
Sacred Sirmaur
Major Temples
Temples and sacred lakes that reflect faith, legends and timeless devotion.
Churdhar Temple
11,965 ft Altitude
Churdhar Temple
Situated at Churdhar Peak at an elevation of approximately 11,965 feet, this temple is dedicated to Lord
Shiva (Chooreshwar Mahadev) and is associated with Shri Shirgul Maharaj. It is accessible via trekking
routes from Nohradhar and Sarahan (Chopal).
Renuka Ji Temple & Lake
Sacred Lake
Renuka Ji Temple & Lake
Renuka Ji is one of the most important religious and tourist destinations in the district, located about
40 km from Nahan. The lake, with a circumference of approximately 2.4 km, is associated with the legend of
Parashurama and his mother Renuka. It attracts thousands of pilgrims, especially during Kartik Ekadashi.
Boating and surrounding natural beauty add to its appeal.
Trilokpur Temple
Built 1573 AD
Trilokpur Temple
Located about 24 km south-west of Nahan, Trilokpur is famous for the temple of Goddess Bala Sundri, built
by Raja Dip Prakash in 1573. The site is considered highly sacred and attracts large numbers of devotees.
Biannual fairs are held during the months of Chaitra and Ashwin.
Major Products of District Sirmaur
Himflavours
Himflavours collaborates with local farmers, artisans, and women self-help groups to promote traditional and region-specific products.
The district is known for agricultural produce such as ginger, garlic, and off-season vegetables.
Horticultural products, including apples, are cultivated in suitable areas.
Agro-based and value-added products are promoted to enhance farmers’ income.
Local produce is processed and marketed to support sustainable livelihoods and rural entrepreneurship.
These initiatives contribute to strengthening the rural economy while preserving the traditional agricultural practices of the district
