Bilaspur Tourism

Bilaspur is a city in Bilaspur District of Chhattisgarh. It is located 111 km north of the state capital, Raipur. Bilaspur is the second-largest city in the state. It is the administrative headquarters of Bilaspur District. Because of the location of Chhattisgarh State High Court here, Bilaspur is also known as the law capital or 'Nyayadhani' of the state. Bilaspur is well-known for its aromatic Doobraj rice, soft and colorful hand loom woven Kosa silk saris besides its rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Brief History of Bilaspur

Bilaspur has an important contribution in its naming as the Rice Bowl (‘Dhan Ka Katora’) of the entire Chhattisgarh region. Bilaspur is about 400 years old. Some historical records say that the city was named after a fisherwoman called ‘Bilasa’ . The city was historically a part of the Kalchuri dynasty of Ratanpur. It came into prominence around 1741 during the rule of Maratha Empire. The British Government took over the management of Bilaspur district in 1818.The city was then taken over by the British East India Company in 1854 from the then ruler of the region, Bhosale of the Nagpur kingdom that came under the Maratha Empire.The Bilaspur district was formed in 1861 and was followed by Bilaspur municipality in 1867. Bilaspur got access to the railways in the decade of 1880-90 with the arrival of Bengal Nagpur Railway. After the formation of Chhattisgarh state in the year 2000 by Madhya Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2000, Bilaspur has emerged steadily as a highly favorable place to reside in the state. For More Click Here

Geography of Bilaspur

Bilaspur district is situated in the eastern part of Chhattisgarh. It covers a total area of approximately 6,377 Sq km. The total population of Bilaspur district is about 1,993,042.The district has been recently divided into New Bilaspur, Korba and Janjgir-Champa. It is surrounded by Korba on the north and east, Anuppur and Dindori districts of Madhya Pradesh state in the west, Kawardha on the southwest and Durg and Raipur are on the south. For More Click Here

Places to Visit In and Around Bilaspur

Bilaspur is fast becoming a popular tourist destination. The region is rich in history and natural beauty. Tourists will be delighted to explore the various architectural edifices of historical importance and wildlife. Bilaspur would be a pleasant surprise for travelers as it has something for everyone. The region in and around Bilaspur has plenty to attract tourists of diverse interests and tastes of almost the entire spectrum. It boasts of exotic landscapes and artifacts from a glorious past on display. A wide range of artifacts dating back to 5000 BC have been found in the Bilaspur region. Ancient cave paintings, forts, temples, statues and idols and coins, they have all been found here. The state government is stepping up efforts to improve the tourism related infrastructure of Bilaspur.


The calm and scenic surroundings of Vivekanand Udyaan and Deendayal Udyaan are ideal for spending pleasurable time in the evenings. Smriti Van or Memorial Park is another favourite spot for its beautiful park, flora and water bodies.The wildlife at display in Kaanan Pendari Zoo and the intriguing Energy Park will attract the young as well as the old. For those spiritual inclined, an evening at Ramkrishna Ashram would turn out to be well-spent. The Chhat Puja Ghat of Arpa River is another nice pace to spend time while in the city. Some other well-known places in Bilaspur city good to hang out at are Bilasa Taal, Subhash Udyaan as well as the Bandhwapara Lake and fountain.

Ratanpur near Bilaspur

The old capital of Chhattisgarh state, Ratanpur, is located around 25 km away from Bilaspur headquarters on Katghora Road. It is home to the architectural marvel called Mahamaya Temple. There is an old fort still in good condition besides an attractive old sculpture carved on stone over the frame of Ganesha gate. On entrance one can have glimpses of the Tandav Dance of Lord Shiva and statues of Brahma and Vishnu.

Malhar near Bilaspur

Visited by Xuanzang, the Chinese historian, centuries back, Malhar is a site of historical significance.
It is about 14 km away from Masturi block on the Bilaspur- Raigarh route. Historical remains dating back to 1000 BC have been found here. Temples as old as 10th and 11th century have stood the test of time here. The Pataleshwar Kedar temple is one of them. The Gaumukhi Shivling is the main attraction here. Another noteworthy attraction is the Didneswari temple. One can admire artistic idols at the Deor temple. There is a museum here having an impressive collection of old sculpture being managed by Central Government as present.

Amarkantak near Bilaspur

Amarkantak is a popular tourist destination for its religious importance. The holy rivers Narmada and Son originate from here. It is located 140 km away from Bilaspur. It is accessible both by road and train. One can also visit Narmada Mai ka Mandir, Narmada Kund and Mai ka Bagia around this place. There are two beautiful waterfalls here named Dudhdhara and Kapildhara.

Khuntaghat near Bilaspur

Khuntaghat is a dam situated 37 km from Bilaspur. It is built on Kharoon River and used for irrigation of the whole region.
The dam is one of the most popular picnic spot and is visited by tourists and visitors throughout the year. The dam also is known as a perfect venue for hosting various adventure sports and other recreational events. Surrounded by lush green beauty it is home to various avian fauna that visit the region especially during breeding time.

Lafagarh near Bilaspur

Lafagarh is famous for its historical significance. It was the original capital of Kalchuri kings. Lafagarh is known as the 'Chittaurgarh of Chhattisgarh'. It features a fort on the highest peak of Maikal Mountain. The origin of Jatashankar River can be spotted here.

Talagram near Bilaspur

Talagram is famous for Deorani-Jethani temple. It is situated about. 25 km from Bilaspur on Bhojpur-Dagori road. Another name of Talagram is Ameri-kapa gram. The temple has a wonderful statue weighing around 8 tons. This statue attracts visitors from all around the world. It has been unnamed for several years now.

Belpan near Bilaspur

It is located about 11 km from Takhatpur. It is known for a big pond (kund) and samadhi.

Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve

Besides having places related to its rich and ancient cultural heritage, Bilaspur is also well-known for its diverse wildlife. Bilaspur is known to have some of the densest forests in the country. It has an even spread of hills and rivers. When in Bilaspur, the Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary here is a must-visit. Spread over an area of 551 sq. km., this sanctuary was set up in 1975 under the Wildlife Protection Act. The sanctuary is 55 km away from Bilaspur. It is closed during the monsoon season. Those with a taste for adventure will relish experiencing the thrills of exploring this tiger reserve of Bilaspur.


The presence of guar (Indian Bison) and tigers have been sighted multiple times by visitors. Other animals inhabiting this sanctuary are the leopard, chital, striped hyena, panthera, canis, sloth bear, nilgai, sambar deer, chinkara and the Indian four-horned antelope. Private taxi operators can be contacted for organizing trips to the sanctuary.

There are Government Guest Houses on the way to Amarkantak in Achanakmar, Keonchi and Lamni. Accommodation in these guest houses can be booked with governmental officials in the district headquarters. The guest houses are well built with good arrangements. The forest guest house at Lamni was built by the then British Officials in June 1913. It is 1850 feet above sea level.

How to Reach Bilaspur ?

Bilaspur is the zonal headquarters of South East Central Railway. It is an important Railway Station on the Mumbai - Howrah route and thus connected to all major towns of India. Bilaspur is situated on National Highway 200 from Raipur (Chhattisgarh) to Chandikhol (Orissa).The Bilaspur airport is currently in use for private and chartered flights. Until regular commercial flights start from here, the nearest commercial airport is about 100 km away in Raipur.

Where to Stay in Bilaspur ?

While traveling to Bilaspur you do not have to worry about staying as there are numerous accommodation option available in the city. You have to choose from the wide range of staying option available. You can opt to stay either in luxury hotel or budget hotel depending upon your budget. Some of the options available are mentioned below.

Hotel Shiva International
Address: Opposite Lions Club, CMD Chowk, Link Road, Bilaspur (Chhatisgarh) - 495001
Phone: 07752- 419431

Hotel East Park
Address: Agrasen Chowk, Bilaspur Ho, Bilaspur (Chhatisgarh) - 495001
Phone: 0772- 428999

Hotel Aananda Imperial
Address: Beside Om Heights Apartment, Vyapar Vihar Road, Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh) - 495001
Phone: 07752- 425555

Hotel Intercity International
Address: Jagmal Chowk, Bilaspur HO, Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh) - 495001
Phone: 07752- 409414

Hotel Mahua
Address: Near Bus Stand Road, Telipara, Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh) - 495001
Phone: 07752- 410714

Travel Tips to Bilaspur

Travel smart and keep the following tips in mind before starting your journey. Following tips will help you in remaining safe and secured in busy yet beautiful city of Bilaspur.
1. Book your hotel rooms in advance.
2. Carry maps and photo ID proof.
3. Carry medicines.
4. Keep the emergency numbers handy.

Shopping in Bilaspur

Bilaspur is a city at one with its culture and heritage. Although new malls and shopping complexes are coming up, the items produced by Bilaspur and the entire state's natives are worth keeping. Tourists will find plenty of options to choose from to take home as souvenirs. The local memorabilia include handicrafts which are available in Khadi Bhawan. Kosa silk saris and cloth are also available in Sadar Bazaar.

Local Transportation in Bilaspur

The Bilaspur City Bus Ltd. runs buses on four routes across the length and breadth of the city. It is a popular mode of transport among the city's commuters. Services on 3 new routes will be implemented soon.Other forms of public transport available for moving within the city are cycle-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, tongas (horse-carts) and private taxis.Cycle-rickshaws are generally available from anywhere in the city. They are the most accessible form of public transport. Auto-rickshaws are available at prominent locations in the city like the railway station, bus stand, main chowks and offices.


Some auto-rickshaws also ply between the main locations on share basis.Though the number of tongas plying in the city are going down, they can still be spotted running on the trunk routes in the city. They generally take passengers on share-a-ride basis. Private taxis can also be availed. One can book them in advance through any of the taxi operators in town. They can also be hired from their standing places near bus stand etc.