Bilaspur is a district located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, with its capital situated in the town of Bilaspur. The total area of the district is 1,167 square kilometers. Bilaspur District shares its northern border with Mandi and Hamirpur districts, while its western border is shared with Hamirpur and Una districts. The southern part of the district is adjacent to the 'Nalagarh' area of Solan district, while the eastern and southeastern parts of Bilaspur District are surrounded by 'Solan' and 'Mandi' districts.
Why was it is known as "Kehlur"?
One fine day, Kehlu, a Gurjar, was observing his goats grazing in the fields when he noticed that one of his goats was standing on a peculiar stone slab. Upon closer inspection, he saw that the leopard had attacked the goat thrice, but every time, the goat bravely repulsed the attack with her sharp horns, and finally, the leopard ran away in defeat.
Upon hearing about this miraculous incident, Bir Chand, immediately understood that there was something special about this stone slab. Upon further investigation, they found an idol of Goddess Durga beneath the stone slab.
In honor of this remarkable discovery, they built a fort at the site and named it Kot Kehlur after Kehlu Gurjar. Raja also began to reside there, and since then, Kehlur has been associated with Bilaspur.
The idol found at this place was highly revered, and it was consecrated at the Naina Devi temple as a mark of respect and devotion.
The Seven Hills of Bilaspur District
Bilaspur is known for its seven main ranges of hills, which have earned it the title of Satdhar Kahlur, meaning Kahlur of the seven hills. Each hill range has its own unique charm and historical significance, adding to the rich tapestry of Bilaspur's heritage. The hills surround Bilaspur district from all sides, dominating the local landscape. Together with the Satluj river, these hills have historically provided strong natural defenses.
The names of seven hills are:
- Naina Devi
- Kot
- Jhanjar
- Tiun
- Bandla
- Bahadurpur
- Ratanpur
Naina Devi Hill is a beautiful range that boasts a revered temple dedicated to goddess Naina Devi, situated at an impressive elevation of about 1,100 meters above sea level. The hill is home to some of the most significant forts in the area, including the Kot Kahlur fort and Fatehpur fort, which has seven smaller forts built within it. The temple, which is one of the important Shakti Peeths in the country, was constructed by Raja Bir Chand in the 8th century.
Kot Hill is another stunning range with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This hill is known for its well-known forts of Bachhretu, Basiah, Naun, Shiwala Bachhretu Kot, and Dagoga Malhot. The highest peak of this hill is called “Kakrer,” which offers stunning panoramic views of the area.
Jhanjhar Hill is a range divided into two parts by the Seer Khad river. The southern part is known as Badol, while the northern part is called Jhanjiar. The hill is famous for its highest peak, Jhanjar, which stands at about 1,100 meters above sea level. The Southern range is home to two famous temples, Devi Badoli and Guga Gherwin.
Tiun Hill is another range that offers stunning views of the area. The highest point of the hill is the Sariun peak, which stands at about 1350 meters above sea level. The hill is home to several forts, including Sariun, Naurangarh, Tiun fort, and Sidh Gurunath. The temple of Peer Bhiyanu and Haramba Devi are also located on this hill.
Bandla Hill is famous for paragliding and is home to a hydro-engineering college opened by the government in the region. The hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a favorite destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Bahadur Pur Hill is a stunning range divided by the Ali Khad river. The Northern part of the hill is known as Tatoh, while the southern part is called Bahadurpur. The hill is home to Bahadurpur Fort, which stands at an elevation of about 1,980 meters above sea level. The fort was the summer abode of Raja Bijai Chand and is the highest point in the Bilaspur district.
Ratanpur Hill is home to the Ratanpur Fort, which stands at an elevation of about 1,230 meters. The fort is known for its historical significance as it was from here that General Ochterlony defeated Amar Singh Thapa, the Gurkha leader.
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