![]() Bhakra Dam: Bhakra Dam, the highest straight gravity dam in the world situated at about 14 kms from Nangal town occupies a predominant position amongst the top places of tourist interest. The idea for the construction of this dam was conceived by Sir Louis Dane the then Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, who travelled from Sunni to Bilaspur and then onward to Ropar. The project could not make headway due to prohibitive cost of construction. In the year 1938-1939 the districts of Rohtak and Hisar experienced severe drought resulting in great loss of human life and cattle. The scheme was again mooted out but was not executed due to the Second World War. It was only after independence in March, 1948 that the work was taken in hand for execution. The construction of the dam was completed in October, 1962. The height of the dam is 226 metres; length at the top is 518 metres and width 9 metres. It has a length of 99 metres at the bottom and width 402 metres. The project derives its name from two villages Bhakra and Nangal situated on the foot hills of the low Himalayan ranges. Bhakra occupies a very important place on the India's tourist map. ![]() New Bilaspur Town: New Bilaspur Town is situated just above the old town of Bilaspur at a height of 670 metres above the mean sea level. The New Township Bilaspur has been conceived, planned and built on modern lines and should be regarded as the first planned hill town of the country. The new planned township, 64 km from Kiratpur, has come up which is the seat of district headquarters. The best months for visiting this place are from September to December. Nalwari Mela or Annual cattle fair is held at Bilaspur for four or five days in the month of March, the occasion is marked by wrestling and other amusements. Other places of interest here are the temples of Sri Naina Devi, Raghu Nath, Khanmukheshwar and Deomati where fairs are held. ![]() Deoli Fish Farm: Deoli Fish Farm is situated at a distance of 15 kms from New Bilaspur Township towards Mandi. It came into existence in the year 1962. It consists of two big brood stock tanks and 14 nursery ponds. In beginning the farm's activities were limited to meet the seed stocking requirements of Gobind Sagar reservoir, but its targets were increased over the years. Now training camps are being conducted with modern fish breeding and culture technique training are imparted. Deoli fish farm has played a major role in breeding fish population in Gobind Sagar reservoir. In recent years sport fisheries is fostering in Gobind Sagar reservoir which clearly indicates vast potential of attracting tourists. Namhol: Namhol, a small hamlet is situated at about 24 kms from Bilaspur and 68 kms from Shimla. There is a Thakurdwar temple which was built by Raja Amar Chand in 1883 A.D. Brass idols of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Sita and Lord Hanuman are installed in the temple. The place is the main centre of ginger trade. Swarghat: At an elevation of 1128 metres from the sea level, Swarghat, once summer capital of Raja of Bilaspur, is situated at a distance of about 42 kms from Bilaspur. Surrounded by pine trees, it is a beautiful place and is elevated to the status of a tehsil headquarters of Naina Devi. There is Lakshmi Narain Temple in the village. In winter, the temperature is mild in Swarghat when heavy woolens are required. Hence, it can be said that these beautiful tourist spots attract a large number of travellers from all parts of the country. |