Bilaspur is a charming town located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, nestled along the banks of the Gobind Sagar Lake. Known for its scenic beauty and proximity to major hill stations, Bilaspur attracts tourists seeking a peaceful getaway as well as business travelers visiting the nearby industrial hubs.

This route to Bilaspur is popular for weekend trips, nature lovers, and pilgrims visiting local temples. In this guide, you will find detailed information on how to reach Bilaspur via train, bus, car, and flight, along with practical travel tips to make your journey hassle-free.

Getting from Major Cities to Bilaspur – Main Options

Train

Train travel is one of the most convenient and economical ways to reach Bilaspur, especially from northern Indian cities. Bilaspur Junction is well connected to major railway stations, making it a preferred choice for many travelers.

• Bilaspur Junction (BSP):

  This is the main railway station serving Bilaspur town. It lies on the broad gauge line connecting Delhi, Chandigarh, and other northern cities, with frequent trains arriving daily.

• Travel time and fares:

  From Delhi, trains take approximately 8 to 10 hours, with fares ranging from INR 300 for sleeper class to INR 1500 for AC classes. Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure confirmed seats.

• Train frequency and comfort:

  Several express and passenger trains run daily, including the Himachal Express and Jan Shatabdi. AC coaches offer comfortable travel, while sleeper class is budget-friendly but can get crowded during peak seasons.

• Seasonal tips:

  During winter, fog can cause delays on northern routes, so plan for extra travel time. Booking early during festival seasons like Diwali is advised due to high demand.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Bilaspur station, local autos and taxis are readily available. Prepaid taxi counters at the station ensure fair pricing and avoid haggling.

Bus

Buses are a popular mode for travelers from nearby cities and towns. Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular services to Bilaspur, making bus travel affordable and accessible.

• Key bus routes:

  Buses connect Bilaspur with Shimla, Chandigarh, and Mandi via National Highway 205 and other state highways. The Bilaspur Bus Stand is centrally located for easy access.

• Travel duration and fares:

  From Shimla, buses take about 3 to 4 hours, costing between INR 100 to INR 300 depending on the type of bus (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo).

• Bus types and comfort:

  Deluxe and Volvo buses offer better comfort and fewer stops, ideal for longer journeys. Ordinary buses are frequent but can be crowded and less comfortable.

• Booking and schedules:

  Tickets can be booked online via HRTC’s website or purchased at bus stands. Early morning and evening buses are preferred to avoid midday heat or night travel risks.

• Road conditions and scenic views:

  The roads are generally well-maintained, with picturesque views of hills and valleys. However, monsoon season may cause occasional landslides, so check weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Bilaspur offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy the scenic Himachal landscape at your own pace. The town is accessible via well-connected national and state highways.

• Main highways:

  National Highway 205 connects Bilaspur to Chandigarh and Shimla, while State Highway 6 links it to Mandi and other hill towns. These routes are well-marked and maintained.

• Distance and travel time:

  From Chandigarh, the drive is approximately 120 km and takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Vehicle rental and fuel stops:

  Car rentals are available in Chandigarh and Shimla, with popular providers like Zoomcar and local agencies. Fuel stations and eateries like Indian Coffee House are common along the route.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery roads and possible landslides. Early morning departures help avoid traffic near cities.

• Parking and local driving:

  Bilaspur has designated parking near major attractions and markets. Local traffic can be busy during festivals, so plan accordingly.

Flight

While Bilaspur does not have its own airport, the nearest airports provide convenient access for travelers coming from distant cities.

• Nearest airport:

  Chandigarh International Airport is the closest major airport, about 120 km from Bilaspur, with regular domestic flights connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities.

• Connecting transport:

  From Chandigarh airport, travelers can hire taxis or take HRTC buses to Bilaspur. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at the airport.

• Travel time and cost:

  The drive from Chandigarh airport to Bilaspur takes around 3 to 4 hours, costing approximately INR 1500 to INR 2500 by taxi.

• Alternative airports:

  Shimla Airport is closer but has limited flights and is operational mainly in good weather. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is an option for international travelers, with onward train or road travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers to Bilaspur, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets in advance via IRCTC, HRTC, or airline websites to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at the railway station, bus stand, or airport at least 30 minutes before departure to manage security and boarding comfortably.

• Pack essentials for hill travel:

  Carry water, light snacks, and a jacket as temperatures can vary, especially if traveling early morning or late evening.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs:

  On arrival at Bilaspur station or bus stand, opt for prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber to avoid overcharging and ensure safe rides.

• Plan your local commute:

  Bilaspur is compact; autos and shared taxis are common for short distances. Negotiate fares upfront or use meter-based autos where available.

• Check weather and road conditions:

  Before departure, verify weather forecasts and road status, especially during monsoon and winter seasons, to avoid delays or hazards.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on isolated roads. Always keep emergency contacts handy and inform someone about your travel plans.

• Food and water:

  Stick to bottled water and freshly cooked local food. Popular eateries near the bus stand and railway station maintain good hygiene standards.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and HRTC for buses. Avoid third-party agents charging extra fees.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Bilaspur, but availability can be limited during late hours. Keep cash ready for autos and taxis.

• Luggage handling:

  Pack light as local transport can be cramped. Use sturdy bags and keep valuables close during transit.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon months (July-September) may cause landslides and roadblocks. Winter mornings can be foggy, affecting visibility on highways.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bilaspur is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Summers are warm but manageable, while winters can be chilly with occasional fog.

Monsoon season requires caution due to possible landslides and slippery roads, which may disrupt travel plans.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Chandigarh and Shimla, typically 8–10 AM and 5–7 PM, to reduce travel time.

• Steer clear of major festival weekends like Diwali and Dussehra when trains and buses are crowded.

• Early morning departures are ideal to enjoy clear roads and scenic views along the route.

• Check weather updates during monsoon and winter to plan safe travel times.

Arrival at Bilaspur & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bilaspur railway station or bus stand, travelers will find a small but well-connected town with easy access to local transport. The town’s calm atmosphere and scenic surroundings welcome visitors warmly.

Local autos and taxis are available outside the station and bus stand, with prepaid counters to ensure fair fares. Nearby attractions include the Gobind Sagar Lake, Bhakra Dam, and several temples. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels near the town center.

Conclusion

Train travel emerges as the most efficient and comfortable option to reach Bilaspur, especially from northern cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. The well-connected Bilaspur Junction, combined with affordable fares and scenic routes, makes it ideal for most travelers.

Whether you choose train, bus, car, or flight, this guide equips you with practical tips and detailed information to plan your journey confidently. Enjoy your trip to Bilaspur and explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Himachal Pradesh with ease.