Hamirpur Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and other travel tips for visiting Hamirpur, a hidden gem in Central Himachal Pradesh.


Introduction to Hamirpur

Hamirpur is a small town located in the Central region of Himachal Pradesh, in northern India. It is surrounded by the beautiful Himalayan mountains and is a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Hamirpur has a rich history and culture, and is a great place to witness the traditional lifestyle of rural Himachal Pradesh.

List of Places to Visit in Hamirpur

Hamirpur offers a variety of attractions including museums, natural wonders, and adventurous activities. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Hamirpur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tira Sujanpur: This small town is located on the banks of River Beas and is known for its rich history and cultural significance. The Tira Sujanpur palace is a must-visit, which has some beautiful frescoes and artwork.

  • Nadaun: Another historic town that was once the capital of the Katoch dynasty. The town has some interesting temples and monuments, such as the Nadaun Fort and the Bilkaleshwar Temple.

  • Pong Dam: This is the biggest earth-filled dam in India and one of the largest in the world. It is a great place to visit for birdwatching and fishing.

Natural Attractions of Hamirpur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Deotsidh Temple: This temple is located on a hilltop and has a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding valley. The trek to the temple is challenging and is recommended for experienced hikers.

  • Jalpa Devi Temple: Another temple located on a hilltop, this is a popular spot for picnics and trekking. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Jalpa Devi and has a peaceful atmosphere.

  • Sujanpur Tihra Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, wild boars, and birds. It is a great place to go for a nature walk or a short trek.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hamirpur

Hamirpur is surrounded by lush green forests and mountains, making it a great destination for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Deotsidh Temple Trek: This is a challenging trek that takes you to the top of a hill where the Deotsidh Temple is located. The trek is about 6 km one way and takes about 3-4 hours to complete.

  • Jalpa Devi Trek: This trek takes you to the Jalpa Devi Temple, located on a hilltop. It is a shorter and easier trek than the Deotsidh Temple Trek, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

  • Pong Dam Biking Trail: This is a scenic biking trail that takes you around the Pong Dam reservoir. It is about 70 km long and takes about 4-5 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Hamirpur: Activities and Tours

Hamirpur offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Hamirpur:

  • Birdwatching: Hamirpur is a great place to go birdwatching, with over 220 species of birds found in the area.

  • River Rafting: The River Beas offers some great rafting opportunities, with rapids ranging from grade II to grade IV.

  • Camping: Hamirpur has some beautiful camping spots, such as the Pong Dam reservoir and the Sujanpur Tihra Wildlife Sanctuary.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hamirpur

Hamirpur can be explored in a week, with enough time to visit all the major attractions and engage in outdoor activities. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Hamirpur and explore the town.
  • Day 2: Visit Tira Sujanpur and Nadaun.
  • Day 3: Trek to the Deotsidh Temple.
  • Day 4: Visit the Pong Dam and go birdwatching.
  • Day 5: Rafting on the Beas River.
  • Day 6: Explore the Sujanpur Tihra Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Day 7: Depart from Hamirpur.

Food and Drink Scene of Hamirpur

Hamirpur has a unique cuisine that blends traditional Himachali dishes with influences from Punjab and other neighboring regions. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Siddu: A traditional Himachali dish made with wheat flour and stuffed with potatoes or turnips.

  • Chha Gosht: Lamb cooked in a yogurt-based gravy with spices.

  • Khatta: A sour lentil soup served with rice.

Local Beverages

  • Chhaang: A fermented drink made from rice or barley.

  • Kanji: A sour drink made from black carrots and mustard seeds.

Where to Stay in Hamirpur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hamirpur has a variety of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Yash Hotel: A budget hotel located in the heart of Hamirpur.

  • Pong View Hotel: A luxury hotel located near the Pong Dam reservoir.

  • The Hosteller Hamirpur: A hostel located close to the Deotsidh Temple trekking trail.

What to Buy in Hamirpur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hamirpur offers some unique souvenirs and local products that you can take back home. Here are some recommendations:

  • Shawls and Woolens: Himachal Pradesh is known for its high-quality woolen products, such as shawls, scarves, and blankets.

  • Kullu Caps: These caps are a traditional Himachali accessory, made from wool and adorned with intricate embroidery.

  • Kangra Tea: Himachal Pradesh produces some of the best tea in India, and the Kangra valley is known for its high-quality tea leaves.

Local Culture and Customs of Hamirpur

The people of Hamirpur are warm and hospitable, and the local culture is deeply rooted in tradition and religion. The local festivals and fairs, such as the Nadaun Mela and the Holi festival, give visitors a glimpse of the region’s rich culture.

Best Time to Visit Hamirpur

The best time to visit Hamirpur is during the summer months, from March to June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from July to September, can be risky for trekking and other outdoor activities. The winter months, from December to February, can be extremely cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hamirpur

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in public spaces.

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

  • Disturb the wildlife in the Sujanpur Tihra Wildlife Sanctuary.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hamirpur

Hamirpur is a relatively safe place to travel to, but it is always important to take precautions when traveling to a new place. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Always carry a copy of your ID and travel documents.

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.

  • Avoid traveling alone at night.

Health in Hamirpur

Hamirpur has a good healthcare system, with several medical facilities and pharmacies available in the town. It is always recommended to bring your own medication and consult a doctor before traveling to a new place.

Getting to Hamirpur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hamirpur is well-connected to the rest of Himachal Pradesh and India, with several transportation options available. Here’s a list of the main transportation options:

Airports Near Hamirpur

  • Gaggal Airport, Kangra: The nearest airport, located about 80 km from Hamirpur.

  • Chandigarh International Airport: Located about 200 km from Hamirpur.

Bus Stations Near Hamirpur

  • Hamirpur Bus Stand: Located in the heart of the town, with several buses traveling to major cities in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.

  • Una Bus Stand: Located about 40 km from Hamirpur, with buses traveling to several cities in northern India.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest railway station is in Una, about 40 km from Hamirpur. Several trains travel to major cities in India from the Una railway station.

  • Taxi: Taxis and private cars can be hired from the nearby cities of Kangra and Pathankot.

How to Get Around in Hamirpur

Hamirpur is a small town that can be explored on foot or by renting a bicycle or a motorbike. Taxis and autos are also available for hire, although they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Hamirpur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hamirpur is a great base to explore the nearby towns and cities in Himachal Pradesh. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Dharamshala: A popular hill station located about 100 km from Hamirpur, known for its beautiful temples and Tibetan culture.

  • Manali: A popular tourist destination located about 200 km from Hamirpur, known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities.

  • Shimla: The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, located about 200 km from Hamirpur, and known for its colonial charm and beautiful architecture.

Conclusion

Hamirpur is a hidden gem in the Central region of Himachal Pradesh, India. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities, Hamirpur is a must-visit destination in Himachal Pradesh. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a history buff, there is something for everyone in Hamirpur.

Sujanpur Tira Fort Sujanpur Tira Fort