Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh
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Bilaspur Town is situated on the bank of the Arpa river which originates from the high hills of the Maikal Range of central India. Surrounded by lush green forest in the north and coal mines of Hasdeo valley in the east, the Dolomite rich Bilaspur is the third-largest city in Chhattisgarh state, India, with a population of 265,178 (agglomeration 330,291) (2001 census). The High Court of Chhattisgarh is located here. It is the headquarters of Bilaspur district and is located 111 km north of the state capital Raipur.
Bilaspur is known for its tasty and aromatic Doobraj rice, handloom woven colorful soft Kosa Silk Sarees, and more for its rich, varied and colorful culture. The city celebrates all the major festivals of India. There are some local festivals such as the colorful Rout Dance (November). The city has a multicultural mix of locals and people migrated from Sindh (Pakistan), Punjab, U.P., Bihar, M.P., Rajasthan, Bengal, A.P., Maharashtra and Gujrat, etc. The city publishes three dailies in Hindi and has been the home of some famous Hindi literature personalities including Mr. Srikant Verma.
The Bilaspur city now spread over 30 Sq.KMs.It is a popular beleif that the name "Bilaspur" has originated from a local Fisherwoman -"Bilasa". Over the years , Bilaspur has developed a lot with wide roads,cafes,Hotels,Steet Lighting and some beautiful Squares.However the last decade has seen large scale unregulated urbanisation and residential and commercial expansion-over straining the water resources and generally defunct civic amenities due to its indifferent Officials and politicians .The downtown is called Goal Bazar(Circular Market ) and Sadar Bazar which are buzzling and vibrant but overcrowded with slow moving traffic .In contrast there are some newly developed areas which gives a deserted look even in day time.The electricity is Govt. regulated and frequent power cuts have become a routine especially during the summer months .The sewerage and drainage system is practically non existent so much so that like any other Indian town even the first shower of monsoon floods many areas.
Bilaspur has developed as a center of education for Chattisgarh. With students from all over Chattisgarh coming to Bilaspur to study for engineering, medical and administrative officers competitive exams. Recently two big schools were started in Bilaspur. Along with old schools, which provided excellent education, these new schools make bilaspur center for primary education too.
EDUCATION - This city is served by Guru Ghasidas University .EATING OUT-VEGITARIAN-Gazibo,Rasoi,36 Bhog ,Temptation ,Swad Restaurant,Madras cafe,Mahesh Sweets etc. NON-VEGITARIAN-Dilli Biryani,Central Point,Country Club, Fast food at Railway station,MulkRaj Hotel,Gazibo etc.HOTELS-There are many Budget and mid level,but the most expensive is Cental Point. MEDICAL FACILITIES-One Govt. medical college and Hospital,India famed Apollo Hospital and many private nursing homes and clinics. TRANSPORT- Local -Human pulled Cycle Rickshaws,Horse drawn Tongas,3 Wheeler auto rickshaws,Taxi Cabs are available .RAILWAY-This Railway junction connects to many of the major cities of India by many originating and passing-by Express trains. Bilaspur aiport at Chakarbhatta (10 kms) is not served by any schedule airline.The nearest airport Raipur -110 Kms.has regular flights for Delhi,Nagpur,Mumbai,Kolkata,Ranchi,Bhubneswaer,Vizag and Chennai.ROADWAYS- Regular Buses and Taxis connects to all nearby towns and cities and some to far off cities as well. BANKS- All major Indian Banks have branches and ATMs in the city.CREDIT CARDs -Very few shops accept credit cards. CLIMATE-Pleasnt Mild winter ( 10 degree C ),Medium rains in monsoon ,Very hot and dry summer(Max 45+ degree C ,Humidity 40% ). CLUB-No public club exists. LOCAL MEMORABLIA-Handicrafts are available in Khadi Bhawan,Near Satyam Cinema (But better to shop from Raipur ) and Kosa Silk Sarees and cloth in Sadar Bazar.BEST TIME TO VISIT-October to March. LANGUAGE-Chatisgarhi,Hindi,Bengali,Sindhi etc.English is spoken by few . PLACES OF INTEREST- Vivekanand Uddyaan (A city Park) Kaanan Pindary zoo ( 8 Kms. ) Ramkrishna Ashram (5 Kms. ),Arpa River Chat Puja Ghat, Mahamaya Temple (35 Kms ),Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary (55 Kms.Closed in monsoon)-Stay in Panther Cottage,Malhaar-Beautiful Stone carved Historical Temple ruins.Khutaghat (55 kMS.)-Dam and Reservoir.Stay in pre booked Irrigation Deptt. poorly maintained but beutifully located Hill Top Rest House overlooking vast expannse of blue water reservoir.Khudia Dam- (75 Kms) Eqully Beautiful but more emote.
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