Bilaspur at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Chhattisgarh |
| Famous For | Rice Bowl, Kanan Pendari Zoo, Achanakmar |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Hindi, Chhattisgarhi, English |
| Nearest Airport | Bilaspur Airport (PABR), 12km from city (currently under development) |
| Nearest Railway | Bilaspur Junction (BSP) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹30+ (varies) |
| Best For | all travellers |
Bilaspur: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Bilaspur, located in Chhattisgarh, is known as the 'Rice Bowl' of the state due to its significant rice production. It's a commercial hub with growing importance in education and is a gateway to the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve.
Visit Bilaspur to experience authentic Chhattisgarhi culture and explore the nearby natural beauty, including the Kanan Pendari Zoo and the Achanakmar forest. However, be aware that the city is still developing, and tourist infrastructure is limited. It can get very hot in the summers.
Bilaspur: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radha Krishna Mandir | 06:00-21:00 daily | Free | Morning or evening for prayers | Remove footwear before entering |
| Deorani Jethani Temple | 09:00-17:00 daily | ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | Morning or late afternoon to a | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Bilaspur: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Bilaspur: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Bilaspur Junction (BSP) — Main railway station with trains connecting to major cities in India, located in the heart of the city.
- From Delhi: 18-20 hours (₹800-2500)
- From Mumbai: 24-26 hours (₹900-2800)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Bilaspur: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Bilaspur Airport (PABR), 12km from city (currently under development). Raipur Airport (RPR) is the nearest operational airport, 120km away.
- Delhi: 2 hours (₹4000-6000) to Raipur
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3500-5500) to Raipur
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2000-2500 from Raipur Airport to Bilaspur
- Bus: ₹300-400 from Raipur Airport to Bilaspur
directions_bus Bus to Bilaspur: Services & Timings
- From Raipur: 3-4 hours (₹200-300)
Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances.
Best Time to Visit Bilaspur: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to March | 20-30 degrees C | This is the best time to visit the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve and enjoy the cooler | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: July to September | 25-35 degrees C | The landscape is vibrant and green, and the waterfalls are at their fullest. The | Some roads might be in poor conditi |
| Avoid: April to June | 35-45 degrees C | Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense heat. Outdoor activities a | If you must visit, stay hydrated, w |
Peak season note: Expect slightly higher prices and more crowds, especially during festival times. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended.
2-Day Bilaspur Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Top Highlights
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Kanan Pendari Zoo
Kanan Pendari Zoo is a mini zoo and park where you can see a variety of animals and birds. It's a popular spot for families and sc…
💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the animals at their most active.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Achanakmar Tiger Reserve
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a protected area known for its biodiversity and tiger population. It's a significant conservation area…
💡 Tip: Hire a local guide for a better chance of spotting wildlife and learning about the forest ecosystem.
🎨 Malhar Archaeological Museum
The Malhar Archaeological Museum displays artifacts excavated from the ancient city of Malhar. These artifacts shed light on the r…
💡 Tip: Hire a local guide to learn more about the historical context of the artifacts.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Radha Krishna Mandir
The Radha Krishna Mandir is a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. It is a place of worship and spiritual s…
💡 Attend the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) for a more immersive cultural experience.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Deorani Jethani Temple
The Deorani Jethani Temple complex consists of the ruins of two ancient Shiva temples. The site is known for its unique architectu…
💡 Visit the nearby Tala village to experience rural Chhattisgarhi life.
Top Places to Visit in Bilaspur: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Kanan Pendari Zoo | ₹30 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) | 3-4 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 2 | 📍 Achanakmar Tiger Reserve | ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 1 day | 06:00-18:00 (Safari timings) |
| 3 | 🎨 Malhar Archaeological Museum | ₹20 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 10:00-17:00 |
| 4 | 📍 Radha Krishna Mandir | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-21:00 daily |
| 5 | 🙏 Deorani Jethani Temple | ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 2 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 6 | 📍 Bubble Island | ₹150 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 4-5 hours | 10:00-19:00 daily |
| 7 | 📍 Belpan Pond | Free | 2 hours | Open all day |
📍 1. Kanan Pendari Zoo
Kanan Pendari Zoo is a mini zoo and park where you can see a variety of animals and birds. It's a popular spot for families and school trips.
📍 Getting there: Located about 10km from the city center, accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
📍 2. Achanakmar Tiger Reserve
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a protected area known for its biodiversity and tiger population. It's a significant conservation area.
Honest take: Worth it for wildlife enthusiasts; tiger sightings are not guaranteed.
📍 Getting there: Located about 80km from Bilaspur, accessible by taxi or bus. Consider booking a guided tour.
🎨 3. Malhar Archaeological Museum
The Malhar Archaeological Museum displays artifacts excavated from the ancient city of Malhar. These artifacts shed light on the region's rich historical and cultural heritage.
Honest take: A must-visit for history buffs and those interested in archaeology; may not be as engaging for young children.
📍 Getting there: Located approximately 30 km from Bilaspur city, easily accessible by taxi or local bus.
Food & Restaurants in Bilaspur: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Muthiya, Bafauri, Chila, Fara, Bara
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Dosas, idlis, and uttapams | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Civil Lines |
| Pani Puri, Aloo Tikki | ₹ (₹100-200 for two) | Sadar Bazar |
| Cakes, pastries, shakes | ₹₹ (₹300-500 for two) | Civil Lines |
🛺 Street Food: Sadar Bazar — Pani Puri, Samosa, Aloo Tikki (₹50-100 per person)
Bilaspur Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹1500-2500/night | ₹3500+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Hotels in Bilaspur: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Grand Continental
₹800-1200/night
Near Railway Station
Hotel Silver Key
₹700-1000/night
City Center
🏨 Mid-Range
Hotel East Park
₹1500-2500/night
Near Bus Stand
Hotel Jeet Continental
₹1800-2800/night
Civil Lines
⭐ Luxury
The Aananda Imperial
₹3500+/night
Vyapar Vihar
Hotel Ashok Bilaspur
₹3000+/night
Near High Court
Bilaspur Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Always negotiate the fare beforehand.
- ✓ Fake beggars: Be cautious of beggars, especially around temples and tourist spots. It's better to donate to registered charities.
- ✓ Light and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially during the summer months. Carry a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- ✓ ATMs are widely available in Bilaspur.
- ✓ Airtel, Vodafone, and Jio offer sim cards. Aadhar card and passport photos are required.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Bilaspur
How many days are enough for Bilaspur?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Bilaspur. Day 1 covers Kanan Pendari Zoo and Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, while Day 2 explores Radha Krishna Mandir and Deorani Jethani Temple.
What is Bilaspur famous for?
Bilaspur is famous for Rice Bowl, Kanan Pendari Zoo, Achanakmar.
What is the best time to visit Bilaspur?
The best time to visit Bilaspur is October to March. Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The humidity is low, making it comfortable to explore.
Is Bilaspur worth visiting?
Yes, Bilaspur is worth visiting for Rice Bowl, Kanan Pendari Zoo, Achanakmar. It is especially recommended for all travellers and can be combined with a visit to Raipur.
What is the budget for a trip to Bilaspur?
A 2-day trip to Bilaspur costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Radha Krishna Mandir?
Radha Krishna Mandir is open 06:00-21:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or evening for prayers.
What is the entry fee for Radha Krishna Mandir?
Entry fee at Radha Krishna Mandir: Free.
What is the dress code for Radha Krishna Mandir?
Remove footwear before entering when visiting Radha Krishna Mandir.
What are the timings of Deorani Jethani Temple?
Deorani Jethani Temple is open 09:00-17:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat..
What is the entry fee for Deorani Jethani Temple?
Entry fee at Deorani Jethani Temple: ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners).
What is the dress code for Deorani Jethani Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Deorani Jethani Temple.