Bilaspur to Become the State’s Island Tourism Pioneer

In a groundbreaking move to enhance tourism in Himachal Pradesh, the district administration of Bilaspur has initiated the state’s first island tourism project by selecting four islands in the Gobind Sagar Lake for development into premium tourist destinations. This initiative is modeled on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands tourism model and marks a significant shift in the state’s tourism landscape.

Islands Identified for Development

The selected islands include Jyori Patan, Dhararsani, and Bholu and Jyor, located in Jhandutta Tehsil. The tender process for three islands has been completed, and development rights have been awarded to two private firms that secured the bids. These islands were chosen based on their accessibility via water, area coverage, and tourism potential.

Vision for the Project

According to Deputy Commissioner Abid Hussain Sadiq, the initiative aims to permanently establish Bilaspur as a hub of island tourism. The islands will host a variety of tourist amenities such as:

• Eco-friendly hotels and restaurants
• Pre-wedding and destination wedding venues
• Adventure sports facilities
• Bonfire camping spots
• Cultural festivals showcasing Himachali dance, music, and drama

Tourists and locals will be transported to these islands via boats, ensuring minimal ecological disruption while maximizing the experiential value.

Economic & Cultural Impact

This tourism model is designed not just for recreation but also for socio-economic upliftment. The administration anticipates:

• Increased employment opportunities for local youth
• Promotion of traditional arts and culture
• Creation of sustainable income sources for nearby communities
• Boost in infrastructure development in the Bilaspur region

Gobind Sagar Lake: The Crown Jewel of the Project

The islands are located within the Gobind Sagar Lake, a man-made reservoir formed by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River. The dam, one of the world’s highest gravity dams, towers 225.5 metres above its base, creating a reservoir that extends 90 km in length and covers 170 square kilometres.

Known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure sports, Gobind Sagar is already a popular site among nature lovers and thrill-seekers. The new island tourism venture is expected to further elevate the lake’s allure, making it a key destination on Himachal Pradesh’s tourism map.

A Model of Sustainable Tourism

What sets this initiative apart is its eco-centric approach. The development plan includes:

• Eco-friendly camping facilities
• Minimal interference with the lake’s ecosystem
• Waste management systems
• Sustainable construction practices

Such a model ensures environmental conservation while allowing tourism to flourish responsibly.

Conclusion

The island tourism initiative in Bilaspur is not just a tourism project—it is a vision for a sustainable, culture-rich, and economically vibrant future. By transforming the serene islands of Gobind Sagar into tourism hotspots, the administration is paving the way for innovative tourism development in hill states like Himachal Pradesh. If implemented effectively, this project could become a template for inland island tourism across India.