Tourism set to thrive in Bilaspur: Cruise and water sports to begin at Kol Dam

The Kol Dam in Bilaspur district is set to make its mark on the country’s tourism map. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu announced from the Assembly on Saturday that Bilaspur will be developed into a prime tourist destination, attracting visitors to stay for extended periods.

Bilaspur’s Deputy Commissioner, Abid Hussain Sadiq, stated that efforts are in full swing to promote tourism at Kol Dam, with the tender process for launching water sports activities in its final stages, following the Chief Minister’s directives. The administration is also exploring further tourism opportunities between Kol Dam and Tattapani to turn Bilaspur into a tourism hub.

One of the key attractions will be cruise rides from Kol Dam to Tattapani, offering an exciting new way for tourists to travel between major destinations. Visitors can take a cruise from Chandigarh to Kullu Manali via Kol Dam or enjoy a scenic cruise from Shimla to Kullu Manali.

Deputy Commissioner Sadiq emphasized that expanding tourism in Bilaspur will create job opportunities for local youth, boost shopkeepers’ incomes, and provide a larger market for local women’s products and self-help groups. He also hinted at the potential for large hotels and restaurants to spring up in the area, similar to the tourist boom seen in Kullu-Manali, which would further drive employment and economic growth.

In addition, water sports activities at Gobindsagar Lake are set to launch soon, with preparations nearly complete. Within the next 10 to 15 days, cruise boats and Shikaras will be available, while jet skis, high-tech motorboats, and rescue boats have already arrived. Although water sports have been temporarily banned in the reservoir until September 15, activities will commence immediately afterward, making Bilaspur the first district in the state to offer cruise experiences in Gobind Sagar Lake and Kol Dam, as well as an immersive long walk along the lake’s shores.