Hoshiarpur: Nature, Wood Inlay and History

Hoshiarpur brings together several travel interests: the mixed forests and birdlife of Takhni-Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary, a wood-inlay craft maintained across generations, and historic buildings and archaeological sites. You can shape your stay around nature, crafts or history.

Plan a Nature Visit with a Permit

The mixed forests of Takhni-Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including numerous bird species. Birdwatching is therefore a particular draw for travellers interested in observing nature. A permit from the Forest Department is required in advance for a visit, so make arrangements ahead of time.

Wood Inlay as a Hoshiarpur Craft

Hoshiarpur is known for wood-inlay products such as flooring, wall panelling, furniture and decorative objects. This traditional craft has been passed down through generations for more than 350 years. Woodworkers also make turned furniture, carving patterns into a layer of lacquer. The different products and techniques give the craft several facets, from wood inlay to the decoration of turned furniture.

Sheesh Mahal and Archaeological History

Sheesh Mahal in Hoshiarpur was built in 1911 by Lala Hans Raj Jain. Glass was used for the interior walls and ceilings; paintings on the first floor depict the coronation ceremony of King George V. The architecture and paintings draw attention both to the interior design and to the historical ceremony depicted.

Dholbaha is an important archaeological site. Reports indicate that it dates back to prehistoric times. Evidence suggests that Dholbaha was a flourishing temple town between 700 and 1200 AD. Many artefacts discovered there from the Gurjara-Pratihara and Paramara dynasties can be seen at the Hoshiarpur Archaeological Museum.

Citrus Cultivation as a Regional Feature

Hoshiarpur district has Citrus Estates in Bhunga and Chhauni Kalan. Citrus Estate Hoshiarpur is located in the village of Chhauni Kalan, about 2 km from the district headquarters, on the Hoshiarpur–Chandigarh road. In Khanaura, the Department of Horticulture has established a Centre of Excellence for fruit under an Indo-Israel project, with support from MIDH. Different table and processing varieties of citrus are grown and assessed there for their suitability. Citrus Estate Hoshiarpur is part of a government initiative to promote large-scale citrus cultivation and move away from traditional farming patterns that put pressure on water and soil.

Places in the Surrounding Area

Gurdwara Garna Sahib is located in the village of Bodal in Hoshiarpur district. According to tradition, Guru Hargobind Sahib visited the gurdwara. Near Hoshiarpur, Dera Sant Garh is located in the village of Harkhowal, about 13 km from Hoshiarpur. According to tradition, a two-day festival is held there in connection with Baba Jawala Singh’s death anniversary, observed in the month of Kartik. If you plan to attend the festival, check the dates before your trip.

Kamahi Devi Temple is located in the village of Beh Nangal, about 40 km from Hoshiarpur. It is dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi and was known as Kamakshi Devi Temple. According to tradition, the Pandavas are said to have built the temple. Dera Sant Garh is therefore considerably closer to Hoshiarpur than Kamahi Devi Temple; the different distances can help you plan visits to the two destinations separately.

Choose Transport and Accommodation Based on Your Travel Interests

The nearest domestic airport to Hoshiarpur district headquarters is Adampur Airport, 25 km away. The main bus station is Bhagwan Balmiki Interstate Bus Terminal Hoshiarpur; regular buses connect Hoshiarpur with other major cities in India. Check current bus services before you depart.

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Hoshiarpur, you can start with your travel interests: would you like to focus on observing nature in the sanctuary, or are you mainly interested in crafts and historic sites? If you plan to visit places in the surrounding area, their different distances can also inform your plans.

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