About Hamirpur

In Uttar Pradesh too there is an ancient town called Hamirpur; however, the Hamirpur we are talking about is nestled among the Shivalik Range of the mountains in the south-western part of Himachal Pradesh. Just as any other parts of the state, this area is also seeped in natural beauty. Although it potential as a tourist destination has not been advertised much, the town and its adjoining area is indeed a paradise for those who are looking for offbeat places away from the maddening crowd of holiday makers.

Hamirpur with a total area of 5.2 Sq Km is located at 31.68 degree North and 76.52 degree East on Shimla-Dharamshala Road. It is the headquarters of a district of the same name and hence the town is important from the administrative aspect as well. The office of the Deputy Commissioner as well as the Superintend of Police is located here. Moreover, the town also has a Sub Divisional Magistrate.

Hamirpur is also important from another aspect. It said to be the most literate town in whole of Himachal Pradesh. Some experts in this line claim 100% literacy, but some others do not accept that. However, it is a fact that the town shares this distinction with the rest of the district. Indeed, Hamirpur district is said to have above 83% literacy and this becomes more significant when we learn that there is not even a single large or medium scale industry in the whole area. The economy here is based more on agriculture and animal husbandry. The Indian Army is of course a big employer.

 While we are on the topic of literacy we must add that in spite of little infrastructure Hamirpur town has grown into an educational hub. For a small town, Hamirpur has quite a few schools and colleges. May be it is its pleasant climatic condition, which has drawn educationist across India to set up educational institutions here.

Although Hamirpur is a hilly region, the average altitude is 738 m or 2,421 ft. Therefore, unlike other parts of Himachal Pradesh, Hamirpur is never that cold. In summer the temperature can reach up to 37 degree Celsius while in winter the mercury can touch three degree Celsius. Consequently, if you are interested in snow, you will have to give Hamirpur a miss.  

However, Hamirpur has a lot to offer for serious travelers. It not only provides excellent scenic view, but also a fascinating history.  The fort in Hamirpur offers testimony to its glorious past. In fact, the name of the town is derived from the name of Hamir Chand, one of the most efficient rulers of this region.  Nonetheless, its history dates far back into Puranic Era. It is evident that the area was part of the Jallandhar-Trigarta Empire. We also find its reference in the works of Panini, who called the people of this region as great fighters or Veer. Read More................

Indeed, where rest of Himachal Pradesh is known as the Dev-Bhumi, Hamirpur is known as the Veer-Bhumi. That is because people of this area were not only good fighters in the bygone days; the land still produces eminent soldiers. As we have already mentiones, the Indian Army is the biggest employer of this region and soldiers from Hamirpur form a bulk in Dogra, Jakrif and Granadiers Regiment as well as in Assam Rifles.

Since Hamirpur is hot in summer, tourist visiting the area in that season should bring adequate cotton clothes. For winter however woolen clothing is highly recommended. The best time to visit the city is from July to September. Although it may rain a little, the climatic condition at that time is neither very hot nor cold.