📍 Location: Nadaun Town, Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh
📅 Season: October–March for fishing and riverside walks; March for historical fairs
A town where Guru Gobind Singh pitched his tent, and the river still remembers the clash of swords and the cast of fishing lines
⚔️ The Battle of Nadaun – A Historic Clash on the Beas
In 1691, Nadaun was the site of a fierce battle between Raja Bhim Chand of Bilaspur, supported by Guru Gobind Singh, and the Mughal forces led by Alif Khan, backed by hill chieftains like Raja Kirpal Chand of Kangra and Raja Dayal of Bijharwal.
- The battle was triggered by refusal to pay tribute to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb
- Guru Gobind Singh’s forces joined the hill chiefs in resisting Mughal aggression
- The battle ended in a Bilaspur–Sikh victory, and Guru Gobind Singh stayed in Nadaun for eight days afterward
🏞️ The site is commemorated by Gurdwara Patshahi Dasvin, built where Guru Gobind Singh had camped
🎣 Riverside Charm and Fishing Spots
Nadaun’s location on the left bank of the Beas River makes it a peaceful retreat:
- Fishing: Locals and visitors enjoy angling in the calm stretches of the river
- River Walks: Scenic paths along the Beas offer views of limestone cliffs and pine groves
- Picnic Spots: Ideal for quiet afternoons with views of the historic gurdwara and river bend
🛕 Temples and Spiritual Sites
- Bilkleshwar Mahadev Temple: Said to be founded by the Pandavas, adding mythological depth to the town’s spiritual landscape
- Gurdwara Dasvin Patshahi: A serene shrine honoring Guru Gobind Singh’s stay after the battle
🧭 Plan Your Visit
🗺️ Travel Tips | 🏡 Stay Options |
---|---|
Reach via NH-88, ~8 km from Hamirpur | Guesthouses in Nadaun or hotels in Hamirpur |
Nearest railhead: Pathankot (~130 km) | Combine with Sujanpur Tira Fort, Awah Devi Temple, or Deotsidh Shrine |
Best time: October–March | Carry fishing gear and respect local customs at religious sites |
✨ Why It Belongs in Your Guide
Nadaun reflects:
- A pivotal moment in Sikh and regional history
- A tranquil riverside lifestyle with angling and spiritual retreats
- A blend of myth, memory, and natural beauty
It’s not just a town—it’s a riverfront archive of resistance, reflection, and repose.