BILASPUR

The superficial area of the State is 448 square miles, and the population at the census of 1931 was 100,994. It is nearly oblong in shape, and is verdant and fertile, abounding in low hills, forests, grazing lands, rivulets and streams. Wells are thus unnecessary for irrigation purposes. Agriculture is the principal occupation of the people, who are chiefly Kanets.

Seven low hill ranges traverse the territory in various directions, and are named "the seven dhars". These are-dhar Naina-Devi, dhar Kot, dhar Tiuni, dhar Bandla, dhar Jhinjiar, dhar Ratanpur, and dhar Bahadurpur.

From this circumstance the ruler of the State is called "The Lord of seven dhars: -

The principal dhar is that of Naina-Devi, on which are situated Kot-Kahlur, the ancient capital and place of residence of the Rajas for many centuries, and from which the State received its original name. On the highest point is situated the Naina-Devi temple at an altitude of 3,595 feet, and a small town, also named Naina-Devi, stands on the plain below. The fort of Kot-Kahlur is on the north-western end of the range.

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