Chapter 29: Value Addition Information of the City - Una

1. About Una

Una is a gateway town situated in the southwestern part of Himachal Pradesh, sharing its border with Punjab. Unlike the high-altitude terrains of other Himachali regions, Una is characterized by its relatively flat lands and warm climate. It lies on the banks of the Soan River and serves as an important link between the hills and the plains. Though not as elevated as its counterparts in Himachal, Una offers a distinct blend of cultural, religious, and agricultural richness.

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2. Importance of Una

Gateway to Himachal Pradesh

• Una is popularly known as the “Gateway to Himachal” due to its geographic location at the entry point from Punjab.

Religious Significance

• The town is home to important religious places like the Chintpurni Temple, a revered Shakti Peeth attracting thousands of pilgrims.

Agricultural Hub

• Due to its plains and moderate climate, Una is one of the few regions in Himachal known for its agriculture and grain production.

Industrial Growth

• With the rise of industrial areas such as Gagret and Tahliwal, Una is emerging as a center of light industries and manufacturing in the state.

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3. How to Reach Una

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport (120 km away) is the most convenient option with regular flights to major Indian cities.

By Train

• Una Railway Station (UNA Himachal) is well-connected with Delhi, Chandigarh, and other nearby cities via the broad gauge line.

By Road

• Una is easily accessible by road and is well-connected with major cities like Chandigarh (120 km), Delhi (360 km), and Amritsar (160 km) through a network of national highways.

• Regular HRTC and private buses operate from Una to various cities within and outside Himachal.

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4. Staying Facility in Una

Hotels and Guest Houses

• Hotel New York Inn, Una – Comfortable accommodation with all basic amenities.

• Hotel Chintpurni Heights – A popular stay for pilgrims visiting Chintpurni Temple.

• HPTDC’s Hotel Natraj, Amb – Managed by the Himachal Tourism Department, suitable for leisure and business travelers.

Budget Stays

• Several guest houses and dharamshalas near Chintpurni Temple cater to pilgrims at affordable prices.

• Budget lodges and rest houses are available in Una town and nearby industrial areas like Gagret.

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5. Tourist Attractions and Their Briefing

1. Chintpurni Temple

A highly revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Chinnamastika, Chintpurni Temple attracts pilgrims from across North India. The temple is known for granting relief from worries and fulfilling wishes. The Navratri festival is celebrated here with great enthusiasm and a large influx of devotees.

2. Dera Baba Barbhag Singh

Located near Mairi village, this is a significant Sikh religious site visited by followers for its spiritual aura and annual fair known as the Hola Mohalla.

3. Gobind Sagar Lake

Though primarily located in Bilaspur, part of the Gobind Sagar Reservoir touches Una, offering opportunities for boating and serene water views. It also supports local fishery industries.

4. Thaneek Pura

Situated close to Chintpurni, Thaneek Pura is a scenic village known for its annual fairs, temples, and traditional Himachali charm. It offers nature walks, folk entertainment, and religious harmony.

5. Pong Dam Lake (Maharana Pratap Sagar)

A portion of this artificial lake created by Pong Dam lies near Una. It is recognized as a wildlife sanctuary and a birdwatching haven for migratory birds, especially during winters.

6. Peer Nigaha

A spiritual and natural destination nestled in the forests near Amb, Peer Nigaha is associated with a Muslim saint and is frequented by devotees of all faiths. It’s an ideal place for short treks and serene picnics.

7. Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple near Amb is a peaceful spot known for its ancient architecture and spiritual energy.

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6. Conclusion

Una, though geographically modest compared to Himachal's towering valleys, holds its own charm as a cultural, religious, and economic connector between the plains and the hills. It serves as a convenient stopover or base station for travelers moving deeper into Himachal Pradesh. From spiritual journeys at Chintpurni to the serene surroundings of Gobind Sagar and Peer Nigaha, Una offers a mix of peace, devotion, and regional warmth. As the district continues to grow industrially and infrastructurally, it retains the welcoming essence that makes it an integral part of the Himachali identity.