Looking to enjoy Bilaspur without draining your wallet? Whether you’re a college student, solo backpacker, or a family on a tight budget (think Big Billion Day-style savings), we’ve got you covered. At SavePlus India, our mission is simple: help Indians do more, enjoy more, and save more – especially when exploring hidden gems like Bilaspur. This guide reveals paisa-vasool activities, local secrets, and discount hacks you’ll wish you knew sooner.

Stroll Along Arpa Riverfront

This scenic riverbank is a favorite among locals for evening walks and early morning jogs. With wide promenades, open skies, and water views, it feels like a breath of fresh air. The gentle breeze and twinkling lights make it perfect for couples, families, and solo strollers. If you’re visiting Bilaspur on a budget, this riverside experience is a must. The best part? No tickets, no time limits—just serene vibes. Take your snacks and enjoy a desi-style riverside picnic.

• Location: Near Nehru Chowk, Bilaspur
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Direct buses stop at Nehru Chowk
  By Train: 3 km from Bilaspur Junction
  By Air: 20 km from Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Evening walks, relaxing, riverside selfies
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹0–₹50
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Chai, samosas from roadside vendors
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Raipur, Janjgir-Champa

Pro Tip: Visit during Chhattisgarh Foundation Day to catch free cultural shows and lights.

Bargain Shopping at Gol Bazar

Gol Bazar is Bilaspur’s go-to spot for affordable shopping—think street fashion, utensils, homeware, and accessories. It’s a maze of small shops, roadside stalls, and makeshift counters. Bargaining is a must here, and you’ll often score items at half the printed price. Whether you’re picking up a kurti or a kitchen tool, deals are everywhere. It’s crowded and chaotic, but that’s part of the charm. Be prepared to hunt through piles, and you’ll find hidden gems.

• Location: Gol Bazar, Main City Area
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Frequent buses across Bilaspur
  By Train: 2 km from Bilaspur Junction
  By Air: 20 km from the nearest airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Clothing stalls, street snacks, utility shopping
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹200–₹500
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–4 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Golgappa, pav bhaji, and masala chaas
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Bilha, Akaltara

Pro Tip: Before heading home, cross-check online prices using SavePlus India’s Ajio coupon section.

Explore Kanan Pendari Zoo for Less price

Kanan Pendari is a popular zoo offering glimpses of India’s wildlife—without the National Park price tag. It’s especially great for families, school groups, and nature lovers. The large enclosures let you spot tigers, sloth bears, and a variety of birds. Everything is clearly labeled, so it's also educational. There’s a garden and small lake nearby for a relaxing post-zoo walk. At under ₹50, it’s among the most affordable activities in Bilaspur.

• Location: Sakri, Bilaspur
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Direct from Bilaspur Bus Stand
  By Train: 12 km from Bilaspur Junction
  By Air: 25 km from Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Tiger and bear viewing, botanical park
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹20–₹50
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Homemade lunch or snacks packed in advance
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Korba, Raigarh

Pro Tip: Group discounts apply for student batches—carry your school/college ID.

Trekking at Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is Bilaspur’s best-kept secret for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Just 60 km away, it offers thick forests, waterfalls, and wildlife trails. You don’t need a big budget to enjoy raw nature—just a bus ride, comfy shoes, and a water bottle. The place is rich with biodiversity and silence that city dwellers crave. Government rest houses are surprisingly affordable if booked early. It’s a complete break from concrete, crowds, and costs.

• Location: Achanakmar, Mungeli District
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Frequent buses from the Bilaspur stand
  By Train: The Nearest is Bilaspur; shared jeeps are available onward
  By Air: 90-minute drive from Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Jungle trek, wildlife safari, photography
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹100–₹500
  
  
• Trip Duration: Full-day or 1-night stay
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Packed meals or local tribal thalis
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Mungeli, Kawardha

Pro Tip: Book forest rest house stays online at discounted government rates.

Visit Deorani-Jethani Temple 

Located in Talagaon, this 5th-century archaeological site is full of mystery and historical depth. It's perfect for spiritual seekers, photographers, and curious wanderers alike. There are no commercial setups here, just peace and intricate stone carvings. It’s named after two queens—Deorani and Jethani—adding to its local legend. This offbeat gem is easily missed by tourists but loved by locals. You won’t pay a rupee to enter, making it a pure budget-friendly find.

• Location: Talagaon, ~25 km from Bilaspur
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Local jeeps and buses are available
  By Train: From Bilaspur, hire an auto or take local transport
  By Air: Approx. 40 km from the nearest airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Heritage walks, temple ruins, carvings
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹0–₹100
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Local dhaba meals en route
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Ratanpur, Pendra Road

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Rudra Shiva idol, believed to be one of India’s rarest.

Soak in Culture at Rani Durgavati Museum

This hidden gem is a quiet sanctuary for lovers of Chhattisgarh's rich history and tribal culture. Tucked away in Civil Lines, the museum showcases rare manuscripts, ancient sculptures, and regional artifacts. Students and history buffs will enjoy discovering lesser-known facts about the region. It's air-conditioned, uncrowded, and costs less than your bus ticket. Bring your sketchpad or journal—it’s that inspiring. Don’t miss the tribal section—it tells the story of the land like no textbook can.

• Location: Civil Lines, Bilaspur
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Local buses from Nehru Chowk to Civil Lines
  By Train: 3.5 km from Bilaspur Junction
  By Air: 18 km from Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Ancient artefacts, sculpture gallery, local heritage
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹10–₹30
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–1.5 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Tea and snacks from nearby cafés
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Kawardha, Pendra

Pro Tip: Visit on state holidays for free guided tours by local volunteers.

Eat Like a Local under budget

Bilaspur’s street food is a festival for your mouth and a blessing for your wallet. From Poha-Jalebi in the morning to crispy Samosas and spicy Kachoris, the options are endless. Most meals cost under ₹50, and portions are hearty. These stalls have loyal fan bases, so if you see a crowd, follow it. Want dessert? Try the desi gulab jamuns or rabdi from old-school halwais. Eat full, pay less, repeat often.

• Location: Telipara, Station Road, Ram Bazaar
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Frequent stops at all key food hubs
  By Train: Within 4 km of Bilaspur Junction
  By Air: 15–25 km from the airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Street food hopping, local chat shops
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹50–₹100 per meal
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Poha-Jalebi, Kachori-Sabzi, Chana Samosa
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Seepat, Bilaspur

Pro Tip: Use Mobikwik SuperCash for repeat vendor visits to get 10–15% off.

Free Photography Walks at Smriti Van

Smriti Van is where nature lovers, photographers, and morning walkers converge for serenity. With seasonal blooms and butterfly trails, it offers countless frame-worthy views. The best part? There’s zero entry fee—just bring your camera or smartphone. Whether you're a DSLR pro or a mobile shooter, there’s a perfect shot waiting. It’s also great for mindful moments and eco-therapy. Bilaspur’s green lung welcomes everyone, wallet optional.

• Location: Sarkanda, Bilaspur
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Most city buses stop nearby
  By Train: 7 km from Bilaspur Junction
  By Air: 25 km from the airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Nature walks, macro photography, flora trails
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹0
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Light breakfast from local carts post-walk
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Bilaspur, Korba

Pro Tip: Carry a tripod and wide lens—perfect for panoramas and flora close-ups.

Budget Entertainment at City Mall 

If you're craving some urban fun without the guilt of overspending, this mall fits the bill. Watch a movie, sip a coffee, or explore retail windows—you’ll find fun in every corner. The weekday matinees at PVR are super cheap, and dining deals abound with Zomato Gold and Paytm cashback. Perfect for couples, students, or just solo entertainment on a low budget. Plus, there’s free AC, free browsing, and free time-killing. Urban chill at rural costs? Yes, please.

• Location: Mangla, Bilaspur
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Easy access from most city points
  By Train: 5 km from Bilaspur Junction
  By Air: 22 km from Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Movies, mall walking, budget meals
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹150–₹300
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Momos, burgers, chaat at food court
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Bilha, Ratanpur

Pro Tip: Use Zomato Gold or Dineout Passport to split food bills and save.

Conclusion

Bilaspur isn’t just a stopover—it’s a budget traveler’s goldmine when you know where to look. From free parks and ancient temples to low-cost local food, Bilaspur invites you to explore more, spend less, and experience India authentically. At SavePlus India, we believe every rupee saved is a rupee earned—so take these hacks, use those promo codes, and turn your trip into a story worth sharing!

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Bilaspur on a budget?
Avoid peak summers. Visit from October to February for great weather and local festivals.

Can I find good stays in Bilaspur under ₹1000?
Yes! Budget hotels, hostels, and OYO rooms are available. Use SavePlus India’s hotel deals section for coupons.

Are there any free local events in Bilaspur?
Yes! Look out for Chhattisgarh Diwas, Navratri Mahotsav, and art exhibitions at Smriti Van.

How can I save more on food in Bilaspur?
Eat local, use Paytm cashback, or Swiggy coupons. Always scan for deals before paying.

Which local apps or websites should I use to find Bilaspur-specific discounts?
Stick with SavePlus India, MagicPin, and PhonePe Nearby for city-based offers.