Rampur (140 Kms) is built by the banks of the river Satluj and was the seat of the former princely state of Bushair (Bushahr, Bushehar). As the capital of one the most prosperous hills states and a major entrepot along a old trade routes, Rampur benefited from the wide range of economic and cultural exchanges. Today, Rampur is a busting town that retains a substantial measure of its past and is still a melting pot of the cultures of the region and has its historical palaces and temples. An added measure of its current importance is the proximity to the Nathpa Jakhri Hydel Project. Near Rampur are the temple villages of Nirath, Duttnagar and Nirmand.

It used to be a major centre of trade on the old Hindustan-Tibet Raod. Located near Shimla, Rampur falls along the ancient trade route to Afghanistan, Ladakh, China and Tibet. The trade fair called 'Lavi' is held here every year from the 11th to 14th of November. Lavi Fair is the main attraction of Rampur, which is supposed to be one of the biggest fairs of North India. This fair is held every year during the second week of November. The fair is quite popular among the people in Shimla and is held for three days. The fair is abuzz with life and activities as it is a major crowd puller. Chilgoza or Neoza, shawls, blankets, crop produce, handicraft items, fruits, dry fruit coming from Kinnaur, and Pasham, soft sheep wool, along with other traditional trade items like musk, popular spiti horses etc. are sold here during the Mela. Some people even trade in livestock like sheep, goats, cows and horses. Pahari architectural style of the Palace here attracts.

It is one of the most important market and business centers of Shimla. The place is one of the best shopping hubs and one can get just about any exotic item over here. You can pick up handicraft items like wooden carvings and clay sculptures. The most popular items are the handspun woolen shawls and rugs that are warm even in the coldest weather. Rampur is famous for its handspun blankets that are popularly known "Rampuri Chaddar" (Chaddar is Hindi for blanket). The blankets are known for their softness and durability and tourists make it a point to buy atleast one from here. The tradition of Rampur is still pulsating as ever and one feels completely rejuvenated on visiting this place.

HOW TO REACH :  135 kms from Shimla on NH - 22. Rampur is connected by regular Bus/Taxi services. The nearest Railhead (135 km) & Airport (157 km) is at Shimla. Rampur can be approached from Rohru via Sungri ( 80 km ) and from Kullu, Manali via Jalori pass ( 190 Km).

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. In summer the temperature rises upto 40 degrees. March to June and September to November is the best time to visit this palace.

ACCOMMODATIONS : For the tourists, the HPTDC has got a tourist complex and a cafeteria named Satluj at Rampur. Also you can enjoy your stay at THE BUSHEHAR REGENCY (Deluxe Hotel).

PLACES OF INTEREST :

• RAMPUR TOWN (924m) : There are many places for sight-seeing. Its old Hindu and Buddhist shrines include the Ragunath Temple, the Ayodhya Temple, the Narsingh Temple, Sri Sat Nahan Temple and the Dumgir Budh Temple which has a large prayer wheel and holds important scriptures. In an interesting colonial and traditional styles, the Padam Palace is one of Rampur's major attractions. The Padam palace is a worth visiting place at Rampur. The large edifice is constructed out of wood and stone carvings. The palace is surrounded by sprawling garden.
• DUTT NAGAR (970m) : 12 km ancient village on the left bank of Sutlej which derived its name from the ancient temple of god Dattreya.
• NIRATH (950m) : 18 km, famous for ancient and unique Sun Temple built in nagara style is one of the two temples in India dedicated to Lord Suryanarayan.
• Nirmand- Shrines of Lord Parshu Ram and Ambika are located here.