Kahlur

Kahlur was a hill kingdom ruled by the Chandel dynasty, later known as Bilaspur. Local tradition traces its foundation to Raja Bir Chand, while Kahlur Fort is said to have given the state its earlier name. Its ruling family was also known as the Kahluria. Its rulers held court first at Jandbari and then at the fort, before making Bilaspur their capital.

Raja Dip Chand moved the capital to Bilaspur in the seventeenth century. His successor Bhim Chand defeated Mughal forces at Nadaun, and under Bhim Chand's son Ajmer Chand many neighbouring hill states paid tribute. By 1790 only Mangal still acknowledged Bilaspur's suzerainty. The court also patronised artists of the Kangra painting tradition. In 1815, under Raja Mahan Chand, Bilaspur came under British protection.