Image Source: Gurdev Singh
About Dholbaha
Dholbaha is an archaeological treasure that is hidden in the quiet hills of Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district. Often overlooked by casual travellers, the ancient site provides a window into Punjab’s pre-medieval and early medieval past. The site holds revealing layers of history that stretch back over a thousand years.
Where is Dholbaha?
Nestled 30 kilometers from Hoshiarpur town, the Dholbaha is surrounded by gentle hills, scattered villages, and stretches of forests that give the area a timeless aura.
Historical Significance
Dholbaha gained archaeological prominence when numerous stone sculptures, temple relics, and inscriptions that date from the Gupta period (4th–6th century CE) to the early medieval era (up to the 12th century CE) were found in the region.
Excavations reveal that this area was once a flourishing center for Hindu and Buddhist art and culture. There was a presence of ancient temples and monasteries in the Shivalik belt during that time. Most of the sculptures recovered from the region are now housed in museums, primarily the Hoshiarpur Archaeological Museum.
What Makes Dholbaha Special ?
Rare Stone Sculptures:
The site is known for beautifully carved statues of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva, Ganesha, and various goddesses. Some Buddhist icons have also been found, pointing to religious coexistence.
Architectural Fragments:
Remnants of pillars, carved panels, and temple plinths suggest that impressive shrines once stood here.
Important Inscriptions:
Inscriptions in ancient scripts have helped historians trace dynastic influences and understand regional connections to larger kingdoms.
What to See Today
While there’s no grandstanding monument like a fort or palace, Dholbaha is fascinating for history enthusiasts, students, and archaeology lovers . Visitors can:
Explore the site’s surroundings, where scattered ruins can still be seen.
Visit the Hoshiarpur Archaeological Museum, where many artifacts from Dholbaha are preserved.
Enjoy the scenic rural landscape—fields, small forest patches, and the backdrop of the Shivaliks. How to Reach
Nearest Town: Hoshiarpur (30 km)
By Road: Local buses, taxis, or a private vehicle from Hoshiarpur.
Nearest Railway Station: Hoshiarpur Railway Station.
Nearest Airport: Amritsar or Chandigarh (~130–140 km).
Travel Tips
Combine your visit with nearby Takhni-Rehmapur Wildlife Sanctuary for a blend of history and nature.
A local guide (if available) or a visit to the museum first can help you appreciate the historical context better. Why Visit Dholbaha?
For travelers who like to step off the beaten path, Dholbaha offers a unique story—one that connects Punjab to ancient trade routes, religious art, and forgotten kingdoms. It’s a peaceful reminder that beneath Punjab’s green fields and golden gurudwaras lie layers of rich, timeless heritage waiting to be discovered.