Location: In the
northwestern part of the state of Himachal Pradesh, in the north of India.
Tourist Attractions: Chaugan, Laxmi Narayan Temple,
Champavati Temple, Vajreshwari Temple, Sui Mata Temple, Chamunda Devi
Temple, Hari Rai Temple, Akhand Chandi Palace, Rang Mahal, Bhuri Singh
Museum, Church of Scotland, Rajpura and the Famous Major of Sai Jamal Shah,
Chowari Jat.
Best Hangouts: Art Garden / Minjar Camping Site, Rock
Garden at Devi Dehra, Dayanand Math
Best Activity : Camping at Minjar
Fairs and Festival: The Sui Mata festival and the Minjar
festival.
Nearby Tourist Destinations: Dalhousie, Khajjiar and Bharmaur
When to Visit: March to June
About Chamba
Chamba originated in 6th century AD and is one of the oldest princely
states. It is situated on the right side of the river Ravi. Located in the
beautiful valley, surrounded by the Shivalik ranges, Chamba also has the
district headquarters. It is famous for its medieval temples and Chaugan, a
public promenade. The architecture of the buildings of Chamba reflects the
artistic taste of its former rulers. Chamba is also famous for its local
festivals.
Major Tourist attractions in Chamba
Laxmi Narayan Temple
It is one of the major tourist attraction in Chamba. The six temples in
this complex display the Hindu shikhara style of architecture. Three of
these temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the other three to Lord
Shiva. The temple was built in the 10th century AD and was renovated in the
16th century. The Laxmi Narayan Temple complex also has some fine sculptures
of residing deities, which include figures of Lord Vishnu (of the Hindu
trilogy), Goddess Laxmi (Goddess of wealth), Narasimha (Lion form of Lord
Vishnu) and Lord Krishna.
Chowgan
Chowgan, is the grassy promenade at the heart of the town and is the focus
for local festivals.
Brajeshwari Devi Temple
Nearby the Laxmi Narayan Temple is the Brajreshwari Devi temple, dedicated
to Goddess Durga.
Chamunda Devi Temple
This temple is located on a hill overlooking the town of Chamba and one has
to climb for about 30 minutes to reach it. The temple is dedicated to the
wrathful form of Goddess Durga, Chamunda. The temple's wooden ceiling is
ornamented with intricate carvings portraying floral motifs and different
deities. This temple has a number of brass bells, offered by the devotees,
and it also has the footprints of the Goddess on a small pillar.
Sui Mata Temple
Located between the Chamunda Devi temple and Brajreshwari Devi temple, the
Sui Mata Temple is dedicated to Sui Mata (a local princess, who gave her
life for the people in Chamba). The temple is decorated with colorful
paintings depicting the life of Sui.
Hari Rai Temple
Built in the 11th-century, the Hari Rai Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu
and is constructed in the Shikhara style. The temple has a triple-headed
statue of Lord Vishnu made from eight different materials.
Other temples to visit in Chamba are the Radha Krishna Temple, the Sitaram
Temple and the Champavati Temple.
Rangmahal
The Rangmahal or the Old Palace is one of the most visited places of
Himachal Pradesh. It also has the Himachal Emporium, from where the
travelers can buy handicraft items.
Bhuri Singh Museum
The Bhuri Singh Museum owns a good collection of artifacts of this region.
There's also an interesting collection of traditional miniature paintings.
St Andrew's Church and Gandhi Gate are also worth visiting.
Getting There
Air: Chamba is not connected directly by Air. The nearest airport is
at Gaggal (Dist. Kangra). From Gaggal to Chamba transportation is easily
available.
Rail: Chamba is not connected directly by train. The nearest
railway-station is Chakki-Bank and Pathankot. From Chakki-Bank and Pathankot
to Chamba regular bus service is available.
Road: The bus station in Chamba is located near the Chowgan. The bus
service from Chamba to Bharmaur (3½ hours), Dharamshala (10 hours),
Khajjiar (1½ hours), Dalhousie (3 hours), and to Pathankot (6 hours) is
very good.
Accommodation
Chamba offers many accommodation options, in terms of hotels. One may
choose from government approved and various hotels in Chamba.
