Chamba

Blessed with some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes anywhere, it is a travellers paradise -lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, enchanting mountain lakes, flower bedecked meadows, beautiful temples and monasteries steeped in time. May it be for relaxing, sightseeing, trekking, mountaineering, fishing, para-gliding, skiing, ice skating and golf, Himachal has it all...Come Explore Himachal with himachaltourist...

In the higher reaches of the Ravi Valley, just 56 km from Dalhousie, Chamba is perched on a little plateau about 100 m above the river. The capital of an ancient kingdom, Chamba was founded in 920 AD by Raja Sahil Varma who named it after his favorite daughter Champavati. Isolated in this valley by the high ranges, Chamba developed its own style of architecture and art. Much of this heritage has been preserved and Chamba is known for the elegance of its temples and for its exquisite miniatures and handicrafts.

Excursion

Lakshminarayanan Temple
In a group are six ancient temples carved in stone, with tall vimanas. Dedicated to both Shiva and Vishnu, they were built around the 8th century AD. The Lakshminarayan Temple, the oldest in this group, is richly ornamented.

Bhuri Singh Museum
On display is a collection of fine miniatures from the Kangra, Basholi and Chamba schools of painting. There are also murals and paintings from the Rang Mahal Palace which was damaged by fire.

Chaugan
A large grassy meadow forms the heart of the town and the centre of all its cultural activities. Each year, the colourful Minjar Mela celebrating the harvest is held here.

Hari Rai Temple
This 11th century temple located near the Chaugan, has an exquisite bronze image of the Chaturmurti - the four armed Vishnu, enshrined in the sanctum.

Chamunda Devi Temple
Just 1 km from the Chaugan is a temple overlooking the river, Dedicated to the goddess Chamunda Devi, the temple is embellished with fine wood carving.

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Getting There

By Air
The nearest airport is Kangra 180 Km away.

By Rail
The nearest narrow gauge railhead is Pathankot, 122 Km.

By Road
Well connected by road.

Weather

Temperature
Between 36 C in summer and 0 C in winter

Best Season
Throughout the year

Clothing
Summers : Light Woollens
Winter : Warm Woollens

STD Code : 018992

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