Chamba town (996m) stands on the right bank of the river Ravi. As a former princely State, it is one of the oldest in the country and dates back to the sixth century. It is well known for its splendid architecture and as the base for numerous excursions. It is also a district headquarters.

How to Get There

Chamba is connected by road and is 580 km from Delhi. It is 24 km from Khajjiar and from Dalhousie via Khajjar, the distance is 56 km.The closest railhead is at Pathankot, 118 km away. The airport at Gaggal in Kangra is at a distance of 170km. Taxis/buses are available from these places.

Climate

In Winter, the temperature gets very low because of cold winds, when heavy wollens are required. It is hot in summer-upto 380C and cottons are recommended.

Places of Interest in and Around Chamba

Laxmi Narayan Temple Complex :
With six main Shikhara style temples and several smaller shrines, this is renowned for its finely executed classical forms.

Hari Rai Temple:
This is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and dates back to the 11th Century.

Other Temples :
The profusion of temples in Chamba and their craftsmanship is remarkable. Some important shrines are Champavati, Vajreshwari, Sui Mata and Chamuna Devi.

The Chowgan:
Chamba's wide concourse is the hub of much of the towns activity and also serves as its promenade.

Rangmahal :
This old palace is an interesting mix of colonial and Saracenic architectural styles.

Akhand Chandi Palace :
Now a college, this imposing building once housed Chamba's ruling family. Much of the original craftsmanship can still be seen.

Bhuri Singh Museum :
Named after Raja Bhuri Singh of Chamba, this is a treasure house of Chamba's rich past. The exhibits include copper plates, murals, doorways, costumes, paintings and stone carvings.

St. Andrew's Church :
Over a century old, this is a charming dressed stone structure with lancet windows.

Bharmour (65km) :
Its 84 ancient temples at a height of 2141m are well known. It is also the summer home of the nomadic Gaddi people.

Manimahesh (93km):
This sacred lake (4183m) is associated with Lord Shiva and is the site of an annual pilgrimage.

Chatrari (45 km) :
An attractive temple to Shakti Devi is located here.