Truly unparagoned is the extraordinary natural beauty of this fascinating town known as Chamba. Chamba, a paradise hill station is also one the most ancient towns of Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh. Lying on the banks of river Ravi at its confluence with river Sal, the place is also known as the valley of milk and honey.
Equally popular are its shrines, lakes, pahari paintings, meadows, watercourses and handkerchiefs. The Dhauladhar range, the Pangi or Pir Panjal range and Zanskar range are the surrounding snow-clad mountain ranges that define the charm of this beautiful hill station. Chamba has numerous Hindu temples most of which are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. These shrines make this destination most suited for people who are fond of religious tourism.
Major Attractions in Chamba
- Bhuri Singh Museum – This is one of the oldest museums of India, established by King Bhuri Singh in 1908. The Pahari miniature paintings in Chamba and guler Kangra styles have earned it a distinguished place on the world art map. Besides the paintings, there is also a fine collection of manuscripts, sculptures, coins, murals, historical documents, wood carvings and many other decorative pieces of art.
- Temples – Chamba has numerous temples built in the Shikhara style and local hill architecture. Most of these are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The most famous of these are Lakshminarayan Temple, Hari Rai Temple, Bansi Gopal Temple, Chaurasi temples, Chamunda Devi Temple, Sui Mata Temple and Bajreshwari Devi Temple.
- Chamab Chuagan – This is a busy trading center for locals. The Minjar Mela is also organized in this public promenade every year. Tourists can enjoy flair of local customs and dresses in this festival. The Chamab Chaugan also serves as an establishment base for trekking excursions in the valley.
- Bharmour – Originally, the capital of state of Chamba, Bharmour is well known for its temples and monuments. Gaddis, the semi-nomadic shepherds are the natives of this region.
- Lama Dal – Lama Dal is a long lake which is believed to be associated with Lord Shiva. Lying in the inner slopes of Dhauladhar, this is a group of seven lakes, largest of them all being the Lama Dal.
- Pangi Valley – Also known as the Pir Panjal Range, this range divides Chamba into two unequal sections. The separation happens to such an extent that there is no inter communication among the two parts even in the summer season.
Chamba is such a gifted place with regards to the scenic beauty of its natural surroundings. A holiday spent here will surely be a lifetime remembrance. Chamba is also special because it has something exclusive to offer to all its tourists, whether one is here for religious visit, adventure, fun, or to compose onself.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Chamba is between the months of April and October when the weather here is very delightful and perfect for tourism. In the months of June and July, the place is literally thronged by tourists from all over the country and the world. In mid-July, a fair known as the Minjar Fair is organized here which is something surely not to be missed.
How to reach Chamba
By Air – The nearest airport Jolly Grant Airport is only 75kms away from Chamba. The second nearest airport from Chamba is Kangra which is only 180kms from Chamba. Tourists can easily hire taxi from these airports to Chamba. There are a number of daily flights flown to and from these airports connecting rest of the country especially national capital Delhi.
By rail – The Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railway station from Chamba which is only at a distance of 58km. This railway station is very well connected with all major cities of India by big railway network. People can hire taxis and buses from this railway station for going to Chamba.
By road – Chamba is connected with National Highway 94. Besides, Chamba is also well connected by motorable roads from all major cities of India. The nearest bus stand from Chamba is Chowgan bus stand. There are a number of normal and luxury buses available to Chamba and major cities of India from this bus stand. Dalhousie bus stand is another nearest bus stand to Chamba.
