Chamba is not just the pride possession
of the history books but today it has become one of the most visited
destinations of India. Because of its uninterrupted ancient heritage and
customs Chamba manages to have a unique position of its own in the crowd of
the hill stations. It was founded by Raja Verman and is famous for its
temples that reflect the unmatched architectural superiority of the Indian
sculptures.
See & Do
Laxmi Narayan Temple - This is the main temple of Chamba and was
built by Sahil Verman in the 10th century very much reflecting the Shikhara
style. There are several other temples within the complex like the temple of
Radha Krishna, Shiva temple of Chandragupta and Gauri shankar temple.
Champavati Temple - This temple was built by Raja Sahil Verman in
the memory of his daughter. The size of the temple is said to be equivalent
to the Laxmi Narayan temple.
Vajreshwari Temple - This is an ancient temple about 1000 years old
and is dedicated to Devi Vajreshwari- the goddess of lightning.
Chamunda Devi Temple - This wooden temple has intricately carved
pillars, roof and beams and was built by the founder of the town, Raha Sahil
Varman.
Hari Rai Temple - This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.It
is one of the major old temples and has a fine shikhara.
Akhand Chandi Palace - This palace is also referred to as the Raaj
Mahal.
Rang Mahal - This is one of the largest monuments, whose foundations
was laid by Raja Umed Singh.
Bhuri Singh Museum - This museum is housed in a boring colonial
structure. One can brouse through the dusty collection of miniatures unique
to the region, some stone slabs, murals, a silver elephant throne, Chamba
rumaals, weapons, a coin collection and documents pertaining to the rules of
the kings.
Shopping
If you have likings for rumaals and chappals then you have
landed at the very right place. At the Chaugan Market you can find miniature
paintings which can be a great delight to the interior decoration of your
home. Amichand Dheema , a miniature painter ha an interesting collection of
Chamba, Kangra, Basouli and Rajasthani miniatures. For traditionally wovwn
shawls go to the Handicrafts Centre at Rang Mahal. And last but not the
least all those who want to add extra punch to the food served here can go
for Chukh, a unique mashed chilli pickle, speciality of the region.
Get Adventurous
There is an enormous range and possibilities for
adventure activities in Chamba. There is skiing, heliskiing and ice-skating.
There is the thrill of paragliding and the test of stamina with
mountain-cycling. You can go camping and fishing and play golf or take a
safari by car, jeep or on motorcycle. Then there is mountaineering and rock
climbing.
Dinning Delight
- The Orchid Restaurant of the Hill Top Resort is a multi- cuisine
restaurant.
- The Neelkanth Restaurant of Aroma Palace Hotel offers sumptuous
vegetarian North Indian, Chinese, Gujarathi and Chamba food.
- The Khaatir restaurant of Hotel City Heart offers unique eating
options.
Accommodation
- Classic Hill Top Resort
- The Terraces
- Hotel City Heart
- Aroma Palace
- Hotel Iravati
- Himalayan Orchard Hut
- Akhand Chandi Hotel
- Hotel Champavati
Climate Speaks.....
The hill station of Chamba experiences a
temperate climate with four well defined seasons. The maximum temperature in
summer rises till 38 degree C and in winters the temperature can drop down
to 0 degree C. However there are many variations in the climate due to the
micro-climatic conditions.