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Chamba valley , perhaps the
loveliest in Himachal, is know for its scenic attractions,
sparkling strems , lakes , meadows and lush deodar forests ,
Crowned with hight
mountain ranges, chamba rich in wildlife is home to animals like the
elusive snow leopard, ibex , brown bear, leopard and the musk deer.
Resplendent
with historically and architecturally import and bu ildings,
Chamba town in its temples and places preserves much of its rich
medieval past.
Perched on a plateau
overhanging the river Ravi the town is named after Champavati a
daughter of Raja Sahil Varma of the Bharmaur royal house who shifted
his capital here in 920 AD. Isolated by high mountains in its
beautiful valley, Chamba over the centuries was allowed to develop
its own style of Pahari are and architecture.
Much of this heritage has
been preserved and chamba , known for the splendor of its temples
and handicrafts I replete with artistic masterpieces.
Still intact a in group of
six ancient shikhara style stone temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva
, Vishnu and other deities. Among them the richly carved Lakshmi
Narayan Temple is the oldest structure.
Other evidence of Chamba’s
heritage can be seen in the famous collection of miniature painting
from the Kangra Basholi and Chamba schools at the Bhuri Singh as
well in the murals, and oter artifacts at the rang mahal palace.
Chaugan
the grassy meadow at the heart of the town, is also the center of
its culture activities, In July August each year the Minjar fair is
held here , Valley Gods and Goddess in their majestic paanquiens
are brought down from the mountains to pay homage to Lord Raghuvira
the presiding deity of the valley. During the week long harvest fair
the ground comes alive as villagers in colorful dresses celebrate
with sport song dance and music.
Chamba is 122 kms from
Pathankot, 378 kms from Shimla and 56 kms from Dalhusie.
Around Chamba
Katasan Devi Temple :
A popular palace of pilgrimage with the temple premises being an
excellent vantage point for a view of Chamba valley.
Jhamwar : In the
vicinity of thick alpine forestlands Jhamwar is famous for its apple
orchards.
Salooni : has some
of the most awesome views of the Greater himalaya snow ranges
Bhandal Valley :
The beautiful valley of Bhandal is rich in Himalayan flora and fauna
an makes for an ideal retreat.
Pangi Valley : Over
the Sach pass 137 km fro Chamba full of grandeur and tribal majesty
is the land locked valley of Pangi.
General Information
Altitude : 996 meters
Climate The temperatures at Chamba moderate between 36c in
summer and 0c in winter. Woollends for winters and cotton clothing
for summer are required.
Getting there: Well linked by road, public and private
transport is for Chamba Nearest airport is 180 km away at Kangra.
Chamba is 122 km from Pathankot 378 km from Shimla and 56 km from
Dalhousie.
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