Chamba town (915 mt.) stands on the right bank of the river Ravi. As a former princely state, Chamba 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. Chamba is also a district headquarters.

Places to visit

• 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 temple in chamba 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- Chempavati, Vajreshwari, Sui Mata and Chamunda Devi.
• The Chowgan
  Chamba's wide concourse is the hub of much of  the town's activity and also serves as its promenade.
• Rangmahal
  This old palace is an interesting mix of colonial and Seracenic 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.

Excursions

• Bharmour (65 km)
  Its 84 ancient temples at a height of 2141 m are well known. It is also the summer home of the nomadic Giddy people.
• Manimahesh (83 km)
  This sacred lake (4183 m) 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.
• Khajjiar
  Also called  India's Switzerland, the exquisite glade of Khajjiar (1960 m) has a circumference of about 5 km. Along its fringes, thick forests of deodar climb the slopes. The snow line rests above these woods and in the centre of the glade, is a small lake fed by streams that traverse the green carpet. At Khajjiar there is a 12th century temple dedicated to Khajjinag. Within the temple are life-size wooden images of the five Pandava brothers.

Access

• By Road : Chamba is connected by road and is 580 km from Delhi. It is 24 km from Khajjiar (Khajiar) and from Dalhousie via Khajjiar, the distance is 56 km.
• By Rail : The closest railhead is at Pathankot 116 km away from chamba.
• By Air : The airport at Gaggal in Kangra is at a distance of 170 km. Taxis / buses are available from these places.

Climate Conditions

In winter, the temperature of chamba gets very low because of cold winds. It is hot in summer - upto 38° C and cottons are recommended

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Chamba is between March and June.