Chamba

Chamba the valley of milk and honey is an ancient town surrounded on all sides by lofty hill ranges and the territory is wholly mountainous. Chamba is so sheltered by snow clad mountain barriers that its monuments escaped destruction at the hands of invaders, that is why it still remains one of the best preserved heartlands of the Himalayan arts. Chamba is known for it's magnificent scenery. A bridge over the Ravi river leads up to the town, situated on the ledge of a mountain, overlooking the right bank of the river. This town was founded by Raja Sahil Varman when he conquered the lower Rani valley from the petty chiefs called Ranas and Thakurs in the beginning of 10th Century. From the time of Raju Maru, 67 Rajas of this dynasty have ruled over Chamba until it finally merged with the Indian Union in April 1948. Chamba, is known for its streams, meadows, numerous temples, paintings, rumal ( handkerchief ) and lakes. Chamba is also well noted for its arts and crafts, particularly its Pahari paintings.         

Tourist Attraction

Laxmi Narayan temple

The Laxmi Narayan Temple is one of the most  idolize places of the region, which was built by Raja Sahil Verman. The shrine, constructed in the 10th century, is devoted to the Vaishnavite sect. The temple has been built in the Shikhara style. The temple consists of Bimana i.e. Shikhara and Garbh Griha with a small antralya. The main attraction of the temple includes the wooden chattries, which are built with regard to dynamic climatic conditions. The other highlights of the shrine are shikara, a sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) along with an ‘antarala’ and a ‘mantapa’.

Hari Rai temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and dates back to 11th century. It was probably built by Salabahana. This temple lies in the north-west corner of the main Chaugan, which had became the official entrance to the town by the end of 19th C. The temple is carved in a Shikara style and stands majestically on a stone platform. The temple has a beautiful statue of Lord Vishnu in the form of Chaturmurti (four faces). Hari Rai is the only temple that has been beautifully coated with saffron and can be prominently seen among all the other temples.  

Rang Mahal

Located in Suraj Mohalla, Rang Mahal foundation was laid by King Ummed Singh, during mid-eighteenth century. Later, kings of the same dynasty, including Raj Sri Singh, repaired this brick palace. This palace was the residence for a branch of the ruling family. Its fort like looks justify its use as royal granary and treasury which is on its western side.  

Akhand Chandi Palace

This palace was initially constructed as a residential complex. Its construction was started by Raja Umed Singh in 1748-1764. Later, Raja Sham Singh rebuilt and renovated it. It is situated at such a location that gives amazing views of the Laxmi Narayan Temple, Chaugan, Chamunda Devi Temple, Sui Mata Temple, Rang Mahal, Hari Rai Temple and Bansi Gopal Temple. Akhand Chandi Palace is the stout palace was once home to the ruling family, and has been now converted into a college.