Chamba is among the most visited places in Himachal Pradesh. Chamba is a holy place believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The serene atmosphere of this place provides an opportunity to tourists to rejuvenate from the daily hectic life of big cities. The pleasant climate and serene surroundings filled with diverse flora and fauna make Chamba an exciting tourist spot. Being one of the most preferred tourist places in Himachal, there are many breathtaking places to visit in Chamba.
Chamba is also a world-leading destination for those interested in art; the hill paintings made here are very popular with tourists. Dalhousie, Khajjiar, Chamba Town, Pangi and Bharmour are the main tourist places in Chamba. While on the city tour of Chamba, you can visit several great places to visit in Chamba, such as lakes, wildlife sanctuaries and countless temples. Take a look at how these attractions can enhance your human experience.
Best Places to Visit in Chamba Himachal Pradesh
Chamba is an enchanting destination for all nature lovers, tourists and peace seekers whose untouched beauty captivates everyone’s mind. Chamba is the most preferred and most visited tourist destination among the various romantic destinations of Himachal Pradesh. Rolling hills, lush green valleys, mesmerizing sunrise, and breathtaking sunset points make Chamba a perfect honeymoon destination in Himachal Pradesh. Similarly, throughout this blog, we will discuss some illustrious places to visit in Chamba.
1. Bhuri Singh Museum
Bhuri Singh Museum, an amazing place to visit in Chamba if you want to know more about the culture and heritage of this beautiful district. On 14th September 1908, Bhuri Singh Museum was inaugurated in Chamba in honour of Raja Bhuri Sing. Raja Bhuri Singh, the ruler of the erstwhile Chamba state, gifted his hereditary art collection and Dr. J. Ph. Vogel rendered his invaluable services to establish this museum.
Initially, this museum was started with added paintings by Raja Bhuri Singh, but now it possesses 8,500 antiques, including arms, old coins, a rich collection of carved doors, royal jewellery, copper plate grants, frescoes, Basohli School, miniature paintings, crafts, Cultural Anthropology and many other items of the historical period.
Being a regional museum, you will see more antiques related to the Chamba region’s art, culture and history, making it one of the best places to visit in Chamba. If you are a history buff and love learning about historical artifacts and antiques, then Bhuri Singh Museum in Chamba is a perfect destination.
Location:- District Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
Visiting Hours:- From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (Tuesday to Saturday)
2. Manimahesh Lake
Manimahesh Lake is one of the most sacred and significant places to visit in Chamba District. The beauty of this place and the faith of the people associated with it is incomparable. It is another significant lake after Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. Manimahesh Lake is located at an altitude of 4,080 above sea level near Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. According to Hindu mythology, Manimahesh Lake is regarded as the abode of Lord Shiva.
Here you can participate in the famous Manimahesh Yatra, a major pilgrimage trek performed during August and September on the eighth day of the new moon according to the Hindu calendar. At this time, a fair is also held in this lake, and thousands of pilgrims gather here to dip in the holy waters and seek blessings from the almighty.
This Lake look like a saucer and is divided into two parts. The more significant part is the Shiva Katori (the bathing place of Lord Shiva), and the lower part is called the Gauri Kund (the bathing place of Goddess Parvati). Surrounded by enchanting mountains and greenery, it is one of the best places to visit in Chamba. Due to heavy snowfall in the area, the lake is often seen closed, so check the details before you plan a visit to it.
Location:- Bharmour subdivision of Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit:- From May to September
3. Laxmi Narayana Temple
Laxmi Narayan Temple, built around the 10th century by Raja Sahil Varma, is one of Chamba’s largest and oldest temples. Your trip is incomplete without visiting this temple of Chamba. We cannot describe the beauty of this wonderful place in words. If you want to know, include this place in your list of place to visit in Chamba. There are a total of six temples in the Lakshmi Narayan temple complex, and they are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
Lord Vishu is the main deity of the Lakshmi Narayan temple, and his idol is carved from a rare marble found in the Vindhyachal mountains. The temple is shaped like a Shikhara, including Garbhgriha, with a small Antarala and a mandapa. Aside from the six main temples, it houses three other temples in the complex: Radha Krishna Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, and Shiva Temple of Chandragupta.
Laxmi Narayan Temple, along with other attractions of Chamba, attracts lakhs of religious and seasonal visitors annually. The temple is an architectural marvel that we can see in this temple. You can see wooden Chattris and a shell roof at the top that protects the temple from snow. The temple is structured so that it is always pleasant, no matter what the weather is outside. Laxmi Narayan temple is one of the best places to visit in Chamba for its historical significance.
Locations:- Mohalla, Hatnala Gali, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh.
Visiting Hours:- The temple opens twice daily, from 6:00 am to 12.30 pm and from 2.30 pm to 8.30 pm.
Also Read: Unfolding the History and the Mystery – best Temples in Himachal Pradesh
4. Chamera Dam
Chamera Dam is another breathtaking place in Chamba. Chamera Dam, built on the Ravi River, dams the Ravi River and supports hydroelectric projects in the region. It is one of the major sources of electricity generation in this region. Situated near Dalhousie in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Lake is the man-made reservoir for the Chamba Dam. The mesmerizing surroundings of this place are the reason people love to visit this place.
This place is an ideal location for pic and water sports. Here you can indulge in some adventurous activities such as boating, kayaking, rowing, motor boating, paddle boating, sailing, canoeing, and angling. Houseboats and Shikaras are also available here for romantic rides for couples. Chamera Dam is one of the best tourist attractions in Chamba on the way from Chamba to Pathankot.
Thousands of tourists visit this site annually as one of the top places near Chamba. One this which makes it one of the unique places to visit in Chamba is its fluctuating day and night temperature. The temperature near the dam during the day rises up to 35 degrees Celsius and at night drops to a minimum of 18 to 20 °C.
Location:- Dalhousie, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh India
Best time to visit:- From March to June
Visiting Hours:- You can visit Chamera Lake from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
5. Khajjar Lake
Khajjar Lake is a very beautiful tourist destination situated between Dalhousie and Chamba Town at an altitude of 1,951 meters above sea level. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, vast grassy landscapes, and dense deodar forests, it is an ideal place for nature lovers. The enchanting ambiance and panoramic view of this place are sure to soothe your eyes.
Various small water streams from the Himalayas are the main source of the Khajjar Lake. You might not know that it is also called as “Mini Switzerland” of India. Khajjar Lake is named after Khajji Nag, whose temple “Khajjar Nag Mandir” is situated near Khajjar Lake. If you are lucky and the weather is clear, you can even see the reflection of Mount Kailash in the lake.
One of the main attractions of Khajjar Lake is the ‘Floating Island’, a part of the grass and grass developed on the lake’s surface. Khajjar is one of the best places to visit in Chamba, where you can enjoy nature’s immense beauty and indulge in some thrilling and exciting sports and fun activities like paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding.
Location:- Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit:- From January to March
Visiting Hours:- Open all days
6. Chamundi Devi Temple
Chamunda Devi Temple is a place nobody wants to leave on his/her trip to Chamba. You won’t believe this temple is 300 years old and still in excellent condition. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, Raja Umed Singh built this temple in 1762. It is the only wooden temple in Chamba that has a lattice roof. This temple is also famous as the Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham.
The temple is located on the top of the Shah Madar range near the small town of Chamba. Earlier, to reach the temple one had to go through a paved path of 378 steps cut out of stone, but now it is easily accessible through a 3 km long concrete road from Chamba. The major attractions of this temple are the ancient architecture and beautiful surroundings.
Nestled amidst the jaw-dropping location surrounded by scenic snow-capped mountains, this place is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Chamba. The temple complex includes a handicraft center that houses various items like wood carvings, wooden toys, honey, black pottery, Kangra tea, and world-famous Kangra paintings.
Location:- Chamba-Jhumar Rd, Mohalla Surara, Mohalla Sapri, Chamba.
Visiting Hours:- Open 24 hours all days
Also Read: Top Places to Visit in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
7. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, or Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary, is a majestic tourist spot situated on a hilltop on the way to Dalhousie and Khajjiar. Spread over an area of 30.9 sq km, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is well laid out with trekking trails where you can spot indigenous bird species like Pheasant, Eurasian Jay, White-winged Black Bird, Chestnut Bill Rock Thrush, Blackhead Jay, and Gray Headed Canary. The 19.63 sq km of the sanctuary is covered with dense deodar and deodar forests, which is about 6 km from Dalhousie.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary houses a variety of wild animals, including barking goral, serow, jackal, Himalayan black marten, langur, panther, deer, black bear, and many more. For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, this place is like heaven. Spend your time dipping your feet in the cool waters of the Ravi River and enjoy the breathtaking view of the snow-capped Pir Panjal ranges surrounding the sanctuary.
For all the hikers, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Chamba, as you can spot a vast variety of flora and fauna. Experience the lush greenery and majestic natural beauty while roaming in this sanctuary. Spend a night in the woods under the starry sky at Kalatop Forest Rest House to experience a rustic stay. It is one of the perfect places to visit in Chamba on your trip.
Location:- Kalatope R.F, Himachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit:- From September to April
Visiting Hours:- From 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
8. Rang Mahal
Rang Mahal is a perfect example of architectural intelligence. Built with a mixture of British and Mughal architecture, Raja Umed Singh constructed this Palace in the 18th century. This Majestic Palace is located in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, and its grand structure makes it the largest monument in the Chamba district. The attractively designed architecture and the high fort-like walls of the citadel set it apart from the city.
Painted with red colour this grand palace looks so beautiful in the sunlight. This majestic palace is not only beautiful from the outside but also from inside. Rang Mahal has been completely converted into an Emporium House by Himachal Government and serves as Himachal Emporium where you can shop for local handmade things and handicrafts.
Here you can enjoy shopping and buy locally made, embroidered silk fabrics, Shawl, Shoes, Slippers, and handkerchiefs woven on a wooden loom. If all Handcraft lovers, then it is one o the best places to visit in Chamba.
Location:- Surara Mohalla, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, India
Visiting Hours:- From 10:00 am-1:00 pm, and 2:00 pm-5:00 pm (Monday to Saturday)
Also Read: Best Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh for a Perfect Winter Holidays
9. Vajreshwari Temple
Vahreshwari Temple is another one of the most beautiful places to visit in Chamba. The temple is located at the end of Jansali Bazaar in Chamba. It is said that Vajreshwari Devi is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati as the Goddess of lighting, and she is worshipped here in her pinid form. This temple is believed to be more than a thousand years old.
The architecture of this temple is also a point of attraction. Built-in the traditional Shikhar style of architecture, the splendid carvings, intricate woodwork and delicate stonework done in the temple make it one of the best places to visit in Chamba. The inner wall of the shrine is decorated with the carving of various Hindu deities and the outer wall has eighteen tiny inscriptions.
Every year a grand fair happens here dedicated to Goddess Vajeshwari in March. This is the time when locals and visitors take blessings of Goddess Vajreshwari and celebrate the festivals.
Location:- Jansali Bazaar, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit:- From October to April
Visiting Hours:- Open 24 hours all days
10. Champavati Temple
Champavati Temple is a famous temple in Chamba that you must not miss on your tour. Champavati Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site with hurds of devotees and tourists day and night. Raja Sahil Varman built this temple in memory of his daughter Champavati; hence, this temple was named Champavati.
Located near the Police Post and Treasury building in Chamba, it is one of the significant religious places to visit in Chamba. Inside the temple is the idol of Goddess Mahishasurmardini, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple’s walls are designed with beautiful stone carvings and with the distinctive shikhara style inspired by the architecture of Nepal.
The temple also houses the shrines of Vasuki Naga and Wazir. The temple has a significant religious and historical significance. The Archaeological Survey of India takes care of this temple, making it one of the best places to visit in Chamba.
Location:- Near the Police Post and Treasury building, Chamba
Best Time to Visit:- From March to June
Visiting Hours:- Open 24 hours all days
Also Read: An Enchanting Evening at the Sunset Point Kasauli Himachal Pradesh
11. Palampur Hill Station
Along with the sites mentioned above, you can also travel from Chamba to Palampur Hill Station. Visitors keep coming back year after year to this beautiful tourist destination of Chamba. This region offers scenic hilly beauty, lush green valleys, and tea gardens that are enough to attract anyone. Palampur Hill station is located at an altitude of 1205 meters above sea level.
There are various other places where you can relax, like here. There are numerous things to see here, including Dhauladhar National Park, Chamunda Devi Temple, Bazinath Temple, Saurabh Van Vihar, Tea Gardens, etc. Palampur hill station is one of the best places to visit in Chamba if you want to relax amidst the pleasant and serene atmosphere. It is a perfect destination to add to your list.
Location:- Ghuggar, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit:- From September to April
12. Himachal Emporium
A shopaholic who enjoys traditionally made items? Himachal Emporium is a shopping paradise allowing you to buy many souvenirs and locally made things. This monument was used during that time as a warehouse for the treasury by the royal family. The historic building underwent a lot of renovation after the Department of State Handicrafts acquired it.
Himachal Emporium is one of the famous places to visit in Chamba for shopping, where people go shopping for adorable handcrafted goods created in Himachal. Local women embellish the items, and embroidered silk fabrics are widely admired here. Himachal Emporium represents one of the greatest collections of hill paintings, containing breathtaking wall paintings. It contains paintings that depict events related to Lord Krishna.
Location:- Mohalla Sapri, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
Visiting Hours:- From 10:00 am-1:00 pm and 2:00 pm-5:00 pm
Final Words
Being a perfect tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, Chamba never disappoints you. There are many places to visit in Chamba that serve everything you need while planning a trip, be it adventure activities, religious places, historical monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, or natural beauty. Chamba is one such place that you must visit once in your lifetime.
If you have visited one of the places, you can share your experience in the comment box. We would love to listen to your stories and experiences about these places. We hope you like this blog.