Nestled in the point of confluence of the Dhauladhar and the Zanskar mountain ranges, Chamba is the northernmost district of the state. Popularly voted to be the most scenic town of Himachal Pradesh, this region borders Jammu and Kashmir in the southern end.
Full to the brim with its natural wonders, the lovely little valley is dotted with a number of alpine forests, fast flowing rivers, sparkling lakes and streams, vast, open meadows and rich wildlife. During winters, the valley remains snow-capped, offering up a sight of extreme ethereal beauty.
Apart from its natural beauty, however, Chamba boasts of a splendid cultural heritage also. Its massive stone-carved temples, such as Chamunda Devi Temple or the Laxmi Narayan Temple, offer an aesthetic treat to the visitors. The sheer craftsmanship is a skill depicted through the architectural wonders in Chamba is something to marvel at. The beautiful miniature paintings that form an essential part of the state’s history can be viewed at the Bhuri Singh Museum, which also houses a fine collection of ancient Himachali artefacts.
A number of little villages dot the outskirts of Chamba, each with its own unique attractions. One cannot possibly miss out on a visit to the Saho Village while visiting CHamba. Located on the banks of the Sal River, the village is known to house a 1100-year-old Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which has a naturally built Shiva Lingam. Owing to the scenic beauty of the Jhanwar apple orchards, a visit here is almost mandatory for anyone visiting Chamba. The little valley also hosts a number of fests and festivals throughout the year, such as the Minjar Fair in July, Sui Mela in April, and Chhatradi Jatar in September.
Owing to its fairly moderate climate, Chamba is one of the year-round destinations in Himachal Pradesh. In summer months, between March to June, the temperature remains relatively high and may even go up to as much as 35 degree Celsius. The monsoon months, between July to September, experience moderate temperature and a decent amount of rainfall. The temperature remains fairly low during winters, even falling to sub-zero levels occasionally. December and January in Chamba witnesses heavy snowfall, and the valley remains snow covered until March.
