Chamba town (915m). stands on the right bank of the river Ravi. As a former princely State, it is one of the oldest in the century and dates back to the sixth century. It is well known for its splendid architecture and a base for numerous excursions. It is also the district headquarters.

Modern and centrally located Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel Iravati at Chamba. Surrounded by flowering bougainvillea and set in an attractive lawn, this by far, is the best place to stay in Chamba.

ACCESS :

Chamba is connected by road and is 580 km from Delhi. It is 24 km from Khajjiar, Dalhousie via Khajjair, is 56 km. The closest railhead is at Pathankot, 118 km away. The airport at Gaggal in Kangra is at a distance of 170 km. Taxis/buses are available from these places.

CLIMATE :

In winter, the temperature gets very low because of cold winds, when heavy woolens are required. It is hot in summer and the temperature rises up to 38 degrees

Facilities :

• Rooms are airy, spacious, decently furnished with attached baths and running hot & cold water.

• Satellite Television

• Room service, Laundry, Parking within premises, Doctor on call, Restaurant.

CAFE RAVI VIEW :

HPTDC runs Cafe Ravi View near Chaugan.

PLACES OF INTEREST :

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 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 Champavati, Vijreshwari, Sui Mata and Chamunda Devi.

THE CHOWGAN: Chamba's wide concourse is the hub of much of towns activity and also serves as its promenade.

RANGMAHAL:  This old palace is an interesting mix of colonial and local 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.

BHARMOUR (69 Km): Its 84 ancient temples at a height of 2141m are well known. It is also the summer home of the nomadic Gaddi people.

MANIMAHESH (98 Km): This sacred lake (4183m) is associated with Lord Shiva and is a site of annual pilgrimage from mid of August to mid of September each year. Distance from Bharmaur is 28 Km.

CHATRARI (45 Km):  An attractive temple to Shakti Devi is located here.