Thriving on nature's bounty, Chamba was tagged 'the land of milk and honey' from its earliest days. Surrounded by terraced hill slopes, Chamba is perched on a ledge overlooking the river Ravi. Ancient temples and beautiful sceneries combine to make Chamba an interesting destination.

The centre of the town is devoted to a kilometre long grassy promenade called the Chowgan. All important public events are held here. During the annual festivals Suimata (March/April) and the Minjar (July/August), the Chowgan turns into a colourful fairground.

The temples of Chamba are mostly few centuries old; they are intricately carved and reflect a combination of traditional Chamba and the north Indian architectural styles. Most temples have interesting legendary antecedents. From the terrace of the hill top Chamunda Devi Temple, you can get an excellant view of the surroundings including the slate-roof houses-- some of which are also a couple of centuries old.

BASICS

STD Code: 01899.
How to go: Chamba can be accessed from the different corners of the valley. There are regular buses to Dalhousie-- 56 kilometres, Khajjiar-- 24 kilometres, Pathankot-- 119 kilometres. Chamba to Dalhousie via Khajjiar is only 43 kilometres. There are also ordinary buses to Dharamsala, Banikhet, Shimla, Manali, Amritsar etc. Pathankot is the nearest railhead with onward connections.

Best time: Late September to early April is quite pleasant. Can be quite warm in summer and monsoon is best avoided.

Accommodation: Himachal Tourism's Hotel Iravati (Tel: 22671) and Hotel Champak (Tel: 22774), Jimmy's Inn (Tel: 24748), Rishi Hotel (Tel: 24343), Akhand Chandi Hotel (Tel: 22371) and 12 kilometres away, Orchard Hut (but first inquire at Manimahesh Travels, Tel: 22507).

Local transport: taxis.

Shopping: Rumals-- small cloths with silk thread embroidery portraying religious and tribal themes. It is an exclusive Chamba product. Try the Himachal Emporium at the Rang Mahal or Old Palace, open Monday and Friday, 10 am to 1 pm, 2 pm to 5 pm.

Contact: Himachal Pradesh Tourism's tourist office at Hotel Iravati (Tel: 01899-22671).