Places to Visit in Chamba

Khajjiar lake is one of the most spectacular lakes in Himachal Pradesh and one of the best places to visit in Chamba. Surrounded by the snow-clad mountains and cedar forest, the lake is located at a height of 1920 m from the mean sea level. Best time to visit Khajjiar lake is from February to April when the weather is extremely pleasant and the tourist can enjoy various recreational activities while enjoying the beauty of landscape at the same time. Moreover, if you want to spend some time in solitude, away from the hustle and bustle of city lives, Khajjiar lake is the place to go for.

Various small water streams from the Himalayas are the major source of Khajjiar Lake. On a bright sunny day, if you are lucky, you can even witness the Mount Kailash at distance from Khajjiar Lake. One of the main attractions of Khajjiar Lake is 'Floating Island,' which is a chunk of weed and grass developing on the surface of lake.

The Lakshmi Narayan Temple is one of the oldest and largest temple in Chamba, which was built in around 11th century by Raja Sahil Verma. The complex of Lakshmi Narayan temple has around six temples in total, all dedicated to either Lord Shiva or Lord Vishnu. The main idol of Lord Vishnu is made up of rare marble, which used to be found in the mountains of Vindhyas. 

Apart from the six main temples, there are three more temples in the complex, namely Radha Krishna Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, and Shiva Temple of chandragupta.

While in Chamba, your trip will be incomplete without visiting this great temple. The temple opens twice a day and the timings include 6 AM to 12.30 PM and again from 2.30 PM to 8.30 PM and the best season to visit the temple is from April to October.

Built up on the River Ravi, the Chamera dam is situated in the Chamba district, making it one of the most important places to visit in Chamba. Chamera lake is the reservoir of the dam where the water level may rise up to 763 meters during rainy season and 747 meters during summers.

Chamera Dam is one of the major source of electricity generation in this region and generates around 540 MW of electricity. One of the most unique features of the place is the contrasting difference between the morning and night temperature. In the morning, temperature may rise up to 35 degree celsius. On the other hand, during the nights, temperature may drop up to 15 to 18 degree celsius making it cool and peaceful.

As the Chamera lake has no aquatic life, it has become an ideal and most favorite destination for watersports. Various water sports like sailing, paddle boating, rowing, angling, motor boating and kayaking are offered at the lake. You can also enjoy shikaras and houseboats at Chamera lake.

Built by the Maharaj of Patiala, this holy place of worship emits a peaceful and sere vibe, surrounded by beautiful greenery. Built in a church like structure showing the confluence of various religions. Due to the meager Sikh population in the area an non patronization by The Military School Chail, the condition of the gurudwara has deteriorated over the years.

Situated atop the Pandhawa Hills, this stunning structure is yellow in colour and has a sprawling green lawn out front giving off a quaint country vibe and portrays British occupancy during that time.

Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM

If you’re looking for something out of the blue to indulge in then head to Sadhupul Lake. This beautiful lake is the perfect destination to spend your evening at for a romantic getaway or a family outing. The cool breeze and sound of trickling water provides a very calm ambience.

The Sadhupul Lake is famous for it’s restaurant on the lake where wooden tables and chairs are spaced across the water body. You can dangle your legs in the water when it’s low and enjoy a great meal. The chairs and tables are pulled back however when flow of the river is  high.

Best time to Visit: The best time to visit Sadhupul Lake is in the monsoon seasons of July-August. 

A popular religious landmark in Chail, Sidh Baba Ka Mandir, dedicated to the Hindu saint named Sidh Baba, is a revered religious site in Chail. This shrine is located atop a hill, between Rajgarh and Pandhawa.

There are many legends associated with the construction of this temple. According to one of these, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, the former king of Patiala planned and commenced the construction of a palace at this spot. One day, Sidh Baba came in the king's dreams and informed the king that this pot was where he used to meditate and was eventually cremated, apparently stressing on the fact that this hill is pious and can’t be used for residential purposes. Overcome by his dream, the king built Sidh Baba Ka Mandir to honour of the saint.

A large number of devotees visit the shrine that boasts a peaceful and tranquil ambience along with stunning scenic surroundings, which is characterised by towering hills and lush green forests.

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM