The lovely valley of Chamba in Himachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of scenic beauty. One of the most underrated villages is Chhatrari in Chamba. The petite place has so much to offer. The land is populated with lively people endowed with a vibrant culture stretching back thousands of years. Summer temperatures in Chamba can rise to around 35 degrees Celsius; in winter, they hover near zero degrees. The village is well connected with its neighbouring towns and the big cities that encompass the area, making it easily accessible to tourists. Let us tell you a little about the place you’re about to visit to make you well-informed.
An Amazing Vacation In Chhatrari In Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
Image Credit: Harvinder Chandigarh For Wikimedia Commons
There are some things to remember to plan a successful trip to Chhatrari in Chamba. We have curated a list keeping you in mind, so relax, pack your sweaters, and leave the rest to us.
Chhatrari is a village in Himachal Pradesh, India, 48 km from Chamba. It is well known for its Chhatrari Devi temple, which was built by King Meru Verman at an altitude of 5600 feet above sea level.
Shakti is the main idol of this ancient 8th-century temple. It is made of Ashtadhatu and is made by a craftsman named Gugga. It is 4 feet 6 inches tall and shows Shakti holding a lance, a lotus, a bell and a snake in her hands. There is also an inscription with details of the temple, the king and his ancestors, the craftsman, and the locales of the village. Each year on the third day of the Manimahesh Yatra, the idol Shakti is bathed in water that the devotees bring from Manimahesh Lake and with pious rituals. Its history is closely woven with that of Bharmour due to the Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple in the northern corner of Chaurasi Temple Bharmour, also built by Raja Meru Verman.
Must Read: Shree Chamunda Devi Temple Chamba
Shakti Devi Temple At Chhatrari In Chamba
Snuggled amidst the spectacular landscapes of the Himalayan foothills, the Shakti Devi Temple at Chhatrari stands as a divine testament to India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This ancient temple is devoted to Goddess Shakti, who is thought to embody feminine power and strength in Hindu mythology. Each year, thousands of devotees and tourists from various corners of the country and beyond make their way to this sacred site to seek blessings, immerse themselves in its serenity, and marvel at its captivating architecture.
The history of Shakti Devi Temple traces back several centuries, shrouded in the mists of time and local legends. According to popular belief, the temple was established by a sage held in awe, who experienced a divine vision of Goddess Shakti in the form of a powerful deity residing in the beautiful Chhatrari region. This spiritual revelation led to the building of the temple as a place of worship and devotion. The Shakti Devi Temple showcases an exquisite blend of traditional Himachali and Pahari architectural styles. The temple’s exterior structure is a marvel of intricate wood carvings, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the region’s artisans.
The temple is steeped in fascinating local legends and folklore, adding an element of mystique to its aura. Tales of miraculous healings and divine interventions have been passed down through generations, enhancing the temple’s spiritual allure.
Things To Do In Chamba
Consider taking a detour to explore additional sights and attractions within the beautiful town of Chamba. Discover local landmarks, cultural sites, and hidden gems that showcase the unique charm of this region.
1. Chamunda Devi Temple
Overlooking the town, the stone and wood temple of Chamunda Devi is over 300 years old. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, this temple has some fine wood carvings on its exterior and interiors. It can be reached by a stairway from the old bus stand and by car from an alternate route.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
2. Saho Village
On the outskirts of Chamba, 18 km away, on the bank of Sal River, is Saho village. In the village, an 1100-year-old Chandrashekhar Temple houses a naturally formed Shiva Lingam with a copper coating extracted from old copper mines of Chamba. It is believed that it was from Saho that Lord Shiva made the journey to Manimahesh Kailash Peak in Bharmour to settle there.
3. Bhuri Singh Museum
Raja Bhuri Singh, a former ruler of Chamba in his lifetime (1908 AD) set up this museum that has a fine collection of rare paintings, coins, jewellery, musical instruments, artefacts, traditional arms & armours, and other artefacts on permanent display are the family’s collection of miniature portraits. Some rare copper-plate inscriptions and other historical documents are also preserved in this museum.
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4. Laxmi Narayan Temple Complex
Built in stone and capped with circular slate roofed chhatries supported on wooden beams, the Shikhara-styled architecture of the Lakshmi Narayan temple complex, consisting of 6 temples, is a landmark of the historical town. The main temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, was built by Raja Sahil Varman, who founded the town. Interestingly, three temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and one is to Radha Krishna. The chiselled cut stone walls are decorated with intricate designs, and small arches are supported by two chiselled pillars with sculpted deities enclosed.
How To Reach?
The journey to Shakti Devi Temple might require effort, but it is worth every step. Various transportation options, including buses and private cabs, provide access to Chhatrari. A moderately difficult trek leads to the temple, rewarding pilgrims and travellers alike with scenic beauty and spiritual solace. Dharamshala is one of the places from where Chhatrari can be reached easily. It is a 9-hour and 30-minute journey. The nearest railway station is around 10 km from the village.
The journey to the Shakti Devi Temple is a soul-stirring experience for the pilgrims. Many undertake a rigorous trek through the Himalayan trails, which, although demanding, offers a sense of accomplishment and purification. Tourists and casual visitors, on the other hand, find themselves captivated by the scenic beauty that envelopes the temple. The charming landscapes, lush green valleys, and snow-capped peaks create an idyllic setting, enticing travellers to explore further.
Further Read: Trekking Near Manali
Now that you have a list of things to keep in mind for your next vacation to see the serenity of Chhatrari in Chamba, make sure you plan your trip to Himachal Pradesh to these fabulous spots for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on these opportunities; book your tickets now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chhatrari In Chamba
What is Chhatrari located in?
Chhatrari is a village in Himachal Pradesh, India. It is located 48 km from Chamba. It is known for its Chhatrari Devi temple. Pilgrims from all around the country come here to visit the Temple.
What is the best time to visit Chhatrari?
As the place is in the mountains, the weather is pleasant all year round making your stay here even more enjoyable. The temperature reaches up to 0⁰C during the winter months.
What is the local folklore about the Shakti Devi Temple?
The temple is steeped in fascinating local legends and folklore, adding an element of mystique to its aura. Tales of miraculous healings and divine interventions have been passed down through generations, enhancing the temple’s spiritual allure.
How far is the railway station from Chhatrari?
The nearest station is around 10 km from the village
What has been the experience of people visiting this place?
Visitors often describe their experience at the Shakti Devi Temple as deeply transformative. The serene atmosphere and the sense of divine presence leave a lasting impression, instilling a sense of inner peace and tranquillity.
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