Chamba - The Celestial Valley

Himachal's hidden gem, Chamba celebrated its Milennium in 2006. One thousand years of royality and battle, a thousand years in which to refine a tradition of religious architecture, exquisite painting and indigenous craft.

This book offers an entry into this challenging land, with steep mountain ranges, sparking rivers and lush valleys, Beginning with the establishment of Bharampur, with the establishment of Bharmour, with its elegent complex of ancient temples, through to the growth of Chamba town and its emergence as a reputed center for temple building and miniature painting and, in relatively modern times, the creation of Dalhousie, one of India's most restful hill staitions, this book brings Chamba's charming heritage into sharp relief.

The book also travels to Pangi, among the country's most remote and fascinating valleys. On the way there are introductions to Chamba's glorious crafts –for example the famous Chamba rumaal –to its painting and sculpture, its many colourful festivals, and the charming people who have created life and tradition in this celestial valley.