The Town of Chamba, the district headquarter of Chamba district is situated in the western Himalayas between north latitudes 32°10' and 33°13' and east longitudes 75°45' and 77°33'. The town stands on a plateau on the right bank of the Ravi river valley between Dhauladhar and Zanskar ranges south of the inner Himalayas.
This town was founded by Raja Sahil Varman when he conquered the lower Rani valley from the petty chiefs called Ranas and Thakurs in the beginning of 10th Century. It seems the original name of the town was Champa as mentioned in Kalhan's Rajtarangani.
In the bansauli or genealogical rolls of the Chamba Rajas a reference occurs of place which was adorned with highly fragrant Champaka trees and guarded by Goddess Champavati or more popularly known as Chameshni.
The temple was built by Sahil Varman in the honour of his daughter Champavati who is worshipped as a goddess in Chamba. Champavati temple became the family temple of the ruling family.
Chamba town (915) stands on the Right Bank of the river Ravi. As a former princely state, it is one of the oldest in the country and dates back to the sixth century. It is well known for its splendid architecture and as the base for numerous excursions. It is also a district headquarters.
Climate: In winter, the temperature can drop to freezing point when heavy woolens are required. The summer tempetaure are mild and light wollens/cottons are recommended.
Getting there: Chamba is connected by road and is 580 km from Delhi. It is 24 km from Khajjiar and from Delhousie via Khajjar, the distance is 56 km. the closet railhead is at Pathankot, 118 km away. The Airport at gaggal in kangra is at a distance of 170 km. Texi/buses are available from these places.
