Dalhousie, Chamba and Mani Mahesh set for transformation as major heritage and pilgrimage destinations

CHAMBA: The picturesque hill stations of Dalhousie and Chamba, long admired for their serene landscapes, cool climate, and timeless charm, are on the verge of a grand transformation after the district administration decided to chalk out a comprehensive plan to develop Dalhousie and Chamba as prominent heritage destinations while promoting Mani Mahesh as a must-visit pilgrimage site aiming to attract both cultural enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.Mukesh Repaswal, Deputy Commissioner, Chamba, informed on Wednesday that the administration is drafting a proposal for the state government under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) project to promote Dalhousie and Chamba as heritage sites.Both Dalhousie and Chamba exude a distinct colonial-era charm, with quaint churches and elegant Victorian bungalows that beautifully complement Chamba’s ancient temples, famed for their intricate wood carvings and timeless architectural detail. Similarly, Mani Mahesh is a sacred haven for Lord Shiva devotees. Its crown jewel, Mani Mahesh Lake, draws pilgrims for the annual Mani Mahesh Yatra, a spiritual trek through breathtaking Himalayan trails.Mukesh informed that the plan was proposed by Kangra Member of Parliament Rajeev Bharadwaj, following which a detailed proposal is being drafted and will be sent for approval. He said that the project, which is still in its nascent stage, promises to boost tourism, generate employment, and highlight Chamba’s rich cultural and religious heritage. This transformation aims to turn these hill stations into must-visit destinations for enthusiasts of history, spirituality, and culture.Chamba-based businessman Kuljit Singh said that, as an aspirational district, Chamba stands to gain significant long-term benefits from the proposal. He said that it not only promises to boost tourism in general but also to strengthen heritage, leisure, and nature-based travel. He added that the project will create jobs and enhance the region’s global appeal as a unique confluence of heritage and spiritual destinations, highlighting sites like Mani Mahesh, which Singh believes could emerge as one of India’s next major religious tourism hotspots.