Unexplored Churah Valley: The Land of Stunning Lakes and Temples

Churah Valley

Churah region is one of the most beautiful places in Chamba District and it still remains unexplored and unnoticed by most tourists who visit Himachal around the year.

Churah, the hidden valley of Himachal Pradesh, literally translates into ‘four paths.’ In fact, its headquarters Tissa, also known as Bhanjraru, is the central point of Churah from where different paths lead to four direction linking different places within the district and the adjoining state of Jammu Kashmir.

Among the tons of attractions here the most revered and well-known is Devi Kothi – a temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda. It is about 100km from Chamba and is said to be covered in snow for at least six months in a year. The highlight of the temple is its gorgeous murals and intricate wood-carvings.

Gadasaru Dal Lake

Gadasaru Mahadev Lake is situated at an altitude of 3,470 meters above sea level, Gadasaru Mahadev Lake commands a visit when in Churah. The circular lake is roughly half a mile in circumference but is absolutely spectacular in its appeal.

There’s a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali beside the lake, lending the place a holy significance. It’s quite a trek to the lake; so if you’re a seasoned trekker, this place is a must-visit for you.

This area is spread over an area of about 2km. There is a green grassland on both sides of the lake and on the north side, different types of pavements have been floated, as if the tile is spread. The mountains of the northeast of Dal is like Shivlinga. within the north-west of this dal lake, there are two mountain squares which are connected with one another, referred to as ‘Sin-Saintly’.

There are a couple of small fields on the opposite side of Dal Lake. it’s also more surprising to steer on those rows as if walking on a soft mattress. There are many sorts of miracles present during this area, consistent with the direct-sighting.

Mahakali Dal Lake

Another holy lake is present 1½km above which is completely black and is extremely dark. it’s called Mahakali Dal lake.

Mahakali Dal Lake, situated at a height of 4,080 meters above sea level. Encircled by lush meadows and majestic mountain peaks, the lake presents a gorgeous panoramic view of the surrounds.

Dedicated to Goddess Kali, this lake is smaller than the Lama Dal, yet larger than Khajjiar and Manimahesh Lake.

HOW TO REACH

The headquarter of Churah Valley is 70 kilometres from Chamba, Bhanjraru (Tissa). Bairagarh village is 30km away from Bhanjraru, here is the HPPWD’s. Devikothi village is situated on the Chehhani(che-hani) pass, 16km from Bairagarh. HRTC bus service is available till then. The journey ahead is by foot.

JOURNEY

Travellers put their first stop in the premises of the historic temple of Chamunda Mata in Devikothi village. Walking on the second day, the journey begins on the first morning, while passing through the dense forests of beautiful flowers and various forests, the travellers pass the second day on a large field in the place called ‘Bhratta-Kilon’.

The next day’s trek is difficult. After crossing the mighty mountains, the travellers spend the night in the cave near Gauri Kund. After crossing about 1km from there, the Lord Shiva’s supernatural lake of “Gadasru Mahadev” is seen.

I urge you guys to try visiting new places and this will not only give you some kind of a new experience but also provide means of earning to a lot of people. Just keep one thing in mind that while you are there, try not to throw plastic material here and there. Anyways, do enjoy your visits in future.