Tuesday, November 20, 2007

BHARMOUR- A ROAD LESS TRAVELLED BECKONS



Himachal Pradesh popularly known as ‘Dev Bhumi’ or the land of gods is one beautiful hill state which is endowed with a captivating blend of rich cultural heritage, enthralling landscapes, diverse flora and fauna and of course a vivid cultural heritage.
Tourism is the mainstay of state’s economy and many places like Shimla, Kullu, Manali, Kausauli, Dalhousie, and Dharamshala are well recognized in the national and global tourism sphere.
Bharmour in Chamba district of this hill state is one lesser known yet breathtakingly magnificent place situated in the Himalayan abode amidst magnificent mountains. Place has a fine expanse of river, mountains and a curtain of greenery having indeed a unique charm. An extremely rich cultural legacy further potentiates the exquisiteness. The land is inhabited by “Gaddi” a tribe truly distinctive in its own right. The group was earlier mostly into rearing of sheep and goats practicing transhumant pastoralism. Now the trend is witnessing a change with the people switching to other vocations.
Habitations in the area are distinct settlements in the form of small hamlets all over the mountains. A bewildering array of temples of Lord Shiva and Durga goddess add in to the religious sanctity of the place .
During Janamashtmi every year, a religious pilgrimage is organized where in the pilgrims from many places visit the Manimahesh Lake situated at an altitude of 4080 meters to take the holy dip. The trek is quite treacherous yet offers an awesome vista and can surely be an unforgettable remembrance
The main town of Bharmour has a seventh century 84 temple complex popularly known as ‘Chaurasi’ where a holy festivity is organized during Kailash Manimahesh Yatra. The intricate wood work over the ancient temples is simply fabulous. Other holy treks of Goddess Banni and Keylong temple at Kugti are genuine treats for adventure loving individuals. All that is needed is a favorable weather, a zeal to trek and a local guide. One can reside in the village overnight and get a glimpse of the rural lifestyle and enjoy the regional cuisine like rajma or goat meat. Not to mention, folk songs and dances come as a bonus. Best time to visit the place is April-June for people who wish to camp and have an excursion. Pilgrims can plan a visit during janamastmi period. Bharmour is 60 km from Chamba and is well connected by a road network. One can reach the place either by a bus or jeep. The way is landslide prone in rainy season but is promptly cleared by the authorities. Hotels and guest houses are affordable and available round the year in the main town.

While taking to the road alongside river Raavi en-route, one can experience a truly exhilarating and wonderful picture of “nature at its best”. The place is simply an undisturbed world which has kept back its original appeal. Indeed one true journey into the lap of nature. The best kept secret of a beautiful hill state is revealed at last!

1 comment:

Madhumeet said...

waiting for something latest on your blog