Himani Sharma
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Chamba is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most enchanting and historic towns.
Founded in 920 CE by Raja Sahil Varman and named after his daughter Champavati, Chamba is more than just breathtaking landscapes — it is a canvas of culture, tradition and timeless artistry.
From the wide green stretches of the Chaugan to the grandeur of the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, from the treasures of Bhuri Singh Museum to the charms of Dalhousie and Khajjiar, the town holds countless wonders. Yet, what truly makes Chamba sparkle are its four cultural jewels that have captivated hearts for centuries — the Chamba Rumal, Chamba Thal, Chamba Chappal and the fiery Chamba Chukh.
Elegant Chamba Rumal
More than just embroidery, the Chamba Rumal is a story stitched in silk. On a simple square of cotton, artisans bring to life epic tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, the divine love of Radha and Krishna, or even the powerful form of Lord Shiva.
What sets it apart is the exquisite do-rukha taanka — a double-sided stitch that ensures the design looks identical on both sides, a feat of remarkable skill. Depending on its size and intricacy, a rumal can take anywhere from a month to over a year to complete, with values ranging from modest keepsakes to priceless heirlooms.
In 2007, this delicate art was honored with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, preserving its legacy for generations to come.
Majestic Chamba Thal
Gleaming with artistry, the Chamba Thal is more than a brass plate — it is a reflection of devotion and tradition. Hand-engraved with intricate depictions of deities and sacred motifs, these thals have adorned households since the earliest days of Chamba’s history.
Once given as part of wedding rituals, they are now cherished as cultural showpieces, their shimmering surfaces capturing both the divine and the artistic spirit of the region. Each Chamba Thal tells a silent story of craftsmanship, faith and the enduring beauty of metalwork.
Timeless Chamba Chappal
Step into history, quite literally, with the famous Chamba Chappal. This craft dates back to Raja Sahil Varman’s marriage to the princess of Nurpur, when shoemaking artisans arrived as part of her dowry. What began as royal tradition became a lasting legacy.
Handcrafted from fine leather, these chappals are adorned with delicate embroidery using silk and golden thread (russi-tilla), often featuring motifs of lantana flowers and leaves. Blending durability with elegance, Chamba Chappals continue to charm both locals and travelers, admired for their comfort, artistry and regal flair.
Fiery Delight — Chamba Chukh
No mention of Chamba is complete without its most flavorful treasure — the famous Chukh. This fiery, tangy chutney, made from the locally grown chitrali chilies, awakens the taste buds like no other.
Smoked to perfection and seasoned with ginger, garlic, citrus juice and an aromatic mix of spices, Chukh strikes a perfect balance between heat and tang, with a hint of sweetness from sugar or jaggery. Whether paired with parathas, rice or a humble snack, its bold flavour is unforgettable.
For the people of Chamba, Chukh is not just a condiment but it is comfort, memory and identity served on a plate. Together, these four gems — the Rumals, Thals, Chappals and Chukh — are not merely crafts or flavours but the heartbeat of Chamba’s cultural identity. They weave together stories of devotion, artistry, tradition and taste, ensuring that this Himalayan town continues to enchant visitors from across the world.
Himani Sharma
