Chamba (चंबा) is a mountainous district in northwestern Himachal Pradesh, India, bordering Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. Its headquarters, Chamba town, lies above the Ravi River. The district is known for its Himalayan landscapes, historic temples and distinctive crafts, including Chamba rumal embroidery and miniature painting.
Communities include Gaddis and residents of the high-altitude Pangi and Bharmour areas. Local languages, folk music, dance and festivals such as Minjar reflect a varied cultural heritage. Farming, horticulture, livestock rearing, tourism and hydropower support the economy. Notable landmarks include Chamba’s Lakshmi Narayan temple complex, Bhuri Singh Museum and Bharmour’s Chaurasi temples; Dalhousie and Khajjiar are popular visitor destinations.
Common civic concerns include reliable roads, landslide safety and winter access to remote settlements. Residents also care about healthcare, schools, drinking water, sanitation and employment. Tourism management, heritage conservation and the environmental and local impacts of hydropower development are important public issues.