Explore the beauty of Bharmour: The Land of Gods

Bharmour, situated in the lap of the Himalayas,  often referred to as the “Land of Gods,” is a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh. This quaint township is famous for its spiritual significance, stunning landscapes, and rich history. With its annual pilgrimage to Manimahesh Kailash, Bharmour draws thousands of visitors seeking both adventure and spirituality. Let’s delve into the captivating beauty of Bharmour and explore what makes this place truly special.

Location of Bharmour

Bharmour lies in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Perched at an altitude of 2,195 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The township is situated between the Budhil and Ravi valleys, enveloped by towering hill ranges. This pristine location features diverse altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 21,000 feet, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Bharmour’s Rich History

The history of Bharmour dates back to ancient times. Originally known as Brahmpura, it served as the capital of the Chamba state until 920 AD. The region boasts historical significance, with traces of its past evident in its temples and architecture. Legend has it that Emperor Meru Varman, a descendant of the Ayodhya royal family, founded Bharmour after conquering large tracts of land. He established the town as the capital of his newly formed kingdom.

Bharmour’s cultural heritage is intertwined with local legends and tales. One such story speaks of the goddess Brahmani, who is believed to have once inhabited the area. The people honor her memory by preserving the temple dedicated to her. A trek to the Bharmani Devi temple not only refreshes visitors but also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Temples of Bharmour

Bharmour is renowned for its ancient temples, each with a unique story. Each temple reflects exquisite craftsmanship and historical importance.Chaurasi (84) Temples
The Chaurasi Temple complex, also known as the 84 Temples, is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. Built in the 7th century, these temples showcase remarkable wooden architecture and intricate stone carvings, reflecting the rich artistic heritage of the region. The complex is dedicated to various deities, with each temple offering a unique artistic style.

Historical Significance:
Historically, the Chaurasi Temples served as a crucial center for spiritual gatherings and rituals in ancient Bharmour. They symbolize the region’s deep-rooted traditions and devotion to Hindu deities.

Visitors flock to the Chaurasi Temples not only for spiritual solace but also to admire the stunning artistry. The serene surroundings, nestled among snow-capped mountains, provide a peaceful retreat for pilgrims and tourists alike. It’s an essential stop for anyone exploring Bharmour’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Bharmani Mata Temple
Located just 4 km from Bharmour, the Bharmani Mata Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bharmani, an important deity in the region. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the temple’s holy pool is a ritual prerequisite for those planning to undertake the Manimahesh pilgrimage.

Historical Significance:
The temple has historical roots that tie back to local folklore, where Goddess Bharmani is revered as a protector and guide for pilgrims. It has been a vital pilgrimage site for generations, reflecting the deep spiritual connection the locals have with their deities.

People visit the Bharmani Mata Temple to seek blessings from the goddess and prepare for their Manimahesh pilgrimage. The trek to the temple offers breathtaking views of lush forests and valleys, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself.

Banni Mata Temple
Perched at an elevation of 8,500 feet, the Banni Mata Temple is dedicated to Devi Kali, a powerful goddess known for her fierce and protective nature. The temple is particularly significant for local shepherds who seek blessings for safe passage across the treacherous Kalicho Pass.

Historical Significance:
The Banni Mata Temple is deeply intertwined with local shepherding traditions and has served as a sacred place for communities for centuries. Its high-altitude location adds to its mystique and spiritual importance.

Visitors trek to the Banni Mata Temple to pay their respects and receive blessings before challenging journeys through the mountains. The breathtaking views and tranquil environment enhance the spiritual experience for all who visit.

Bhagwati Mata Temple
Located near the village of Seri, the Bhagwati Mata Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda. This temple is notable for its vibrant cultural significance and connection to local traditions.

Historical Significance:
The Bhagwati Mata Temple has been a cornerstone of the community’s cultural identity, with roots in ancient worship practices. It serves as a focal point for various local festivities and rituals.

Many visitors are drawn to the Bhagwati Mata Temple for its annual fair, which celebrates the goddess’s importance in local culture. The steep trek or motorable road leading to the temple offers a unique adventure, further enhancing its appeal.

Natural Wonders of Bharmour

Beyond its temples, Bharmour is blessed with stunning natural beauty. The region boasts numerous waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic viewpoints.

Waterfalls of Bharmour

Thala Waterfall

Thala Waterfall, just 9 km from Bharmour, is a breathtaking sight. Easily accessible, it offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation and picnics. The crystal-clear waters cascading down the rocks create a picturesque scene.

Ghared Waterfall

Located 10 km from Bharmour, Ghared Waterfall is known for its beauty. A short trek takes visitors to this hidden gem, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. The surrounding lush greenery enhances its charm.

Santhali Waterfall

Santhali Waterfall is another beautiful spot near Bharmour. A 0.5 km trek leads to this waterfall, offering a delightful experience. The journey through the bushes and along the water stream adds to the adventure.

Hadsar Waterfall

Hadsar Waterfall, 14 km away from Bharmour, is known for its height. It features several cascading steps, making it a favorite among trekkers. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy a small cave formed by glacial activity at the waterfall’s base.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Bharmour is home to a major wildlife sanctuary: Kugti. This sanctuary is rich in biodiversity and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.

Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary

Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. It is connected to the Tundah Sanctuary by a forest area. The nearest town is Bharmour, which is about 13 km away. Bharmour is famous for the Manimahesh Temple, a popular pilgrimage site despite the tough terrain and cold weather. Visitors can reach a small village called Hadsar by road, but then they need to trek to Kugti or the Manimahesh Temple.

Geography and Vegetation:
The sanctuary features diverse landscapes with many water sources, many of which come from glaciers. The area has different types of forests, including:

• Alpine Pasture: Found at higher elevations.
• Western Mixed Coniferous Forest: Located at various heights, often close together.
• Moist Deodar Forest: Present in lower areas.

In these forests, you can find trees like Fir (Abies pindrow), Cedar (Cedrus deodara), and various species typical of the Sino-Himalayan Temperate Forest. The subalpine and alpine scrub areas provide habitats for many mammals and birds.

Key Biodiversity

Birds:
Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary is not very well-studied when it comes to birds. However, some surveys have recorded around 117 bird species in the nearby Ravi Valley. Notable birds include:

• Himalayan Monal: Commonly found in the area.
• Koklass Pheasant: Also numerous.
• Cheer Pheasant: Found in the north side of Budhil Nala.

Additional surveys identified various birds from different habitats, including the Slaty-headed Parakeet. Kugti is part of the Western Himalayas Endemic Bird Area, which is home to many birds that are threatened or have limited ranges. More research is needed to understand the bird population in Kugti.

Other Animals:
There is limited information on other wildlife in the sanctuary, but some studies have recorded species such as:

Asiatic Black Bear, Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Goral, Serow, Ibex, and Himalayan Tahr.

Kugti is known for being one of the best-protected areas for the Brown Bear in Himachal Pradesh. Other mammals found in the area include:

Leopard, Leopard Cat, Common Langur, and Yellow-throated Marten

Weather of Bharmour

Bharmour enjoys a pleasant and cool climate throughout the year. Here’s what to expect in different seasons:

Summer (May and June): Temperatures can rise to 30-32°C, making it relatively warm.

Winter (December and January): These are the coldest months, with temperatures dropping to as low as -10°C.

October and November: These months are dry but chilly, so it can be quite cold.

Winter (December to February): Expect very cold and snowy conditions. Warm winter clothes are a must during this time.

How to Reach Bharmour

By Air:
The nearest airport is at Gaggal (Kangra), which is 190 km from Bharmour. You can find buses and taxis to reach Bharmour from there. Airports in Amritsar and Jammu are also options, located about 270 km away.

By Rail:
The closest railway stations are in Pathankot, about 180 km from Bharmour. Taxis and buses are available from the stations to Bharmour.By Road:
Bharmour is well-connected by road to major cities in Himachal Pradesh, such as Chamba, Kangra, Dalhousie, and Dharamshala. It is 60 km from Chamba and approximately 200 km from Dharamshala. Taxis and buses can take you to Bharmour.

Additional Information:
Bharmour is situated at the edge of the Budhil Valley, surrounded by the Pir-Panjal and Dhauladhar mountain ranges. The town is located at an altitude of 7,000 feet. If you drive from Chamba, you can reach Bharmour in about 2 hours. Bharmour also serves as a base for various trekking trails, including routes to Manimahesh Lake, Keylong via Kalicho Pass, and Bara Bhangal.

Bharmour’s Unique Culture

The culture of Bharmour is as rich as its history. The Gaddi tribe, known for its semi-nomadic lifestyle, primarily inhabits this region. They engage in agriculture and horticulture, continuing the traditions of their ancestors. The Gaddi people are identified by their unique attire, which includes a Chola, Dora, and traditional Chamba topi.

Every year, Bharmour hosts the Bhai Dooj festival, a significant spiritual extravaganza. Celebrated on the second day of Kartik month’s bright fortnight, this festival showcases the vibrant traditions and unity of the local community.

Wrap-Up

Bharmour, known as the Land of Gods, is a hidden gem filled with natural beauty, spiritual significance, and rich history. From its ancient temples to breathtaking waterfalls, every part of this enchanting township offers a unique experience. Whether you’re in search of adventure or spiritual enlightenment, Bharmour has something for everyone.

For a comfortable stay, consider Hotel Snow Castle by Eco Hospitality in nearby Dalhousie. This three-star hotel is easily accessible and serves as a perfect base for exploring the area. With in-house parking and stunning views of the majestic Dhauladhar mountains at an altitude of approximately 6,000 feet, it promises a memorable vacation for you and your family.

As you plan your visit, make sure to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. And if you’re keen on discovering more about Himachal Pradesh, be sure to check out our blogs.