If you have been to Dalhousie, people will ask, “Did you visit Chamera Lake?” No trip to Dalhousie is complete without a visit to Chamera Lake. It’s a beautiful water body that welcomes visitors throughout the year. Here’s all you need to know about Chamera Lake for your next Dalhousie trip!
Chamera Lake: Overview
The narrow path alongside hills will get you as excited as a kid. Wherever you see, there are mountains, and the shimmering in the daylight is the Chamera Lake. It lights up the entire area with its charm. You will find the lake at 736 meters above sea level. It serves as a reservoir for the Chamera Dam, built on the river Ravi.
Chamera Lake is significant for the local population that uses the lake water for irrigation. In addition, the lake houses a hydroelectricity generation plant, Chamera-I Project, a bondage scheme on River Ravi. It leverages 3 x 180 MW power generators installed in the underground powerhouse, catering to the power requirements of Himachal Pradesh and neighboring states Uttarakhand, UP, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh.
This lake has changed the face of the nearby villages since it came into being. It has also helped develop infrastructure, schools, medical facilities, and employment opportunities, as tourism also impacts the locals.
How to Reach Chamera Lake?
The location of the lake is what makes it the most sought-after place in the region. It is 25 km from Dalhousie, accessible within an hour. The proximity ensures that the tourists visiting Dalhousie usually prefer to spend a quiet day here. Those staying in Chamba must travel 40 km to the lake, but the distance is worth it. The closest airport to the lake is in Pathankot. You can fly from New Delhi to Pathankot and then take a train to Dalhousie, approximately 10 hours. From there, you can take a taxi to reach Chamera Lake.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the right time to visit Chamera Lake can significantly enhance your experience. While the lake is accessible throughout the year, the best time is during the summer and early autumn (April to October). During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the surroundings are adorned with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Why Visit Chamera Lake
Chamera Lake is a captivating haven for diverse interests. For photographers, it’s a visual paradise with pine-clad hills, shimmering waters, and snow-kissed landscapes. Adventure-seekers can revel in water sports and boating, courtesy of the Himachal Pradesh Department of Tourism’s water sports sub-center. Families can enjoy lakeside picnics, while solo travelers find solitude in the changing temperatures – warm days and cool nights. In winter, the snow-clad scenery adds a surreal charm, making it a favorite among all. Experience the golden glow at sunrise, indulge in fishing, or opt for a unique stay in houseboats – Chamera Lake promises lasting memories for every visitor.
When Should You Visit Chamera Lake?
The lake has a perfect climate throughout the year. Visit it during rain, and you will see rising water levels. In winter, everything is white as snow covers the entire area. In summer, it is a perfect getaway from the heat.
Things to Do at Chamera Lake
There are many things to do in this place:
- You can indulge in water sports like rowing, sailing, paddle boating, motor boating, kayaking, angling, etc.
- You can take photographs here.
- You can visit Bhandal valley and Bhalei Mata temple, situated nearby.
- A picnic day under the sun is possible.
- Houseboats are great options for those who want to stay.
Tips for Visitors
- On weekends the place remains crowded. Therefore, if you want to beat the crowds, visit on the weekdays.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- You should bring a jacket or scarf if you plan to visit it at night. The temperatures drop heavily during the nighttime.
- Do not forget to take your camera.
- The place is crowded, and pickpockets are everywhere. Take care of your mobile, camera, jewelry, wallet, etc.
Food Near Chamera Lake
You can enjoy Himachali delicacies at a variety of restaurants and cafes nearby. Some of them are:
- Kwality Restaurant
- Moti Mahal Restaurant
- Grace Mount
- Forever Café
- Dalhousie Retreat
- Glory Hotel and Restaurant
- Shive Café
- Napoli Restaurant
- The Dining Hut
- Moti Mahal Delux
- Mongas Café
Places to Visit Near Chamera Lake
When you are in Dalhousie, visit these places as well:
- Dainkund Peak
- Sach Pass
- Patrick’s Church
- Subhash Baoli
- Garam Sadak
- Panjpulla
- John’s Church
- Laxmi Narayan Temple
- Gandhi Chowk
Conclusion
Water has a way to calm your senses, and it seems true when you visit Chamera Lake. Not only does it offer picnic spots for families, but you can go on a photo walk for some of the best nature pictures as well. Apart from that, boating and watersports are a staple for nature lovers.
On your next week-off, get ready for a trip to Chamera Lake!
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