Tucked behind the dense city overgrowth of Chamba are the various temples which comprise the Laxmi Narayan Temple complex. Of the six main temples running North to South, three are devoted to the Hindu god Lord Vishnu while the other three are devoted to Lord Shiva. Additional temples including Radha Krishna Temple, Shiva Temple of Chandragupta and Gauri Shankar Temple, make Laxmi (Lakshmi) Narayan Temple the largest Hindu temple in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh.

All the temples are constructed in the Shikhara style, a popular form of temple architecture in the extreme northern parts of India. Each of the hand carved stone temples is built with a shikhara or layered tower which stands directly above the sanctum sanctorum. Wooden octagon umbrella style roofs at the top of the temple and mandapas, or covered stoops are features which reflect the climatic changes Chamba experiences due to it’s mountainous location. The mandapa acts as a block from sunlight, rain, snow and wind.

Built in the 10th Century, the carved panals on the Laxmi Narayan Temple walls depict mythological scenes as well as animal and floral themes. Views of the surrounding Himalayan foothills are best seen from above the temple complex. Follow the narrow road which passes alongside the temple up a hill. From there, aerial views of the temple, city and landscape combine.

Lakshmi Narayan Temple is a favorite among both Shaivites and Vishnuites, however all visitors are welcome. A two hour break between 12:30 and 2:30 every day supposedly allows the deities time to rest, while still allowing ample time for travelers to visit the ancient temples of Chamba.

Open from 6 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. & 2:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. Daily.