Rang Mahal, Dalhousie

Rang Mahal is one of the most popular attractions in Dalhousie that tourists love to explore during their excursion in the Chamba Valley. This magnificent palace was established by Raja Umed Singh in the 18th century to serve the residence of royal women. The palace is a perfect amalgam of British and Mughal architecture and its walls are adorned with Punjab hill style paintings narrating the stories from Lord Krishna's life. Rang Mahal is located in Surara Mohalla area of Dalhousie and was once the resident of a division of the ruling reigns.

Highlights Nestled in a picturesque setting of lush greenery, the magnificent Rang Mahal monument exhibits a fusion of Mughal and British architectures. It is one of the largest monuments of the area, whose treasures are preserved at the Bhuri Singh Museum of Chamba. Once a resident of the royal family, the beautiful Rang Mahal was converted into a women's residence for some years and lately taken down by Himachal Emporium.

There used to be a large number of ornamental and vibrant wall paintings inside the Rang Mahal, however, these paintings have been taken to the Delhi National Museum. The palace also houses a handicraft shop from where the tourists can purchase items like handmade handkerchief, woolen shawls, and ethnic slippers. The palace has a rich collection of holy scriptures, manuscripts, crafts, paintings, coins, and old jewelry.

Important Facts Apart from the paintings, other items on display are embroidered Rumals of Chamba, coins, hill jewelry, and costumes- both traditional and royal, arms and armor, musical instruments and various decorative or ornamental objects. Some of the royal rooms in this palace have been converted into workshops for shoemaker, embroiderers, and other local craftsmen. The tourists can watch them at work and purchase their products at fair prices.

The Rang Mahal or the Himachal Emporium opens between 10 AM to 1 PM and again from 2 PM to 5 PM from Monday to Saturday. It can be visited any time of the year, however, winter is the best time to come down to Dalhousie for its cool and comfortable weather.