Heritage Abode of the Himachal: Archaeological Marvels in Himachal Pradesh
Venture into the idyllic, offbeat destination of Chaini Kothi, nestled in the serene Tirthan Valley of Himachal Pradesh. This secluded village, perched at around 2300 meters above sea level, is hidden amidst dense deodar forests and offers an authentic glimpse into the region's rich architectural heritage.
Himachal Pradesh boasts unique architectural styles, often an underappreciated facet of the state's allure. Chaini Kothi, a towering fortress, reflects this distinctive character, showcasing local mastery in wood and stone craftsmanship.
To reach this architectural gem, you'll embark on two adventurous treks:1. A gradual hour-long hike from Bihar, or2. A one-hour, moderately steep walk from Shringi Rishi Temple at Baghi, with a mandatory stop for blessings before commencing the trek.
These routes take you through vibrant apple orchards, expansive farmlands, and the dense deodar forest, immersing you in the tranquil beauty of the region.
As you make your way, you'll marvel at the traditional pahadi architecture of the village. Chaini is renowned for its master masons and stonework, which is evident in the simple yet striking homes scattered across the village.
The most remarkable structure in Chaini is the ancient Castle Temple of Jogini, famously known as Chaini Kothi or Chaini Fort. It is said to have been erected in the 17th century by King Dhadhu and served as a strategic defense for the surrounding Tirthan Valley. Over time, it transformed into a temple dedicated to Jogini Mata.
Chaini Kothi stands tall at around 30 meters, although it lost two of its upper storeys during the Kangra Earthquake of 1905. Its most impressive feature is an enormous deodar tree log ladder, clinging steeply onto the structure, offering a thrilling climb to reach the fortress.
Emblematic of the indigenous Kath-Kunni earthquake-resistant construction technique, Chaini Kothi showcases the time-honored wisdom and expertise of local master masons who have passed down these skills through generations.
Unfortunately, this heritage is delicate and in dire need of attention and restoration to preserve its community, social, and environmental fabric. But, a trip to this medieval fortress offers a window into the local culture, customs, and religious beliefs, a precious souvenir in our increasingly digital world.
Travel Info:Architects Shabbir Khambaty and Swapnil S. Bhole have been extensively researching Himachal Pradesh since 2003 and have documented around 28 villages. Their documentation efforts include Chaini Kothi, showcasing their dedication to preserving the region's architectural heritage.
Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle by journeying to Chaini Kothi, a medieval fortress showcasing the unique architectural styles of Himachal Pradesh. Exploring this architectural gem will offer a precious window into the region's indigenous craftsmanship, customs, and religious beliefs, providing a tangible connection to the past in our digitally dominated world.
