Credit: Sanyam Gupta
Chhatratri Devi Temple, or Shiv Shakti Temple, is a beautiful old temple located in the Chhatrari village of Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh. At an altitude of 6,000 feet above sea level, the nearest village is Luna, which is easily accessible through the road and falls on the left bank of the Ravi. Chatrari is 48 km from the town of Chamba.
History of Chhatratri Devi Temple
The ancient temple was constructed in the 7th century by King Meru Varman. Constructed in the same style as a Lakshana Devi temple, it used wood and stone as construction materials.
The temple dedicated to Aadishakti consists of the main idol of Ashtadhatu. Crafted by Guugga, the idol looks beautiful holding in her hands a lance (power, energy), a lotus (life), a bell (aether, space) and a snake (death and time).The height of the idol is 4 feet, 6 inches.
Fairs and festivals
During the day of Radhastami, priests go to the Manimashesh Yatra to bring down the sacred water from Manimahesh lake. They bathed in the image of Shivshakti and dressed her in new sacred clothes. On the second day, the Chhatrari fair begins with great fervor, where Butek Mahadev features in a chariot. A special mask dance is performed in the temple grounds, where four people wear masks representing the Shiva goddess and three evil spirits (rakshas). God fight with the rakshasas and symbolizes victory of evil over truth. The fair continues for the 3rd and 4th days, where local participants perform gaddi dance and other performances.
Accommodation
Forest Rest House and Hppwd are two good options for staying. Make advance bookings because government accommodations are generally pre-booked . Although there are many other private and locational options available nearby.