Chaugan Maidan

Chaugan Maidan is a large rectangular grassy ground located in the heart of Chamba town, serving as the central hub of activity. Historically used as a royal promenade and polo ground, it was consolidated by the British in 1890 into its current form measuring approximately 800 meters in length. The ground hosts the annual Minjar Mela festival and serves as a venue for cricket, sports, and public gatherings surrounded by administrative buildings.

Visitors can expect a vast open grassy area in the center of Chamba town, surrounded by colonial-era administrative buildings and shopping arcades. The ground serves as a public promenade where locals walk, jog, and gather in the evenings. During summer months, families picnic on the grounds, and cricket matches are frequently played. The area transforms into a bustling market during the annual Minjar Mela festival.

The Chaugan has historical importance dating back to the princely state era when it served as a venue for State Darbars and polo matches. In 1890, the British consolidated five smaller chaugans into one large ground for use as an esplanade and cricket ground. The name 'Chaugan' derives from Sanskrit meaning 'four-sided' and is distinct from the Persian word for polo.

Chaugan is the cultural heart of Chamba, hosting the annual Minjar Mela festival which commemorates the victory of the Raja of Chamba. The ground serves as a traditional gathering place for locals and is integral to community life, with families traditionally dining outdoors here during summer months.