Chehni Kothi

Chehni Kothi is one of the most extraordinary and undervisited heritage sites in Himachal Pradesh — a towering fortified structure rising dramatically above Chehni village, built entirely from interlocking stone and deodar wood without a single nail or drop of mortar.

The tower dates back several centuries, most historians placing its construction in the 17th century, though local oral traditions suggest an even older origin. It originally served as a defensive stronghold and residence for the local ruling family. At its peak, it stood over 30 metres tall — a remarkable feat of engineering for its time.

The construction technique used is called Kath-Kuni — an ancient Himalayan building method where stones and horizontal wooden beams are alternated in layers, creating structures that are both extraordinarily strong and naturally earthquake-resistant. Chehni Kothi is one of the finest surviving examples of this tradition in the western Himalayas.

The tower is located in Chehni village, approximately 12 km from Jibhi. Reaching it involves a moderate hike of about 30–45 minutes from Bagi village, where you can also visit the beautiful Shringa Rishi Temple with its intricately carved wooden facade. The combination of the temple and the tower makes for an unforgettable cultural half-day outing.

Chehni Kothi is not a formal tourist attraction — it remains a living part of the village community. Visiting with respect and curiosity is the right approach. Local guides from Jibhi or Bagi can provide fascinating context about its history and the Kath-Kuni building tradition.