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Gondhla has another importance which may be mentioned here:-
"The residence of the Thakur of Gondhla,
probably the most frequently photo- graphed building in the whole of Lahul, is eight
storeys high. This striking, feudal edifice is built of stone and timber and is topped by
an overlapping structure, which protrudes several feet on all four sides. This unique
building commands the passage of the valleys with a strong vantage point in the struggles
that form part of the stormy history of this area while in the brief interludes of peace
its loopholes must have been eyed with grave concern by all those who passed along the
road, with the temptation of plundering this huge building.
The tradition relates that the architect of the
aforesaid castle was put to death to prevent him from building a similar construction for
a rival baron. Mention may here be made of the incised huge boulders, which are to be seen
bearing human figures greater than life size. The painted crowns on the heads of some of
these figures represent Buddhist deities. This Gondhla building has quaint pictures; old
weapons, idols, and collection of curios from Lhasa, Ladak and other places. Gondhla is by
the side of a jeep able road.
There is a fond belief that all the deities of
Lahul and Kulu have their residence at village Jalma. Thus Jalma is important to the
people of the area. Another village Khoksar is important to the Buddhists. Khoksar is
supposed to be the coldest place in Lahul and the highest village in Chandra valley. There
is a monastery here where the head lama is appointed for three years by rotation. The
Presiding deity is taken to be the author of all the diseases prevalent from time to time.
The lama has the unenviable job of keeping the deity well-satisfied so that the diseases
do not break or if they break to get the fury abated.
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