Have You Heard? Khajjiar Himachal Is Your Best Bet To visit

Khajjiar Himachal

Khajjiar is a Popular hill station in Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is about 26 km from Dalhousie and is One of the 160 places in the world that bear a tropical resemblance to Switzerland. It is also known as Switzerland of India. Khajjiar situated at a height of 1981 meters, is a vast expanse of green meadows and dense forests beside the majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks. The Khajjiar Lake and Chamera Lake add to the charm of Khajjiar. Khajjiar lies on a small plateau in the foothills of the Dhauladhar ranges of the Western Himalayas and peaks can be seen in the distance. Khajjiar is also part of the Kalatop Khajiar Sanctuary. It serves as the starting point for treks to Chamba, Dalhousie, and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary among others. Trekking is the best way to explore Khajjiar.

Khajjiar Tourism Activities

Khajjiar is often known as the mini Switzerland of India. Picturesque landscapes encompassing dense deodar forests, verdant meadows, and snowy mountains, With a small-town vibe and fresh mountain air. Here is some best tourist attractions in Khajjiar.

Dhauladhar mountains

Dense deodars, pines, and lush green meadows are characteristics feature of Khajjiar. Since Khajjiar is situated at the base of the Dauladhar mountains, tourists can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains. The Dhauladhar range is also known as the Outer Himalayas or Lesser Himalayas. They begin near Dalhousie at the northwest end of Himachal Pradesh and end near Badrinath in Garhwal. Dhauladhar range is distinctive in its typical dark granite rocky formations with a remarkably steep rise culminating in sharp streaks of snow and ice at the top of their crested peaks.

Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

The Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary that is densely covered with deodar and fir forest. The place is a favorite spot for picnics and trekking. Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary has a wide variety of flora and fauna with an area of 30.69 km² at Kalatop and Khajjiar in the Chamba district. The sanctuary is also famous for trekking trails both at Kalatop and Khajjiar. Serow and black bear are some of the common animals found in the Sanctuary.

Also, Read-The Incredible reason to Visit Chikhaldara Hill Station Maharashtra

Khajjiar Lake

In the shadow of the snow-covered Himalayas, Khajjiar Lake has the most spectacular view Surrounded by cedar forest. The lake is located at an elevation of 1920 m. Lake is surrounded by a saucer-shaped lush green meadow and a floating island. The dense weed known as Vacha has made its earth spongy. The small water streams of the Himalayas act as a source for the Khajjiar Lake. One can also visit the Khajinag temple which features fine wood carvings and a gold dome. The site is perfect to spend some moments of solitude far away from the hustle and bustle of the crowd life.

Khajji Nag temple

Khajji Nag temple belonging to the 12th century CE made by the king of Chamba, Prithvi Singh. The temple has a golden dome, it is also known as the Golden Devi Temple. In the mandapa of the temple, one can see the images of the Pandavas and the defeated Kauravas hanging from the roof of the temple. This temple is dedicated to snake worship and there are some snake idols inside. The temple also houses idols of Shiva and the Goddess Hadimba.

Kailash Village

Kailash Villages draws a scene that can be seen in postcards only. It is so difficult to believe that a place so pure and serene exists on earth. the sloping roofs covered in snow ambushed by apple orchards, let you forget yourself and be in the lap of nature. One can see the hypnotizing views of Mount Kailash which is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, the snow-crested peaks, and the lavishly green valley from the villages of Ladi and Rota.

Panchpula

Panchpula is the place where one can experience the mesmerizing beauty of the green rolling hills, astoundingly tall deodar, pine trees, and the gushing of the waterfall. The numerous merrily cascading rivulets of water in Panchpula hold medicinal properties, bathing in which heals various diseases. This offbeat hill station is situated 2.5 km away from Khajjiar and is tucked between the verdant blanket of deodar trees

Panch Pandav Tree

The Panch Pandav tree is one of the examples of nature’s tricks and spells on earthbound beings. The tree is located amidst the lavishly green coniferous forest of Khajjiar. The tree gained its glory due to the uniqueness of possessing six shoots only. According to the folklore, The main characters of the Mahabharata took shelter nearby during their exile. The local inhabitants coined the term Panch Pandav Tree as they believe that the five branches represent the Panch Pandav and the sixth shoot symbolizes their wife, Draupadi. The tree holds religious significance to the locals and is highly worshipped by them.

Explore the Khajjiar villages

Hidden in the forests and lush mountains are picturesque villages. Ladi and Rota are some of the villages worth discovering in the region. They are famed for their apple orchards and unbeatable views of snow-laden hills and Mount Kailash. visitors can Stroll along their streets and soak in the tranquil vibes and pristine nature. There are also cozy homestays available for an even fuller experience of peaceful mountain life.

What to do in Khajjiar Himachal

The best activity in Khajjiar is walking around the lake or going for long walks in the thick pine forests. In winter there is snow which can be up to 3 feet in height. The terrain here with a gentle slope that permits visitors to roll down to the lake without getting hurt. Some other attractions include horse riding and paragliding. Zorbing, which involves rolling downhill from inside a plastic ‘zorb’, is a popular activity during April-May. The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a delight for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Trekking in Khajjiar Himachal

Khajjiar offers numerous trekking opportunities. Khajjiar to Dainkund is a 3.5-kilometer easy-to-moderate trek. This trek starts 6 kilometers from Khajjiar on the Dalhousie-Khajjiar road and ends at Pholani Devi Temple at Dainkund. The trek passes through lush pine and deodar forests and scenic streams. Routes trek range from easy to moderate, treating you to incredible scenery along the way.

How to Reach Khajjiar Himachal

The nearest airport is Kangra Airport, approximately 125km from Khajjiar, and the nearest railway head is Pathankot, around 93km away.  Alternatively, you can reach Dalhousie or Chamba via private or state-owned bus and take a cab the rest of the way. Dalhousie to Khajjiar is the best way with lots of scenic opportunities.

Sources-India.com, Wikipedia.org, Theculturaltrip.com, Tourmyindia.com