#1 Best Places To Visit In Khajjiar

5/5 - (4 votes)

#1 Places to Visit in Khajjiar, The Breathtaking Nature’s Touch in 2024

Where is Khajjiar?
About Khajjiar: Khajjiar, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”, is a beautiful hill station located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a small village nestled amidst lush green meadows and forests, with a small lake at its center. The village is famous for its scenic beauty and offers a variety of activities for tourists, including horseback riding, zorbing, paragliding, and photography.

Places to Visit in Khajjiar

Khajjiar, The Overview

It’s charm goes beyond its scenic beauty. Here’s a glimpse into its history and cultural significance:

Roots in Ancient Beliefs:

The name “Khajjiar” itself comes from the ancient idol of “Khajji Nag,” a serpent deity. This highlights the presence of serpent worship, a tradition seen in many parts of India.
The 12th-century Khajji Nag Temple, also known as the “Golden Devi Temple,” stands as a testament to this belief. The temple’s architecture blends Hindu and Mughal styles, showcasing the region’s cultural influences

Cultural Significance:

Khajji Nag Temple: This 12th-century temple, also known as the “Golden Devi Temple” due to its gilded dome, is dedicated to Khajji Nag. It showcases a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles, with intricate wood carvings and idols depicting various deities, including Lord Shiva, Goddess Hadimba, and even the Pandavas and Kauravas from the Hindu’s epic Mahabharata. The temple reflects the region’s religious diversity and historical influences.
Folklore and Festivals: Khajjiar’s culture thrives on vibrant folk songs sung in various languages by different tribes inhabiting the region. The locals celebrate festivals like Shiv Ratri, honoring Lord Shiva, and Baisakhi, a Sikh festival, with traditional music and dance. These celebrations showcase the rich cultural heritage and the harmonious co-existence of various faiths.

Intriguing Architecture:

The Khajji Nag Temple, with its blend of styles, is a prime example of Khajjiar’s architectural heritage.
Exploring the villages surrounding Khajjiar might reveal more traditional architecture, potentially influenced by the various ruling dynasties.

Why Khajjiar is Called mini Switzerland

Khajjiar, The Mini Switzerland of India: The nickname “Mini Switzerland” for Khajjiar is a relatively recent one, originating in 1992. Here’s the story:

A Swiss diplomat, Willy T. Blazer, was visiting Khajjiar and was struck by the resemblance of the landscape to his home country, Switzerland.
The rolling green meadows, the surrounding forests, and the small lake at the center all reminded him of Switzerland’s topography.
He was so impressed that he declared Khajjiar to be the “Mini Switzerland of India.”

To solidify this connection:

A signboard was installed displaying a yellow Swiss hiking path with the distance from Bern (Switzerland’s capital) to Khajjiar.
Mr. Blazer even took a stone from Khajjiar to be part of a stone collage displayed in front of the Swiss Parliament, serving as a permanent reminder of this “Mini Switzerland” far away.

It’s important to note that the resemblance is mainly scenic, and culturally and geographically, Khajjiar remains distinct. However, the nickname has stuck and continues to be a popular way to describe this beautiful Indian hill station in Himachal Pradesh.

What to See in Khajjiar | The Main Attractions of the Khajjiar

1. Khajjiar Lake: This small, serene lake is the heart of area. Surrounded by lush meadows and cedar trees, the lake offers a picturesque setting for a picnic or a leisurely boat ride.

2. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for nature enthusiasts, this sanctuary boasts diverse flora and fauna. Explore the trails amidst the verdant hills, and spot animals like barking goral, Himalayan black marten, langur, and even leopards. Spread over 30 square kilometers, this sanctuary is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The sanctuary also boasts of beautiful hiking trails amidst blue pine, green oak, and rhododendron trees.

3. Khajji Nag Temple: A 12th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Khajji Nag Temple is a significant religious and historical site. The intricate wood carvings and the unique blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles make this temple a must-visit for those interested in history and culture.

4. Panchpula: This scenic spot offers a perfect setting for a picnic with family and friends. Lush greenery, captivating waterfalls, and a natural pool create a postcard-worthy scene.

Panchpula Chamba — Panchpula, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, India.

5. Nine-Hole Golf Course: The only golf course in the entire Chamba district, this nine-hole course is a popular spot for golfing enthusiasts. Offering stunning views of the surrounding hills, the course provides a challenging and scenic golfing experience.

9 Hole Golf Course Chamba — 9 Hole Golf Course, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, India.

6. Tibetan Handicrafts Center: For those looking for souvenirs or unique gifts, the Tibetan Handicrafts Center is a great place to visit. Here you’ll find a wide variety of hand-crafted items, including carpets, rugs, woolen shawls, and wooden artifacts.

7. HP State Handicrafts Center: This center showcases and sells traditional Himachali handicrafts, including woodwork, metalwork, and handloom textiles.

How to Reach Khajjiar

There isn’t a direct airport or train station in Khajjiar. However, you can reach there via Pathankot Airport (nearest airport) or Dalhousie (nearest train station) followed by a cab or bus ride. Here’s how:

By Flight:

The nearest airport to Khajjiar is Gaggal Airport (DHR) in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, located approximately 82 kilometers away.
From Gaggal Airport, you can hire a taxi or cab to reach Khajjiar, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

By Train:

The nearest railway station to Khajjiar is Pathankot Railway Station (PTK) in Pathankot, Punjab, located approximately 95 kilometers away.
From Pathankot Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or cab to reach Khajjiar, which takes approximately 3 hours.

By Road:

It is well connected by road to major cities in Himachal Pradesh and nearby states.
If you’re coming from Delhi, you can take the NH 44 highway via Chandigarh and Una. The total distance is approximately 584 km.
From Manali, another popular tourist destination, you can take the NH 21 highway via Kullu. The distance is approximately 224 km.

By Bus:

Regular bus services are available from major cities in Himachal Pradesh and North India to Chamba, which is 24 kilometers away.
From Chamba, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach Khajjiar.

Tip: While booking your flights or trains, consider the proximity of your accommodation around the bus stand or taxi stand to minimize further transportation within the area.

Khajjiar Scenic Weather to Enjoy

From March to June is like the most scenic and comfortable weather to visit.

Clear skies: The weather is clear, offering a beautiful view of the surroundings, especially with the sun having set not too long ago.
Pleasant temperature: The temperature is mild, which is quite comfortable. It’s neither too hot nor too cold, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
Low wind: With low wind speeds, there are likely very gentle breezes, making it even more pleasant to be outside.
Perfect for outdoor activities like horseback riding, zorbing, paragliding, and trekking.
Nights can get chilly, so pack a light jacket.
Expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time.

Conclusion

Its like a saucer-shaped meadow nestled amidst the Himalayas, carpeted with vibrant green and fringed by dense deodar forests. A small, crystal-clear lake reflects the snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar range in its pristine waters. This is Khajjiar, a haven of natural beauty near Chamba town. It’s charm lies in its unique blend of ecosystems – tranquil lake, lush meadows, and whispering forests – offering a breathtaking escape into the embrace of nature and it definitely gives vibes of the “Mini Switzerland”.

Where is Khajjiar?

Khajjiar, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”, is a beautiful hill station located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh

How to Reach Khajjiar ?

There isn’t a direct airport or train station in Khajjiar. However, you can reach there via Pathankot Airport (nearest airport) or Dalhousie (nearest train station) followed by a cab or bus ride.