8 Places To Visit In Khajjiar | Khajjiar: The Mini Switzerland Of India | How To Reach
Khajjiar, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a picturesque hill station located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at an altitude of 1,920 meters above sea level, this small town is known for its lush green meadows, dense forests, and breathtaking landscapes. Khajjiar is surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The highlight of Khajjiar is its vast expanse of greenery, often compared to the meadows of Switzerland.
Best Places To Visit At Khajjiar:
Khajjiar, often called “Mini Switzerland,” is a scenic hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It features the beautiful Khajjiar Lake, the serene Khajji Nag Temple, and the adventurous Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. With activities like paragliding and horse riding amid lush greenery and stunning mountain views, Khajjiar is a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Here are some places to visit in Khajjiar:
1. Khajjiar Lake:
Khajjiar Lake, is a stunning water body encircled by verdant meadows and evergreen cedar trees. Often dubbed the Mini Switzerland of India, its picturesque charm is reminiscent of the European country. The lake derives its name from the nearby temple dedicated to Khajji Nag, a local deity. A favored destination among tourists, it offers a serene retreat amidst nature’s beauty and tranquility.
2. Khajji Nag Temple:
The Khajji Nag Temple stands as one of oldest and most revered temples. Dedicated to Khajji Nag, the serpent deity, it sits near the shores of Khajjiar Lake. Constructed in the 12th century AD by King Prithvi Singh of Chamba, this temple is a unique blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. Its distinctive features include a golden dome and spire, earning it the nickname ‘Golden Devi’ temple. Intricate wooden carvings depict scenes from the Mahabharata, featuring the Pandavas and Kauravas, while the temple also houses idols of Shiva and Hidimba. The temple’s tradition includes the practice of goat sacrifice, a ritual that continues to this day.
Visit Time: 6 AM to 8 PM
3. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary:
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a captivating nature reserve located near Khajjiar. Spread over an area of approximately 30 square kilometers, the sanctuary is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. The landscape comprises dense deodar and fir forests, interspersed with lush green meadows, offering a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to various species of wildlife, including the Himalayan black bear, barking deer, langur, and numerous bird species like the Himalayan monal, pheasant, and black francolin. Trekking and nature walks are popular activities in the sanctuary, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
4. Panch Pandav Tree:
The Panch Pandav Tree, located in Khajjiar, is a significant deodar tree believed to symbolize the five Pandava brothers and Draupadi from the Mahabharata epic. The tree’s base is split into six parts, resembling human figures, with a common root. This tree is a popular destination for those wanting to honor the legendary heroes. Situated near the Khajjiar School and a rest house, it also provides a picturesque view of the valley and mountains.
5. Golden Devi Temple:
The Golden Devi Temple, situated near Khajjiar Lake is a Hindu temple devoted to Goddess Kali. Renowned for its golden dome and picturesque setting, the temple dates back to the 12th century. It features a wooden shrine adorned with elaborate carvings. A favored spot for pilgrims and tourists alike, the temple is a must-visit in Khajjiar.
6. Khajjiar Trek:
The Khajjiar Trek stands out as a favorite trekking route in Spanning 10 kilometers from Lakkar Mandi to Khajjiar, the trek leads to the picturesque hill station often referred to as “Mini Switzerland.” Along the way, trekkers traverse through verdant meadows, charming cottages, grazing sheep, and dense deodar forests. The trek rewards with breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar ranges and the Khajjiar Lake. The ideal times to embark on the Khajjiar Trek are from March to June and September to November.
7. Lord Shiva Statue:
The Lord Shiva Statue in Khajjiar, is a stunning 85-foot-tall bronze statue of the Hindu deity. Situated in the Jagdambe Mata Temple complex, this magnificent statue shines brightly in the sunlight. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors especially during the June and July religious festivities at the temple. Additionally, the statue’s grandeur is enhanced when it is covered in snow during the winter months.
8. Adventure Activities At Khajjiar:
Khajjiar offers a variety of thrilling adventure activities for visitors:
- Paragliding: Experience the thrill of flying high above the picturesque landscapes.
- Zorbing: Roll down hills or glide on water inside a transparent ball.
- Horse Riding: Explore the scenic beauty of Khajjiar on horseback.
- Trekking: Discover the diverse landscapes and natural beauty on various trekking trails.
- Nature Walks & Camping: Immerse yourself in nature with guided walks and camping experiences.
- Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Challenge yourself with these exciting activities on rocky terrains.
- Boating on Khajjiar Lake: Relax with a peaceful boat ride on the beautiful lake surrounded by meadows and forests.
These were some places to visit in Khajjiar. Hope you liked it. Have a safe journey!
How To Reach Delhi To Khajjiar
- By Air: The nearest airport to Khajjiar is in Kangra (Gaggal Airport), which is about 120 kilometers away. From Delhi, you can take a flight to Kangra and then travel to Khajjiar by road.
- By Train: There is no direct train connectivity to Khajjiar. The nearest railway station is in Pathankot, about 120 kilometers away. From Pathankot, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Khajjiar.
Here Are Some Trains From Delhi To Pathankot Railway station
Train Name | Train Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Fare |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dhauladhar Express | 14035 | 23:20 | 08:10 | 8h 50m | ₹ 1,050 |
Delhi – Pathankot SF Express | 22429 | 08:15 | 18:20 | 10h 5m | ₹ 1,000 |
Sambalpur – Jammu Tawi Express | 18309 | 21:25 | 10:45 | 13h 20m | ₹ 1,050 |
Jammu Rajdhani | 12425 | 20:40 | 03:08 | 6h 28m | ₹ 2,000 |
- By Road: The most convenient way to reach Khajjiar from Delhi is by road. You can drive or hire a taxi from Delhi to Khajjiar, which is approximately 570 kilometers away. The journey takes about 10-12 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Delhi to Chamba, which is about 23 kilometers from Khajjiar, and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Khajjiar.
- Book A Cab: you can book a cab from our website along with a customized itinerary, or can hire just a cab for your next trip. So just do hurry. Call Us On: +911223577273
Nearby Places To Visit To Khajjiar
City | Distance from Khajjiar | Places to visit |
---|---|---|
Dalhousie | 21 km | Dainkund Peak, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, St. John’s Church, Gandhi Chowk Shopping Plaza1 |
Chamba | 24 km | Bhalei Mata Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Chamera Lake, Rang Mahal |
Dharamshala | 118 km | Dalai Lama Temple, Kangra Valley, Bhagsu Waterfall, HPCA Stadium |
Manali | 360 km | Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary |
Best Time To Visit Khajjiar
The best time to visit Khajjiar is from April to July, during the spring and summer months. This period offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and adventure sports. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall and should be avoided for travel. The winter months, from November to February, can be cold with temperatures dropping below freezing, but the snowfall can add to the scenic beauty of Khajjiar for those who enjoy winter activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Khajjiar famous for?
Khajjiar is famous for being a scenic hill station in Himachal Pradesh, often dubbed as the Mini Switzerland of India. It is also known for its lake, meadows, forests, and wildlife sanctuary
Which is more beautiful Khajjiar or mcleodganj?
Khajjiar is known for its pristine beauty with lush green meadows and a tranquil lake, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India.” McLeodganj, on the other hand, offers a unique blend of Tibetan culture, stunning views of the Dhauladhar range, and the spiritual ambiance of the Dalai Lama’s residence, making it a vibrant and culturally rich destination.
Which movie shot in Khajjiar?
Khajjiar has been a popular location for filming Bollywood movies. One notable film shot in Khajjiar is “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,” which featured the picturesque meadows of Khajjiar in some of its scenes, showcasing the beauty of the location on the silver screen.