Visit Khajjiar- The Mini Switzerland Of India- Escape the Mundane!
Switzerland may be heaven on earth, but many of us do not always have the opportunity to visit. But don’t be discouraged since we have our mini Switzerland in India – Khajjiar.
Come to this place and bask in the beauty of nature. It will then be easy to understand why Khajjiar is sometimes called the ‘mini Switzerland of India.’ The large grassy regions that meet deep woods of deodar and cedar forests, with cottages dotted throughout, give them the look of the Swiss countryside.
Look no further if you’ve seen comparable vistas in movies and publications and wished there was a spot like this closer to home. You can choose to drive to Khajjiar, but you will lose out on much of the pleasure compared to walking from Chamba. The route’s splendor is definitely worth the time and effort.
Khajjiar is a picturesque hill station in the Chamba district that is a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. You should go to this quiet and lovely spot only to appreciate its existence. Khajiar is one of the most attractive places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, which draws you in and allows you to feast your eyes on the magnificent scenery created by nature. It is undoubtedly a mini Switzerland of India that is within your reach.
Best Time To Visit Khajjiar, The Mini Switzerland Of India
Khajjiar, Himachal’s picturesque tiny hill town, is frequently dubbed the “mini Switzerland of India” since it is nestled among soaring Himalayan peaks and lush pine forests.
Though popular with tourists all year, it is best visited during the summer and monsoon seasons, from April to September, when the temperatures are warm, and nature’s richness gives much-needed serenity. During these months, visitors may enjoy sightseeing, local religious fairs, regional food, shopping, and a look into the folk culture and customs of the region.
Our mini Switzerland in India, Khajjiar changes into a Winter Wonderland from October to March when the temperature goes below zero, resulting in regular snowfall. During winter, snow fans and hard-core adventurers may appreciate Khajjiar’s pristine white beauty and tranquillity.
How To Reach Khajjiar, The Mini Switzerland Of India?
Khajjiar is located in the Chamba region and is well connected to Chamba and Dalhousie.
Our mini Switzerland in India, Khajjiar, is located 24 km from Dalhousie, approx. 54 mins by road, and is readily accessible by taxi. You may either take a bus from Dalhousie to Khajjiar or rent a cab from Dalhousie station to get to Khajjiar.
Pathankot, 98 km away (approx 1 hr by road), is the nearest railway station to Khajjiar. From Pathankot, take a bus or a cab to Khajjiar.
While in Dalhousie, try these 11 Exciting Things To Do In Dalhousie.
Are You Curious Why Khajjiar Is Referred To As The Mini Switzerland Of India?
The tale of how Khajjiar became known as the “mini Switzerland of India” is fascinating. Mr. Willy T. Blazer, Vice Counsellor and Head of the Chancery of Switzerland, was the first to say so.
He was so captivated by the scenery that he installed a notice board displaying a yellow Swiss hiking route with the distance from Bernes, Switzerland’s capital, to Khajjiar – 6194 km. The event occurred in 1992 but hasn’t dimmed the location’s appeal.
If you plan a trip to Himachal, you can explore these offbeat places in Himachal to visit this summer.
5 Places To Visit In Khajjiar To Make You Spellbound And Leave You Mesmerized
Khajjiar, with its vast expanse of lush meadows, deep Deodar Forest, and vistas of the snow-covered Kailash, is a nature lover’s paradise with some beautiful tourist attractions in and around it.
It is also regarded as the Gulmarg of Himachal and serves as the starting point for hikes to Chamba, Dalhousie, and the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. There are several tourist attractions to explore in Khajjiar – the mini Switzerland of India that are ideal for a day of exploring.
1. Khajjiar Lake
Khajjiar Lake, located at the height of 1920 meters, is surrounded by beautiful green Deodar woods. It is one of the most fantastic destinations in Himachal Pradesh to rejuvenate the mind and soul.
The key attraction of the place is the floating island, a clump of grass sprouting on the lake’s surface. On a clear day, one may take in the breathtaking views of Mount Kailash from the lake.
Khajjiar Lake takes the top spot on this list of popular Khajjiar tourist attractions with its idyllic surroundings and enchanting atmosphere,
Things to do: Locals and tourists visit Khajjiar Lake for day picnics, paragliding, zorbing, and horseback riding.
2. Panch Pandav Tree
Located in the dense Deodar Forests around Khajjiar Lake, the Panch Pandav Tree is one of the most exceptional sites to see in Khajjiar. Locals say this tree has 6 branches depicting the five Pandavas and Draupadi.
The Panch Pandav tree is near a rest stop that connects to rural Khajjiar settlements. A big deodar tree with around 15 branches of equal height is located about a kilometer from Khajjiar towards Dalhousie. This one is regarded as the ‘Mother Tree’ in the area.
Things to do: Take a walk among the trees and learn about the fascinating mythical stories surrounding this area. You may go on a trek, camping, or enjoy a one-day picnic here.
3. Dainkund Peak
Dainkund Peak is one of the most attractive spots to visit near Khajjiar. Because it is the highest point in Dalhousie, other high snow-capped peaks are readily seen on a clear day.
It transforms into a white wonderland in the winter, while the lush green meadows greet visitors in the summer. It is a must-see for anybody searching for serene spots to visit in Dalhousie in December.
Things to do – Enjoy trekking and camping
4. Khajji Nag Temple
This temple, dedicated to Khajji Nag, or Lord of Serpents, is one of Himachal Pradesh’s oldest and one of the top Khajjiar attractions to visit. The Khajji Nag Temple was established in the 12th century, and the wood carvings represent the style and pattern of Hindu-Mughal architecture.
This temple is located on the shore of Khajjiar Lake. It houses Shiva, Hidimba, and figures of Pandava and Kaurava. Here at the temple, the age-old ritual of goat sacrifice is still practiced.
Things to do: Visit Himachal Pradesh’s most historic temple and admire the architectural style while seeking the blessings of Khajji Nag.
5. Kalatop Forest
One of the most attractive spots in Khajjiar is the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread throughout 30.69 square kilometers. Between Dalhousie and Khajjiar Lake is this wildlife reserve.
The wildlife sanctuary consists of trees such as Blue Pine, Green Oak, and Rhododendron, and visitors may see barking goral, Himalayan black marten, langur, jackal, bear, and leopard. This location is a picturesque and stunning due to the minor tributaries of the Ravi River.
Things to do: Nature walks and hikes are popular in this wildlife reserve.
After exploring these places in Khajjiar, visit Keylong in Himachal. Read Why Keylong In Himachal Pradesh should be your next travel destination!
You can see why tourists call Khajjiar the “mini Switzerland of India” today, can’t you? Are you already fantasizing about this small heaven known as Khajjiar? Are you already picturing how wonderful it would be to wake up to a view of the hills?
What would it be like to be in the lap of nature? If you want all of this to be true, plan that long-awaited Himachali visit to our own mini Switzerland in India–Khajjiar.
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