As a grassy plateau with a dense forest perimeter, Khajjiar is a natural wonder residing in Himachal Pradesh. Also referred to as a "Mini-Switzerland," this saucer-shaped region is home to a mid-altitude lake, an ancient temple and many other landmarks. For your next vacation, explore Khajjiar's beautiful landscape as the Himalayas touch the sky around you.
Knowing the Geography
Khajjiar is located in the Western Himalayas where the Dhauladhar range resides. Here, you'll find Khajjiar's grassy meadow at 6,500 feet above sea level. Because of its isolated location, Khajjiar maintains its natural beauty and quaint community of small buildings and local merchants.
Surrounding the plateau is dense forest. Because of the altitude, the main tree species thriving here are deodar cedar and other pines. Overall, your view consists of the expansive meadow, towering trees and tall mountains in the background. The closest connected town is Dalhousie at about 15 miles to the west.
Learning About the Historical Landmarks
Within Khajjiar is the Khajji Naga Temple. With a blend of Mughal and Hindu architectural styles, this structure was built roughly in the 10th century. Step inside this landmark to discover intricate carvings on the wooden ceilings and columns. For Hindu followers, the temple's name reflects a celebration of their serpent god.
Nearby, you can find another Hindu landmark. The Lord Shiva Statue overlooks Khajjiar with trees surrounding it. With the mountain backdrop, this landmark is a perfect location for photography enthusiasts. It's 85 feet tall with a bronze polish that appears to glimmer in the summer light, too.
Trying Adventurous Activities
Many activities spring to life at Khajjiar when the snow melts away. For instance, try zorbing in a transparent orb. With many gentle hills nearby, this exhilarating activity is a favorite among younger visitors. A classic activity available here is paragliding. With the foothill thermals lifting you, paragliding in India takes you farther than other locations. In addition, traditional activities, such as golf and horseback riding, are perfect for visitors with more moderate tastes. Simply check in with the local merchants to see which activity is available during your stay.
Lodging or Camping at Khajjiar
Because Khajjiar is a popular region in Northern India, there are plenty of properties offering lodging. Simply make a reservation as you plan your itinerary. The busy times of year, such as spring and summer, can book up rapidly.
Alternatively, many travelers enjoy camping out at Khajjiar. Bring your camping essentials, including layered clothing for cool evenings. There are a few marked campsites, so be aware of any guidelines offered by the locals. By camping out, you can enjoy the sunset and sunrise with the Himalayas as your backdrop. Packing a camera for this trip is a must.
Exploring the Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary
In the spring, the Khajjiar Lake appears within the grassy meadow. Although it can vanish as the weather warms up, the lake is a popular place to cool off during your vacation. Watching migratory birds and picnicking with loved ones are typical activities at Khajjiar Lake, for instance.
Between Khajjiar and Dalhousie is the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, enjoy hiking, bird-watching and other outdoor activities. With rhododendrons and deodar trees surrounding you, this sanctuary is a treat for the eyes and nose. As you hike along the trails, look out for many animals, including leopards and bears.
Planning Your Trip
The best time to visit Khajjiar is from spring to autumn. Although a view of the snowy Himalayas in winter may be breathtaking, traveling to Khajjiar is complicated then. Indeed, many roads leading up to the plateau are simply impassable during the winter.
Ideally, take a small vehicle or bus to Khajjiar when the weather is warmer. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation supports the buses running to Khajjiar, which gives you a scenic ride through the foothills. Alternatively, use the Pathankot Railway or Gaggal Airport to access the grassy meadow. Located about 60 to 80 miles away, respectively, these hubs provide easy access to India's "Mini-Switzerland."
Northern India is a mountainous region with activities designed for nearly any age. Whether you're interested in hiking, camping or learning about ancient India, Khajjiar is a highlight on any itinerary. Find relaxation, escape and excitement with a trip to Khajjiar soon.
