Khajjiar, the ‘Mini Switzerland of India,’ is a small hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is a small town with fresh mountain air and picturesque landscapes encompassing dense deodar forests, verdant meadows, and snow-laden mountains. It is located in the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary. Khajjiar Himachal Pradesh is situated at the base of the Dhauladhar Mountains which is characterized by dense forests of deodar and pine and lush green meadows. Khajjiar is known to be among the 160 locations in the world that bear striking resemblance to Switzerland.
Khajjiar has a rare combination of three ecosystems: lake, pasture, and forest. It is surrounded by saucer-shaped meadows; beyond the pasture land, there is a dense pine forest surrounded by high mountains, and fringed by gigantic deodars. This amazing Khajjiar tourist place is filled with stunning landscapes coupled with the shimmering lake which makes it a most sought after destination.
Khajjiar Lake is a small lake surrounded by saucer-shaped lush green meadows and a floating island. The major attraction of the lake is the island that floats, which a cluster of grass is growing on the lake’s surface. Located on the edges of the Khajjiar Lake is the Golden Devi Temple. The temple is an architectural beauty that is thronged by people of all religions. It has a lot of legends and myths woven into its existence and also has a fine display of arts. Named after its Golden Dome, the temple and the surroundings have become quite popular among tourists. It also has a nine-hole golf course near it.
Khajjiar derives its name from the ancient idol, Khajji Naag, which is still celebrated and worshipped by the locals of this hill station. Khajji Naag is a stone idol, which has a double dagger in one hand and a mace in the other. Khajjinag temple is a 12th-century temple located near the lake. Dedicated to Khaji Nag, this is one of the oldest temples of Himachal Pradesh. This temple was built in the Pahari style with beautiful wood carvings that reflect Hindu-Mughal architecture. Resting near the bank of Khajjiar Lake, this temple houses the idols of Shiva, Hidimba, and images of Pandavas and Kauravas. Pilgrims visiting the Chamba valley often come to Khajjiar Himachal to visit the temple.
The Panch Pandav Tree is a very popular tree found in Khajjiar which is famous for its shoots. There are a total of 6 shoots coming out of the tree. Local legend says that the six shoots stand for the five Pandavas and Draupadi. Within the thick deodar forests surrounding the Khajjiar Lake, Panch Pandav Tree is one of the unique places to see on the Khajjiar tour.
Khajjiar also has a wildlife sanctuary named Kalatop which is inhabited by species like deer, Serow, jackal, leopard, black bear, wild cats, and Himalayan black marten. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Khajjiar trip which has trees like Blue Pine, Green Oak, and Deodar. There are small tributaries of River Ravi that makes this place look scenic and spectacular.
Khajjiar is a small grassy meadow between tall deodar trees with laidback and picturesque villages. Rota and Ladi are some of the most wonderful villages offering clear views of Mount Kailash, green slopes, and snow-capped peaks.
Khajjiar Dalhousie, Timings: 7:00 A.M to 6:00 P.M
Khajjiar Dalhousie Entry Fees: There is no entry fees for Khajjiar but for entering in the Forest Reserve Area there is a fees of INR 250.
