Khajjiar Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

Khajjiar, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," is a small but stunning hill station located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Known for its lush green meadows, dense forests, and picturesque lake, Khajjiar offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and cultural heritage.

The rolling meadows, the mysterious looking alpine forests and the snow-capped peaks in the distance make Khajjiar picture perfect but ‘picture-perfect’ can never compere to the ‘perfect’ you have in your memory when you have been to that place and this tiny town, in the gorgeous district of Chamba, is really a place you cannot get out of your mind. 

The prime attraction in this beautiful town is a small glacial spring, the Khajjiar Lake, studded in the middle of a brilliantly lush saucer shaped meadow of the Khajjiar, which in turn is fringed by the taller darker woods of deodar trees and pine forests and rugged mountains surrounding them. It is beautifully bordered by thick weeds with the banks covered by a blanket of earth. Much of the sparkling lake has now turned to muddy slush, but that has not diminished the beauty of the spot.Legend goes that nobody knows the depth of this pond and long back, a hermit died trying to find out. It doesn’t look too deep to me but who’s to know?

There are the Dhauladhar Mountains for the hikers or simply the nature-gazers. There’s something hypnotic about these hills. You gaze at them once and you just don’t seem to be able to turn your eyes from them. There’s also a lovely hill temple located at a small distance away from the lake. The presiding Lord is Khajji Nag. It is a very old temple. Its date can be traced back to the 12th century. One can see depictions of the Panch-Pandav and the Kauravas on the roof of the path. It’s a typical Himachali wood cut structure. It’s interesting to see the snake idols housed within here. This place is so heart-breakingly gorgeous.

This comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Khajjiar, covering all aspects from top attractions to accommodation options.

Top Attractions in Khajjiar

Khajjiar Lake

Khajjiar Lake, set amidst a lush green meadow, is the focal point of the hill station. Surrounded by cedar forests, the lake's tranquil waters reflect the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the lake, picnics, and even horse riding.

Khajji Nag Temple

The Khajji Nag Temple, dating back to the 12th century, is a significant religious site in Khajjiar. Dedicated to Khajji Nag, the serpent deity, the temple is known for its intricate wooden carvings and ancient idol of the deity. It is a must-visit for those interested in history and spirituality.

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Located a short drive from Khajjiar, the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, including Himalayan black bears, pheasants, and leopards, the sanctuary offers numerous trekking and nature walk opportunities.

Adventure Activities

Paragliding

Khajjiar is a popular destination for paragliding enthusiasts. The rolling meadows and clear skies provide ideal conditions for this exhilarating activity. Paragliding in Khajjiar offers a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape below, making it a memorable experience.

Zorbing

For those looking for a fun and unique adventure, zorbing in Khajjiar is a must-try activity. Rolling down the gentle slopes in a transparent, inflatable ball provides a thrill for both kids and adults.

Trekking

Khajjiar serves as a base for several trekking routes. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both beginners and seasoned trekkers. Popular treks include the Khajjiar to Dainkund Peak and Khajjiar to Dalhousie trails, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Cultural Experiences

Willy T Blazer, the Vice Counsellor and head of Swiss Chancery in India installed a signboard of a Swiss hiking footpath here showing the Switzerland’s distance of 6194 Kms from the spot. Its counterpart, a stone taken from Khajjiar is a part of a stone collage near the Swiss Parliament to indicate the close resemblance between Switzerland and India. You really do want to come see India’s ‘Mini Switzerland’, don’t you?

Himachali Handicrafts and Souvenirs

Khajjiar's local markets are a treasure trove of Himachali handicrafts and souvenirs. Visitors can shop for handwoven shawls, wooden artifacts, and traditional jewelry. These items make for perfect mementos of your visit.

Local Cuisine

Savor the flavors of Himachali cuisine at Khajjiar's local eateries. Traditional dishes like Chana Madra, Dham, and Siddu offer a delightful culinary experience. The town's restaurants and street food stalls ensure you get a taste of the local gastronomy.

Accommodation Options

Khajjiar offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, here are some notable options:

• The Devdar Hotel: A heritage hotel offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities with stunning views of the Khajjiar meadows.
• Royal Residency: Known for its warm hospitality and scenic location, this hotel provides a luxurious stay amidst nature.
• Budget Stays: Numerous budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays provide comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank.

Best Time to Visit Khajjiar

Khajjiar can be visited throughout the year except perhaps during monsoon season when weather is still good but quite rainy. Khajjiar is well connected to cities like Pathankot and Chandigarh by road. Overnight Bus or private car is the best way to reach Khajjiar from Delhi. If you want to visit Khajjiar by flight then the closest airport is Gaggal Airport also known as Kangra Airport. Frequent buses run for Khajjiar from Shimla. 

The optimal time to visit Khajjiar is from March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July to August) brings heavy rainfall, which might disrupt travel plans, while the winter months (December to February) can be quite cold, with snowfall adding a magical touch to the landscape.

How to Reach Khajjiar

Dalhousie to Khajjiar to distance is only 25 kilometers and you can take a bus, shared taxi or a private cab to come here. Best time to visit Khajjiar is in winters when snowfall has happened recently. Khajjiar is quite a popular honeymoon destination in North India. Staying in a wooden cottage would be an amazing experience. Various accommodation like hotels, resorts, campstays and home stays are also available. 

By Air

The nearest airport to Khajjiar is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, approximately 122 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Khajjiar.

By Train

Pathankot Railway Station, around 94 km from Khajjiar, is the closest railhead. Regular trains connect Pathankot to major cities in India. From the station, taxis and buses are available to reach Khajjiar.

By Road

Khajjiar is well-connected by road to major cities in Himachal Pradesh and neighboring states. Regular bus services and private taxis make it convenient to reach this hill station.

Suggested Itinerary for Khajjiar

Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing

• Check-in at your hotel.
• Visit Khajjiar Lake and Khajji Nag Temple.
• Stroll through the local markets.

Day 2: Adventure and Nature Exploration

• Early morning visit to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Enjoy paragliding and zorbing activities.
• Return to Khajjiar by evening.

Day 3: Trekking and Departure

• Trek to Dainkund Peak.
• Explore the surrounding trails.
• Depart for your onward journey.

Tips for Travelers

• Acclimatize: Spend the first day acclimatizing to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness.
• Clothing: Pack warm clothes, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
• Footwear: Comfortable trekking shoes are a must for exploring the rugged terrains.
• Local Etiquette: Respect the local customs and traditions. Interact with locals to enrich your travel experience.

Khajjiar, with its lush green meadows, serene lake, and myriad of activities, offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed holiday, Khajjiar has something for everyone. Plan your trip to this enchanting hill station and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Lot of hiking trails are present near Khajjiar. You can go on a trek near Khajjiar through meadows and forests of Deodar and Pine trees but make sure you take a guide along with you.