10 Best Things To Do In Khajjiar, India
Popularly known as the mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is a hill station in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, India, located approximately 22 km (13 miles) from Dalhousie and 23 km (14 miles) from Chamba. This grassy pasture has a small lake in the centre of the large glade of Khajjiar, on which is a floating island. The round valley surrounded by deodars and pines is like a bewitching paradise. The glade and the lake are considered holy, due to their association with the idol of the Khajji Nag Temple, after whom the hill station is named. A temple dedicated to Khajjinag is also located here. The lake remains full of water through the year, fed by streams, and is not dependent on rains for water.
Holding the distinction of being a place for all seasons, tourists visit Khajjiar in winter for a snow experience and in summer for an offbeat Himalayan experience. No doubt it’s a small place, but it’s big enough to stay in your heart for a long time to come.
Read on to find out about the best things to do in Khajjiar, India:
1. Khajjiar Lake
The major attraction of the lake is the floating island; clusters of grasses and weeds that have grown to give it a look of a floating island. The grassland surroundings of the lake are a popular picnicking area. It is a nice place to spend some time; you can just sit in a corner and enjoy the scenic beauty or indulge in paragliding, horse riding or in other activities like Zorbing. Or, one can just take a walk and photograph the scenic beauty of the whole area.
Khajjiar Lake
Website: Khajjiar Lake
2. Khajji Nag Temple
This is a very old wooden temple dedicated to the snake incarnation of God. It is believed to be built by the five Pandavas during the time of Mahabharata, to worship Nag Devta (the Snake God). It is surrounded by two more temples, Shiva Temple and Hidimba Temple. The atmosphere in the temple is peaceful and it is quite clean. The morning and evening puja at the temple draws lots of devotees. People of Himachal have a strong belief in Khajji Nag, and it is believed that the Khajji Nag God lives in this temple.
Khajji Nag Temple
Address: MDR 49, Khajjiar, Chamba, Himachal PradeshWebsite: Khajji Nag Temple
3. Panch Pandav Tree
This age old tree of the Panch (Five) Pandavas days is famous for its shoots. There are six shoots coming out of a single root. According to the locals, the five shoots of the tree stand for the Five Pandavas and the last one symbolizes Draupadi. This unique tree standing alone just near to the lake is a must-see place in Khajjiar.
Panch Pandav Tree
Website: Panch Pandav Tree
4. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful sanctuary with high pine trees, giving the feel of being among the clouds. However, the sighting of animals is very rare. It’s a 3 km (1.8 mile) hike up from Lakkadmandi, and at the top there is a vintage guest house amidst green lawns and an open view canteen with fresh pakodas and tea. The snow peak views from the top are magnificent.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Address: Kalatope R.F, Himachal Pradesh 176304Website: Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Golden Devi Temple
This temple got its name because of its golden dome. The wooden shrine with intricate sculptures signifies the temple, but the major attraction of the temple is its golden spire. The ceiling of the circumambulation pavement of the temple displays images of Pandavas who won the battle against Kaurvas as well as images of Kaurvas, who lost the battle of Mahabharata. A golf course is near the temple and draws a large number of people.
Golden Devi Temple
Website: Golden Devi Temple
6. Kailash View
It’s a 0.5 km (0.3 mile) trek from Khajjiar meadows to get to this view. The goddess Durga statue located there is very beautiful and the large statute of Lord Shiva watching her, with a backdrop of mountains, creates a beautiful sight. Mount Kailash can be viewed from here, but you need a clear, sunny day for this.
Kailash View
Website: Kailash View
7. Dainkund Peak
This is the highest point in Dalhousie. It’s a 1.5 km (0.9 mile) trek to the top of the mountain to the goddess Kali Temple. Up to the Air-force Radar system there are steps and afterward, you have to go over rocks. Once you reach the peak it is just a paradise. The view both during the trail as well as the 360-degree view of the Dhauladhar Range of the Himalaya is just amazing.
Dainkund Peak
Website: Dainkund Peak
8. Bhuri Singh Museum
Named after the erstwhile Maharaja Bhuri Singh, the three floor museum is located in an old stone building in the main market of Chamba. The museum contains a rich collection of antiquities, ancient weapons, stone inscriptions, paintings, miniature sculptures of Chamba, embroidery, various furniture, beautiful wood gates, and photographs projecting art, culture, and history of Chamba. Some of the things date from 10 AD. It is a must-visit place for lovers of history and artwork.
Bhuri Singh Museum
Address: Hatnala Gali, Chowgan Mohalla, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh 176310Website: Bhuri Singh Museum
9. Gandhi Chowk Shopping Plaza
This is a good place for shopping, primarily for woolen clothes, kids toys, and local village made articles. The Tibetan Handicrafts shop is worth a visit, and the proceeds go to the refugees. This place is famous for amazing tea and souvenirs. Small food joints by the road side also serve amazing food.
Gandhi Chowk Shopping Plaza
Website: Gandhi Chowk Shopping Plaza
10. Sach Pass
The high altitude Sach Pass, Dalhousie is a must-visit place with amazing sceneries of snow covered mountains. Covered by snow throughout the year, this place offers a mesmerizing view of the surroundings. The high altitude treacherous trek is certainly not for the old and faint-hearted.
Sach Pass
Website: Sach Pass
Mini Switzerland of India
Source: Wikimedia
The Mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is no doubt a small place, but will provide big memories. The round valley surrounded by deodars and pines is like a bewitching paradise.
Comments