Khajjiar is a
popular hill station about 26 km from Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh. One
of the 160 places in the world that bear tropical resemblance to
Switzerland, Khajjiar is situated at a height of 6500 feet and bestowed
with natural beauty and pleasant climate. Vast expanse of green meadows
and dense forests besides vistas of majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks
make Khajjiar a popular destination among tourists. The Khajjiar Lake
and Chamera Lake add to the charm of Khajjiar.
Khajjiar is also called the Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh and serves as
the starting point for treks to Chamba, Dalhousie and Kalatop Wildlife
Sanctuary among others. Indeed, trekking is the best way to explore
Khajjiar. Zorbing, which involves rolling downhill from inside a plastic
zorb, is a popular recreational activity during April and May. With
its exotic flora and fauna, the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a delight
for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
Not much is known about Khajjiars history but temples dating back to
the 12th century still stand in majestic splendor here. The Khajji Naga
Temple is the most sacred shine in Khajjiar. People of Khajjiar
generally speak Himachali. However, almost all of them are comfortable
with Hindi as well.
PLACES
TO VISIT
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Stretching over the deodar forests on the slopes between Khajjiar and
Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh is the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. It is
one of the most popular and well known of the wildlife sanctuaries in
Himachal Pradesh and spreads over 30.69 km². The vegetation consists of
blue pine and deodhar forest, with oak. Many people consider it to be
one of the best nature hikes if you prefer walking rather than paying
Rs. 200 to get your car into the area. The sanctuary also boasts of a
wide variety of wildlife. Bear, Himalayan Black Marten, Leopard, Deer,
Barking Goral, Squirrel, Serow, Jackal, Langur are often spotted.
Khajjiar Lake
Located at a height of 1950 metres. Khajjiar Lake is amongst the most
popular tourist sites. Water from a number of streams fills the lake.
Surrounded by Deodar forests and hills, the 1.5 sq km large lake is a
perfect picnic spot.
Khajji Naga temple
Also known as the Golden Devi temple, the 12th century temple is
dedicated to Khajji Nag. The dome shaped temple is considered one of the
holiest and most important temples. Khajjiar gets its name from the
temple carved out of wood. Images of Pandavas and Kauravas can also be
seen in the temple. The age-old practice of goat sacrifice is still
practiced at the temple. The temple is situated near Khajjiar Lake.
Kalatop
Wildlife Sanctuary
Khajjiar
Lake
Khajji
Naga temple
BEST SEASON/ BEST TIME TO VISIT
The Pleasant temperature in summer
City Facts Height:
2,036 m Local Transport
Local buses operate regularly. Taxis are also available.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN KHAJJIAR
Eating options are limited in Khajjiar. There are a few restaurants
here, Main Ground and few street stalls in the hill station serve
noodles and soups which are extremely popular. In-house restaurants of
hotels and resorts cater to a wide range of taste buds.
BEST TIME TO VISIT KHAJJIAR
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Khajjiar is as given
below. The best time to visit Khajjiar is also specified.
