Khajjiar: Also known as India’s Mini Switzerland, Khajjiar is a small hill station in the northern province of Himachal Pradesh. It is a playground for adventurers, with a small-town ambience, and fresh mountain air, coupled with snowy mountains and stunning surroundings.
Location
In the Western Himalayan foothills of the Dhauladhar mountains, it is about 6,500 feet (2,000 metres) above sea level. The Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary includes it.
It boasts a unique blend of three habitats in one location: lake, grassland, and woodland.
How to Reach
By bus, Khajjiar can be reached in about an hour from Dalhousie, the nearest major town and hill station.
Places to Visit
- Khajji Nag Temple
It comprises Khajji Nag Temple, which dates to the 12th century, and is devoted to a snake god. The temple is located on the edge of Khajjiar Lake and is dedicated to Khaji Nag, the Lord of Serpents, and has Hindu and Mughal architecture, including a gilded dome and beautiful wood carvings. Snake idols, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Hadimba, as well as representations of the Pandavas and Kauravas, can be seen in the shrine.
2. Khajjiar Lake
Nearby, a cedar forest surrounds the high-altitude Khajjiar Lake. The lakes in Khajjiar are nestled by saucer-shaped meadows and deep cedar trees. The floating island, which is grass sprouting on the lake’s surface, is the highlight. Thousands of travellers go to the lake to get their adrenaline fixed, with sports ranging from paragliding to horseback riding and zorbing. Also one can enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Kailash from the lake.
3. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the west, is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and bears. Dalhousie, farther west, is a mountainous hill station filled with temples and 19th-century British churches. The Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Expect to encounter yellow-throated martens, jackals, leopards, gorals, deer, bears and langur monkeys. All are packed within a picturesque landscape dotted with dense deodar forests and small streams – a perfect place for trekking.
Things to Do
- Trekking
Energetic travellers should go trekking. Khajjiar offers numerous trails, passing through lush pine and deodar forests and scenic streams. Routes range from easy to moderate, treating one to incredible scenery along the way.
2. Explore Villages
Hidden in the forests and lush mountains are picturesque and unspoilt villages. Some of the villages worth discovering include Ladi and Rota, which are famed for their apple orchards and unbeatable views of snow-laden hills and Mount Kailash. Stroll along their streets and soak in the tranquil vibes and pristine nature. There are also cosy homestays, for an even fuller experience of peaceful mountain life.
(Sunidhi Bhatt)