Named the Mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is the go-to destination for all tourists who visit Dalhousie. Located a mere twenty-four kilometers or an hour's bus ride away from Dalhousie, this small hill station boasts of being a mini replica of Switzerland, a country which is otherwise known as "Heaven on Earth."
I had the opportunity to visit Khajjiar during the first week of April. The weather was just right; pleasant, not too cold and not too warm. The sun was out and so was the ice. All in all, it was springtime at its best. On our way from Dalhousie to Khajjiar, as we gradually gained altitude, we began to spot ice-capped rocks dotting the sides of the road.
If you are to visit Dalhousie during that time of the year and happen to take this road to Khajjiar, like us, you too, will inadvertently come upon a couple of special places where the ice has yet not melted and the snow is still white and soft. These spots, flanked by tourists, will immediately stand out and you will find yourself being convinced to make a pitstop to revel in the pleasure of a snow fight yourself.
Arriving in Khajjiar, you will be greeted by a vast expanse of plains surrounded by coniferous trees on its one half. In the midst of the plains, you will spot the Khajjiar Lake, a small waterbody which lends yet another angle to this place. Khajjiar, though quite little in size, abounds in activities. The locals have transformed it into a place where one never falls short of things to do throughout an entire day. From riding a horse around the perimeter of the site and back to playing with lambs and rabbits, this place offers it all! One can even go zorbing here. If you are not the adventurous kind, you may simply sit back in the lush, green meadows and munch on some cotton candy. If you enjoy learning about the culture there, make an attempt at small talk with the photographers who offer to take your pictures after decking you up in their local, traditional wear.
Khajjiar is definitely a small version of paradise wherein one can have an amazing time if one knows what to do and where to look. And, that can only be done if you make an effort to explore each and every inch of the place. Going on a horse ride? Ask for the longest ride they can offer. Request your guide to maneuver your horse deep into the forests and then, experience the calm space, away from tourists. Take some time to just stay there for a while. Try not to rush things and you will eventually, find yourself becoming one with nature in what is truly a breathtaking destination in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh.
Bottom line? Khajjiar, complete with a temple and plenty of places to eat, is definitely worth the visit. Make sure you go there with enough time on hand and the determination to enjoy yourself and relax amidst the mountain air. You will surely not be disappointed!
Written by Priyanshi Sheth
"Namaste!" from a creative, Indian soul who aims to keep herself motivated as she writes, travels, photographs, and thereby, shares her knowledge.
Written by Priyanshi Sheth
"Namaste!" from a creative, Indian soul who aims to keep herself motivated as she writes, travels, photographs, and thereby, shares her knowledge.