This town, Khajjiar in the Champa district of Himachal Pradesh is about 24 kilometres from Dalhousie and is at an altitude of 6,500 feet above sea level. From Dharamshala, we began our trip. Since it was January, the cold wind was sharp and everything was covered in snow. We had arrived in Dharamshala two days earlier and explored the area. We then set off for Khajjiar to celebrate our anniversary. We reached Dalhousie in the afternoon and stayed there overnight. In the evening, after relaxing for a bit, we took a walk through the market area. The next morning, after a scrumptious breakfast at our hotel, we continued our journey to Khajiar. The winding roads through dense pine forests with their lovely views took us to Khajjiar. Covered in white carpet, this town was the perfect place for our anniversary. We enjoyed our days in Khajjiar. Let me add some tips that might be helpful for anyone planning a trip to Khajjiar or adding it to their bucket list.
Khajjiar is a picturesque town with lots of places to explore. Khajjiar Lake, located at the heart of the town, is set in a large grassy area. The lake is surrounded by long deodar trees. This is one of the biggest natural lakes in the area and is believed to date back to the Mahabharata. Witnessing the water surface sparkling in the sunlight is a beautiful sight. Locals assume that the lake is linked to Naag Devta, the snake god. According to local legends, some people took the initiative to turn the lake into a cricket ground. However, as they began their work, snakes came out of the lake. This incident led them to believe that the lake was sacred, not just a natural body of water, and a temple dedicated to Naag Devta was built near the lake. Khajji Nag Temple houses the idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Hadimba. The combination of Mughal and Hindu styles in the temple architecture is mesmerizing for anyone interested in history and culture. The 85-foot Lord Shiva Statue, one of the tallest in India, is another interesting attraction here. This beautiful copper statue is located a short distance from Khajjiar Park. It offers a wonderful view for the tourists amidst the snow-covered mountains. One can visit the nearby Ambe-Ma temple also. The temple hosts festivals in June and July. For adventure seekers, the place offers a landing spot for paragliders. All these positive vibes together make this a must-visit destination. The panch Pandav found here is also special. In contrast to deodar trees having one trunk, this tree has six branches at its base. Legends say it represents the Pandav brothers and their wife Draupadi, where beauty merges with mythology. Kailash Village is also worth visiting for its serene and beautiful landscape. Surrounded by lush greenery, this village offers breathtaking views in the backdrop of snow-covered mountains. Locals believe that Lord Shiva’s abode might be in these villages. Tourists can enjoy many fun activities in the town. Zorbing is an adventure sport where people roll down the hill or in the water in a big, clear ball, which is both fun and thrilling. Paragliding is another fun activity where you can experience excitement. It’s thrilling to fly over beautiful landscapes and enjoy stunning views from above. A safari in the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a great choice for animal lovers. The sanctuary also has lovely hiking trails with fantastic views. Horseback riding is also popular here, allowing you to explore the meadows and forests in a fun and traditional way. In Khajjiar, you’ll find a range of places to stay to suit different tastes. There are options right by the meadow with lovely views of the surrounding mountains. Some places are close to the lake and offer modern comforts and easy access to local sights. For a luxurious stay, there are accommodations with mountain view rooms with all the modern amenities.
Khajjiar is a picture-perfect place to visit all year round. In summer, from March to June, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities, though it can be crowded. If you enjoy winter and don’t mind the cold, visiting from November to February allows you to experience Khajjiar’s transformation into a snowy wonderland. The town becomes covered in snow, creating a magical atmosphere, though heavy snowfall in January and February can occasionally block the roads. Despite the chill, winter in the town offers a peaceful and enchanting experience for those who appreciate solitude. The ideal time to visit Khajjiar and fully enjoy the town’s beauty is from March to June.
