Khajjiar – the Mini Switzerland of India
Khajjiar in Chamba is a less explored tourist destination of Himachal Pradesh. Known among the tourists as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India, the hill station is nestled at 6500 feet from sea level and amid dense pine forests and surrounded by mountain ranges. Blessed with tranquil charm and natural beauty, the hill station will spellbound anyone visit it for the first time.
Khajjar is suitable for trekking, relaxation and pampering in the bliss of mountains. Whether traveling in a group or with your family and friends, a holiday in Khajjiar one of the cherished experiences of your life.
Khajji Nag Temple
The history of Khajjiar dates back to the rulers of Chamba. The local Rajput rulers ruled Chamba valley in the 6th century and Khajjiar made it their capital city. Later the region was annexed by the Mughal Empire and Sikh kingdoms. Finally, it was under the British Raj. It became a part of the state of Himachal Pradesh on April 15, 1948.
On 7 July 1992, Willy T Blazer Vice Counselor and Head of Chancery of Switzerland in India put Khajjiar on the world tourism map by naming it “Mini Switzerland”. A sign board of a yellow Swiss hiking footpath shows Khajjiar distance from the Swiss capital Bern which is 6194 km. A stone was also taken to the Swiss Parliament to title Khajjiar as a Mini Switzerland of India.
Khajjiar is bequeathed with natural beauty and pleasant climate. Vast green meadows, dense forests overshadowed by landscape of magnificent snow-clad Himalayan peaks make Khajjiar a popular tourist destination.
Khajjiar Lake and Ground, Golden Devi Temple, Khajji Nag Temple, Kalatope Khajjiar Sanctuary are the main tourist attractions in and around Khajjiar.
Accommodation is available in a hotel and some cottages run by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism. There are also two rest houses one each of PWD and Forest Department. New private hotels have also come up to cater the growing need of visitors. There are numerous scenic and comfortable lodgings in Khajjiar.
The nearest airport to Khajjiar is at Jammu, which is around 200 km away from Khajjiar. Taxis, buses and other private vehicles are available for the hill town from the air terminal.
The nearest railway station to Khajjiar is at Pathankot or ChakkiBan. Both rail-heads are located at a distance of 80 km. Both these stations are also well-connected to Khajjiar by frequent taxis, buses and other transport.
Khajjiar is well-connected to major cities of India by road. Cities such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali are linked by a network of well- maintained roads. Reaching Khajjiar by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town. Luxury coaches, state owned buses, taxis and private vehicles are accessible to reach the town by road.
As the name indicates, Khajjiar’s climate is similar to Switzerland and one can visit the pace anytime round the year; still the best time to visit Khajjiar is from March till October. Weather during summer is mild. The days are sunny and nights are cold and pleasant. Khajjiar receives moderate rainfall in monsoons. For snow lovers, it is better to visit during winter season.