Imagine a picture-perfect meadow surrounded by dense cedar trees, with a still, reflective lake at its heart. Welcome to Khajjiar Lake, one of the most scenic and lesser-explored tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. Nicknamed the Mini Switzerland of India, this enchanting destination offers stunning views, cultural gems, and adventurous activities—all packed into one tiny hill station!
Whether you’re a backpacker, honeymooner, or a nature lover, this blog post is your complete Khajjiar tourism guide. 🌲🌊
📍 Where is Khajjiar Lake Located?
Khajjiar Lake is located in Khajjiar town, situated in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of around 1,920 meters. Just 24 km from Dalhousie, it’s part of the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary, making it a hotspot for both sightseeing and eco-tourism. 🏞️
🛣️ How to Reach Khajjiar Lake
Getting to Khajjiar is part of the adventure. Here are the easiest options:
✈️ By Air
- Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport, Kangra (~122 km)
- You can hire a taxi or take a bus from there.
🚆 By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot (~118 km)
- From Pathankot, you can catch a bus or taxi to Khajjiar via Dalhousie.
🚌 By Road
- Excellent road connectivity from Dalhousie, Chamba, and Dharamshala.
- Frequent buses and taxis are available.
📝 Pro Tip: The scenic drive offers panoramic mountain views and lush greenery—perfect for a road trip! 🚗💨
🌦️ Khajjiar Weather and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C—ideal for sightseeing.
- Monsoon (July to September): Lush, but prone to landslides.
- Winter (October to February): Chilly and snowy—Khajjiar looks like a fairyland ❄️
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Khajjiar: April to October for greenery, or December to February for snow-lovers. ☃️
🌿 Why is Khajjiar Called the Mini Switzerland of India? 🇨🇭
In 1992, Swiss Ambassador Willy P. Blazer compared Khajjiar’s landscape to Switzerland due to its natural beauty, rolling pastures, and pine forests. He even placed a yellow Swiss signboard here indicating the distance to Bern!
If you’re searching for an offbeat European-like escape, Khajjiar Lake delivers it—without a passport. 😄
🌄 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Khajjiar
Here’s a list of must-see places to visit in Khajjiar beyond the lake:
1. Khajjiar Ground
A vast grassy meadow around the lake, ideal for picnics, horse rides, and zorbing.
2. Khajji Nag Temple
Built in the 12th century, this temple dedicated to the serpent god Khajjinag is an architectural marvel.
3. Panch Pandav Tree
This ancient tree is believed to have six shoots symbolizing the Pandavas and Draupadi. 🌳
4. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Spanning lush deodar forests, it’s a great place for birdwatching and nature walks.
5. Golden Devi Temple
A peaceful temple adorned with a golden spire, located near the lake—great for a spiritual pause. ⛩️
🎯 Best Things to Do in Khajjiar
Looking for fun? There’s no shortage of things to do in Khajjiar. Here’s your bucket list:
🚣♂️ Boating at Khajjiar Lake
While boating may be seasonal, the tranquil waters are perfect for soaking in the views.
🐎 Horse Riding
Explore the meadow on horseback—fun for kids and adults alike!
🪂 Paragliding
Feel the wind in your hair and enjoy aerial views of the valleys. Best in summer.
🌀 Zorbing
A big hit with tourists—roll around in inflatable orbs on soft green grass!
📸 Photography
From panoramic shots to close-ups of wildflowers, every frame is a postcard.
👨👩👧👦 Khajjiar for Families and Couples
Khajjiar is perfect for:
- Families: Safe, serene, and full of kid-friendly activities.
- Couples: Romantic sunsets, cozy stays, and peaceful walks.
- Solo Travelers: Easy to navigate and welcoming locals.
Bonus? Less crowd than Shimla or Manali. 🧘
🛏️ Where to Stay in Khajjiar
There’s something for every budget:
💸 Budget Options:
- Himachal Tourism PWD Guest House
- Youth Hostel Khajjiar
💰 Mid-Range Hotels:
- Hotel Mini Swiss
- Deodar Manor
💎 Luxury Resorts:
- Shining Star Resort
- HPTDC Hotel Devdar
🏡 Many offer lake views and traditional Himachali vibes.
🍽️ Food to Try in Khajjiar
Though Khajjiar doesn’t have a huge food scene, you’ll love the local delicacies:
- Madra – Chickpeas in yogurt-based gravy.
- Tudkiya Bhath – Spiced rice with lentils and vegetables.
- Chha Gosht – A lamb curry to die for.
- Siddu – A steamed Himachali bun, often eaten with ghee.
Also, try chai with a view—simple pleasures are the best! ☕
🧳 Travel Tips for Visiting Khajjiar Lake
- Carry cash – Card facilities may be limited.
- Wear walking shoes – Lots of exploring to do.
- Check weather – It changes fast.
- Start early – Mornings are less crowded.
- Be eco-friendly – Carry reusable bottles and avoid plastic.
🚫 Don’t litter around the lake. Let’s keep Khajjiar clean and green! 🌍
🛍️ Shopping in Khajjiar
Although small, Khajjiar has local shops selling:
- Woollen clothes 🧣
- Wooden handicrafts 🪵
- Tibetan jewelry 💍
- Handwoven Himachali caps 🎩
You can also head to nearby Chamba market for more variety.
📆 Suggested Itinerary for Khajjiar Lake Trip
Day 1:
- Arrive at Dalhousie → Drive to Khajjiar → Explore lake & meadow → Check-in
Day 2:
- Visit Khajji Nag Temple → Horse riding & zorbing → Golden Devi Temple → Shopping
Day 3:
- Hike in Kalatop Sanctuary → Local food tasting → Return to Dalhousie
♻️ Sustainability & Responsible Tourism
Khajjiar Lake is a sensitive eco-zone. Let’s travel mindfully:
- Don’t pollute the lake.
- Avoid plastic.
- Respect local traditions.
- Use local guides & homestays to support the economy.
Being a responsible tourist helps preserve the magic of this Mini Switzerland for future generations. 🌱
🧾 Final Words: Why You Should Visit Khajjiar Lake
So, is Khajjiar Lake worth visiting? A 1000% YES!
It’s serene, scenic, and soul-refreshing. With its meadows, myths, and mountain charm, it’s the perfect offbeat destination for anyone wanting to unplug. Whether it’s for a short weekend getaway or part of a longer Himachal Pradesh tour, Khajjiar Lake is sure to win your heart. 💚
❓ FAQs About Khajjiar Lake
Q1: Is there an entry fee for Khajjiar Lake?
No, the lake is free to visit! However, activities like zorbing or horse rides may have separate charges.
Q2: Can I visit Khajjiar Lake during the monsoon?
Yes, but roads can be slippery, and views may be foggy. Carry rain gear and check weather updates.
Q3: Are there any ATMs near Khajjiar?
ATMs are limited. It’s best to withdraw cash from Dalhousie or Chamba before heading to Khajjiar.
Q4: How far is Khajjiar from Dalhousie?
Just 24 km! A scenic 45-minute drive.
Q5: Is Khajjiar good for honeymooners?
Absolutely! The romantic vibes, natural beauty, and cozy stays make it a top honeymoon destination in Himachal Pradesh.