Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh


Khajjiar, located at an altitude of 1960 m above sea-level, is often called the Switzerland of India, with its rolling meadows, majestic deodars, bubbly streams, and the sheer opulence of its natural beauty. The snow - line appears above its lush woods, and at the very centre of this divine glade, is a lake fed by countless streams that criss - cross the area.

Also called as 'Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh', it has been aptly described by Hutchinson as - "Khajjiar is a forest glade of great beauty, 6,400 feet above sea level".

Khajjiar's is located between Dalhousie and Chamba. It is a major landmark is a 12th century, golden - domed temple dedicated to Khajjinag, which houses huge, life size wooden images of the 5 Pandava brothers.

Khajjiar that is located in the north-western part of the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is perched at an altitude of 1951 m above sea level. Khajjiar is 22 km from Dalhousie and 24 km from Chamba.

History of Khajjiar

The local Rajput rulers ruled Chamba valley in the 6th century ad and made it their capital city. This region became the part of the Mughal Empire in the medieval period and later came under various Sikh kingdoms. Finally, it was taken over by the British. It became a part
of the state of Himachal Pradesh when it came into being on April 15, 1948.

Places to Visit

The Lake Set in the rolling green turf is a small lake. One gets out of the car to go to the lake but the ground seems to give way. The earth is 'spongy' due to dense growth of weed called 'vacha' over which dust has formed a thick layer of earth.
Khajinag Temple

Khajjiar, known as one of the most charming spots in the Himalayas, derives its name from its ancient, golden-domed temple of Khajinag. The 12th-century Khajinag temple is a small shrine dedicated to the local Goddess or the Devi. This temple is also known as the Golden Devi temple, as it is adorned with a golden dome and spire. Pilgrims visiting the Chamba valley often come to this temple.

Nine Hole Golf course

A nine-hole golf course is an added attraction at Khajjiar.
Climate of Khajjiar

The climate of Khajjiar is alpine Summers (April-June) are mild and winters (November February) are cold and bitter. It experiences southwestern monsoon rains in July-September.

The best time to visit Khajjiar is between March and June

Nearby Sight-seeing Places

Chamba
The town of Chamba is 24 km from Khajjiar. Chamba is located in a picturesque valley, amongst the Shivalik ranges and is famous for its medieval temples.
Dalhousie
The hill station of Dalhousie is 22 km from Khajjiar and is a popular
summer retreat set amongst the lower Himalayan ranges.

To reach Khajjiar, follow the following routes-
By air

The nearest airport is at Gaggal, in Kangra ( 180 km ).
By Train

The nearest railhead is at Pathankot ( 120 km ).
By Road

Khajjiar is connected by road, and is 26 km from Delhi and 24 km from Chamba.

The quiet and tranquil place of Khajjar is located in Himachal Pradesh, near Chamba and Dalhousie. The place serves as the perfect travel destination for those travelers who want some respite from maddening crowd of cities.
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