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Khajjiar

Khajjiar

hill station · Himachal Pradesh

Khajjiar is a high plateau meadow at an elevation of 1,920 metres inside the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary perimeter.

State
Himachal Pradesh
Type
Hill Station
Best season
Winter
Things to do
2+

Khajjiar is a high plateau meadow at an elevation of 1,920 metres inside the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary perimeter. Celebrated widely for its striking topological resemblance to Swiss landscapes, it comprises a vast, saucer-shaped emerald glade enveloped by ancient, towering deodar and pine forests. At the heart of this green meadow lies the small, natural Khajjiar Lake, featuring a unique floating island of tangled grass roots. It suits families and anyone wanting an hour of quiet away from the bigger hill stations.

When to go

The prime months to visit Khajjiar are from March to June for lush green views, and January to February for snow experiences.

Why visit

Khajjiar is one meadow with a small lake in the middle, ringed by deodar. It takes an hour rather than a day, and the 'mini Switzerland' billing only sets people up to be let down. Pair it with Chamba.

Cultural notes

On July 7, 1992, the Swiss Vice Counselor in India formally designated Khajjiar as Mini Switzerland, installing a tracking signpost indicating its distance to Berne. The edge of the meadow houses the 12th-century wooden Khajji Nag Temple, dedicated to traditional serpent worship rituals.

How to reach

The closest rail head is Pathankot Junction, located 82 km away. Khajjiar is easily reached via a winding 22-kilometer mountain road from Dalhousie using local transit tourist taxis or regular state transport buses.

2 days in Khajjiar

Take the whole plan, or add any single stop.

Day 1

Day 1

Khajjiar meadow walk

Khajjiar meadow walk

Khajjiar Lake

Day 1

Khajjiar Lake

A small lake in the middle of the meadow with a floating mat of weed drifting across it. It is silting up and smaller than it was, so temper any expectation set by older photographs.

Khajji Nag Temple

Day 1

Khajji Nag Temple

A 12th-century traditional wooden temple featuring intricate wood carvings of the Pandavas and dedicated to serpent deities.

Day 1

Zorbing or horse ride

Zorbing or horse ride

Day 2

Day 2

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Day 2

Drive to Dalhousie

Drive to Dalhousie

Day 2

Panchpula

Panchpula

Day 2

Local Himachali dham

Local Himachali dham

Khajjiar guide & itineraries

Khajjiar is perfect for

naturefamilycouplesweekend

What & where to eat

Khajjiar meadow

Maggi

Meadow-side hot snacks

Khajjiar meadow

chai stalls

Meadow-side hot snacks

Himachali Dham

Traditional festive meal served on leaf plates

Siddu

Siddu

Steamed stuffed bread with ghee

Chana Madra

Chana Madra

Yogurt-based chickpea curry

Rajma chawal

Rajma chawal

Himachali comfort food

Nearby getaways

Chamba

~1.5 hrs

Kalatop

~30 min

Frequently asked questions

Why is Khajjiar called Mini Switzerland?
A saucer-shaped green meadow ringed by deodar forest with a small lake at its centre, resembling an alpine glade.
How long to spend in Khajjiar?
Half a day to a day; most travellers pair it with Dalhousie or Chamba.

Things to do

How to spend your time in Khajjiar.

Khajjiar meadow

The saucer-shaped meadow ringed by deodars

Zorbing & paragliding

Adventure activities on the meadow

Reviews & ratings

What travellers say about Khajjiar

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