Khajjiar: Paradise for Panoramic Himalyan views

Submitted by aurora on

Khajjiar is one of the most beautiful hill resorts in Himachal Pradesh. Situated in-between Dalhousie and Chamba valley, this amazing meadow serves as a perfect getaway destination, especially for those who are looking for a respite form the bustling city life. The picturesque locales, serene ambience and captivating charm of Khajjiar lure tourists from far and wide. Popularly known as Switzerland of India, Khajjar is one of the top tourist destinations. It offers magnificent views of the nature, which include hills, lakes, meandering rivers, and awesome beauty of the thick lush Deodar forest. Khajjar is nestled in Chamba valley.

The town of Khajjiar has been named after its ancient temple of Khajinag. Situated near the famous Khajjiar Lake, this temple dates back to as far back as the 12th century. The temple stands adorned with a golden dome and spire, which has led to the temple often being called as the 'Golden Devi' temple. It has wooden sanctum with intricate carvings. The 'mandapam' of Khajinag Temple has images of the Pandavas and the defeated Kaurvas, seen on the roof of the circumambulatory path of the temple. The temple attracts many devotees and tourists alike.One of the major attractions of Khajjiar is its huge nine-hole golf course. People visiting the valley of Chamba make sure to visit Khajjiar and enjoy the sport for a while.Khajjiar Lake is a small lake, surrounded by saucer-shaped lush green meadow and a floating island. The dense growth of weed called 'vacha' has made its earth spongy. Now the banks stand covered by a thick layer of earth, formed by the years of dust settling down on the weeds.Located at an altitude of 1900 meters, in Chamba district, the lake is perfect for indulging in sight seeing. There is a clump of reeds and grasses exaggeratedly called an island floating on this lake adding charm to the eye of the viewer. The lake is so set in the midst of the grassy sward and in the back-drop of an array of stately arranged cedars that the whole ensemble, as Shri Thakur Sen Negi puts it, makes one think of a sapphire set in background of gold and emerald. It is situated in the center of large Khajjar glade, arpund 16 km from Dalhousie and 25 km from Chamba. Khajjar Lake gets water from many tiny streams. Apart from being known for its scenic beauty, the lake has religious relevance too. Hindus believe that the lake belongs to the Lord Khajjinag. This is the reason why Hindu devotees come around this area, in large numbers, to worship the Lord. The lake has been neglected over the years and its waters, which at one time reflected the clear blue skies, today give its resemblance to a shallow pond. However, the Department of Environment has recently taken up the beautification of the lake. Weather in Khajjar, just like the rest of India, can be is divided into three seasons - winters, summers and monsoons. Tourists flock to the place mainly in the months of February to April, when weather the conditions are the most pleasant. During winters, snowfall is common in the city, so you will easily find tourist from the plains, coming here to witness snowfall. Tourists from all across the world flock in to see this lake, which remains full of water in all the seasons and does not require rainwater for survival. The lake is like a magical paradise, especially with its lush green mountains, diversity of flora and fauna and more importantly the tranquil surroundings it provides to the tourists. The place is so beautiful and gives such a panoramic view that sometimes back; Swiss Ambassador called Khajjiar a ‘Mini Switzerland.’Thick forest covering the Khajjar Lake adds to its magnificent look. The forest, which has been turned into a sanctuary, houses many wild animals. Migrant birds flock at this place and give it a wonderful diversity in fauna. Many villages, scattered in distances from each other, surround the place. These villages have still preserved their tradition and culture. Travelers can visit these villages for further experience of life and culture of Himachal.Any sunny day in Khajjar Lake is perfect for horse riding. Moving through the lush green valley on horseback is a fascinating experience. Travelers can also see the famous ‘Panch Pandava Tree’. It is tree that has the same root, but its base divided into five sections. Kailash Mountain, the abode of God Shiva, is falls near Khajjar Lake and on a sunny day, travelers can easily have a glimpse of it from the embankment.

Submitted by American University (not verified) on Wed, 18-Mar-2009 - 14:44

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Thanks for posting such kind of usefull information.Keep Posted in future as well.Thank you!