Hello, fellow travelers and adventure enthusiasts! Today, I am thrilled to share with you an unforgettable journey to one of the most picturesque places in India—Khajjiar. Nestled in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh, Khajjiar, along with Dalhousie, offers a serene escape into nature’s lap.
INTRODUCTION TO KHAJJIAR AND DALHOUSIE
Khajjiar, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a small hill station in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. This enchanting place is surrounded by dense forests, green meadows, and snow-capped peaks. Dalhousie, a nearby hill station, is known for its colonial charm, stunning landscapes, and pleasant climate. These destinations provide a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike
THE PLAN AND THE JOURNEY
It all started with a suggestion from a college friend who hails from Pathankot, Himachal Pradesh. He couldn’t stop rambling about the beauty of Khajjiar and Dalhousie, and was telling us to go there since a very long time so finally our college group decided to experience it for ourselves.
We began our journey from Delhi, packed into a car with our excitement and backpacks. The road trip to Pathankot took us about 8 hours, filled with laughter, music, and pit stops for chai (Tea) and snacks.
WELCOMING HOSPITALITY IN PATHANKOT
Upon reaching Pathankot, we were warmly welcomed by our friend’s family. They treated us like their own children, with warm smiles and a delicious home-cooked dinner. Exhausted from our journey, we went to bed early, eager to start our adventure the next day.
EXPLORING DAIKUND PEAK AND CHAMERA LAKE
DAIKUND PEAK
Our first destination was the majestic Daikund Peak, the highest point in Dalhousie. Known for its panoramic views, Daikund Peak offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains. We hiked up to the peak, enjoying the fresh mountain air and the serene beauty all around us.The sight from the top was absolutely mesmerizing , a perfect blend of lush greenery and picturesque hills.
CHAMERA LAKE
Next, we made our way to Chamera Lake, a stunning lake formed by the Chamera Dam. The calm, clear waters of the lake, framed by lush, green hills, offered a peaceful escape. We took a lovely boat ride, enjoying the serene surroundings and snapping photos of the breathtaking scenery.
ST. JOHN’S CHURCH
Our last stop for the day was St. John’s Church in Dalhousie. This historic church, built in the 1860s, radiates old-world charm with its beautiful architecture and calm ambiance. We spent some quiet moments inside, admiring the lovely stained glass windows and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
As the evening approached, we returned to our friend’s home. His mother cooked us a traditional Himachali dish called Siddu for dinner. Served with Ghee, it was absolutely delicious. After dinner, we spent the evening playing UNO and other card games before calling it a night.
THE BEAUTY OF KHAJJIAR AND KALATOP WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
KHAJJIAR
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we headed to Khajjiar. Often called the “Switzerland of India,” Khajjiar boasts wide, green meadows surrounded by thick deodar forests. The centerpiece of Khajjiar is its lovely lake, right in the middle of the meadow. We spent hours wandering around, playing games, and just soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the place.
KALATOP WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Our next stop was the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of plants and animals and features beautiful trekking trails. We wandered through the dense forests, spotted some wildlife, and relished the peace and quiet of nature.
After a day full of adventures, we headed back to Pathankot for our final night at our friend’s home. Dinner was a treat with more traditional dishes, and we chose to spend our last evening on the terrace. We lay under the stars, talking about all the wonderful moments from the trip.
This trip to Khajjiar and Dalhousie was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. From the majestic peaks and serene lakes to the warm hospitality of our friend’s family, every moment was special. I still miss the time we spent there, and I hope to return someday.
All the pictures in this blog were taken by me using my iPhone 11. Until next time, happy travels, Hivers!