Khajjiar in Winter

The history of  Khajjiar is linked to the ruler of Chamba. The local Rajput rulers ruled Chamba Valley in 6th century A.D and made it their capital city. This region became part of the Mughal Empire in the medieval period and later came under various Sikh kingdom. Finally it was taken over by the british. It become a part of the state of Himachal Pradesh  in the year 1948.
Khajjiare is a small villege surrounded by pine and deodar tree. Dhauladhar ranges of western himalayas and other snowy peaks can be seen from here. It is about 6500ft. above the sea level. On a clear day, one can see the mountain Kailash from Khajjiar ground. One can also enjoy the horse riding here. Some local people are engaged in this business and one can ride the whole Khajjiar ground with a nominal charge. There are various small village in Khajjiar. These are Khajjiar village, Rota village, lodi village etc. There are many apple orchards in Khajjiar area. 

Small Lake

Golden Devi temple

Khajjinag-Temple
The name Khajjiar came from the goddess of Khajianag. The temple of Khajjinag was built in the 12th century. This temple is also known as the Golden Devi temple. Khajjiar is called ‘The Swizerland of the East’, because in winter all green grounds are coverd with thick white snows. There is a small lake at the centre of Khajjiar ground . From Khajjiar one can easily go to visit Kalatop wild life santuary.

Manimahesh peak from Golden Devi temple

MyExpriences-
In the winter of 2007-2008 we visited Khajjiar. Khajjiar is a small hill station in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh.  Due to heavy snow fall direct Dalhousi - Khajjiar road was closed. We came via Chamba. On reaching Khajjiar we saw snow was scattered here and there, specially in-front of our Khajji cottage where we stayed. Children were playing with the snow. The weather was so chilled that it was intolerable. But scenic beauty was fantastic. Different snowy peaks were sparkling in the background of clear blue sky.
In the next morning we heard two folk-songs sung by a local artist. It’s tune was so sweet that even today I can remember those songs. In all it was a wonderful experience.

Way to Kalatop Sanctuary :
From Khajjiar we went for Kalatop wild life sanctuary. Both-sides of the road from Khajjiar to Kalatop was covered with thick snows. On reaching Kalatop we found that the entrance of the sanctuary including adjacent buildings were covered with thick snows. Only one tea-shop was open.
The area of the forest is about 20 sq. km. Different type of animals like Bear, Leopard, Deer, Jackal, Langur are found in the Kalatop sanctuary.
Distance between
Dalhausi- Khajjiar 23 K.M
Pattankot- Khajjiar 120 K.M

                               

 

Khajjiar as I have seen in winter