Khajjiar

Khajjiar is a saucer-shaped green meadow ringed by dense deodar (cedar) forest, with a small lake at its centre and the Himalayas as a backdrop — a landscape reminiscent of the Swiss countryside. In 1992 a Swiss envoy officially likened it to Switzerland and placed a marker stone noting the distance to Bern, cementing the nickname.

Khajjiar lies in Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, at about 1,920 m (6,300 ft). It sits roughly 24 km from Dalhousie and about 22 km from Chamba town, along a scenic forest road through the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.

The meadow is built for slow, scenic fun — zorbing (rolling downhill in a giant ball), paragliding, horse riding, and gentle nature walks around the lake and through the deodar forest. The 12th-century Khajji Nag temple beside the glade is worth a visit, and the surrounding Kalatop sanctuary is great for short hikes and birdwatching.

March to June is ideal, with lush green meadows and pleasant days. September to November brings crisp, clear weather. In December to February the glade can receive snow, turning it into a winter wonderland, though access depends on conditions.

The nearest airport is Gaggal (Kangra), about 120 km away, and the nearest railhead is Pathankot, around 95 km. Most visitors drive from Dalhousie (~24 km) or Chamba (~22 km); taxis and HRTC buses run on both routes through the forest.

Yes. Khajjiar is an easy day trip from Dalhousie or Chamba and is often combined with both in a single Dalhousie–Khajjiar–Chamba circuit. Many travellers spend a few hours at the meadow and continue on the same day, though a handful of resorts allow an overnight stay.