2000
metres, 22 km. from
Dalhausie
and 23 km. from
Chamba. A
little out of
Dalhausie is a
beautiful, charming retreat that makes an ideal day excursion or even an
overnight visit. Far from any major town, this tranquil spot has a small
lake in the centre, on which is a floating island. Fed by slim streams, this
small lake rests in the centre of the large glade of
Khajjiar.
The glade and the lake are held sacred to
Khajjinag -
after whom the place is named.
Khajjiar has the thick
forest of the Kalatop sanctuary surrounding its soft green grass. It is 1.5
km long and 1 km wide. It is surrounded by cedar (deodar) forest. This is
like a magical paradise.
A temple dedicated to
Khajjinag is also located there.
Khajjiar is also called "Mini Switzerland". The
lake remains full of water in all the seasons and requires no rain water for
survival.
Khajinag Temple
Khajjiar, known as one of the most charming spots in the
Himalayas, derives its name from its ancient,
golden-domed
temple of
Khajjinag. The 12th-century
Khajinag
temple is a small shrine dedicated to the local Goddess or the
Devi. This temple is also known as the
Golden Devi temple,
as it is adorned with a golden dome and spire. Pilgrims visiting the
Chamba valley often come to
this temple.
