Khajjiar Lake is situated in Khajjiar, in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at an average elevation of 1,920 m above mean sea level. In the shadow of the snow-covered Himalayas, Khajjiar Lake is the most spectacular of lakes. It is located at a distance of 16 kms from Dalhousie and 25 kms from Chamba Town. The lake is set in a huge grassy landscape, with evergreen cedar trees surrounding it from all sides. On the lake, some clusters of grasses and weeds have grown that appear like a floating island, and is the major attraction. The lake takes its name from Khajji Nag, the deity in the temple nearby. The lake has considerably shrunk over the years and is now almost on the verge of vanishing. The lake depends on number of small streams and is a main source of water for the Kalatop Sanctuary located in the Chamba district. One can also visit the Khajji Nag Temple which features fine wood carvings and a gold dome.
Religious Significance of Khajjiar Lake
The local people of the area consider the Khajjiar Lake as a sacred lake. There is a temple near the lake, which is the consecrated seat of `Khajji Nag`, a serpent god from which the lake gets its name. Every year a fair is held here.
Tourism in Khajjiar Lake
The lake is a popular tourist spot of Khajjiar where people can enjoy numerous recreational activities or can enjoy the beauty of the landscape. The site is perfect to spend some moments of solitude far away from the hustle and bustle of the modern crowd. It offers peace and tranquility to the visitors.
Khajjiar Lake holds a strong association with the legends. The lake is a paradise which makes one realizes that there is no place like it in the whole world. On a clear and sunny day, tourist can enjoy the amazing view of Mount Kailash from the Khajjiar Lake. The main attraction of the lake is the floating island which is actually a cluster of grass and weed growing on the surface of the lake. It is known as the Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh.
How to Reach Khajjiar Lake
The Khajjiar Lake can be reached via the Bakrota Hills from Dalhousie.
