Khajjiar HIMACHAL PRADESH

A quiet hill station that has earned the moniker ‘mini Switzerland of India’, Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh resembles a picture postcard. Surrounded by the snow-clad Himalayas and set amidst Deodar forests, the meadows of Khajjiar are as charming as they are romantic, especially during the monsoons. Start your escapade with a tour of Khajjiar Lake, which offers stunning views of Mount Kailash, and is the epicentre of native activities, such as paragliding and zorbing. The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by blue pine, green oak, and rhododendron trees, and home to Himalayan black marten, leopard, jackal, bear, and barking goral, is good for a daytime visit. The Panch Pandav Tree with six shoots, which apparently represents the five Pandavas and Draupadi from the Hindu epic, Mahabharata, is a curious spot of attraction among visitors. However, the best way to spend a romantic holiday in Khajjiar is to take long walks in the meadows or enjoy a refreshing chai (tea) as it rains.

GETTING THERE

The nearest airport is in Kangra (134 km). Air India (airindia.in) and Spicejet (spicejet.com) operate direct flights from New Delhi and Kangra. Khajjiar is also well-connected by road with all major towns of Himachal Pradesh, such as Shimla and Manali.

STAY

Deodar Manor is a heritage property that affords stunning views of the Himalayas (starts from `8,500/US$122, deodarmanor.com).

BEST TIME TO VISIT

March to October

MUST-SEE

Visit Dainkund Peak in the neighbouring hill station of Dalhousie to enjoy views of three rivers—Chenab, Ravi, and Beas.