Khajjiar, often called the 'Mini Switzerland of India,' is a picturesque hill station located in Himachal Pradesh. Situated approximately 400 kilometers north of Delhi, it offers lush meadows, dense forests, and a tranquil escape from city life. This route is popular among weekend travelers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers looking to experience serene landscapes and cool mountain air.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Khajjiar, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed insights on travel times, costs, routes, and tips to help you plan your journey confidently and enjoy the best of this beautiful destination.

Getting from Delhi to Khajjiar – Main Options

Train

While there is no direct train to Khajjiar, rail travel is a viable option for part of the journey. Travelers usually take a train from Delhi to nearby towns like Pathankot or Kalka, then continue by road. This mode is practical for those who prefer a relaxed train journey combined with scenic drives.

• Delhi to Pathankot/Kalka:

  Trains like the Jammu Tawi Express or Himalayan Queen connect Delhi to Pathankot (approx 8-10 hours) and Kalka (approx 5-6 hours). Ticket prices range from ₹300 to ₹1,200 depending on class and train.

• From Pathankot/Kalka to Khajjiar:

  After reaching these stations, hire a taxi or take a bus for the 2-3 hour drive to Khajjiar. Roads are hilly but well-maintained, offering beautiful views of the Shivalik ranges.

• Booking tips:

  Use IRCTC or trusted apps to book trains well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer and holidays.

• Travel comfort:

  Sleeper and AC coaches are available; night trains help save daytime for sightseeing. Keep in mind that onward road travel can be winding and slower.

• Seasonal advice:

  Avoid travel during heavy monsoon months (July-August) due to landslide risks on connecting roads.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly and relatively frequent option to reach Khajjiar from Delhi. Both government and private operators run services, though the journey involves multiple segments and can be lengthy. This mode suits travelers who prefer economical travel and don’t mind longer transit times.

• Delhi to Dharamshala/Chamba buses:

  Direct Volvo and deluxe buses run from ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Dharamshala or Chamba, taking around 10-12 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹600 to ₹1,000.

• From Dharamshala/Chamba to Khajjiar:

  Local Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses or shared taxis cover the 40-50 km route to Khajjiar, taking about 1-2 hours.

• Bus frequency:

  Buses depart mostly in the evening or early morning; booking in advance during peak season is advisable.

• Comfort and facilities:

  Volvo buses offer AC and reclining seats, but local buses may be basic and crowded.

• Road conditions:

  The hilly roads can be narrow and winding; avoid night travel on local buses for safety.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Khajjiar is a popular choice for flexibility and sightseeing. The approximately 400 km journey takes around 9-10 hours via NH44 and NH154, passing through scenic towns and hill roads. Self-driving or hiring a cab offers freedom to explore en route.

• Route details:

  The common route is Delhi – Ambala – Chandigarh – Una – Dalhousie – Khajjiar, mostly on national highways and well-maintained state roads.

• Travel time and distance:

  Expect 9-10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions; plan for breaks at Ambala or Chandigarh.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  NH44 is smooth and busy; mountain roads near Khajjiar are narrower but scenic. Rest stops with dhabas and fuel stations are available at major towns.

• Driving tips:

  Start early to avoid Delhi and Chandigarh traffic. Avoid night driving in hilly areas due to limited street lighting and sharp bends.

• Car rentals:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Delhi with providers like Zoomcar or local agencies; ensure the vehicle is suitable for hill driving.

Flight

Though Khajjiar has no airport, flying partway can save time. The nearest airports are Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) and Chandigarh Airport. From there, road travel is necessary. Flights are ideal for those wanting to minimize travel time and combine air and road transport.

• Delhi to Gaggal Airport:

  Several daily flights operated by IndiGo and Air India cover this route in about 1.5 hours. Ticket prices vary from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000.

• From Gaggal to Khajjiar:

  The 90 km drive takes around 3 hours by taxi or bus. Roads are hilly but well-maintained.

• Delhi to Chandigarh Airport:

  Flights take about 1 hour; Chandigarh is about 200 km from Khajjiar, requiring a 5-6 hour drive.

• Taxi services:

  Prepaid taxis and Ola/Uber cabs are available at airports; booking in advance is recommended for hill drives.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flight schedules may reduce in winter due to weather; check availability ahead.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan a smooth journey from Delhi to Khajjiar, balancing convenience and comfort.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, reserve your seats at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during summer and holidays, to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Start early from Delhi:

  Begin your journey in the morning to avoid city traffic and reach your next transit point or destination comfortably before nightfall.

• Choose your onward transport wisely:

  If arriving by train or flight, pre-book a taxi or check bus schedules to Khajjiar to avoid waiting long hours.

• Pack for hill weather:

  Carry warm clothes and rain gear, as Khajjiar’s weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.

• Plan rest stops:

  If driving, schedule breaks at Ambala or Chandigarh for meals and refueling to stay refreshed.

• Use local apps for last-mile travel:

  Ola and Uber operate in nearby towns; use them to reach Khajjiar or your accommodation safely and affordably.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on hilly roads:

  Drive cautiously on narrow mountain roads; avoid night travel and check weather forecasts for landslide warnings during monsoon.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and snacks, especially if traveling by bus or self-drive, as options can be limited on remote stretches.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for trains, official MSRTC or HRTC websites for buses, and trusted airline portals for flights to ensure genuine tickets.

• Local commute in Khajjiar:

  Walking is the best way to explore the small town; for longer trips, hire local taxis or shared cabs.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light but include rain protection and warm layers; roads can be bumpy, so secure your bags well.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon or winter snowfall unless prepared, as roads may be closed or difficult.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Khajjiar is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Winter brings snow but can be challenging for road travel.

Monsoon season requires caution due to landslides and slippery roads, especially on the mountain stretches.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Delhi and Chandigarh, typically early morning and evening rush hours, to save travel time.

• Plan trips outside major festivals like Diwali or Holi to avoid overcrowding and higher prices.

• Travel early in the day to enjoy daylight driving and scenic views, especially on hilly roads.

• Check weather forecasts before departure to avoid disruptions from fog or rain.

Arrival at Khajjiar & What to Expect

Upon reaching Khajjiar, travelers are greeted by expansive green meadows surrounded by dense cedar forests and snow-capped peaks. The town is small and walkable, with charming guesthouses and cafes.

Local transport options include shared taxis and private cabs, but most visitors prefer to explore on foot. Nearby attractions like Dalhousie and Chamba are accessible by road for day trips. Accommodation ranges from budget homestays to cozy resorts, mostly clustered near the main meadow.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Khajjiar from Delhi depends on your priorities. For comfort and speed, flying to Gaggal and then taking a taxi is ideal. For budget travelers, a combination of train and road transport offers a scenic and economical journey. Self-driving provides flexibility and the chance to explore en route.

With proper planning and awareness of road and weather conditions, you can confidently embark on this beautiful journey to Khajjiar. The stunning landscapes and peaceful ambiance await, making your trip truly memorable.