Dharamshala is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh known for its Tibetan culture and scenic beauty. Khajjiar, often called the 'Mini Switzerland of India,' is a beautiful meadow located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Many travelers visit both places to enjoy the serene landscapes and peaceful environment.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Dharamshala to Khajjiar. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Dharamshala to Khajjiar – Main Options

Train

Train travel is limited between Dharamshala and Khajjiar due to the hilly terrain. The nearest railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot, and to Khajjiar, it is Chakki Bank or Pathankot. Train travel is suitable if you want to combine your journey with other destinations.

• The nearest major railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot, about 85 km away, connected by regular trains from major cities like Delhi and Amritsar.

• From Pathankot, you can take a taxi or bus to Khajjiar, which is approximately 90 km and takes around 3 to 4 hours by road.

• Train fares to Pathankot vary from INR 200 to INR 800 depending on class and train type, with frequent trains available daily.

• Train travel is comfortable but requires additional road transport, so plan for extra time and check train schedules on IRCTC before booking.

• During winter, fog can cause train delays near Pathankot, so keep buffer time if connecting to road transport.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to travel between Dharamshala and Khajjiar. State-run and private buses operate on this route, offering options from ordinary to deluxe coaches.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular buses from Dharamshala Bus Stand to Dalhousie and Chamba, passing near Khajjiar, with fares between INR 100 and INR 250.

• Private buses and shared taxis also operate on this route, departing from Dharamshala main bus stand frequently throughout the day.

• The journey by bus takes about 5 to 6 hours covering approximately 120 km due to hilly roads and winding routes.

• Buses are usually crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance during peak seasons is advisable.

• Road conditions can be affected by monsoon rains, causing occasional delays and slippery patches, so travel cautiously during July to September.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Dharamshala to Khajjiar is a flexible and scenic option. The route passes through beautiful hills and forests, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy road trips.

• The distance between Dharamshala and Khajjiar by road is about 120 km, taking approximately 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The most common route is via NH503 and NH154, passing through Palampur and Dalhousie, with well-maintained roads and clear signboards.

• Toll plazas are minimal on this route, but some mountain roads may have small tolls; keep cash handy for these.

• Fuel stations are available in Palampur and Dalhousie, so plan refueling stops accordingly for a smooth journey.

• Driving during early morning hours is recommended to avoid fog and heavy traffic, especially in winter months.

• Self-drive cars can be rented in Dharamshala from reputed agencies with prices ranging from INR 1500 to INR 3000 per day depending on vehicle type.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi is a convenient and comfortable way to reach Khajjiar from Dharamshala, especially if you prefer door-to-door service without the hassle of driving.

• Prepaid taxis and private cabs are available at Dharamshala taxi stands and online platforms like Ola and Uber, with fares ranging from INR 3000 to INR 4500 for a one-way trip.

• Taxi travel takes about 4 to 5 hours covering 120 km, with drivers familiar with mountain roads and local conditions.

• Booking a taxi in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid last-minute price surges and availability issues.

• Some taxis offer sightseeing packages including stops at Palampur and Dalhousie, which can be planned as per your convenience.

• Ensure the taxi driver uses the main highways NH503 and NH154 for a safer and faster journey.

• During winter, confirm that the taxi has proper winter tires and chains if snow is expected on the route.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Dharamshala to Khajjiar. It covers key actions to help you prepare and travel confidently.

• Book your transport tickets early, especially if traveling by bus or taxi during holidays, to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush.

• Pack light but carry warm clothes, as temperatures can drop in the hills, especially in the evening and early morning.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic jams and enjoy daylight driving through scenic routes.

• If traveling by bus, arrive at Dharamshala bus stand 30 minutes before departure to find your bus easily and get good seats.

• For self-drive, check your vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals can be weak in some areas.

• Keep some cash handy for tolls, snacks, and small purchases, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere on the route.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or trusted cab apps like Ola or Uber in Dharamshala to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Drink bottled water and eat at well-known restaurants or dhabas to avoid stomach issues during your journey.

• Book bus or taxi tickets through official counters or reliable online portals to avoid scams and fake bookings.

• Use local shared taxis or auto-rickshaws for short distances within Dharamshala and Khajjiar to save money and experience local travel.

• Carry a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a power bank for your phone during the trip.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey to avoid landslides or roadblocks.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Dharamshala to Khajjiar is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and roads are clear. Winters can be cold with occasional snowfall, while monsoon may cause road disruptions.

Traveling during festivals or holidays can increase traffic and accommodation demand, so plan accordingly.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Christmas when roads and hotels are crowded, leading to higher prices and delays.

• Monsoon season from July to September can cause slippery roads and occasional landslides, so exercise caution and check local advisories.

• Winter months (December to February) bring fog and snow, which may delay travel but offer beautiful snowy landscapes if you are prepared.

• Depart early in the morning to avoid fog and heavy traffic, especially in winter and peak tourist seasons.

Arrival at Khajjiar & What to Expect

When you arrive at Khajjiar, you will find a small town with limited but comfortable facilities. The main attraction is the large green meadow surrounded by dense forests and hills.

Local transport options include shared taxis, auto-rickshaws, and horse rides for sightseeing around the meadow and nearby spots. Most visitors stay in guesthouses or small hotels near the Khajjiar lake area.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are rare in Khajjiar, so it is best to arrange your return transport in advance or rely on local shared vehicles. The town is walkable, but comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Dharamshala to Khajjiar depends on your preferences. For comfort and convenience, hiring a taxi or self-driving offers flexibility and scenic views. Budget travelers can opt for buses, though the journey takes longer and may be crowded.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, starting your journey early in the day, and checking weather conditions will help you avoid common travel hassles. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and peaceful atmosphere of Khajjiar after exploring Dharamshala.