Event to raise awareness on responsible tourism
Subhash Mahajan
Khajjiar:
Under the ongoing ‘Chalo Chamba’ campaign, the globally renowned hill station Khajjiar celebrated its title of “Mini Switzerland” on Monday with a vibrant mix of locals, tourists and environmental advocates. The day-long celebration was organised by the NGO Not On Map, aiming to promote responsible tourism and environmental awareness in the region.
Khajjiar received the title of “Mini Switzerland” on July 7, 1992, by Willy T. Blazer, then Vice-Counsellor and Head of Chancery for Switzerland in India. To mark the 33rd anniversary of this recognition, various events were held across the day, starting with a Ganesh Puja and a havan at Mystic village in Khajjiar.
Celebrating spirit of rural, responsible travel
At 12 noon, a moment of remembrance was observed at the main meadow of Khajjiar to honour the day it was declared Mini Switzerland. Later in the afternoon, a rural fair was officially inaugurated at Mystic Village, offering tourists a glimpse into local culture and traditions.
Chief speaker Dr Mohinder Salaria, a noted environmentalist, spoke passionately about the need to protect Khajjiar’s natural beauty. “Khajjiar is not just the pride of Chamba and Dalhousie but a national treasure. Tourists from around the country and abroad come here to witness its pristine beauty and enjoy adventure sports. This also creates livelihood for locals, which makes its preservation all the more important,” he said.
Call for plastic-free tourism
Tourists and locals were urged to support plastic-free practices to maintain Khajjiar’s ecological health. Volunteers from Not On Map, along with members of the Mystic Village Development Committee, spread messages about eco-friendly behavior and community-led conservation.
Ajay Sharma, a committee member, appealed to people to take collective responsibility in preserving the site’s charm. “Khajjiar belongs to all of us. Keeping it clean and beautiful is not just a duty, but a way to ensure its future,” he said.
The event saw participation from key figures, including Dr Mohinder Salaria, Manuj Sharma (co-founder, Not On Map), Rajesh, Vikas, Jyoti, Magandeep and others from ODA and local committees. The celebration was not just a cultural event but a platform for raising consciousness around tourism, ecology and sustainability.
