Naggar

Naggar has some of the most beautiful ancient and new architecture that symbolises the magnificent beauty of Himachal Pradesh. Here’s a list of the places not to miss while visiting Naggar:

1. Naggar Castle: This 14th-century medieval-era mansion is the landmark attraction at Naggar. This erstwhile property of Raja Sidh Singh has been converted into a heritage hotel that’s also open for tourists. The castle, famous for its unique Western-Pahari architecture, has exquisite and delicate carvings on the doors, walls, ceilings, and archways. The most interesting aspect of the castle is that it is built entirely of stone and wood without any metal. There is a museum inside the complex for one to see traditional art and crafts of Himachal including masks, idols of deities, carpets, etc. 

2. Dagpo Shedrup Ling Monastery: Located on the banks of Beas, this stunning monastery is a must-visit while in Naggar. Not only can one experience the elusive serenity and quietude typical of a mountainside place, but also soak in the beautiful scenery around. Inaugurated by HH Dalai Lama in 2005, this monastery houses monks, who are more than happy to interact with the visitors. The only sounds that you will hear are the beautiful & mystical reverberations of Buddhist hymns and the fluttering of hundreds of prayer flags. 

3. Urusvati Himalayan Folk Art Museum: Founded by the famous 19th-century Russian scholar and artist Professor Nicolas Roerich and his wife, this museum is the best place to see the vibrant & colourful culture of Himachal Pradesh. It houses an amazing collection of traditional musical instruments, costumes, masks, life-size statues, fossils, and homeware. One can see paintings made by Roerich himself that depict the beauty of the Himalayas. Don’t miss to see the ancient carved stones just outside the museum, which are memorial stones of the kings & queens that ruled over Kullu. 

4. Gauri Shankar Temple: This 11th-century temple is not only the oldest in the region but also the most important. Locals believe that the temple and the Shivalinga made an appearance during an excavation. The most important aspect of its architecture is that it is a roofless temple. The temple, made entirely of stone, has the statue of Nandi and smaller temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

5. Jagatipatt Temple: Located in the Naggar Castle complex, this 11th-century temple has a stunningly rich wooden architecture that’s intricately carved with flower patterns and motifs. Legend says that the stone slab in the temple was carried here by a swarm of honeybees, who were the reincarnations of all the mountain deities, from the summit of Deo Tibba. The locals revere the temple for the fact that it has withstood natural calamities and hence is a source of unshakeable faith for them.

6. Chamunda Bhagwati Temple: Located near the Nishala Village, this ancient temple is dedicated to Chamunda Bhagwati. The goddess is said to be one of the seven matrikas of the mother goddess and attendant of goddess Durga. The temple’s surroundings are beautiful, consisting of lush greenery and hills in the background. Because of its picturesque location, the temple has been a popular film shooting location as well. 

7. Jana Waterfalls: Though it’s a little far away from Naggar (around 12 kilometres), Jana Falls are a must-visit while in the region. Reached after a short scenic trek through pine & deodar thickets and apple orchards, the waterfalls suddenly reveals itself, leaving everybody stunned with its beauty. Enjoy a bath in its crashing water curtains or a long cool dip in the plunge pool. There are great cafes around the falls that offer piping hot coffee, Maggi, and local Pahari food. 

1. Soak in the art: Mountains have long been associated with mysticism and romance expressed through lore, paintings, and poetry. Naggar has charming art galleries that let one see paintings and artworks that beautifully replicate the stunning and delicate Himalayan landscape onto canvases. 

2. Enjoy delicious food: Naggar has a lovely contrast of eating places that dish out the authentic Kullu cuisine along with the new and charming German bakeries for those who love their wood-fired pizzas and coffees. On one hand, you can try the local siddu, rajma, and rice and on the other, try world-class Mediterranean, Italian, and even gluten-free foods. Some of the best places to eat at Naggar are Nightingale, Kilta Café, Pizzaria, and The Nature Built Café and Restaurant. 

3. Trekking: Naggar is the gateway to some of the best trekking locations in Himachal. You can book a trek to places like Bhrigu Lake, Chandrakhani Pass, Hampta Pass, Rumsu, and Beas Kund. 

4. Experience the laid-back village life: Naggar is located close to charming mountainside hamlets like Rumsu that give you a peek into the rustic local lifestyle of the natives. You can stroll for hours amidst the wooden houses, small temples, meadow-like fields, and local markets. Enjoy traditional food here or pick up colourful shawls, spices, and rugs. 

Naggar is one of the best places to escape the heat of the plains. Due to its location, the place enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the summer months (April to July). During this time, the daytime temperature remains around 25°C and at night it averages around 15°C. 

The autumn months of October and November are also great weather-wise. The days are clear and cool and the nights start getting chilly. 

Travellers who love experiencing extreme cold and snow must visit in winters (November-February). The temperatures frequently fall below 0-degrees accompanied by snowfall. 

- Flight: Naggar doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, that’s around 31 kilometres from Naggar. Once you reach here, you can take a private or a shared cab to proceed. 

- Train: There is no railway station at Naggar. The closest station is at Joginder Nagar, located around 145 kilometres away. From the station, you can proceed via a local state-run bus, shared cab, or private taxi.

- Road: Naggar is located around 520 kilometres from Delhi. This 12-hour journey can be covered by bus. There is a good service of Volvo and HRTC buses between Delhi and Naggar. Alternatively, you can drive down by hiring a private taxi or self-driving. 

Naggar has some amazing home stays and charming boutique-style hotels for travellers to stay. Some of the best options amongst these are:

1. Soham’s Chateau de Naggar: One of the most popular places to stay in Naggar, Soham’s Chateau de Naggar is a beautifully rustic property. Constructed in the traditional Kullu architecture style ‘Kathkuni’, it offers 12 comfortable rooms. All the rooms look onto Himalayan valleys, apple & deodar thickets, and the Beas River. It has a rooftop café and inhouse restaurant serving delicious local Pahari food. The entire place is solar powered. The Chateau is located on the Jana Falls Road, near the Post office. 

2. Himalayan Brothers Adventure Homestay: One of the best homestays in Naggar, is extremely popular amongst adventure enthusiasts and those travelling to experience rustic travel style. It offers double rooms, Swiss tents, and a loft studio with a kitchenette. Built in the traditional wood and stone architecture of Kullu, it is located amidst beautiful apple orchards looking onto snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It is located at VPO, Naggar. 

3. Heritage Village Resorts: For the discerning traveller looking for a luxurious stay amidst the charming surroundings of Naggar, Heritage Village Resorts is a great place to stay. The resort offers Heritage Cottages and luxury rooms like Premium Rooms, Super Deluxe Rooms, Executive Suites, Duplex Suites, and Executive Family Suites. 

Naggar, located around 22 kilometres from Manali, can be reached via Kullu-Naggar-Manali Road. You can cover this 40-minute journey by hiring a private taxi or shared cabs, which are easily available near Manali bus stand.