I Discovered A Magical Town In The Heart Of The Himalayas - Naggar

Most travellers from Punjab and Himachal take day trips to Naggar from Manali. But we'd rather you didn't do that. To do full justice to this quaint town, spend at least three nights.

More about Naggar

Before reluctant tourists found their way to Naggar, it was the seat of the kingdom of Kullu. For 1,400 years, kings and queens of the princely state called the town their home. Naggar's significance may primarily lie in its proximity to the edifices of modern tourism (Kullu and Manali), but a glimpse of the valley from the main balcony of the Naggar Castle proves otherwise. If there was a reason for this humble town to ever be a regal throne, it lay in its streets shadowed by endless canopies of deodar trees, in the halls of ancient temples that echo laughter of school children and in the invincible goodness of people which refuses to alter to give into changing times.

Places To Visit In Naggar

Situated at a 15-minute riding distance from the Naggar Castle, the Roerich Memorial is a pilgrimage for Russians who are enthusiasts of the iconic painter, philosopher and writer Nicholas Roerich. Owing to the overwhelming natural beauty and peace he found in Naggar, Roerich built a cottage here with his wife. The long list of his admirers and visitors included two prime ministers of India, Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. A picture of the powerful duos with a spiritual Roerich still hangs in the gallery within the cottage.

Situated very close to the Roerich Memorial, the stone cottage houses the famous actor's artworks such as paintings, photographs, film posters, film still and much more. Describing the choice of location in her own words, actor Deepti Naval says, "Roerich was the Russian painter who gave up his life in Russia and New York and came and settled down in this little village in Naggar. I've been going there since I was four years old. My father, Uday Naval, who was an art enthusiast, knew Roerich – these things have been my inspiration in life."

The ancient temple lies between Naggar Castle and Roerich Gallery. The temple is dedicated to the local goddess and is made entirely out of stone. Not much is written about the mythology of the temple, but the locals who live nearby consider it highly auspicious.

Situated at a walking distance from the Naggar Castle, this ancient temple venerates Shiva and Parvati. The temple dates back to the 11th century and is considered to be the last architectural structure of the Gurjara-Pratihara traditions.

If you seek a day-long adventure, then trek to the Jana Village and waterfall located 13km from Naggar town. You can have the hotel/homestay you are staying at arrange a guide for you. For a longer expedition, trek across the Chanderkhani Pass to find yourself on the other side of the mountain in Malana!

Note that there are no connectivity issues in Naggar and the location of all attractions, including the temples and Roerich Gallery, are accurate on Google Maps.

Where to eat in Naggar

All cafes and coffee shops in Naggar are located around the Naggar Castle. For a fancy meal or a taste of authentic Himachali cuisine, head to the Castle Restaurant inside the castle. For a quick coffee break, visit any of the two German bakeries nearby with your book. To have the best wood-fired oven pizza head to Nightingale Restaurant, which is situated a few meters away from the castle on the road towards Roerich Memorial. If you are craving desi food, then the dhabas around the bus stop are the place to eat!

Where to stay in Naggar

Soham's Chateau de Naggar is the most preferred stay (starting at ₹1,200 per night) in Naggar; click here to book or contact at 98055 45408.