Nature’s Trail

Naggar

            Situated on the left bank of river Beas at an altitude of 1851 mtrs., Naggar is ancient town which commands extensive views, especially to the North West of the valley. Naggar was the former capital of Kullu. It was founded by Raja Visudhpal and continued as a headquarters of the State until the capital was transferred to Sultanpur (Kullu) by Jagat Singh in 1460 A.D. Today this ancient and beautiful place is a popular tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh. Naggar is at a distance of 26 kms. from Kullu and 21 kms. from Manali. The nearest airport is at Bhunter, Kullu which is at a distance of 36 kms. The convenient railheads are Chandigarh and Pathankot which are at a distance of 252 kms. and 278 kms. from Kullu and 292 kms. and 318 kms. from Manali respectively. The accommodation is available at Hotel Castle, Naggar, Dist. Kullu (HP). Tel. (01902) 248316. The reservation can be made at HPTDC, The Mall, Shimla – 171 001 Tel.: (0177) 2652561, 2658302 (F) 2652557, E-mail: hptdc@sancharnet.in (website: www.hptdc.nic.in) and HPTDC, World Trade Centre, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai – 400 005 (TFax: 22181123). The castle once a home to the Raja Kullu was converted into a rest house, a hundred years back and in 1978 this ancient building was handed over to HPTDC to run as a heritage hotel. The restaurant in the hotel serves Indian, Continental, Chinese and Himachali Cuisines. This medieval castle was built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu around 1460 A.D. The hotel overlooks the Kullu Valley and offers a spectacular view. Prof. Late Nicholas Roerich, a reputed Russian artist had chosen Naggar as his residence when he came to India in 1929. The house has now been converted in an art gallery which houses number of rare paintings and other specimens of art and is worth a visit. Naggar is a peaceful retreat away from the crowded Manali and therefore while in Manali try to stay a couple of nights at Naggar or at the least make it a point to visit it.