A Complete Guide of Naggar Castle – Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

Naggar Castle Sightseeing: Naggar Castle is a medieval castle, located in the district of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. This castle was located at a distance of 20 Km from Manali Bus Stand and a distance of 22 Km from Kullu Bus Stand. This medieval castle was built by reckoned Raja of Kullu named Maharaja Sidh Singh in around 1460 AD. Naggar Castle is the royal seat of Kullu state and it remained as the capital for many years before Kullu town was made the capital in the mid-1800s. Naggar Castle is known for its local architectural style named Kathkooni. This architectural style is a combination of woods and stones in beams. This unique medieval mansion was made of wood and stone.

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This castle has a central courtyard and there are emphasize wood carvings and arched balconies with serene views of the Beas Valley. The shock bearing unique technique of construction has this structure withstanding the earthquake of 1905 when most of the region was ruined by an earthquake. The traditional local architecture consists of walls formed of alternate layers of wooden beams and proportionate stone. The whole building of this medieval castle including doors and windows has been fixed without the use of any metal including iron, as explained by the manager maintaining this place. There is a museum downstairs of this castle that showcases the exquisite arts and crafts of Himachal Pradesh. The items exhibits in this museum include things such as shawls, carpets, local products, masks, and statues of various deities in traditional Himachali costumes.

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History of Naggar Castle

This castle compound also houses the famous Hindu temple i.e. Jagatipatt Temple. In the year 1978, this medieval castle was alchemized into a rest house and more recently into a heritage hotel that is now run by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). This heritage hotel is a prime place for holidayers. This castle has been recently renovating while keeping all its heritage structures intact. 

Naggar Castle also houses three small shrines that hold religious significance. For art lovers, Naggar Castle has fantastic art pieces on display. Worth mentioning are the paintings of the famous Russian artist Nicholas Roerich. As souvenirs, you can take home some traditional items such as wall hangings, coasters, and artifacts bearing the imprints of Roerich’s paintings from this castle. From this medieval castle, one can visualize the far-off snow-covered peaks of Kullu Valley, the delightful Beas valley below, and the lush green hillsides dotted with apple orchards. 

Naggar Castle is a place where a large number of Bollywood Movies and videos songs have been shot. The famous Bollywood song “Yeh Ishq Hai” from the 2007 blockbuster movie “Jab We Met”, which features Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor in lead roles, has been shot here. The huge rooms and luxurious treatment by the staff of this castle make you feel like you are having the outstanding time of your life in this castle. The rooms of this castle give way to views of the Kullu Valley, Beas River, and various other beautiful locations. The food and facilities at this castle are also A-Class.

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM on all days of the week

Entry Fee: INR 30 per person

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Sightseeing Places near Naggar Castle 

Some of the Naggar Castle sightseeing places are such as –

Jagatipatt Temple 

This temple is located in the upper courtyard of Naggar Castle. This temple is a small square structure that contains “Jagatipatt” a slab of stone measuring 5’*8’*6”. This slab is said to be brought from a place near “Vashisht” by Honey Bee. It is said that this is the place for meeting of local deities of Kullu.

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Tripura Sundari Temple

Tripura Sundari temple is shape into pagoda style. This wooden temple is located in the upper part of this village. This temple is a rare example of ancient architecture.

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Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery 

Prof. Late Nicholas Roerich, a well-reputed artist had selected Naggar Castle as his residence when he came to India in the year 1929. This house is now been convert into a famous art gallery which houses several rare paintings and other specimens of art. This art gallery is open for visitors on all days of the week.

Gauri Shankar Temple

Gauri Shankar temple is located at the foot of a small bazaar below this Castle. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is a charming example of ancient architecture and carving of its particular period. At present, this temple is a protected monument with a heritage status. 

Wrap Up

This castle holds historic significance. Naggar Castle is renowned for its various temples and Naggar Castle sightseeing places. This castle provides awe-inspiring views of the Kullu Valley and rests in peaceful reverie as the holy river of Beas flows merrily by.