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.
