Naggar Castle - An Architectural Masterpiece of Ancient India in Himachal Pradesh

Situated in the tiny ancient town of Naggar in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, the Naggar castle is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The small hamlet of Naggar is located 22 Km north of Kullu’s district headquarters on the Kullu-Naggar-Manali road. The 15th-century Naggar Castle near Manali is the most popular tourist attraction here.

About Naggar Castle

Naggar is situated on the bank of the river Beas at an altitude of about 1,800 metres. It was the capital of the Kullu kings for nearly 1,500 years. Later, Kullu town was built during the mid- 18th century, and the capital was shifted there. 

Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu built Naggar castle in around 1460 A.D. It remained the official seat of Kullu kings for centuries. Today, the Naggar castle in Himachal Pradesh is a popular tourist attraction. The castle's popularity soared ever since it was shown on the silver screen. The song "Yeh Ishq Haye" from the superhit Bollywood movie "Jab We Met" was shot near this castle. 

Naggar Castle Architecture

The traditional Pahari style (Kathkuni) was used in constructing the castle. The castle has a grand central courtyard and exquisite wood carvings all over the place. The arched balconies provide an enthralling view of the far-off snow-covered peaks and Beas Valley. 

The castle is constructed with stone and timber without using nails or iron. Instead, alternate layers of wooden beams and stones are used to build the castle walls. While the entire region was devastated by the earthquake of 1905, Naggar castle, with its unique shock-bearing architecture, largely remained undamaged. 

When the castle was under British control, an additional staircase, chimneys, and fireplaces were added. Despite undergoing modifications, the castle has managed to keep its distinct historical architecture alive.

Naggar Castle Attractions

You’ll need an entire day to complete the Naggar castle sightseeing if you intend to explore the place in detail. The castle has a museum downstairs. From shawls, carpets, and masks to statues of deities in Himachali costume, the museum houses some exquisite arts and crafts of Himachal Pradesh. The ancient Jagatipatt temple is also inside the castle compound. 

You can easily visit the nearby Tripura Sundari temple from Nagar castle. The temple’s colossal pagoda style of architecture with its three roofs nicely compliments the mesmerising mountainous landscape. 

How to Reach Naggar Castle

The castle is well-connected by road and can be easily reached from Manali. The state transport buses regularly ply this route. You can also book a taxi from Manali and reach here.

Where to Stay

Check into Club Mahindra White Meadows, one of the best resorts in Manali, to enjoy a great vacation with friends and family. Cover all the places to visit in Manali while enjoying the warm hospitality in this resort. Then, explore Naggar castle at a leisurely pace. The castle is just 17.7 km away from here. 

Apart from the historical significance, the ancient masterpiece and the spectacular natural beauty of the place will surely blow your mind. So, make sure that Naggar castle is on your next Manali itinerary.