13 Top Things To Do In Naggar, Himachal Pradesh – Offbeat Places

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Little did I know that my romance with Himachal Pradesh wouldn’t just end with exploring Jibhi, as I had a surprise called Naggar waiting in store for me. Since I wanted to avoid the strict lockdown conditions in Mumbai for as long as possible, I decided to prolong my stay in Himachal Pradesh. But where do I go? That was the burning question.

While checking all the options of places around Jibhi that are worth travelling to, I came across a cute little town called Naggar. This town piqued my interest for a number of reasons.

• Firstly, Naggar has a rich cultural heritage as it was once the capital of the ancient Kullu kingdom.
• Secondly, despite being just 22 km away from a mainstream travel destination like Manali, Naggar is not known to many people. So, in a way, it’s a hidden gem.
• Thirdly, you get to enjoy majestic mountain views no matter where you stay as Naggar is nestled in the enchanting Kullu valley.
• And finally, the town acts as the perfect base from where you have easy access to beautiful nature spots, scenic hiking trails, and panorama points.

Naggar is situated on the banks of the holy river Beas. It takes a 3-hour drive from Jibhi to get to Naggar. From stunning waterfalls to adventurous hikes, there are a lot of things one can do in and around this town. In this blog, I’ll be sharing the 13 top things to do in and around Naggar, Himachal Pradesh.

Best Time To Visit Naggar

If you’re planning a summer getaway, then March-June is an ideal time to visit Naggar. During this period, the weather is pleasant and the conditions are perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Another window when you can experience the best of this heritage town is from September to November. This is the off-shoulder season so you’ll find that the accommodation rates are lower during these months.

Remember to check the weather forecast for Naggar before you book your flights to Himachal Pradesh. Also, carry appropriate winter wear as the nights can get very chilly.

Where To Stay In Naggar – Naggar Hotels

Naggar has many homestays, AirBnb’s, and hotels as far as accommodation options are concerned. You can choose to stay either in Naggar town or at the homestays/resorts in nearby villages.

My Personal Naggar Budget Luxury Stay Recommendation

Luckily, my parents had joined me in the Naggar leg of the Himachal trip. As they were mentally exhausted from being confined to their home in Hyderabad, they wanted to stay at a property that was in the lap of nature.

Now since my dad was going to swipe his credit card (*evil grin*), it was my responsibility to find an accommodation option near Naggar that was luxurious but gave the feeling of living amidst the mountains. And the Larisa Resort ticked both the boxes.

Situated next to gorgeous apple orchards in the Haripur village (located along the Kullu- Naggar- Manali road), Larisa Resort is just 5.7 km away from Naggar. It is the perfect example of surreal natural beauty meets luxury hospitality.

Exquisitely curated gardens with exotic flowers line the pathway to your rooms.

The rooms are opulent with elegantly decorated walls beautifully complimenting the wooden furniture and flooring. There are three categories of rooms in the resort – Deluxe Double room, Deluxe Garden & Mountain View room, and Luxury Suite Mountain View room.

All rooms have a patio where you can relax, soak in the views of the sun-kissed mountains and enjoy a hot cuppa with your friends and family.

The resort has an indoor restaurant, swimming pool, library, walk-in jacuzzi, spa, children’s play area and an indoor sports area. It also has an outdoor dining area if you want to enjoy your meal with a view.

A special bonfire and barbecue night can also be arranged by the resort on request.

Fancy shamianas are interspersed throughout the resort for you to sit and chill. If that didn’t seem enough, there’s also a trampoline and snooker table set up individually in the outdoor garden space.

The Larisa resort has something for people of all age groups and therefore, it is the perfect family vacation destination.

The food menu is elaborate and the chefs do a fantastic job at ensuring that your plate is always filled with appetizing, aromatic, and flavourful dishes. There is also a separate bar area in the resort where you can enjoy a drink or two. The resort has a pleasant, soothing ambience and I can’t speak highly enough of the place.

The Larisa resort offers you a unique holiday experience where you get to enjoy solitude amidst a breathtakingly picturesque natural setting.

=> Book your stay at the Larisa Resort by clicking here.

Budget Homestay Accommodations in Naggar

For solo travellers and backpackers on a budget:

1. Himalayan Homestay – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

2. goSTOPS Naggar – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

3. Bohodyssey Hallan – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

4. Malis Apple Lodge – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

5. Zostel Homes Rumsu – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

Mid-Range & Luxury Stay Accommodations in Naggar

For families and groups of friends seeking a bit of luxury:

1. Soham’s Chateau De Naggar – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

2. Hotel Sheetal – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

3. Span Resort and Spa – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

4. Baragarh Resort and Spa – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

5. Shivadya – A Boutique Hotel – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

13 Top Things To Do In Naggar

1. Naggar Castle

The Naggar Castle is a royal medieval castle turned into a museum cum heritage hotel. It was built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu around 1460 AD and bears testimony to Naggar’s rich cultural history.

Situated in the Patlikuhal area of Naggar, the castle is a stone and wood structure that acts as the perfect vantage point to view the bewitching Kully valley. The intricate wooden carvings in the interiors of the castle reflect the beauty of Himalayan architecture.

There’s a separate restaurant inside the premises that overlooks the valley. The place offers you an opportunity to book a stay so that you can experience the regal, luxurious lifestyle of the royalty that once lived here.

Even if you don’t fancy a stay, you can visit the place just to explore the historical monument and enjoy a sumptuous meal with friends and family while enjoying the view of the scenic valley. Entry to Naggar Castle costs Rs. 30. Also, there’s car parking available outside the castle for a fee of Rs. 50.

2. Tripura Sundari Temple

Just a short 300-metre walk from the Naggar Castle gets you to the Tripura Sundari Mandir (temple). Made from deodar wood and stone, this three-roofed structure was built by Raja Yashodhapal and reflects the pagoda style of architecture.

The temple has an open courtyard where you can sit and absorb the peaceful ambience. You’ll be impressed by the detailed wooden carvings in the temple interiors. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Tripura Sundari, who is revered as the great protector of Naggar and it’s people.

Images and statues of various other Hindu gods and goddesses like Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Goddess Lakshmi can also be seen inside. If you’re visiting the temple in May, then you’ll get to witness the colourful annual fair held in honour of the gods.

Visiting the Tripura Sundari Mandir is one of the most spiritual things to do in Naggar. Entry to the temple is free of charge.

3. German Bakery

A trip to Naggar is incomplete without visiting the German Bakery. It is the best place in Naggar to sit, chill, and enjoy some delicious food and drinks while enjoying awe-inspiring views of the mountains. The minimalistic artsy decor adds to the appeal of the cafe.

Situated near the Naggar Castle, the German Bakery is hosted by two affable individuals- Yogesh and Ujjwal. The cafe has an open balcony seating arrangement that adds to the relaxed vibe of the place. My personal recommendations to you would be to try the walnut cake, chocolate cake, hot chocolate, honey lemon tea, lemon cheesecake, plum juice, and cinnamon roll.

The cafe menu also offers you a variety of pizzas, sandwiches, shakes, pasta, smoothies, and fresh fruit juices. Since the Wifi is pretty good, you can also use the cafe as a workstation. You can meet and interact with several other travellers from all over the world at the cafe. Hence, it is the best networking spot in Naggar.

The place provides you with both: dine-in and takeaway services. If having the ultimate gastronomic experience is on your list of things to do in Naggar, then you cannot miss out on visiting the German Bakery.

4. Kasheri Viewpoint and Waterfall

Located 24 km away from Village 17 Mile (Rampur), Kasheri village is a delightful little off-the-beaten-path destination. It takes you about an hour to get to the village by car. On your way to the Kasheri village, you’ll cross the Kasheri viewpoint.

This spot is the vantage point from where you can witness a splendid 180-degree view of the mountains. Rows of mountains, with each one sitting next to the other, meeting the blue sky at the horizon while a gushing river traces a curvy path between them is a sight to behold.

Just before you reach the Kasheri village, you’ll cross a metal bridge that’s built over the Beas river tributary. Here, if you climb down the rocks at the point where the bridge begins, then you can sit right next to the river and admire the river stream flowing in all it’s glory.

Once you enter the Kasheri village, you’ll see colourful homes (made of wood & concrete), sitting pretty on a green mountain. A 5-minute drive from the village gets you to the Kasheri waterfall.

To get to the waterfall, you’ll have to park your vehicle at a particular spot and walk from there as the route isn’t safe for a car to traverse. It takes 10-12 minutes to reach the Kasheri waterfall. You can walk right to the base of the waterfall where the magical misty sprays kiss your face.

The waterfall swishes playfully over the rocks, painting an image worth remembering. There is no entry fee to visit the waterfall. As the spot isn’t known to many, you’ll probably have the waterfall all to yourself. Kasheri waterfall is one of the secret things to do around Naggar.

5. Jana Waterfall

A 38 km drive (1 hour 40-minute journey approx.) from Kasheri village will have you reach the Jana waterfall. To get to the site of the actual waterfall, you’ll have to walk up a rocky path surrounded by pine trees. The path, which starts from the parking lot near the Jana restaurant, takes 15 minutes to complete.

On your way, you’ll be climbing rocks and crossing a couple of cute wooden bridges. When you reach the Jana waterfall, you’ll see a single stream of water flowing over multiple levels of rocks, surrounded by beautiful green foliage.

What makes it one of the most thrilling things to do around Naggar is that the water stream passes right beside you, traversing down under the wooden bridge. Entry to the Jana waterfall is free of charge.

After visiting the waterfall, you can enjoy a delicious authentic Himachali meal at the Jana restaurant. Here, I’d suggest you try the local food platter (thali) that consists of nutritious red rice, kadi, rajma, siddu, makki ki roti, sarson ka saag, and pickles made from local veggies. A 1 hour (24 km) drive from here gets you back to your accommodation in Village 17 Mile.

NOTE: You can cover Kasheri Viewpoint, Kasheri Waterfall, and Jana Waterfall in a single day trip. Hiring a private car with a driver cum guide will cost you around Rs.2300-Rs.2500 for the entire trip.

6. Baror Parsha Waterfall

The Baror Parsha waterfall is one of the popular things to do around Naggar. It’s situated just 11 km away from Village 17 Mile, in the Baror village of Manali district. It takes you about 20-25 minutes to get to the waterfall by car.

To reach the actual waterfall spot, you’ll have to hike up an incline path for about 20-25 minutes. The starting point of the hiking trail is near the parking area where you can park your vehicle.

Hiking up an incline under the sun can get tiring so I’d suggest you carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated. As the altitude increases during your hike, the air gets cooler and you get a better view of the mountains around you.

A fenced path will lead you to a huge rock from where you can enjoy the ultimate 360-degree panorama view. A view where you have majestic mountains on one side and the Baror Parsha waterfall on the opposite side.

The waterfall in itself is a glorious sight as the water stream cascades from quite a height, giving it a dreamy appearance. It branches into multiple streams, flowing vigorously over the rocky cliff. You can’t help but stand and admire the sheer natural beauty in front of you.

At the base of the waterfall, is a wooden path that connects to a roofed resting point. You can sit, relax, grab a bite, and view the waterfall from here. Entry to the Baror Parsha waterfall is free of charge.

7. Jogini Waterfall

A 20-minute drive (8 km) from the Baror Parsha waterfall gets you to the Jogini waterfall parking spot. From here, it takes a 1-1.5 hour hike to get to the actual waterfall. So stock up on chocolates, protein bars, and bottles of water because you will need them during your journey.

About 10-15 minutes into your hike, you’ll find a resting point where there’s a small pool formed by the waterfall. It’s safe for both- kids & adults to swim here. The water is cold and crystal clear.

Because you’ll be mostly walking uphill and the hiking trail can get steep and slippery at a few places, I’d recommend you to wear proper hiking shoes. Stretches of pine forest give you respite from the sun.

As you’re about to reach the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by misty sprays of water and a powerful breeze.

The Jogini waterfall stands tall amidst rocky outcrops, thundering down into a small pool. You can sit on the rocks and pebbles in the pool and reap the rewards of your hiking effort.

As the water flow is powerful, even standing beside the waterfall will ensure that you’ve had a shower. Right opposite Jogini waterfall, is a paradisiacal view of the snow-capped mountains. If you’re a nature lover, I guarantee you that you won’t see a better sight than this.

Just watching a graceful waterfall on one side and the towering magnificent mountains on the other is an overwhelming experience. The waterfall is sacred to the Hindus and it’s stream goes on to join the Beas river in the Kullu valley.

Jogini waterfall is one of my favourite waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh and one of the best things to do around Naggar. Entry to the Jogini waterfall is free of charge.

8. Nehru Kund

Nehru Kund is just 2.6 km (5 minutes) away from Jogini waterfall. It’s a place where you can taste pure fresh water from the springs. The water in this kund originates from the Bhrigu lake and is considered holy. Entry to the Nehru Kund is free of charge.

From my personal experience, I can say that the water is cold, clean, and has a great taste. Also, it feels amazingly light as I remember drinking more than a litre without feeling full. The water, according to locals, has medicinal properties. No wonder I saw a few local residents filling their bottles from the source as well.

Apparently, India’s first Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru used to drink water from this kund whenever he was in Manali. Hence, the place got the name- Nehru Kund. A 25-minute drive (13-15km) from here gets you back to Village 17 Mile. Don’t forget to enjoy the view of the Manali mountains on your way back!

NOTE: You can cover Baror Parsha Waterfall, Jogini Waterfall, and Nehru Kund in a single day trip. Hiring a private car with a driver cum guide will cost you around Rs.1200-Rs.1500 for the entire trip.

9. Rumsu Village

If you fancy the idea of visiting a scenic village with an old-world charm, then Rumsu village has to feature in your list of things to do around Naggar. It takes a 22 km drive (45-55 mins) from Village 17 Mile to get to Rumsu village. A curved cement pathway guides you towards the interiors of the village.

Primitive-style houses made from wood and stone can be seen on either side of the pathway. You can see villagers sitting together and having discussions over a cup of tea.

The best part about the village is that the villagers are amiable and greet you with a smile. And the location of Rumsu village is such that you get to see desktop wallpaper-like mountain views from every nook and cranny.

If you’re lucky like me, then you might witness a local woman weaving a traditional “pattu” on her handloom machine. Pattu is the ethnic winter wear of the women in Himachal Pradesh. In the picture, is a woman named Vimla weaving an authentic pattu. You can enquire from your driver/guide and even do a forest hike in Rumsu.

10. Krishna Temple

A 15-minute drive (5.1 km) from Rumsu village gets you to the Krishna Mandir (temple) in Naggar. The Krishna temple, also known as Murlidhar temple, is an important religious site in Naggar. If you’re staying in Naggar, then a short steep trek through the woods will have you reach the temple.

The path to the temple isn’t well constructed, so reaching there by car can be a bit risky unless it’s a small, compact 4-seater like an Alto. The Krishna temple has a fantastic location as you can see snow-clad mountains in the background at the entrance itself.

Devoted to the Hindu god Lord Krishna, this temple is an apt personification of the term “soul food”. You get a feeling of divine tranquillity as soon as you enter the temple premises. The calm and serene atmosphere makes exploring the temple a meditative experience.

There is a subtle sweet fragrance in the air as the temple complex is surrounded by a garden consisting of vibrant, exotic flowers. The temple, made from stone and wood, is believed to be 1000 years old. The main temple building is a pyramidical carved stone that has fine, exquisitely detailed carvings on it’s walls.

A huge tree sits in the middle of the temple courtyard, giving it a distinct personality. An awesome 180-degree view of the mountains and the valley awaits you if you walk to the left of the temple entrance. Entry to the Krishna temple is free of charge.

11. Sajla Waterfall

Located 12 km away (30-minute drive) from the Krishna temple in Naggar, Sajla waterfall is one of the most popular picnic spots in Manali. An easy 2 km trek through the pine forests will have you reach the site of the actual waterfall. The starting point of the trek is the orange entry gate of the Vishnu Mandir (temple).

During the trek, you’ll see horses and goats grazing in different parts of the forest. Clear handwritten signage on the rocks ensures that you don’t lose your way into the woods. The tall pine trees and the lovely forest breeze ensure your trek is a pleasant one.

On reaching the Sajla waterfall, you’ll see twin water streams flowing enthusiastically down the rocks into a natural pool. There’s an open seating arrangement on either side of the waterfall, connected by a small wooden bridge, with cutely organised wooden log tables and seats.

If you’re lucky, you might even witness a splendid rainbow at the base of the waterfall.

Because it’s a small waterfall and the pool of water formed at the base is a shallow one, you can either sit and dip your feet in the pool or shower under the water stream. It’s safe for kids to play in the pool too.

If you want to spend some quality time amidst natural beauty and have fun while at it, then include Sajla waterfall in your list of things to do around Naggar. Entry to the waterfall is free of charge.

NOTE: You can cover Rumsu Village, Krishna Temple and Sajla Waterfall in a single day trip. Hiring a private car with a driver cum guide will cost you around Rs.1200-Rs.1500 for the entire trip.

12. Bijli Mahadev Temple

If you’re a hiker or a devotee of Lord Shiva (also called Mahadev), then visiting the Bijli Mahadev temple is one of the most spiritual things to do around Naggar. The Bijli Mahadev temple is located 48 km away from 17 Mile Village. It takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car to reach the starting point of the hike (the parking spot) that’s required to reach the temple.

A one hour hike up a mountain will have you reach the Bijli Mahadev temple. The hiking distance is approximately 1.5 km. You require a moderate level of fitness to do the hike. Remember to carry a protein bar/chocolate and a bottle of water with you.

Stairs are carved in the mountain so that people find it convenient to do the climb. The best part about the hike is that garbage disposal bins have been placed throughout the walking stretch to maintain cleanliness. The tall pine, fir, and deodar trees on either side of the walking path make the hike a pleasant experience.

In the last part of the hike, you’ll walk across a spectacularly beautiful lush green meadow, with yellow tents sitting on either side of the hiking path. The tents are put up by locals to sell offerings to the deity and snacks for the visitors. Around the tents, you’ll see horses and cows grazing on the mountain grass without a care in the world.

When you reach the temple, you’ll see a beautiful stone and wood structure sitting at an elevation, looking over an astonishing 360-degree panorama view of the neighbouring mountains.

The Bijli Mahadev temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva, the god of destruction. The main attraction inside the temple is the “Shiva Lingam” that’s coated with butter by the local priest.

Devotees of Lord Shiva come here from all parts of the world to seek blessings. The temple building, situated on the top of the mountain (at a height of about 2,460 metres), overlooks the fabulous Kullu valley.

Just spending time at the temple and observing the ethereal natural beauty surrounding it, is an invigorating experience.

The weather in the mountains is unpredictable so I’d suggest you carry an umbrella with you. If it rains heavily, then you can take shelter in any of the tents (where locals put up their cafes) near the temple. A special mention to Sakshm fast food cafe where you can enjoy a tasty plate of noodles and a piping hot cup of tea/coffee.

NOTE: It’ll take you an entire day to explore the Bijli Mahadev Temple. Hiring a private car with a driver cum guide will cost you around Rs.2200-Rs.2500 for the entire trip.

13. Hamta Valley

I explored the Hamta Valley with my parents while we stayed at the Larisa Resort near Naggar. It takes about an hour by car to reach the Hamta Valley. The route to get there is an abysmal curvy mountain road with 38 curves, with the altitude increasing after every curve you cross. However, the views throughout the journey are to die for!

You’ll pass the Hamta village, Sethan village, and a huge dam on your way to the Hamta Valley.

It takes a 45-50 minute hike from the parking spot to get to the fantastical looking Hamta Valley. Remember to wear proper hiking shoes as the path can be rocky and slippery.

Along the way, you’ll cross a small bridge constructed over the stunning Beas river.

On reaching the Hamta valley, the sight of a pristine green hillside meadow with tall pine and maple trees, surrounded by rocky mountains on either side leaves you spellbound. Cattle and horses can be seen grazing on the lush mountain grass. The sweet gushing sound of the river can be heard from a distance.

You just can’t help but gawk in awe of the incredible natural beauty in front of your eyes. The serene ambience fills your heart with immeasurable joy.

The pure fresh air of the Hamta valley rejuvenates you and makes you forget the exhaustion from hiking. You get to experience absolute stillness and solitude.

When returning, you can tread carefully towards the river and dip your feet in the cold water and relax for some time.

If walking along the normal flat road doesn’t excite you, then you too, like me, can hike a small mountain on the left side of the road to get to the parking area. The views on this route are enthralling to say the least.

On the way back to your accommodation, I’d recommend you to visit this hidden gem of a place called Kalzang Dhaba.

It’s a cafe cum restaurant that sits atop a hill. The owner and his wife welcome you with a radiant smile and feed you mouthwatering food with a lot of love.

Add to that, a picture-perfect view of the snow-clad mountains and you have an irresistible combo.

NOTE: It’ll take you an entire day to explore the Hamta Valley. Hiring a private car with a driver cum guide will cost you around Rs.3200-Rs.3500 for the entire trip.

Conclusion

Himachal Pradesh has many hidden, untouched, beautiful treasures that don’t find a mention in the typical Himachal tourism brochures. And Naggar is one of those places. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Naggar and it’s surrounding areas with my travel partner Chandani and my parents.

History, architecture, nature, culture, adventure, food – Naggar ticks all the boxes. You can easily spend 7-10 days in Naggar, covering all the places I’ve mentioned in this blog. I hope my list of things to do in and around Naggar helps you plan a kickass Himachal trip with your friends and family.

So what are you waiting for? The mountains are calling! Just pack your bags, and set off for the ultimate mountain vacation. Safe travels amigos!

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