Posted 06 June 2024 in Culture and Heritage

Nanded travel guide: Top places to visit and things to do in Nanded

Come explore a unique tourism destination in India that has a mix of history, spirituality, and culture. Explore Nanded, a city in Maharashtra renowned for being the holy city of Sikhs. This city is home to the revered Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, one of the five Takhts (thrones) in Sikhism. It is here where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, spent his final days.

While Nanded is known for its spiritual significance due to the presence of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, which stands as a symbol of Sikh heritage, attracting millions of pilgrims from around the world, there are many other tourist attractions to see in Nanded.

This city boasts a rich collection of historical landmarks, including ancient forts, palaces, and temples. The city's vibrant markets, bustling streets, and warm hospitality further enhance the visitor experience, making Nanded one of the best tourism destinations to visit in Maharashtra that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Planning for a getaway? Book flights to your favourite destination and enjoy the beauty of India.

Here are the top 10 places to visit in Nanded

Explore this stunning city of Nanded and enjoy witnessing these stunning attractions mentioned below:

Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Gurudwara: This historic Sikh shrine is the main attraction in Nanded and holds immense religious significance for Sikhs worldwide. Visitors can witness the grand architecture, attend prayers and ceremonies, and soak in the spiritual ambiance of the place.
Guru Gobind Singh Ji Museum: Located within the premises of Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, this museum showcases artefacts, manuscripts, paintings, and weapons associated with Guru Gobind Singh, providing insights into Sikh history and culture.
Kandhar Fort: Situated about 22 kilometres from Nanded, Kandhar Fort is a historical attraction in Nanded located on a hilltop. It is known for its architectural beauty. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fort, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Nanded Fort: Also known as Nanded Qila, this ancient fort is believed to date back to the 12th century and served as a strategic stronghold during various periods of history. Although much of the fort is in ruins, it remains a popular tourist attraction for history enthusiasts.
Gangapur Dam: This picturesque dam in Nanded, Gangapur Dam is a popular attraction for weekend getaway from Nanded. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and birdwatching while soaking in the tranquillity of the surroundings.
Siddheshwar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Siddheshwar Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site in Nanded located on the banks of the Godavari River. The temple's architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual ambiance attract devotees and tourists throughout the year.
Nanded city market: Explore the vibrant streets and bustling markets of Nanded to experience the local culture, shop for souvenirs, and sample delicious street food. The city market offers a wide range of items, including clothing, handicrafts, jewellery, and traditional snacks.
Unkeshwar Hot Water Springs: Unkeshwar Hot Water Springs is renowned for their natural healing properties. This hot water spring is surrounded by lush greenery, offering visitors a rejuvenating experience.
Sahastrakund Waterfalls: Sahastrakund Waterfalls is a picturesque attraction offering a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can marvel at its beauty, relax in the surrounding tranquillity, and immerse themselves in its refreshing waters.
Nanded Gandhi Bhavan: Nanded Gandhi Bhavan serves as a museum and library, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and documents related to Gandhi's life and teachings. Visitors can learn about his philosophy of nonviolence and principles of Satyagraha.

These top places to visit in Nanded offer a diverse range of experiences, from spiritual enlightenment to historical exploration and natural beauty, making it a destination worth visiting.

Here are the top things to do in Nanded

In addition to visiting its historical and religious sites, you can indulge in a variety of things to do in Nanded.

Attend the daily ceremonies at Takht Sri Hazur Sahib Gurudwara: Experience the spiritual ambiance of the Gurudwara by attending the daily prayers, kirtans (devotional songs), and langar (community meal) service, which are open to all visitors regardless of religion or nationality.
Explore the local cuisine: Indulge in the flavours of Maharashtrian cuisine by sampling local delicacies such as Puran Poli, Bhakri, and Misal Pav at popular eateries and street food markets in Nanded.
Take a boat ride on the Godavari River: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the Godavari River, offering scenic views of the city's landscape and an opportunity to relax amidst nature.
Shop for souvenirs: Browse through the bustling shopping markets of Nanded to buy souvenirs, handicrafts, traditional clothing, and religious artefacts at places like the Nanded City Market and Gurudwara Langar Sahib Bazaar.
Visit the temples and forts: Explore the ancient temples such as Siddheshwar Temple and Shri Ram Mandir, as well as historical forts like Kandhar Fort and Nanded Fort, to learn about the city's rich heritage and architectural marvels.
Take a nature walk: Spend some time outdoors by taking a nature walk along the banks of the Godavari River or visiting nearby natural attractions like Isapur Dam and Gangapur Dam, where you can enjoy picnics, birdwatching, and photography.
Attend workshops and seminars: Participate in workshops and seminars organised by local organisations and institutions on topics such as spirituality, philosophy, and community service, to gain insights into Sikhism and other religious teachings.
Connect with the locals: Engage with the friendly locals of Nanded to learn about their traditions, customs, and way of life, and gain a deeper appreciation for the city's cultural diversity and warmth.

These diverse range of experiences cater to the interests of travellers seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventures in this historic city of Maharashtra.

Best food to try at Nanded

Nanded offers a wide range of culinary delights, the food in Nanded reflects its diverse culture and heritage. So while here, some must-try dishes are:

Tambda Rassa: This is a delicious spicy red mutton curry, it is popular in the region, and it is served with bhakri or rice.
Pandhara Rassa: Pandhara Rassa is a white mutton curry, contrasting with Tambda Rassa, known for its rich flavour and creamy texture.
Bhel Puri: A savoury snack, Bhel Puri is made with puffed rice, vegetables, chutneys, and spices, perfect for a quick bite. It is a popular dish in Maharashtra.
Misal Pav: Misal Pav is a spicy curry made with sprouted lentils, topped with farsan (crunchy mix), this dish is served with pav (bread).
Kolhapuri Chicken: It is a flavorful chicken dish cooked in a spicy Kolhapuri masala, originating from nearby Kolhapur but popular in Nanded.
Shrikhand: A creamy dessert made from strained yogurt, flavoured with saffron, cardamom, and sugar, offering a refreshing end to a meal.
Dudh Poha: Dudh Poha is a comforting breakfast dish made with flattened rice cooked in milk and sweetened with sugar, garnished with nuts and dried fruits.

Popular shopping destinations in Nanded

Nanded offers a variety of shopping places, from bustling markets to modern shopping centres. Here are some popular shopping destinations in Nanded:

Gandhi Chowk: A vibrant market area in the heart of Nanded, offering a wide range of goods including clothing, accessories, electronics, and household items.
Saraf Bazaar: Known for its jewellery shops, Saraf Bazar is a favourite destination for those looking to purchase gold, silver, and precious gemstones.
Vazirabad Market: This bustling market is famous for its fresh produce, spices, grains, and other grocery items, making it a favourite among locals for daily shopping needs.
Khadakpura Market: A popular destination for traditional Indian clothing such as sarees, salwar suits, and kurta-pyjamas, as well as accessories like bangles, bindis, and hair ornaments.
Bidkar Market: A wholesale market specialising in textiles, Bidkar Market is frequented by retailers and traders looking to purchase fabric in bulk at competitive prices.

Top hotels to stay in Nanded

One of the most important things to do while visiting any place is shopping. In Nanded, some of the top hotels known for their comfort, amenities, and service are:

Hotel Chandralok: This hotel is renowned for its central location. It has comfortable rooms, and excellent hospitality. It is a popular choice among travellers visiting Nanded.
Hotel Anuradha Palace: Another hotel offering spacious and well-appointed rooms is Hotel Anuradha Palace. Along with a rooftop restaurant boasting panoramic views of the city, the hotel is favoured by both business and leisure travellers.
Hotel City Symphony: Known for its modern amenities, including a 24-hour coffee shop and banquet facilities,Hotel City Symphony caters to the needs of discerning travellers seeking convenience and comfort during their stay in Nanded.
Hotel Ramakrishna International: Offering a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, and conference rooms, Hotel Ramakrishna International is a top choice for travellers seeking luxury and relaxation in Nanded.

Best time to visit Nanded

The best time to visit Nanded depends all on you, the traveller. And if you are planning for a vacation here, these are some of the best seasons to consider:

Winter in Nanded: Winter in Nanded is mild and pleasant, the months between November and February is the best time to visit Nanded. This season is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, as the weather is comfortable and rainfall is minimal.
Summer in Nanded: Summer in Nanded can be hot and humid, but if you wish to visit during that time, consider between March and June. If you visit during this time, be sure to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Monsoon in Nanded: Monsoon season in Nanded brings moderate to heavy rainfall, providing relief from the summer heat. Months from July to September is the ideal time to visit Nanded for monsoons. But check weather forecasts and road conditions before planning your trip.

How to get to Nanded?

Nanded is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. Here are the various ways to reach Nanded:

By air: The nearest airport to Nanded is Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport (NDC), located approximately 10 kilometres from the city centre. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation options to reach your destination.
By train: Nanded Junction Railway Station (NED) is an important railway station in the region and is well-connected to major cities across India. Travellers can opt for express, superfast, or passenger trains depending on their preferences and travel time.
By road: Nanded is connected to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Nagpur, and Bengaluru by well-maintained roads. State-run buses operated by Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private buses ply regularly between Nanded and neighbouring cities.

Takeaway

It may be a small destination in Maharashtra, but there is so much to do as well as nearby places to visit from Nanded. Nanded is also easily accessible by air, rail, and road, making it a convenient destination for travellers from across India. So, if you are planning for a getaway in Maharashtra or a weekend getaway from a nearby city, then you need to book flights to Nanded.