| Destination: Nagpur |
| Destination Type: Cities |
| City: Nagpur |
| Country: India |
Nagpur District forms the north-eastern part of the present state of Maharashtra. The district is roughly triangular in shape and is rich in geological and mineral wealth. Along with minerals, fossils of flora and fauna both have been reported from this area in large numbers. It is interesting to note that the veins of semi precious stones, agate, and rock crystal forms were used to make beads in the prehistoric times. The easy availability of natural resources and climate might have attracted human settlement from the pre-historic era. A good number of lithic tools left behind lend credibility to this theory. Hundreds of Megalithic burials of various types have been documented and important remains have also been unearthed. An iron-smelting furnace belonging to the megalithic period was found at Naikund providing important clues to understand the material culture of the megalithic period.
Nagpur is situated in the area of Vidarbha Janapada which in turn was part of the great forest traditionally known as the Dandakaranya in the Ramayana and other classical Sanskrit sources. The region was subsequently under the Mauryan, Shunga and Satavahana dynasties from 4th century BCE to around the 2nd and 3rd century CE. The excavated sites are testimony to this.
The Chalukyas of Kalyani extended their political dominion in the north, holding sway over some eastern and southern parts of Vidarbha. The Yadavas also ruled over this part and during their reign, artistic and literary activities flourished. Several structural stone temples were constructed, some of which still exist. The Kalika Devi Temple at Katol, the Trigarbha (triple shrine) temple and sculptures of Vishnu and Mahalakshmi of Parseoni, the Karpura and Sendura Bavadis, the Ram temples, along with the famous Shiva temple of Adasa Lakshman, and the fort at Ramtek are some of the architectural marvels of the period.
Air
The Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India, being well-connected to most Indian cities. It has recently begun international services to the Gulf countries.
Rail
Nagpur Junction is equally well-connected with most major long-distance trains passing through it.
Road
The NH 6 running north-south from Varanasi to Kanyakumari and NH 7 going east-west from Surat to Kolkata both pass through Nagpur. It’s central location means most cities within overnight distance are connected by bus services.
Kanha
Tiger reserve
Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary
Khindsi Lake
Sight Seeing
Dragon Palace Temple - Dragon Palace Temple is a Buddhist temple, situated in Kamptee, a satellite township of Nagpur district. It is dedicated to Lord Buddha and boasts of striking architecture and picturesque landscape. The temple was founded by Mother Noriko Ogawa Society of Japan
Seminary Hill- Seminary Hill is a small hillock, situated at a distance of approximately 6 km from the old city of Nagpur. The hill has been named after the Seminary of St. Charles, which is located on the hill only. The hillock is known for providing some of the most beautiful views of the city situated below.
Ambazari Lake- Ambazari Lake is a tranquil lake, situated on the western outskirts of Nagpur. Sprawled over an area of approximately 15.4 sq km, the lake is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden that adds to its splendor. Apart from good walking trails, the major attractions of Ambazari Lake comprise of the boating facilities that have been provided there. Completing the picturesque scene is a musical fountain, a favorite amongst kids.
Sitabuldi Fort- Sitabuldi Fort is a magnificent structure built by a British officer, in the year 1857. It stands perched on the Twin Mountains and is visited on a frequent basis by tourists in large numbers.
Maharaj Baug and Zoo- Maharaj Baug was a wonderful park, which was later converted into a botanical garden. It was laid down by the Bhonsle rulers of the erstwhile Nagpur State and today, it also houses a zoo, which serves as home to some rare species of birds and animals.
Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir - Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, which dates backs to the year 1923. Constructed out of marble and adorned with sandstone carving work, this temple enshrines the idols of Lord Rama, Sita Mata and Lakshmana, the brother of Lord Rama.
Balaji Mandir- Balaji Mandir is a temple situated amidst the tranquil and awesome environs of the Seminary Hill. The temple, as the name suggests, is dedicated to Shri Balaji, who is its presiding deity. Balaji Mandir also enshrines the idols of Lord Kartikeya, regarded as the Commander of the Army of Gods.
Ambazari Lake- Ambazari Lake of Nagpur is known not only for its own beauty, but also the lush green gardens situated in its vicinity. One of the most popular attractions of the city, the garden was developed as a model garden by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation.
Gandhi Baug- Gandhi Baug is a beautifully landscaped garden, named after Mahatma Gandhi - the Father of the Nation.