Nagpur Tourism | How to Plan a Trip to Nagpur

Nagpur, a city in Maharashtra, is a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s often referred to as the ‘Orange City’ due to its vast orchards. Serving as the winter capital of Maharashtra, Nagpur offers a mix of greenery, scenic lakes, historical monuments, and spiritual sites. The lively markets and the rich Marathi cuisine add a distinct flavour to your holiday. All these elements of Nagpur tourism make it a standout destination in India. To plan a trip to Nagpur, explore this travel guide that covers the best things to do, places to visit, and essential tips to make the most of your visit.

Most Famous Tourist Places in Nagpur

Nagpur has several attractions that will keep you engaged during your trip. These tourist attractions in Nagpur cater to varied interests and are perfect for each age group, such as:

1. Deekshabhoomi

   It is a sacred site for Buddhists and is known as where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and his followers transformed into Buddhism. The complex consists of a grand stupa, which signifies peace and equality. 

2. Ambazari Lake and Garden

   This is one of the largest lakes in Nagpur and is covered by dense greenery. It is ideal for enjoying picnics, boating, and scenic walks amidst nature. 

3. Sitabuldi Fort

   The Sitabuldi Fort is perched atop Sitabuldi Hill and is famed for the historic battle fought between the British and Maratha armies. This site offers panoramic views of the city.

4. Ramtek Fort Temple

   Devoted to Lord Rama, this ancient hilltop temple is one of the popular tourist places in Nagpur. It is believed to be where he rested during his exile, and the temple complex offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

5. Futala Lake

   One of the well-known spots amongst locals and tourists, this lake is famed for its serene beauty, vibrant fountains and bustling food stalls. It’s perfect for watching the sunset and enjoying leisurely walks. 

6. Pench Tiger Reserve

   Located around 90 km from Nagpur, Pench is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. It is known for its rich biodiversity and tiger sightings through game drives.

7. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve

   A renowned tiger reserve, Tadoba is one of Maharashtra’s oldest national parks. It offers thrilling safaris and wildlife encounters in their natural habitat.

   Things to do in Nagpur

   There are a lot of top things to do in Nagpur that will keep you hooked throughout your trip, such as:

   1. Water sports at Khindsi Lake

   At Khindsi Lake, you can enjoy water sports like jet skiing, paddle boating, and kayaking. You can also try camping options and lakeside picnics.

   Best For: Adventure seekers and families.

   2. Bird Watching at Gorewada Nature Trail

   The Gorewada Lake and its surrounding forest area are perfect for bird watching, jungle safaris and nature trails.

   Best For: Bird watchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

   3. Trek to Seminary Hill

   A thrilling trek up Seminary Hill is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of Nagpur amidst the tranquil environment.

   Best For: Trekking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers.

   Shopping in Nagpur

   Nagpur offers a diverse range of shopping options, from bustling markets to luxury malls, each showcasing traditional handicrafts and modern fashion. Here are some of Nagpur’s top shopping spots:

   • Sitabuldi Main Road – A popular shopping area known for clothes, accessories, and electronics.

   • Itwari Market – Perfect for buying traditional sarees, handicrafts, and spices.

   • Empress Mall – A modern shopping complex with branded stores, a food court, and entertainment options.

   Places to eat in Nagpur 

   Nagpur consists of several restaurants ranging from fine dining to street food, each offering traditional Maharashtrian dishes, such as:

   Fine Dining Restaurants

   • The Creative Kitchen (Radisson Blu): This restaurant is known for its extensive buffet and international cuisine. A meal at the restaurant typically costs approximately INR 2500 for two. 

   • Zuree Urban Kitchen: This place offers a contemporary twist on Indian and Asian flavours. It costs around INR 1500 for two.

   • Barbeque Nation: Popular for its live grill on the table, offering a variety of barbecued dishes, the restaurant costs approx INR 1850 for two.

   Street Foods

   • Saoji Chicken: A spicy delicacy unique to Nagpur that’s a must-try.

   • Tarri Poha: A local breakfast favourite consisting of flattened rice topped with spicy gravy.

   • Orange Burfi: A sweet treat made from Nagpur’s famous oranges.

   Best Time To Visit Nagpur

   Nagpur experiences a tropical climate with three different seasons:

   • Summer (March to June) – Nagpur’s summers are scorching hot, with temperatures soaring above 45°C. Therefore, it’s best to avoid outdoor sightseeing during this time.
   • Monsoon (July to September) – The monsoon season brings moderate rainfall, refreshing the city and making it lush green. This is a good time for nature lovers, but most outdoor activities can be challenging. Also, do check the weather conditions beforehand to avoid any hassle.
   • Winter (October to February) – Winter is the best season to travel to Nagpur, as it has pleasant weather with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 15°C. The atmosphere is perfect for sightseeing, wildlife adventures and outdoor activities. 

   How to Reach Nagpur

   Nagpur is well-connected by air, train and road, making it convenient to reach the city:

   • By Air – Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport is the closest airport to Nagpur and is 8 km from the city centre. The airport regularly receives regular and connecting flights from all the major cities of India. Upon reaching the airport, you can hire a taxi or any local transportation. 
   • By Train – Nagpur Junction is a central railway hub with excellent connectivity to all parts of India. Once you reach the railway station, you can take a bus, auto-rickshaw, or cab to the city.
   • By Road – Nagpur is well-connected by national highways and has a central location, making it accessible from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. The smooth road ensures travellers enjoy the journey, with picturesque views adding to the excitement.

   Getting Around Nagpur

   Commuting within Nagpur is easy due to its well-developed transportation options:

   • Auto Rickshaws: Widely available and affordable for short distances.

   • Buses: Nagpur city buses are a budget-friendly option for exploring the city.

   • Metro: The Nagpur Metro is a convenient and modern way to travel between key areas.

   • Rental Taxis: Ola and Uber are available for comfortable travel within the city.

   Tips for Visiting Nagpur

   • Book safaris for Tadoba or Pench early to secure your spot.

   • Use the metro to avoid traffic congestion.

   • When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and follow the local customs.