One of the largest and most important cities of Maharashtra, Nagpur is a true haven for tourists from across the country. This beautiful city is the winter capital of the state.
Nagpur, also fondly referred to as The Orange City, The Heart of India, and The Tiger Capital of India is home to numerous tourist attractions. If not properly planned, your trip to this wonderful city could turn out to be chaotic and half-hearted. This is why, in this article, we bring to you the places to visit in Nagpur.
Table of Content
10 Place to Visit in Nagpur
- Deekshabhoomi
- Pench Tiger Reserve
- Umred Pauni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve
- Ambazari Lake & Garden
- Swaminarayan Temple
- Japanese Rose Garden
- Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple
- Raman Science Centre and Planetarium
- Jama Mosque
- Maharaj Bagh Zoo
Deekshabhoomi
One of the most important sites for Indian Buddhists, Deekshabhoomi is situated in the heart of Nagpur. The architect of the Indian constitution, DR. B.R Ambedkar converted to Buddhism on 14th October 1956 at this very site. This act of conversion by him was followed by lakhs of his followers. Thus, making this an important historical and religious site in Nagpur. This attraction is one of the most-visited pilgrimage sites in the city.
The religious and historical significance of Deekshabhoomi makes it one of the top places to visit in Nagpur. The construction of this stupa started in 1978. However, this memorial was inaugurated only in the year 2001. The design of this architectural marvel is a brainchild of Sheo Dan Mal, one of the finest Indian architects to ever exist.
Best Time to Visit Deekshabhoomi: Anniversary ceremony (14th October)
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
Pench Tiger Reserve
Nagpur is known as The Tiger Capital of India. It would have been surprising if this city had not been home to one of the biggest tiger reserves in the country. This massive tiger reserve stretches from Nagpur, Maharashtra to Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. This tiger reserve is named after the Pench River that flows through its heart. The Pench Tiger Reserve was formed in the year 1977. Since then, it has been one of the best tourist places in Nagpur.
The number of tigers calling this reserve home is 44. Apart from Bengal Tigers and Indian Leopards, this massive reserve is home to other animals like dhole, jungle cat, small Indian civet, wolves, and striped hyena.
Best time to visit Pench Tiger Reserve: May-Aug (Summer) & Nov-Feb (Winter) | Closed during Monsoon
Ideal Duration to Explore: 6 to 8 hours
Things to Do: Wildlife spotting, bird watching, and enjoying nature
Umred Pauni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve
Another tiger reserve that is situated in Nagpur is the Umred Pauni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve. This tiger reserve is stretched across the districts of Nagpur and Bhandar in Maharashtra. Established in 2013, this is one of the relatively newest tiger reserves in India. During these few years, this wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve have managed to earn a name for itself as one of the places to visit in Nagpur.
This wildlife reserve is home to six leopards and 11 tigers. Apart from this, animals like bison, nilgai, and deer can be spotted here in large numbers Spanning a total area of 189 square kilometers (73 square miles), Umred Pauni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna. The main entrance of this tiger reserve is located at Karhandla village.
Best time to visit Umred Pauni Wildlife Sanctuary: May-Aug (Summer) & Nov-Feb (Winter)
Things to Do: Go on a safari, spot birds and wildlife watchin
Ideal Duration to Explore: 6 to 8 hours
Ambazari Lake & Garden
Ambazari Lake is the largest lake in Nagpur. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nagpur. The Nag River originates from Ambazari Lake. This lake gets its name due to the numerous mango trees that surround the lake. In Marathi, the regional language of Maharashtra, the word “Amba” means mangoes.
This lake was built in the late 19th-century and has since then been a primary source of water supply for the citizens of Nagpur. The Ambazari Garden covers a total space of 18 acres and was opened to the public in 1958. The lake and the garden together attract thousands of tourists every year from across the country.
Best time to visit Ambazari Lake and Garden: Opening hours | Monday to Sunday from 05:00 AM to 06:30 PM.
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
Major Attractions: Radio speakers playing relaxing music, a green gym, and pristine waters of lake
Entry Fee: INR 10
Swaminarayan Temple
Known for its alluring architecture and religious significance, Swaminarayan temple is one of the best places to visit in Nagpur. At this temple, one will find murtis of Shri Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj, Shri Sukshaiya, Shri Shastriji Maharaj, and Shri Sita-Ram Dev among numerous others.
The intricate designs carved on the gopurams and domes of this temple are mesmerizing. The groundbreaking for Swaminarayan Temple was done in the year 2004. Five aartis namely Mangla aarti, Shangar Aarti, Rajbhog Aarti, Sandhya Aarti, and Shayan Aarti are conducted during different times between 06:00 AM to 08:30 PM every day.
Best time to visit Swaminarayan Temple: Throughout the year | Aarti Timings: Between 06:00 AM – 08:30 PM
Major Attractions: The beautiful architecture is the major attraction of the Swaminarayan Temple
Ideal Duration to Explore: 30 to 45 minutes
Things to do: Aartis conducted here daily to experience a spiritual atmosphere
Japanese Rose Garden
Roses are the personification of happiness, love, and positivity. This garden gets its name because of the technique used here for growing roses at their nurseries. This technique of growing roses at this garden is native to Japan. The Japanese Rose Garden is, without doubt, one of the best places to visit in Nagpur. The pleasant atmosphere at this garden makes this the go-to place for joggers in the city. You will also spot people meditating and practising yoga during your visit to the Japanese Rose.
The Japanese Rose Garden in the heart of Nagpur is a must-visit attraction for tourists. The lush green lawns, manicured pathways and beautiful roses make this garden an ideal place to relax after a long day of touring the city. The aesthetically arranged lanes of roses at this garden is a treat to the eye. Garden.
Best time to visit the Japanese Rose Garden: October to March (Spring)
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1-2 Hours
Major Attractions: The rose nurseries, a calming atmosphere and well-manicured pathways
Things to Do: Learn about the Japanese rose growing techniques here from the experts
Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple
Founded in 1999, the Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple is situated in the Kamptee Suburb of Nagpur City. Also referred to as the Lotus Temple of Nagpur, this is one of the must-visit tourist places in Nagpur. The beautiful architecture and the religious significance of the Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple attract tourists from across the world. The sandalwood idol depicting Buddha is one of the best attractions at this temple.
The fund for building this temple was granted by Ogawa society based in Japan. The Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple is situated on 30 acres of land. For seeking blessings, practising meditation, or for those seeking Buddhist education, The Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple is the place to be.
Best time to visit Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple: 5 AM to 8 PM
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
Raman Science Centre and Planetarium
Named after CV Raman, the Raman Science Centre and Planetarium is one of the best places to visit in Nagpur. This science centre is affiliated with the Nehru Science Centre in Mumbai, Maharashtra. For the scientifically inclined and the curious souls, a visit to the Raman Science Centre and Planetarium is highly recommended. The planetarium here offers a world full of stars and planets beyond our solar system which is fascinating, to say the least.
The innovation centre at the Raman Science Centre and Planetarium opened in 2017 and the information and communication gallery opened in 2007. These two are among the major attractions at the Raman Science Centre and Planetarium that attract guests in large numbers throughout the year. The planetarium here can seat a total of 133 people. Another attraction at the Raman Science and Planetarium is the prehistoric animal park.
Best time to visit Raman Science Centre: Opening Hours | Mar to Oct – Monday to Sunday from 11:30 AM to 07:00 PM, Nov to Feb – Monday to Sunday from 10:30 AM to 06:00 PM
Major Attractions: The 133-seat planetarium theatre, the prehistoric park, 3D science shows, the innovation centre and information and communication gallery are the major attractions here
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
Things to do: Watching the show at the planetarium
Jama Mosque
Situated in the heart of the Mominpura neighborhood of Nagpur, the Jama Mosque is a significant religious site and a cultural landmark. Built in the year 1960, the Jama Mosque underwent massive reparation works in 2019. Known for its beautiful architecture, the Jama Mosque boasts one of the largest domes of any mosque in India. Surrounding the dome of this mosque are four minarets, each standing at a height of 80 meters (262.47 feet).
Originally known as Mominpura Badi Masjid, a mosque has been existing at this location since the 18th Century. The Jama Mosque also boasts a beautiful garden to its front. Jama Mosque has to be a part of your itinerary as it is one of the top places to visit in Nagpur.
Best time to visit Jama Mosque: Opening Hours | Monday to Sunday from 05:00 AM to 07:00 PM
Major Attractions: The dome, minarets, and the garden are the major attractions of the Jama Mosque
Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
Maharaj Bagh Zoo
Maharaj Bagh Zoo is one of the must-visit places in Nagpur. Situated in the heart of the city, this zoo attracts tourists from across the country in large numbers. This zoo has been built on the former garden that belonged to the Bhonsle and Maratha rulers. Apart from the zoo, it is also known for its beautiful bagh, meaning garden in Marathi. Taking a walk through the lush greenery here is an experience that should not be missed.
During your visit to the Maharaj Bagh Zoo, you will spot animals like leopards, peacocks, lions, and tigers among others. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, visiting the Maharaj Bagh zoo is highly recommended during your trip to the Orange City.
Best time to visit Maharaj Bagh Zoo: Opening Hours | 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM
Major Attractions: Majestic animals like lions, tigers, and leopards are the major attractions of the zoo. The beautiful, manicured gardens are no less wonderful
Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 Hours
Entry Fee: INR 30
FAQ: Places to Visit in Nagpur
Is Nagpur worth visiting?
Yes, Nagpur is worth visiting. It is one of the biggest and best cities in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The various religious, historical, and tourist attractions in the city make it worth a visit. The sheer number of tourists visiting this city every year is a testimony of its beauty and allure.
Where can I go for a long drive in Nagpur?
While in Nagpur, take a long drive to Amba Khori to witness beautiful waterfalls or take a long drive to the Pench National Park.