Search
» »The Orange City of Nagpur, Maharashtra

The Orange City of Nagpur, Maharashtra

By Anusha

Nagpur is the largest city in the state of Maharashtra. The city has much historic significance, from being one of the key areas during the freedom struggle to even the continuing fight against the caste system still prevalent in the country. Today, Nagpur is among the fastest growing cities of India and has a lot to offer travelers from the world over.

The city is popular for its orange produce and is fondly referred to as the ‘Orange City' of India. It is also an important centre for the tiger conservation efforts in the country. In fact over five sanctuaries are located at short distances around Nagpur city and many of them are tiger reserves, thus the city is also known as the ‘Tiger Capital of India'. Here is a look at the top places to visit in and around Nagpur, for a great vacation with family or friends.

Ambazari Lake

Ambazari Lake

Among the popular places to visit in Nagpur is one of its many lakes, the Ambazari Lake. It is the largest and most picturesque of the eleven lakes in the city. The lake was originally built in 1870 to supply water to the city and was used thus for over 30 years. However, the increase in pollution levels has prevented the city from using the lake water. The nearby area also has a garden, named after the lake, the Ambazari garden. It offers to be a great tourist destination for families, with the many amusement games and boating facilities.

Photo Courtesy: Wiknowme

Deekshabhoomi

Deekshabhoomi

A place of both historic and spiritual significance is the Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur city. The structure spanning an area of over four acres is where Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar converted to Buddhism along with his followers, as a stand against the caste system prevalent in India. The place has immense religious significance today. The structure resembles the Sanchi Stupa in certain features. It is said to be the largest hollow Stupa in the world. The beautiful Deekshabhoomi is a must-visit place in Nagpur.

Photo Courtesy: Koshy Koshy

Sitabuldi Fort

Sitabuldi Fort

Among the places to visit in Nagpur is a famous tourist attraction, the Sitabuldi Fort, located on top of a small hillock. Built by Mudhoji II Bhonsle, the popular fort is now home to the 118th infantry of the Indian army. It is open to the public only on three days of the year, the 26th January, 1st May and 15th August.

Photo Courtesy: Jaskirat Singh Bawa

Tadoba Andhayri Tiger Project

Tadoba Andhayri Tiger Project

Among the famous tourist places near Nagpur is the Tadoba Andhayri Tiger Reserve. It is the largest among the many wildlife reserves in Maharastra. Bamboo thickets and dense forests consist of interesting vegetation, including medicinal plants. The reserve is home to more than the majestic tiger, it also has over 195 varieties of birds, many reptiles including the marsh crocodile and the endangered Indian python. Located at a distance of 151 km from Nagpur city, the reserve is a popular tourist attraction.

Photo Courtesy: Sushilghugul

Maharajbagh zoo

Maharajbagh zoo

Nagpur city has a tourist attraction that is especially popular among children, the Maharajbagh zoo. Located in the heart of the city, the zoo has many animals such as leopards, lions, tiger and peacocks. Among the key attractions is the leopard cub that was born here, the baby of the star leopard pair Julie and Gopal.

Photo Courtesy: Ganesh Dhamodkar

Futala Lake

Futala Lake

Another tourist attraction in Nagpur is the Futala Lake, built by the Bhosle Kings. The scenic lake is surrounded by greenery and attracts families and couples all week long. The lake offers many amusements such as the coloured fountains, the Tanga carriage rides and gardens.

Photo Courtesy: Wiknowme

Shukrawari Lake

Shukrawari Lake

Another place to visit in Nagpur is the Shukravari Talao. The rectangular lake is said to have its origin more than 275 years ago, and was originally built to serve the water requirements of the city. Today the place is bound by railings and lit up rather beautifully at night. The center of the lake has a small island, which has a garden and Shiva temple. The lake also offers boating activities.

Photo Courtesy: Wiki

Food and Stay

Food and Stay

Nagpur is famous for its oranges, so make sure you buy some of these juicy fruits. The most popular sweet in Nagpur is the orange burfi that you must not miss! As far as cuisine is concerned, the most popular is the Saoji cuisine which is spicy and flavoursome.
Nagpur is also popular for cotton products and local handicrafts, so make sure you head over to the local bazaar for some interesting product offerings.

Check the best hotel deals in Nagpur here.

Photo Courtesy: Sistak

How to Reach Nagpur

How to Reach Nagpur

By Road: Nagpur is well connected by roadways, the NH-6 connecting Mumbai and Calcutta, pass through the city, as well as NH-7 that connects Kanyakumari and Varanasi. You can drive down from nearby destinations in Maharashtra or take public and private buses to reach Nagpur.

By Rail: The Nagpur railhead is a key station in the operations of central and southeastern railway routes. The station has regular and direct trains to nearly all major destinations in the country.

By Air: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, situated 11 km from the Nagpur city is well connected to all major destinations in India. The airport also has international flights to twelve destinations outside the country.

Photo Courtesy: Sistak

Get Instant News Updates
Enable
x
Notification Settings X
Time Settings
Done
Clear Notification X
Do you want to clear all the notifications from your inbox?
Settings X