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Know Your Himachal

Naggar Castle

Human-reviewed

Naggar, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

Built
15th–16th century
Role
Former capital of Kullu
Style
Kath-kuni (timber and stone)
Now
Heritage hotel, gallery, shrine
Time needed
1 hour (more with Roerich estate)

About

Naggar was the capital of the Kullu kingdom for centuries before the seat moved to Kullu town. The castle, built in the local kath-kuni style of interlocking timber and stone, was later used by the British and is now run as a heritage hotel with a small gallery and a shrine to the deity Jagti Patt. Naggar village nearby holds old temples and the Nicholas Roerich estate and art gallery, home of the Russian painter who settled here.

How to reach

  1. Naggar is ~20 km from both Manali and Kullu, on the left-bank road along the Beas.
  2. Buses run along the Naggar road; taxis do the trip from Manali or Kullu.
  3. The castle is a short uphill walk from the Naggar bus stop.

Best time to visit

March to June and September to November. Winter is quiet and cold but the castle stays open.

Things to know

  • Non-guests can visit the courtyard, gallery and shrine for a small fee.
  • Combine with the Roerich art gallery and the temples in Naggar village.
  • The left-bank road is slower but more scenic than the highway.

FAQ

Can you stay at Naggar Castle?

Yes, it is operated as a heritage hotel by Himachal Pradesh Tourism, with a limited number of rooms in the historic building.

What is the kath-kuni style?

It is a traditional Himachali building method that alternates layers of dressed stone and timber beams without mortar, which helps buildings flex in earthquakes.

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Location

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Nearby

Nicholas Roerich EstateNaggar village templesManaliJana Waterfall

Individual pages for these are added as they are reviewed.

In these guides

← More historical places in Kullu