Naggar is one of the best places for your first trip to India. It was here that Nicholas Roerich painted over 1,000 canvases.
No wonder — the village of Naggar sits far from city bustle, in the Kullu Valley, at an altitude of 1,800 meters. People come here for the pleasant mountain coolness, pine forests, and views of snow-capped peaks.
What would I do in Naggar with a week to spare? I'd visit:
Nicholas Roerich Estate. The house where the great artist lived is now a museum that preserves the spirit of his era. The collection features original paintings by Nicholas and Svetoslav Roerich, personal belongings, photographs, and the very study where ideas were born. Walking through the rooms, you can almost hear the quiet whisper of history. Entrance fee — 200 INR.
Krishna Temple — Murlidhar. The name "Murlidhar" translates to "the one holding the flute." The temple impresses with its jewelry-like stone carving. Its history is full of drama too: the original wooden dome was damaged during the 1905 earthquake, and the upper part had to be rebuilt. Yet even in its restored form, the temple retains its charm.
Tripura Sundari Temple. This wooden pagoda-style temple is built entirely of cedar and adorned with delicate carving. It's located just 300 meters from the castle — a perfect spot for a quiet stroll and contemplation. Entrance is free. After exploring the temple, drop into one of the cozy cafes for a cup of tea with a mountain view.
Handloom Village. Wooden houses, apple orchards, and small workshops of local artisans — here, time seems to slow down. Bring a camera and wander for hours: every corner is a ready-made shot. Don't leave without a traditional Himachali cap, and before heading back, stop by once more to pack a liter of homemade ghee, Himalayan chocolate, and a bottle of rose water into your backpack.
Jana Waterfall and Anjani Mahadev Temple. If you have a couple of days to spare, rent a bike and head toward Manali, then onward to Anjani Mahadev. Dedicate another day to a trek to Jana Waterfall — and along the way, make sure to stop somewhere for an authentic Himachali lunch.
German Bakery. Here you can enjoy great coffee, have vegan tiramisu, or try traditional Himalayan dishes — momos and siddu. This place is not just a cafe, but a little universe of flavors and aromas.
A day with no plan. Spend at least one day without schedules or to-do lists. Grab a book (say, Ruskin Bond's short stories), a cup of coffee, and simply enjoy the moment. And yes, treat yourself to a bowl of instant Maggi noodles — for some reason, the most ordinary cheap noodles taste ten times better in the Himalayas.
When to go?
The best time to visit Naggar is October–November. During these months, the days are clear, the air is crystal-clean, and the views of snow-capped peaks are especially stunning. Plus, this is apple harvest season — be sure to try the local varieties: they're juicy, fragrant, and truly delicious.
How to get there?
The easiest way is by bus from Chandigarh to Patlikuhal, then by rickshaw to Naggar. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure — along the way you'll see stunning landscapes and feel the rhythm of Indian provincial life.
Plan your trip with the India GO app — it offers a complete guide with hotels for any budget, sacred sites, attractions, and secret spots that only locals know about.
