Naggar Castle is situated at a distance of 20 km from Manali Bus Stand. It is the most popular castle in Naggar. It is one of the best places to visit in Manali. From the castle you could see the far-off snow-covered peaks, the delightful Beas valley below and the lush green hill sides dotted with apple orchards. Do try the Garhwali food at the small restaurant located in the Naggar Castle complex.
The Naggar Castle is a magnificent historical structure made of stone and wood,. The castle was built by Raja Sidhi Singh in 1460 AD in an impressive combination of European and Himalayan architecture. There are three small shrines present within the premises that hold religious significance. Here, a gallery houses the paintings of the Russian artist Nicholas Roerich.
Naggar Castle was used as a Royal residence and state headquarter until the British took over the whole Kangra and Kullu from Sikhs in 1846. It was built by Raja Sidh Singh in 1460 A.D. Raja Gyan Singh sold it to the first assistant commissioner, Major Hay for a Gun.
The northern wing of the castle was later converted to the European way of living by putting in a staircase, fireplace, and chimneys. He later sold it to the Government when it was used as a courthouse. In 1947, with the departure of the British, the court activity ceased.
In 1978, Naggar Castle was converted into a rest house and more recently into a heritage hotel that is run by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). It has been recently renovated while keeping its heritage structure intact.
The castle is 23 km from Kullu and is well connected by road. Hence, you can easily reach the historical guest house by hiring a taxi from Manali. It is located at a distance of 20 km from Manali.
