Ahmednagar, MAHARASHTRA

Ahmednagar is a city located in the Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra, at a distance of about 120 km to the northeast of Pune and 114 km to the southwest of Aurangabad. The city has a rich 500+ years of history, the city gets its name from its founder Ahmed Nizam Shah I. Ahmednagar is a small town as compared to the nearby cities of Pune or Aurangabad, and not much of development has happened in the region. However, it is the birthplace of the cooperative movement. Marathi is the primary language of communication and also the official language of the region.

Ahmednagar’s rich culture in a way reflects India’s splendid diversity. In fact, people of Ahmednagar can very well claim that their rich and colorful culture is a very humble tribute to India’s evergreen diversity. Since at this historical city people of different religions languages and cultures have harmoniously lived together for thousands of years and are peacefully co-existing even today.

While Hindus definitely make up the majority of Ahmednagar’s bulk population, but Muslims also have a huge presence in this city. In fact, Islam is the largest minority religion followed by Christians and Sikhs. Temples, mosques and churches are also obviously present in huge numbers all throughout the city.

It is, however, important to bring to notice that there are few religious destinations in and around Ahmednagar which are visited by devotees cutting across different religions and faith. This includes the famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple and Samadhi of Meher Baba. This only vindicates Ahmednagar’s rich history of religious harmony and peaceful co-existence.

Marathi is obviously the largest spoken language, followed by Hindi. Even English language is slowly gaining prominence in Ahmednagar. This is very well reflected by few English-speaking classes operating in Ahmednagar city. However, as of today English is spoken and understood by very niche population in Ahmednagar.

Ahmednagar society embracing modern culture and values is best reflected in its people’s growing preference for western costumes and attires. This is mainly true of younger generation who like to dress up in jeans, trousers and T shirts. Even young and college girls have begun to adapt themselves to western attires. However, majority of girls of Ahmednagar even today prefer wearing traditional Salwar Kameez. Besides, traditional & conservative attires like Kurta pajama, Dhoti and Saree are still a preferred costume of majority of elder and older people of Ahmednagar.

• Ahmednagar Fort – The Ahmednagar Fort is one of the most enthralling places to visit in Ahmednagar. This fort is a fine example of the architectural brilliance and prowess of the ancient natives of the place. While the fort was, initially, constructed with mud in the year 1427, it was later transformed into a majestic fort built with stone by Ahmed Nizam Shah I- the first ruler of the Nizam Shahi Dynasty. Re-constructing the fort from the mud structure to stone started in 1559 and it was finally finished in the year 1562.The purpose of the fort was to protect the city from the external invasion of enemies of the kingdom. Today, it is a historical and natural attraction for all those who visit Ahmednagar.Ahmednagar Fort was Built in 1490 by Ahmed Nizam Shah. The fort is circular shaped, featuring 18 metres high walls and 22 bastions support it. The Ahmednagar Fort which is currently under the control of the military command of India was once known to be one of the most well-designed and impregnable forts. The Fort's defense system comprises of 24 towers and 30 metres wide and 4 to 6 metres deep ditch. The two entrances to the fort can only be reached after crossing the 30 metres wide trench, through the suspension-drawn bridges.
  Ahmednagar Fort has seen one too many invasions and has survived each one of them. The Ahmednagar Fort was controlled by many empires and rulers throughout history starting from the rule of the Mughals. The history of the Ahmednagar Fort gives an idea that it had been used as a royal prison. One such instance which stood out was when the Ahmednagar fort was used by the British to captivate Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru along with some other Nationalists who were a part of the Congress Working Committee, in a house arrest during the Quit India Movement of 1942. This fort is where Nehru wrote his book “The Discovery of India”. Some rooms of the Fort have now been transformed into a museum, and there is also the provision to visit the Leaders’ Room.
• Tomb of Salabat Khan II – Mistakenly known as Chand Bibi Palace, the monument is the Tomb of Salabat Khan II. Salabat Khan II was a minister of Murtaza, the fourth Nizam Shah King after Changiz Khan was put to death by the king in 1579. This monument is a three-storied structure constructed in stone is located on the crest of a hill near the city of Ahmednagar. The Tomb of Salabat Khan II is situated at an altitude of 3080 feet above sea level and around 700 feet above the city. The Tomb provides a great view of the entire city and is visible from any part of the city. The monument is believed to have been initially planned for a seven-storey complex but was only constructed for three-storey. The building has eight sides of a plain simple structure.
• Cavalry Tank Museum – A one-of-a-kind museum in Asia that serves as a home to nearly 50 vintage Armored Fighting Vehicles, the Cavalry Tank Museum was established in 1994 by the Armored Corps Centre and School. The Museum houses a wide range of Armoured Vehicles and War Tanks of various origins dating from as recent as the Indo-Pakistani war of 1972 to those dating back to the world war I.
  The oldest armoured vehicle on display is the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Armoured Car. Among the Armoured tanks of British origin were the Valentine, Churchill Mk VII, Matilda I, Centurion Mk II and Archer Tank Destroyer. The Tanks of US origin included the US Sherman Crab, M3 Stuart, M22 Locust, M3 Medium Tank (M3 Lee), M47 Patton, M24 Chaffee, M41 Walker Bulldog Tanks along with the Canadian Sexton Self Propelled Artillery Vehicle and various other Armoured Cars. The different types of Tanks on Display are The Imperial Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go Light Tank and Type 97 Chi-Ha Medium Tank, the Nazi German Schwerer Panzerspahwagen Light Armoured Car, the French origin AMX-13 Light Tank, the Soviet-made PT-76 Amphibian Tank and an 88mm Anti-Aircraft & Anti-Tank Artillery Gun. This Collection of Tanks include the Vijayanta Main Battle Tank as the pride of India. With all of these Big and Mean Machines, the museum sends its visitors on time travel to the Wars that the Tanks witnessed.
  The Cavalry Tank Museum is open for Visitors on all days of the week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee is INR 10 per person and Photography, and Video recording are charged extra.
• Meherabad –Meherabad was an ashram established by Meher Baba in the year 1923, in Arangaon Village as a haven for his followers. The Ashram soon transformed into a place of pilgrimage after the death of Meher Baba and his samadhi in the Ashram. The Site has facilities for the accommodation of Pilgrims who visit in large numbers every year, especially on the Amartithi (the day of his death on January 31). Meherabad is located at a distance of 9 km from the city of Ahmednagar.
• Rehekuri Blackbuck Sanctuary –Spread across an area of 2.17 sq.km., the Rehekuri Sanctuary is home to one of the rare and famous animals, Indian Black Buck. The Sanctuary is located at a distance of about 80 km away from Ahmednagar City in the Karjat Taluk. The Sanctuary serves as a safe haven for nearly 400 Black Bucks.
  The Blackbuck, called ‘Kalvit’ in Maharashtra, is easily recognised by its magnificent spiral horns, colour and long jump. It is the only member of its genus and is found predominantly in India. Also, known as the Indian Antelope there are only four sanctuaries in India that can boast of the presence and conservation of the blackbuck. The Rehekuri Blackbuck Sanctuary in Maharashtra is one of the best places for blackbuck sightings. The sanctuary was established in the 1980s and at one point the number of blackbucks dwindled to 15. Today Rehekuri is home to about 400 blackbucks making it an excellent example of sustained conservation. Besides, the sanctuary is also the abode to various other wildlife and birds. The jeep safari from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, as well as, walking or trekking along with a guide are the best ways to explore the sanctuary.

• Ahmednagar Fort – From military and strategic point of view, Ahmednagar Fort was one of the greatest forts ever built in the history of India. So, not surprisingly many great kings of India had fought innumerable wars to conquer this invincible fort. Right from Akbar to Shivaji to Malik Amber to British had waged many wars to gain control over this fort. Today the main attraction here is the museum, which wasactually a jail,where Pandit Nehru and Abul Kalam Azad were imprisoned by British during India’s freedom struggle.
• Chand Bibi Tomb – Don’t miss this place for its sheer lush greenery that surrounds the historical tomb. Although the tomb which resides in the three-storey building is in absolute ruins, but the lush greenery surrounding it will absolutely calm you and indeed makes this place absolutely worth visiting.
• Faria Bagh Palace – Although today this 15th century monument is in absolute ruins, but its distinct octane shape still makes it an aesthetically beautiful monument. In fact, if you’re an avid photographer, this you’ll be more than happy to visit this place.
• Damadi Masjid – Another very fine historical monument that is worth visiting. This one is located very near to the iconic Ahmednagar fort. What makes this masjid or mosque so worth visiting is the that fact that it is one of those few mosques in India that bears Deccan style architecture and not the typical Mughal or Persian style architecture.

• Tarakpur Market: Located in the heart of Ahmednagar, Tarakpur Market is a bustling shopping area known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of shops. Here, you can find clothing, accessories, footwear, home décor items, and traditional Indian attire. It’s a great place to explore and shop for local goods.
• Cloth Market: As the name suggests, the Cloth Market in Ahmednagar is famous for its textile shops. You can find a vast selection of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and synthetic materials. Whether you’re looking for ready-made garments or fabric for custom tailoring, this market offers a variety of options.
• Saraf Bazaar: Saraf Bazaar is a popular destination for jewelry shopping in Ahmednagar. It features a range of jewelry stores offering gold, silver, and diamond jewelry. Whether you’re looking for traditional designs or modern pieces, Saraf Bazaar has options to suit different tastes and budgets.
• Ahmednagar Patasa Bazaar: Known for its traditional sweets and snacks, Ahmednagar Patasa Bazaar is a delight for food enthusiasts. You can find a variety of local delicacies, including sweets like pedas, barfis, and chikkis, as well as savory snacks like farsan and namkeen. It’s a great place to explore and sample the local culinary delights.

• Ahmednagar City Mall –Located in the heart of Ahmednagar, this mall offers a variety of shopping options, including clothing stores, electronics shops, and supermarkets. It also houses a multiplex cinema for entertainment.
• Ahmednagar Mega Mall –Situated on Savedi Road, Ahmednagar Mega Mall is a modern shopping complex with a mix of retail outlets, including clothing, accessories, home décor, and electronics stores. It also features a food court and entertainment facilities.
• Anand Mall –Anand Mall is another shopping destination in Ahmednagar, offering a range of stores selling apparel, accessories, and household items. It also has a food court where visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines.
• Gulmohar Plaza –Gulmohar Plaza is a well-known mall in Ahmednagar that houses several retail outlets, including branded clothing stores, electronics shops, and beauty salons. It is a popular shopping destination for locals and visitors alike.

Chapati, Bhakri and Bhaji along with rice & dal/amti are pretty much the basic staple of most Ahmednagar people. Bhakri, which is losing popularity in neighboring cities like Mumbai and Pune, is still very much popular in this part of the world. Among Bhaji’s, all traditional Maharashtrian Bhajis like Batata ani Flower cha Rassa, Batata chi Bhaji, Vaangi chi Bhaji, Chavalichi bhaji, Bhindi chi Bhaji etc. are cooked almost every day in Ahmednagar households.

One very distinct thing about Ahmednagar food is that it exudes with earthly fragrance; as if it is freshly brought from nearby farm land. This is equally true about all the small cities and town located in rural Maharashtra, which obviously makes the food very delicious.

Non vegetarian food and cuisine are equally very important part of the basic staple of Ahmednagar people. The inception of non-vegetarian cuisines in Ahmednagar region really began with the beginning of many Muslim dynastic reigns. Chicken Biryani, Mutton Biryani, Chicken Masala, Kabab and many other non veg dishes, which flourished during medieval era, is relished even today by Ahmednagar people with great pleasure. Besides, special non vegetarian restaurants are available across the city.

• Hotel Radiance
• Iris Premiere
• Hotel Aurus
• V Star
• Hotel New Panchratna
• Hotel Shiv Sangram
• Hotel Udayanraje Palace
• Hotel Gulmohar Pride

• Sailing Kitchen – Sailing Kitchen has a comfortable seating place. They serve different cuisines like Veggie Cheese Burger, Cheese Corn Burger, Peri-Peri Paneer Pizza, BBQ Pizza, Paneer Tikka Sandwich, Tandoori Maggie, Butter Paneer Wrap, Chilly Garlic Fries, Pink Sauce Pasta, Cheese Sauces Nachos, Mocktails, and a lot more. They do have a home delivery and pick-up facility. Sailing Kitchen opens from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
• Hotel Isha’s Café – Hotel Isha’s Café has a beautiful and vast seating area with a relaxing atmosphere. They serve different cuisines like Grilled sandwiches, Pasta, Cold Coffee, Guava Milkshake, Pizza, Pista Kesar Milkshake, Mocktails, and a lot more. Hotel Isha’s Café opens from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. They do have a home delivery and pick-up facility.
• Chhappan Bhog Restaurant – Chhappan Bhog has a vast seating place with quick service. Chhappan Bhog restaurant serves different thalis. You can visit right here to have different thalis at an affordable price. Chhappan Bhog restaurant opens from 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
• Sweet Home Garden Restaurant – Sweet Home Garden restaurant has a beautiful seating place with a comfy atmosphere. They serve different cuisines like Palak Paneer, Dal Tadka, Finger Chips, Soups, Paneer Butter Masala, Paneer Kofta, Mushroom Masala, Dum Aloo, Butter Naan, Curd Rice, Masala Rice, Baby Corn Chili, and a lot more. Sweet Home Garden restaurant opens from 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
• The Castle – The Castle has a comfy seating place with a pleasant atmosphere. They serve different cuisines like Garlic Toast, Cottage Cheese Scramble with Pav, Peanut Butter Jelly Sandwich, Potato Jalapeno Cheese Balls, Vegetable Cutlet, Chilli Cheese French Fries, Idli Sambar& Chutney, Cheese Pav Bhaji, Chole Bhatura, Kulfi Falooda, and a lot more. The Castle opens from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
• Hotel Nandanvan – Hotel Navdanvan has a beautiful seating place with a pleasant atmosphere. They serve different cuisines like Veg Kolhapuri, Paneer Butter Masala, Mutton Masala, Egg Curry, Mutton Biryani, Chicken Tandoori, Veg Fried Rice, Hakka Noodles, Veg Manchurian, Egg Keema, Chicken Seekh Kebab, and a lot more. Hotel Navdanvan opens from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
• Hundekari Kitchen – Hundekari Kitchen has a lovely seating place with a comfy atmosphere. They serve different cuisines like Tandoori Chicken, Chili Paneer, Paneer Manchurian, Crispy Potato, Paneer Tikka, Chicken Malai Tikka, Chicken Lollipop, Honey Chilli Chicken, Aloo Gobhi, Chana Masala, Palak Paneer, Egg Masala, ButterChicken,Butter Naan, Garlic Naan, Mutton Biryani, and a lot more. Hundekari Kitchen opens from 10 a.m. – 12 a.m.
• Lemon Spice – Lemon Spice has a vast and comfortable seating place with a pleasant atmosphere. They also have outdoor seating. They serve different cuisines like Malai Kofta, Kadhai Paneer, Palak Paneer, Kaju Paneer, Chicken Mushroom Fried Rice, Spring Fried Rice, Chicken Cheese Bhel, Chicken Hakka Noodle, Paneer Butter Masala, Corn Masala, and much more. Lemon Spice opens from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Entertainment and nightlife scene in Ahmednagar city is unfortunately not that vibrant. This is mainly because Ahmednagar is still a semi urban city and second tier city of Maharashtra. Few cinema halls and beer bars are all that Ahmednagar can boost off on entertainment and nightlife front. Among the cinema hall E Square Multiplex in the famous Savedi area is the only multiplex of the city. Besides, there are few renowned restaurants like Meghnand lawns and Restaurant also in Savedi area where Orchestras and Gazal shows are regularly hosted during late evenings.

Today the entertainment and nightlife quotient may be little dull in Ahmednagar, but in coming years this is surely expected to change. In fact, the change is already visible as today the city is slowly tiring to realize its dream of becoming a full-fledged urban city. The uber cool urban symbols like Cafe Coffee Day, Domino’s Pizza and Big Bazaar have already opened their outlets in Ahmednagar and are today doing pretty roaring business. The success of these popular chains of restaurants and super market stores is surely an indicator that today people of Ahmednagar are ready for change. And they are more than willing to explore different avenues on entertainment front.

Being home to many faiths and religions Ahmednagar obvious comes on its during important religious festivals. Diwali, Holi, Eid and even Christmas is celebrated with immense fervor. But the most popular festival here is Ganesh Chaturthi. Every year people of Ahmednagar wait for Ganesh festival with bated breath. The famous Vishal Ganpati temple of Ahmednagar is fully decorated and is thronged by thousands of Ganesha devotees during Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

• Cavalry Tank Museum – A one of a kind museum in Asia that serves as a home to nearly 50 vintage Armored Fighting Vehicles, the Cavalry Tank Museum was established in 1994 by the Armored Corps Centre and School. The Museum houses a wide range of Armoured Vehicles and War Tanks of various origins dating from as recent as the Indo-Pakistani war of 1972 to those dating back to the world war I.
  The oldest armoured vehicle on display is the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Armoured Car. Among the Armoured tanks of British origin were the Valentine, Churchill Mk VII, Matilda I, Centurion Mk II and Archer Tank Destroyer. The Tanks of US origin included the US Sherman Crab, M3 Stuart, M22 Locust, M3 Medium Tank (M3 Lee), M47 Patton, M24 Chaffee, M41 Walker Bulldog Tanks along with the Canadian Sexton Self Propelled Artillery Vehicle and various other Armoured Cars. The different types of Tanks on Display are The Imperial Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go Light Tank and Type 97 Chi-Ha Medium Tank, the Nazi German Schwerer Panzerspahwagen Light Armoured Car, the French origin AMX-13 Light Tank, the Soviet-made PT-76 Amphibian Tank and an 88mm Anti-Aircraft & Anti-Tank Artillery Gun. This Collection of Tanks include the Vijayanta Main Battle Tank as the pride of India. With all of these Big and Mean Machines, the museum sends its visitors on time travel to the Wars that the Tanks witnessed.
  The Cavalry Tank Museum is open for Visitors on all days of the week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee is INR 10 per person and Photography, and Video recording are charged extra.
• Historical Museum and Research Centre – Established way back in 1960 on Maharashtra Day i.e., 1st May, Ahmednagar Historical Museum & Research Centre exhibits more than 12000 manuscripts, 8000 coins, 50,000 historical documents and many other fascinating artifacts. Earlier it was merely a two-room museum. Eventually, with an increase in artifacts, the museum was shifted to its current location - Hutatma Chowk, near collector office. A 166 m long horoscope and London printed 1816 map of India are amongst the famous exhibits of the museum. A must visit for history lovers, Ahmednagar Historical Museum & Research Centre give a bright glimpse of the heritage of the country. To reach the museum, one can take a taxi, bicycle or buses from anywhere in the district.

Ahmednagar is very hot and dry during the Summer making it uncomfortable for travellers. It is recommended to travel to Ahmednagar between November and March when the Climate is cold and more comfortable to scout the city and its surroundings. The average temperature range in Ahmednagar in winter is around 22ºC and the minimum temperatures at night can reach down to 10ºC.