Nanded, MAHARASHTRA

A city located in the state of Maharashtra, Nanded is known for its rich historical and religious significance. The city is situated on the banks of the Godavari River, which adds to its natural beauty. Nanded has a diverse cultural heritage and is home to people from various backgrounds. It has a blend of modern infrastructure and traditional charm. The city has important historical sites, such as the Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, which is a sacred place for Sikhs. Nanded also has a thriving agricultural sector and is known for the production of crops like cotton, sugarcane, and soybeans. It offers a peaceful and serene environment for residents and visitors alike.

The culture of Nanded is a harmonious blend of traditional Maharashtrian culture and the influences of its diverse population. The city has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its festivals, art, music, and lifestyle. Nanded is known for its religious significance, especially for Sikhs, as it is home to the historic Hazur Sahib Gurudwara. This sacred place attracts devotees from all over the world. Nanded celebrates a number of festivals with great enthusiasm and joy. The city comes alive during festivals like Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Makar Sankranti, where people participate in vibrant processions, decorate their homes, and indulge in traditional food and sweets. The local cuisine of Nanded, influenced by Marathi and Punjabi flavors, is a treat for food lovers. From spicy curries to delicious sweets, the culinary delights of Nanded offer a gastronomic experience that reflects the city's cultural diversity.Art and music play an integral role in the cultural fabric of Nanded. The city has a thriving artistic community, with local artisans showcasing their skills in traditional crafts like pottery, woodwork, and handloom weaving. Traditional music and dance forms like Lavani and Bharatanatyam are performed during cultural events and celebrations. Nanded also embraces contemporary art forms, with exhibitions and performances held regularly, showcasing the talent of local artists.

Nanded offers a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Here are some notable attractions in Nanded:

• Hazur Sahib Gurudwara – The Hazur Sahib Gurudwara is one of the most significant religious sites in Nanded. It is the place where the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, spent his last moments. The gurudwara attracts thousands of devotees and showcases beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Kandhar Fort – Located around 38km from Nanded, Kandhar Fort is an ancient fortress with historical significance. The fort is known for its architectural brilliance and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Nanded Fort – Situated in the heart of the city, Nanded Fort is an iconic landmark. Though much of the fort is in ruins, it still retains its historical charm. Visitors can explore the fort's structures, including the entrance gates and bastions.
• Hottal – Hottal is a picturesque picnic spot situated on the banks of the Godavari River. It offers serene and scenic surroundings, making it a popular spot for relaxation and enjoying nature.
• Mahur – Located around 128 kilometers from Nanded, Mahur is a pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Renuka Devi. The temple complex is nestled amidst the Sahyadri Mountains and attracts devotees seeking blessings and tranquility.
• Nanded Narsi Namdev Samadhi – The Samadhi of Sant Narsi Namdev, a revered poet-saint of Maharashtra, is located in Nanded. It is a place of pilgrimage and spirituality, where devotees pay their respects and seek solace.
• Siddeshwar Temple – Siddeshwar Temple is a renowned Shiva temple in Nanded. It features grand architecture with sophisticated carvings and attracts devotees throughout the year.
• Shrikshetra Mahurgadh – Situated near Mahur, Shrikshetra Mahurgadh is a sacred place associated with the goddess Anusaya Devi. It is believed to be one of the Shakti Peethas, where the body parts of the goddess Sati fell. The temple complex is surrounded by scenic beauty and offers a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and meditation.

• Visit to Hazur Sahib Gurudwara – Pay a visit to the Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, the most revered Sikh shrine in Nanded. Take part in the religious rituals, listen to the soothing hymns, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.
• Explore Nanded Fort – Explore the historic Nanded Fort and discover its architectural remnants. Walk along the fort walls, explore the bastions, and soak in the views of the city from the top.
• Boat Ride on the Godavari River – Enjoy a leisurely and carefree boat ride on the Godavari River, which flows through Nanded. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the riverbanks and relax amidst the serene surroundings.
• Attend Cultural Festivals – Known for its joyous and grand celebrations, a visit to Nanded is incomplete without witnessing andexperiencing the vibrant celebrations of festivals like Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, or Makar Sankranti, which showcase the local culture, music, and traditional performances.
• Explore Local Markets – Visit the bustling local markets in Nanded to get a taste of the city's vibrant street life. Shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Don't forget to savor the local street food, such as bhel puri, vada pav, and jalebi.
• Visit Mahur – Plan a day trip to Mahur, a nearby pilgrimage site associated with the goddess Renuka Devi. Explore the ancient temples, take a walk in the picturesque surroundings, and experience the spiritual ambiance.

• Gandhi Chowk Market – Gandhi Chowk Market is another popular shopping destination in Nanded. It offers a mix of shops selling clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, electronics, and household items. This market is known for its lively atmosphere and a wide variety of goods.
• Vazirabad Market– Vazirabad Market is a bustling local market in Nanded where you can find a variety of goods. It is known for its wide range of clothing, accessories, footwear, and household items. Bargaining is common here, so be prepared to negotiate for the best prices.
• Reliance Mall – Reliance Mall is a prominent shopping mall in Nanded, offering a modern shopping experience. It houses various branded stores, a supermarket, and a food court. You can find clothing, accessories, electronics, and other items under one roof.
• Shankar Nagar Market– Shankar Nagar Market is known for its clothing and apparel stores. It is a great place to shop for traditional Indian outfits, including sarees, salwar suits, and men's ethnic wear. The market also offers a selection of jewelry and accessories.

• Reliance Mall – Located in the heart of Nanded, Reliance Mall is a well-known shopping destination. It houses a variety of stores offering clothing, accessories, electronics, and household items. The mall also features a supermarket and a food court.
• Nanded City Center Mall – Nanded City Center Mall is another prominent shopping mall in the city. It offers a range of retail stores, including fashion, electronics, and home decor. The mall also has a multiplex cinema and a food court, providing entertainment and dining options.
• Destination Center 1 – Located in the Nanded Chowk, Destination Center 1 mall is a well-maintained mall, with a variety of brands in different products.

• Puran Poli – Puran Poli is a popular Maharashtrian sweet delicacy. It is a stuffed flatbread made of a sweet lentil filling called Puran, which is made with jaggery, lentils, and aromatic spices. The soft and sweet puran is enveloped in a thin layer of wheat dough and is typically enjoyed with ghee.
• Tambda Rassa and Pandhara Rassa – Nanded is known for their delectable meat dishes, and Tambda Rassa and Pandhara Rassa are two iconic non-vegetarian curries that you should taste. Tambda Rassa is a spicy red curry made with mutton or chicken, while Pandhara Rassa is a flavorful white curry prepared with meat. They are best enjoyed with Bhakri (sorghum flatbread) or steamed rice.
• Basundi – Basundi is a popular dessert in Nanded, especially during festive occasions. It is a rich and creamy sweet dish made by thickening milk and sweetening it with sugar, saffron, and cardamom. It is often garnished with nuts and served chilled.
• Jhunka Bhakar – Jhunka Bhakar is a traditional and hearty dish of Nanded. It consists of spiced gram flour curry (jhunka) served with Bhakri (sorghum flatbread) or chapati. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and filling meal.

• Hotel City Pride – Located in the heart of the city, Hotel City Pride offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a convenient location. It is known for its friendly staff and excellent service.
• Hotel Ramakrishna International – This hotel is situated close to major attractions in Nanded and offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace. It is known for its cleanliness and warm hospitality.
• Hotel Royal Palace – Known for its affordable rates and comfortable rooms, Hotel Royal Palace provides a pleasant stay experience. It features a restaurant serving vegetarian food and offers basic amenities.
• Hotel Anuradha Palace – Offering well-appointed rooms and a range of facilities, Hotel Anuradha Palace is a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers. It has a restaurant, banquet halls, and conference facilities.
• Hotel Rukmini Palace – This hotel provides comfortable accommodation with a focus on customer satisfaction. It features spacious rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a conference hall.

• Hotel Madhuban – Hotel Madhuban is a well-known restaurant in Nanded, serving a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. It offers a diverse menu with options like biryani, Chinese cuisine, and traditional Maharashtrian thali.
• Ambika Punjabi Dhaba – Known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine, Ambika Punjabi Dhaba is a popular restaurant in Nanded. It serves flavorful dishes like butter chicken, tandoori naan, and dal makhani.
• Shabari Restaurant – Shabari Restaurant is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. It specializes in North Indian and Chinese cuisines and is known for its delicious food and prompt service.
• Haji Tikka Kabab Corner – If you're a fan of delectable kebabs and grilled delights, Haji Tikka Kabab Corner is a must-visit restaurant in Nanded. It offers a variety of kebabs, tikkas, and rolls that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
• Hotel Triveni Garden Restaurant – Known for its spacious dining area and pleasant ambiance, Hotel Triveni Garden Restaurant offers a diverse menu of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including biryani, kebabs, and traditional Maharashtrian specialties.

The best time to visit Nanded is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is pleasant and relatively cooler. The temperatures during this time range from around 10°Cto 25°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.