Nanded is known for its historical, cultural and religious significance. It's most famous for the Sikh gurdwara, Hazur Sahib, which is one of the five takhts (thrones) in Sikhism. This is where Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, passed away. Additionally, Nanded is known for its rich past, which connects with the Maratha Empire and other periods of Indian history.
The best time to visit Nanded is from October to March. During these months, the weather is comparatively cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, which might hamper travel plans. Also, during important Sikh festivals, the city sees a surge in pilgrims.
The main attractions in Nanded include the Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, Nanded Fort, Malegaon Yatra, Kandhar Fort, Mahur, Isapur Dam, and the Godavari River. Religious travelers are specifically attracted to Hazur Sahib and the surrounding gurdwaras while history buffs enjoy exploring the forts and the ruins reflective of the region's storied past.
Yes, the most prominent event in Nanded is the celebration of Hola Mohalla and the Gurta Gaddi festival at the Hazur Sahib Gurudwara. These events commemorate important dates in Sikh history and attract devotees from around the world. During this time, the city is vibrant with processions, religious readings, and traditional performances.
Nanded offers a range of accommodation options, from budget lodges to mid-range hotels. For those on a pilgrimage, there are several Dharamshalas (religious rest houses) around the Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, some of which are run by the Gurudwara board itself, ensuring comfortable and affordable stays for visitors.
Tourists can reach Nanded by air, train, or road. The city has its own airport, the Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport, with limited connectivity to major Indian cities. The Nanded Railway Station is well-connected to many cities in India with several long-distance trains. By road, Nanded is accessible through national and state highways from neighboring regions, and buses are available from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad.
Nanded is generally considered safe for tourists. The locals are hospitable, and the city is accustomed to hosting visitors, especially pilgrims. As with any travel destination, it's always wise to take standard precautions, like taking care of your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.
The primary language spoken in Nanded is Marathi. However, due to the city's Sikh heritage and tourist influx, Hindi, Punjabi, and English are also commonly understood and spoken by the locals, especially in and around the tourist areas and religious sites.
While Nanded is primarily a pilgrimage destination, tourists can engage in a few outdoor activities like boating on the Godavari River, visiting the Nanded Safari, and exploring the rural countryside. The nearby wildlife sanctuaries and Isapur Dam also offer opportunities for bird watching and nature walks.
Visitors to Nanded should try the local Maharashtrian cuisine which includes dishes like Zunka Bhakar, Pithla, and Puran Poli. As Nanded has diverse cultural influences, food options also include North Indian and Punjabi dishes, specifically in areas surrounding the Gurudwara where many langars (community kitchens) serve traditional Sikh food.