Steeped in the history of many royals battling for power and acquisition of land, Nagaur in Rajasthan is like a page out of a history book. Believed to have been founded by the Naga Kshatriyas back in 4th century BC, Nagaur also found mention in the mythological epic Mahabharat. Legend has it that Arjuna conquered Nagaur and gifted it to his Guru Dronacharya.
Located centrally amongst tourist-centric cities like Bikaner and Jodhpur, Nagaur is dotted with imposing historic monuments that tell tales of eras gone by. Against the dry, sandy landscape of this desert city, these structures truly stand out and add a charming character to it.
From the Chauhans and the Rathores to the Rajputs and the Mughals, many influential kingdoms have ruled this land, each leaving indelible marks on the cityscape. However, the strongest impact was perhaps left by the Rajputs and Mughals, as evident in the architecture of all of the major monuments.
Nagaur is probably best known for the Nagaur Fort, also known as Ahicchatragarh Fort, which translates into the ‘fort of the hooded cobra’. This fort, a magnificent example of the Rajput-Mughal architecture, was built in the early 12th century and has undergone major renovations over the years. Today, it is a huge tourist attraction, replete with many buildings, manicured gardens, fountains, and a venue that hosts an annual Sufi festival.
There are a number of other notable forts in Nagaur that warrant a visit as well. The Khinvsar Fort, Kuchaman Fort and Khatu Fort are a few you can head to for a slice of history, architecture and some epic views of the surroundings.
Of course, Nagaur would be incomplete without ancient temples on its cityscape. The Meera Bai Temple in Merta is over 400 years old and is believed to be very sacred. Many believe that this temple can turn poison into amrit, or holy water.
Local transport is fairly easily available in Nagaur. You can opt for cycle-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, buses and taxis that can all be hailed from the streets. Hire a private taxi, preferably with a tour guide, and go sightseeing at your own leisure.
On a daily basis there are approximately 4 flights that operate at Jodhpur Airport.Air India is the popular airline brand that fly frequently to this airport.
Besides flying you can also reach Nagaur through train.Nagaur, Marwar Mundwaare some of the most popular train stations in Nagaur.On an average about 62 trains pass through Nagaur on a daily basis.Bikaner to Nagaur, Nokha to Nagaur, Merta City to Nagaurare some of the most popular routes to Nagaur with 92, 90, 73 trains weekly respectively.
By road Nagaur is surrounded by Bikaner, Balara, Dungargarh which are 62.36 km, 66.03 km, 66.07 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.