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Sitabuldi Fort is located at the heart of Nagpur and is one of the historical landmarks of exceptional importance in the splendid past of India. Of course, this early 19th-century-built fort witnessed many crucial battles, serving as the silent witness to the city’s colonial and modern history. Today, it stands tall as a reflection of Nagpur’s cultural heritage and a peaceful tourist attraction. It has everything to offer: from a history enthusiast, a photographer, or a passionate soul looking for an offbeat destination.
Location
Photo: Subhanshu Dhanraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The fort stands at a hilltop in the heart of Nagpur, Maharashtra. Thus, it is accessible from any quarter of this city. The fort is between two hills and is regarded as the “Twin Hills of Sitabuldi”. It gives a bird’s eye view of the throbbing city down there. This site is historically significant but is also an abode from all the urban chaos.
How To Reach
Photo: Zoshua Colah / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
By Air: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, about 8 km from the fort. Reach the fort within 20-30 minutes from the airport by cab or hire a car, depending on traffic conditions.
By Train: The Fort is 2 km from Nagpur Railway Station. The cab or even a leisurely walk takes a visitor to the fort just a short distance from here, through the city.
By Road: Nagpur is relatively well connected via roads, so reaching the fort by car or bus is fine, too. The fort lies on the main road on the way to the city centre of Nagpur. Local buses, autos, and even taxis can readily be hailed to take you to the fort.
Places To Visit In And Around Sitabuldi Fort
1. Deekshabhoomi
Photo: Ganesh Dhamodkar / Wikimedia Commons
Deekshabhoomi is one of the most important Buddhist shrines in India. It has also acquired spiritual and historical importance, as it was the place where, in 1956, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism, accompanied by thousands of followers. The moment has been honoured with the construction of a great stupa famous for its architectural beauty and spiritual ambience. Tourists can walk around these serene surroundings and understand Dr Ambedkar and his role in the Dalit movement in India. This monument has become a mass pilgrimage centre in Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
2. Nagpur Central Museum
Photo: मयुरेश खडके / Wikimedia Commons
The Nagpur Central Museum has a treasure trove of historical artefacts about India’s rich history. The museum finds collections of ancient sculptures, coins, weapons, and fossilized pre-historic remains, giving an extensive understanding of the region’s cultural development. It is one of the historic spots for history lovers and school students, and it is an ideal educational visit for families. The museum periodically organizes special exhibitions on various historical topics. Nagpur Central Museum is one of the famous places near the fort.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20
3. Futala Lake
Photo: Gregor Meier / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nagpur’s evening place, embracing all the vibrancy and beauty of its setting, is one of the high points for all locals and visitors, especially when the sun sets. The lake is embraced by a landscaped promenade, making it a favourite for evening walks. Visitors enjoy the lighted fountains and the food stalls nearby or merely sit at the water body. It’s great for a family picnic and just general chill stuff. Futala Lake is one of the famous lakes near the fort.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
4. Maharaj Baug Zoo
Photo: Ganesh Dhamodkar / Wikimedia Commons
Maharaj Baug Zoo, situated in a beautiful botanical garden, is an excellent place for the family. The zoo houses various species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and exotic birds, and provides the chance to see wildlife in a serene environment. The surrounding botanical garden makes the zoo beautiful, offering a green oasis amid the bustling city. The zoo can be visited, and afterwards, families can take their leisure walk around the garden side by side, which accommodates different flowering plants and trees to end the day quite nicely.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50
5. Ramtek Fort Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
It is a hilltop-situated temple facing Nagpur, a short drive from Nagpur, and the whole landscape is panoramic. According to several accounts, this temple holds strong mythological values since Lord Rama once stayed here during his exile. The fort’s ancient architecture and the hilltop’s calmness attract various travellers to visit the fort and its temple. This location blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a treasure that pilgrims and tourists see. The trek to Ramtek Fort Temple up the hill is an adventure for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Where To Stay
Photo: Engin_Akyurt / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
If you want to stay in Nagpur for one or two nights, there are a lot of different places to keep up that will fit any price. The city has many places to stay, from high-end hotels to cheap guesthouses. Radisson Blu, Hotel Centre Point, and Tuli Imperial are all well-known hotels. These places are just a short drive from the fort, making it easy and comfortable for visitors. Many hotels offer N/A meals and extras like Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and exercise centres.
Where To Eat
Photo: Anilsharma26 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Many restaurants and bars in Nagpur close to the fort serve various foods. Haldiram’s, Vishnuji Ki Rasoi, and Thaat Baat are great places in Mumbai to enjoy classic Maharashtrian food. Restaurants like Barbeque Nation and Zinq serve a wide range of meals, whether you like North Indian food or food from around the world. People who like Indian street food can check out the nearby restaurants that serve popular dishes like pani puri, samosas and vada pav.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Harshit Suryawanshi / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Between October and March, when it is more relaxed, is the best time to visit the fort. During this time, the weather in Nagpur is friendly and great for touring. The summers can be sweltering, making exploring the fort and other nearby sites hard. Monsoon is another time when the fort and nearby areas look lush and green, but the rain can make the fort slippery and challenging to explore. Winter is the ideal time for a pleasant visit.
Other Things To Consider
Photo: Dariusz Sankowski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip:
Visiting the fort is a budget-friendly trip. The entry to the fort is N/A, but transportation costs range based on your destination. If you’re going by air, expect to spend around ₹3,000-5,000 for a round-trip ride to Nagpur. For train journeys, tickets from close towns vary from ₹300-1,500, based on the class. A visit to the fort can be a budget-friendly experience, with costs mainly revolving around travel and lodgings.
Tips For Travellers:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the long trip.
- Carry your water and food, as there are limited shops.
- Photography is allowed but check for limits in military areas.
- Visit during the cooler months for a more comfortable experience.
- Hire a local guide to get better views into the fort’s past.
A visit to Sitabuldi Fort gives a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history lover or a tourist looking for a quiet getaway, fort and its surroundings offer an exciting experience. Make sure to add this historical gem to your Nagpur schedule. For the best travel deals, plan a trip with TripXL, your trusted travel companion.
Cover Photo: Apeksha Singhwal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
