Things To Do
in Nānded

Nānded (Nanded) is a mid-sized city in Marathwada, Maharashtra, situated on the banks of the Godavari River and known for its religious significance and historic sites. It is an important Sikh pilgrimage center thanks to Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib, drawing visitors year-round for worship and festivals. The city blends Marathwada rural culture with small-city markets, lively river ghats, and a growing array of basic hotels and eateries.

While quieter than Maharashtra’s big metros, Nanded offers accessible day trips to forts, wildlife areas, and agricultural landscapes in the surrounding district.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, where the tranquil ambiance invites meditation and reflection. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby local eatery, sampling traditional dishes like poha and jalebi. As the sun rises higher, immerse yourself in the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere of the Gurudwara.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a stroll through the bustling streets of Nānded, where you can explore local shops and markets brimming with handicrafts and spices. Visit the historic Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchal Nagar Sahib, learning about its significance in Sikh history. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the nearby Khanderao Market, where the vibrant colors and sounds of local life come alive.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local café to enjoy a cup of chai while watching the lively street scenes unfold. Consider attending the evening prayer ceremony at the Gurudwara, where the atmosphere is filled with devotion and community. End your day with a relaxing walk along the Godavari River, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

day 2
Visit to the Ancient Temples
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the ancient temple complex of the Khandoba Temple in the nearby village of Mangalwedha, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings. Engage with the local priests and learn about the temple's historical significance while taking in the serene environment. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local stall, savoring the fresh idlis and coconut chutney.

afternoon
:

After a fulfilling meal, explore the intricacies of the Mahur Temple, dedicated to Goddess Renuka, and marvel at the artistry of its sculptures. Take some time to wander around the temple grounds, capturing photographs of the stunning stone carvings and the picturesque landscape. Spend your afternoon savoring a packed lunch while enjoying the views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Nānded and visit the local markets for some shopping, where you can find beautiful handmade jewelry and textiles. Relish a traditional Maharashtrian dinner at a local restaurant, featuring dishes like puran poli and thalipeeth. Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll, discussing the fascinating history of the temples you visited.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Street meal (e.g., misal pav, chaat)$1–3
🍽️Restaurant meal (mid-range)$5–10
🚕Short auto-rickshaw/taxi ride$0.5–3
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$15–35
🚌Local bus or shared transport$0.1–1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Significant religious and cultural sites like Hazur Sahib offer spiritual and architectural interest.
  • Affordable travel costs and strong local food culture.
  • Easy base for day trips to nearby wildlife areas, forts and rural landscapes.
  • Hot summers and limited air-conditioned attractions can make travel uncomfortable in peak heat.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared with larger cities.
  • Less frequent direct flights and fewer upscale tourist services than major metros.
  • "Namaste / Sat Sri Akal" - Hello / Sikh greeting
  • "Dhanyavaad / Thank you" - Thank you
  • "Kitne ka hai?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Kya aap angrezi bolte/bolti hain?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
  • "Bhai / Behen" - Brother / Sister (casual respectful address)

Places to Visit in Nānded

Visit one of these nice places.

Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib (Hazur Sahib)

Architecturally striking Gurdwara complex on the Godavari, best photographed at sunrise or during evening ceremonies—observe photography rules and dress respectfully.

Godavari Ghats

Riverbanks and steps provide evocative scenes of daily life, festivals, boats and evening lamps; great for sunrise and sunset shots capturing reflections and rituals.

Old Market Lanes and Bazaars

Colourful stalls, textiles, spices and candid street scenes make lively compositions; shoot early morning for cooler light and less crowding.

Nearby Forts and Ruins

Historic forts and ruins in the district offer panoramic landscapes and textured stonework; ideal for golden-hour photography on clear days.

Purna Wildlife / Rural Landscapes

Woodlands, scrub, and agricultural landscapes near the sanctuary provide opportunities for birding and nature photography—bring a telephoto lens for wildlife.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nānded

Nanded’s cuisine reflects Marathwada flavors: hearty, spicy, and based on millets and grains (jowar, bajra), lentils, and local vegetables. You’ll find traditional Maharashtrian home-style cooking, Punjabi and North Indian influences due to Sikh pilgrims, and plenty of street-food options in markets and near the ghats.

Nānded Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Misal Pav

A spicy sprout curry topped with farsan (crunchy savory), served with pav (bread); widely available at roadside stalls and small eateries.

Must-Try!

Jowar/Bhakri with Zunka

Traditional millet flatbread (jowar or bajra bhakri) eaten with spicy gram-fry (zunka) and onion-tomato sides—authentic Marathwada comfort food found in local homes and dhabas.

Thali/Marathwada Thali

Simple, filling meal with several vegetable dishes, dal, rice, roti and pickles; offered at many vegetarian restaurants and family eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Main Market / Station Road Stalls

Clustered street stalls and small shops selling chaat, vada pav, samosas, and sweets; try pav bhaji, sev puri and local fried snacks here.

Ghats and Riverside Vendors

Vendors by the Godavari ghats sell tea, roasted corn, sweets and light snacks—ideal after an early-morning or evening ghat visit.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nanded has a semi-arid to tropical climate: hot, dry summers (Apr–Jun), a monsoon season with most annual rainfall (Jun–Sep), and mild to cool winters (Nov–Feb). Annual temperatures range widely—heat is the defining feature in summer, while winters are comfortable for outdoor exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Religious Respect

When visiting the Gurdwara, cover your head, remove shoes, and enter with modest clothing; follow the langar (community kitchen) etiquette and photography rules inside sacred spaces.

Modest Dress

Dress conservatively in public places—avoid revealing clothing, especially near religious sites and in rural areas.

Greeting and Interaction

Use 'Namaste' or 'Sat Sri Akal' in Sikh contexts as respectful greetings; ask permission before photographing people, especially women.

Social Norms

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many parts of the city; remove shoes when entering homes and some shops, and accept hospitality politely.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nanded is generally safe for visitors, but normal precautions apply: avoid poorly lit streets at night, secure valuables, and be cautious when using unmetered taxis or accepting unsolicited help. Be mindful of heavy traffic and two-wheeler congestion; carry water and sun protection in hot months. For emergency medical needs, go to a recognized hospital or the medical college hospital.

Tipping in Nānded

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is modest and discretionary: 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, a small tip (₹10–50) for porters or hotel staff, and rounding up fares for drivers/auto-rickshaws is common.

Payment Methods

Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used for markets and small vendors; digital payments (UPI apps, Paytm) are popular and accepted at many shops. Credit/debit cards work in larger hotels and restaurants but may not be accepted in small stalls.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

April–June are hot and dry; daytime temperatures often exceed 35–40°C (95–104°F). Travel early or late in the day, stay hydrated, wear sun protection and plan indoor/rest breaks during peak heat.

Monsoon

June–September brings the southwest monsoon with moderate to heavy rainfall some years—roads can be slippery and some rural tracks may get muddy, but the countryside turns green and river levels rise.

Winter

November–February are mild and pleasant, with cool nights; daytime is comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities—this is the best time to visit for festivals and comfortable weather.

Festival Times

During Sikh festivals (e.g., Guru Nanak Jayanti, anniversaries at Hazur Sahib) and local Marathi festivals, the city becomes busier, transport and accommodation fill up—book ahead and expect crowds near pilgrimage sites.

Nightlife Guide

Nānded at Night

Nanded’s nightlife is low-key: evening activities center on religious gatherings, quiet riverfront walks, small cafes and market shopping. There are some late-night eateries and local hangouts, but no club or bar scene like in metros—most social life winds down by late evening except during festivals.

Hiking in Nānded

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kandhar Fort Trail

A historical fort hike in the district offering panoramic views and exploration of ruins; suitable for a half-day trip from Nanded.

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Trails

Marked nature trails and forest tracks for birdwatching, short hikes and wildlife spotting—best in the cooler months.

Rural Village Walks and Hillocks

Local dirt tracks and small hillocks around Nanded offer easy walking routes through farmland and village life; ideal for morning or late-afternoon excursions.

Airports

How to reach Nānded by plane.

Nanded Airport (Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport) - NDC

Local airport with domestic flights connecting to regional hubs; convenient for direct access to the city (short drive to central Nanded).

Aurangabad Airport (IXU)

Larger regional airport (a couple of hours’ drive) with more frequent domestic connections—useful if flight options to Nanded are limited.

Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD)

Major international airport approximately a few hours’ drive away; offers extensive domestic and international connections and can be a gateway for international travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Central Nanded—around the ghats, markets and main religious sites—is reasonably walkable for short distances; narrow lanes and crowded bazaars require attentive walking. For longer distances, use auto-rickshaws or taxis. Comfortable walking is best in the cooler hours of morning and evening.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Marathi-speaking population

The majority are Marathi-speaking Hindus with Marathwada cultural traditions and cuisine.

Sikh community and pilgrims

A significant Sikh presence centered around Hazur Sahib; pilgrims from across India visit year-round, especially during festivals.

Muslim and other communities

Muslim families and other regional groups contribute to the city’s cultural diversity, seen in cuisine and religious sites.

Rural and agricultural communities

Surrounding villages and farming communities shape the district’s economy and seasonal rhythms.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport, played in schools, local grounds and by amateur clubs across the city.

Kabaddi and Kushti (Wrestling)

Traditional rural sports such as kabaddi and local wrestling are common and followed enthusiastically in district competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nanded is typical of Indian tier-2 cities: a steady mix of two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, buses and cars with occasional congestion in market areas and near pilgrimage sites. Public transportation includes local buses and shared autos; auto-rickshaws are convenient for short trips but often operate on negotiated fares. Allow extra time during festivals or peak market hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nānded.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian diets are easy to manage—many eateries are vegetarian or offer strictly vegetarian thalis. Ask about ghee or butter if avoiding dairy and look for 'sukhe' (dry) preparations.

Vegan / Dairy-Free

Vegan options are limited but possible—request dishes without ghee, curd or paneer and choose lentil-based and vegetable curries. Carry snacks if you have strict needs.

Gluten-Free

Many dishes are millet- or rice-based (jowar bhakri, rice), so gluten-free travelers can find options; confirm that fried items are not cross-contaminated with wheat-based batters.

Allergies

Clearly state allergies (in writing if necessary) as smaller stalls may not know English terms; avoid street food if you have severe allergies or eat at established restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Nanded has a mix of government and private hospitals, including a government medical college hospital and several private clinics capable of handling routine emergencies. For advanced tertiary care or specialized treatments, patients may be referred to larger centers such as Aurangabad or Hyderabad. Carry basic medications, insect repellent for rural trips, and travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for serious cases.

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