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Hey all,
We are excited to host WordCamp in the city for the first time. This Post is for people travelling to Nagpur for WordCamp. Outlined as follows:

• About Nagpur City
• How to get in the City
• How to get around the City
• Where to Stay
• Where to Shop
• What to See in Nagpur City
• What to See around Nagpur City
• Local Lingo
• Where to Work
• Helplines

Where to Eat is intentionally out of this Post, local eateries & dishes are gonna have another post.

About Nagpur City

Welcome to Nagpur – “second capital” of Maharashtra state, means some administrative functions are carried out here, and winter sessions of the Legislative Assembly in a year occur here.
History
Human settlements around Nagpur can be traced back 3000 years to the 8th century BC. Indian epics mention the city as being home to the Nagas – a class of entity that take the form of great King Cobra. The name Nagpur has its origin in Nagapuram (city of the Nagas). In fact, earlier names of the city, Fanindrapur, derived from the word ‘fana’ that means hood of a cobra.

The city was founded in 1703 by the Gonds King Bakht Buland Shah of Deogarh and later became a part of the Maratha Empire under the Bhosale dynasty. The British East India Company took over Nagpur in the 19th century and made it the capital of the Central Provinces and Berar.

After Indian Independence in 1947, Central Provinces and Berar became a province of India and in 1950 became the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, again with Nagpur as its capital. When the Indian states were reorganised along the linguistic lines in 1956, Nagpur and Berar regions were transferred to Bombay state, which in 1960 was split between the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat. The city lost its status as the capital. Following the informal “Nagpur Pact” between political leaders, it was made the second capital of Maharashtra.

Nagpur completed 300 years of establishment in the year 2002.

Enough of History, nowadays Nagpur is also known as “Orange City” as it is famous for the oranges. The city is the major trade centre of Oranges cultivated in the region.

Nagpur is home to ice-cream manufacturer Dinshaws, Indian dry food manufacturer Haldiram’s international and Ayurvedic products company Vicco and Baidyanath.

Nagpur is practically at the geographical centre of India, the zero-mile of India is in this city. Travelling to this city is not the Problem.

How to get in the City

City Located at Center of Country, you can follow any of the following routes:

By Air
Nagpur Airport is one of the busiest airports in India. 9.6 Km from the Chitnavis Centre – WordCamp Nagpur Venue. Nagpur Airport is connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Raipur, Nashik, Bangalore, Ahemadabad, Indore, Pune, Sharjah (UAE), Doha(Qatar).

Check for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (IATA: NAG, ICAO: VANP) if you are flying to Nagpur.

By Rail Route
Nagpur Junction railway station, one of the oldest and busiest Stations of Nagpur was inaugurated in its present form on Jan 15th, 1925. The only functioning diamond crossing (or level junction) remaining in India is around 500 m from the end of the Nagpur Railway Station platform, going north.

Around 240+ train comes to the Main station of the city. Nagpur Railway station is around 3 km from Chitnavis Centre.

While Booking Train tickets if you find hard to get a clear ticket to Nagpur station, check for Ajni Station. Ajni Station is in the city just 3km earlier to Nagpur station and 6km from Chitnavis Centre. Usually, summer special trains end to Ajni instead of Nagpur station.

By Road
Nagpur is a major junction for roadways as India’s two major national highways NH6 and NH7 crossing in the city. Private and State operated buses are available to travel to Nagpur. The road towards the city is awesome for riders.

How to get around the City

Unlike roads towards the city, there are many infrastructural changes going on in the city. Metro and Cement roads are mentionable. With respect to Scorching Summer heat of Nagpur and water problems in Vidarbha Region, Road works are delayed as cement work will need more water. So make sure you add 5-10 minutes extra while travelling in the city.

Autowala’s are Adamant, they don’t use the meter. Normally for any travel, they charge the minimum cost of 1-litre fuel.

Jugnoo, Ola & Uber are available options.

Where to Stay

Following are some known places to stay in Nagpur, and are 15 min drive from Venue or Airport / Railway Station. Grab the best deal from your favourite Hotel Booking aggregator!

• Hotel Center Point, Ramdaspeth
• Tuli Imperial
• Tuli International Hotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel
• Pride Hotel
• Airport Center Point
• Heritage Hotel
• Travotel Suites
• Hotel Adi
• Hotel Nagpur Ashok
• Hardeo Hotel
• Hotel Dua Continental
• Hotel Parashar Check Inn
• Hotel Amrta
• Flora Inn
• Peanut Hotel
• Jog House
• Seven Suites Apartment
• Hotel Gayatri Inn

There’s Dorm facility available near Airport.
Sankalp Dormitory, Call for Mr Amit – 8888803306

Where to Shop

During summers don’t forget to buy Oranges. Nagpur is easily called “Orange City” of India. If you are missing summer, then try Orange Burfi, a papaya based sweet with orange flavour.

Itwari, Sitabuldi, Sadar and Dharampeth areas are especially known as shopping areas due to a large number of shops and pavement hawkers in these areas. A bargain is MUST in case you are not familiar with the area.

Nagpur is also famous for Cotton articles. Various handicrafts mostly cotton based can be purchased from Sitabuldi, Itwari markets.

What to See in city

Raman Science Center
The Raman Science Centre at Nagpur is an interactive science centre affiliated with Mumbai’s Nehru Science Centre. The centre was developed to promote a scientific attitude, portray the growth of science and technology and their applications in industry and human welfare, and hold science exhibits.

Zero Mile Stone of India
At the centre of Nagpur city “Zero Milestone of India” is located from where the distance to all the cities of India is calculated.

Vivekanand Smarak
This Smarak is an island, on the lines of famous Swami Vivekanand Kendra at Kanyakumari, at the overflow point of Ambazari lake. One of the best Sunset Point of the city.

Dr Hedgewar Smriti Smarak
Smirti mandir is a magnificent monument built in memory of Dr Hedgewar the founder of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Water Sides

Ambazari Lake
The lake is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden that adds to its splendour. It was established in 1958 on an area of 20 acres of land. The musical fountain, various electric rides and amusement games make this garden an ideal place to travel and children to enjoy.

Futala Lake
The lake is the spot to relax during evenings and weekends with kids playing park, impressive soft sandy shore, well-laid roads and colourful illuminating lights.

Shukrawari Lake
The lake is located at a natural scenic place. The lake is calm and is a hub of many water bodies.

Historical Places

Sitabuldi Fort – Located on top of a hill, right in the centre of the city, this fort is the site of the Battle of Sitabuldi in 1817 was built by Mudhoji II Bhonsle. The fort is now home to the Indian Army’s 118th infantry battalion and is open to the public on National holidays only.

Religious Places

Bohra Masjid, Itwari
Bohra Masjid is an architecturally constructed beautiful mosque in Shantinagar, Itwari. Bohra Masjid is the mosque for the Dawoodi Bohra community in Nagpur. This mosque witnesses huge crowd for the prayers on Fridays.

Deekshabhoomi
Deekshabhoomi is a sacred monument of Buddhism at the place where Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar was converted to Buddhism along with thousands of his followers on October 14, 1956. Dr Ambedkar’s conversion to Buddhism is still a guidance for the masses in India.

Gajanan Maharaj Mandir, Zenda Chauk
The temple of Sant Gajanan Maharaj of Shegaon is organised by Yogiraj Gajanan Seva Pratisthan, Temple in Zenda Chowk Dharampeth is the oldest temple after Shegaon.

Sri Balaji and Sri Kartikeya Temple, Seminary Hills
Situated in the serene and picturesque surroundings of the seminary hills, the Balaji temple attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year. This temple also houses the idols of Lord Kartikeya who is believed to be the commander of the army of Gods.

Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir
Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, which was built in 1923. Constructed out of marble and adorned with sandstone carving work, this temple enshrines the idols of Lord Rama, Sita Mata and Lakshmana

Telankhedi Shiv Mandir
A marvellous structure of the Nandi adorns the entrance of the temple. The Sanctorum is small but very attractive. The temple dates back to many years, is witnessing a huge flow of devotees during the important festival days.

Tekdi Ganpati
The Ganapati temple is one of the most ancient and popular temples of Nagpur. It is believed to be approximately 250 years old. One of Vidarbha Ashtavinayak Temples

Ayyapa Mandir, Katol Road
The Beautiful temple of Lord Ayyappa, Maintained by Shree Ayyappa Seva Samithi, Nagpur.

Gurudwara Ramdaspeth
Ramdaspeth Gurudwara is devoted to the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ramdas. This magnificent monument is a fine example of Sikh religious architecture. It is said that those who visit Ramdaspeth Gurudwara will be blessed with mental peace.

Jama Masjid, Mominpura
Jama Masjid is a mosque in Mominpura, Nagpur. The mosque has beautiful architecture, dome in its centre and four minarets.

Taajbagh
The Mausoleum of Baba Tajuddin is on Umred road in Nagpur City. He was a revered Muslim saint and had an extensive following in the region. This place is visited by people of all faiths and religions. Big annual Urs held in his honour here.

Dragon Palace Temple, Kamptee
Dedicated to Lord Buddha, the temple is an exemplary piece of architecture and picturesque landscape, which was founded by Mother Noriko Ogawa Society of Japan.

Swami Narayan Mandir, Wathoda
The Beautiful Swami Narayan temple located on Ring road of the city has beautiful architecture and landscaping. This Mandir comes under the LaxmiNarayan Dev Gadi.

What to See Around city

Water Sides

Ambakhori (90 km from City)
It is best in winter, though it tends to be crowded on weekends. It is yet to be developed to its full potential. Waterfalls and a forest are the main attractions.

Khekranala (60km from City)
Khekranala is a dam site situated in Khapra range forest. This area is palm green and finest natural and fascinating with a bracing climate and healthy environment round the year. The water reservoir is quite and surrounded by thick forest.

Khindsi Lake (55km from City)
Famous mainly for its large and picturesque lake. Boating facilities are also offered.

Nawegaon Dam (138km from City)
Nawegaon, Vidarbha’s most popular forest resort, is the ultimate adventure spot. It is said to have been built by Kolu Patel Kohli in the beginning of the 18th century.

Ambhora (74km from City)
Ambhora lies just at the threshold of Vainganga River and serves as the venue of three fairs, held on annual basis. The other attractions of the town consist of the famous temple of Chaitanyesvara. Then, there is the tomb of Har Har Swami, a Hindu Saint.

Totladoh (96km from City)
Totladoh Dam is a gravity dam on Pench river near Ramtek in Nagpur district. Encircled by Pench National Park, this is a lifeline of Nagpur for the supply of drinking water and is important for cooling water for the super thermal power station at Koradi, Nagpur. Besides all the boring info, it’s nice place to hangout

Wadgaon Dam (44km from City)
Vadgaon Lake and dam is an ideal place for a pleasant day weekend outing. This reservoir is a well-known haunt of the local bird watching community, though it is slightly neglected by the authorities. The calm waters and the surrounding lush green serene landscape offers plenty of wonderful picnic spots. A beautiful garden and a large statue of Sant Dyaneshwar is located nearby Vadgaon Lake which is clearly visible from the dam site.

Historical Places & Forts

Nagardhan (44km from City)
Nagardhan, ancient Nandivardhan, the first capital of the Vakatakas, Square in shape, it has an outer rampart with bastions and had an inner wall surrounding the buildings. The main gate, still in good condition, is on the north-west side. In the fort there is a temple below the ground level and the idol is placed on a ledge of a well-like structure.

Ramtek Fort Temple (56km from City)
It is located on the Ramgiri Hill. This historical temple, constructed atop the hill at an elevation of 345 metres from land is believed to be more than 600 years old and is dedicated to Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana. The present temple is believed to have been built by the King of Nagpur Raghuji Bhonsale, after his victory over fort of Deogarh in Chindwara.

Mansar (50km from City)
Important excavations were carried out at the ancient sites of Mansar. 5 sites have been excavated. The water reservoir around the site and findings of ancient tools and other objects point to the fact that a large population inhabited the area 1600 years ago. The discovery has made Mansar one of the prime archaeological sites in the country

Darekasa Caves (190km from City)
At Darekasa, Some of the caves are naturally formed and some are artificially made and are known as Kachgad or iron fort. These caves are formed out of single rock and can accommodate around 200 persons at the same time.

Forest & Resorts

Pench National Park (86km from City)
National Park is a place good for a day’s visit. It is built around the Pench Irrigation project, a joint venture of the Maharashtra and MP Governments. This park is also known as Jawaharlal Nehru Udyan.

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Nawegaon (138km from City)
Three beautiful gardens and the children’s park. Almost 60% of the bird’s species found in Maharashtra have been recorded in Nawegaon. You may see the leopard, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, chital.

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (145km from City)
Tadoba Andhari Reserve often referred as “The Jewel of Vidharba” is the largest national park in Maharashtra

Hemalkasa (330km from City)
The forest is very vast, and all kinds of animals like monkeys, snakes etc. could be seen while travelling here.

Bhamragarh Wildlife Sanctuary (330km from City)
Bhamragarh Wildlife Sanctuary has many types of wild animals like leopard, jungle fowl, wild boar and sloth bear, barking deer, blue bull, peacock and flying squirrel.

Nagzira Wild Life Sanctuary (111km from City)
The vertebrate fauna of sanctuary includes 166 species of birds, 36 species of reptiles, and 34 species of mammals like Tiger, Panther, Jungle cat, Wolf, Jackel etc.

Religious Places

Ganesh Temple, Adasa (45km from City)
In the temple of Ganpati, the image consists of a single stone set up so that worshippers may walk around it. On a hill near the village is a temple of Mahadeo with three lingas, which are believed to have come out of the ground by themselves.

Vitthal Mandir, Dhapewada (30km from City)
Dhapewada is situated on the bank of Chandrabhaga river. The town possesses a notable temple of Vithoba, overlooking the river. It was built by Umaji Aba, Diwan to Raja Baji Rao Bhonsle. Dhapewada is being known as Vidarbha’s Pandharpur.

Ashta Bahu Ganesh Mandir, Ramtek (56km from City)
A Beautiful idol of Lord Ganesh here has 18 hands and is in the Temple complex on the hill fort popularly known as Ramtek.

Kuwara Bhivsen (60km from City)
A temple and picnic spot on the Pench river Dam at Navegaon Khairi in Nagpur District. A hill by the village contains the remains of an old fort, its summit being encircled with walls made of ponderous masses of rock.

Koradi Mandir (18km from City)
Shree Mahalaxmi Jagdamba Mata Mandir alias Koradi Temple, located on the banks of Koradi Lake, is an old historical temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi. The temple complex is crowded by huge mass during nine days long Navratri festival. On these festive days, at night more than 50,000 lamps were lighted at the temple premises.

Geetai Mandir (78km from City)
Unique temple in India which has no deity and roof. It has just walls made of granite slabs on which 18 chapters of Geetai (Shrimad-Bhagwat-Gita in Marathi)

Paramdham Ashram, Pavnar (70km from City)
The ashram was established by Acharya Vinoba Bhave in 1934 at Pawnar on the bank of river Dham with spiritual purpose. During excavation for construction of ashram, many sculptures and idols were found which are kept at the ashram and open to visitors.

Mahatma Gandhi Ashram, Sewagram (75km from City)
The ashram was built by him for Gandhi at outskirts of Wardha, The premise is very calming. All the things used by Gandhi and others are preserved here including his spectacles, telephone, notebook, tables, mats, etc.

Magan museum (78km from City)
The main purpose of this Museum is to spread awareness about research and development of rural industries, rural artisans, methods to promote Swadeshi movement, etc. Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1938

Local Lingo

Nagpurkar’s uses Nagpuri Dialect in Hindi or Marathi. For Example, Hao, Hao means yes. Derived from Ha (yes in Hindi) and Ho (yes in
Marathi)

You can find a complete dictionary of such words here

Need a place to work?

While most hotels provide free Wi-Fi, it might not a be suitable for work. You might end up with slow internet speed and connectivity limitations. To solve this problem, we have arranged the following facilities for you.

Chaos Theory
The Hottest and Newest Coworking space in town. Has 50MBPS internet. Normally the place is filled with Individuals and startups. you can schedule desk on the daily and hourly basis at very affordable prices. Book your Seat

Acequare
Office Located at Gayatri Nagar, IT Park. It’s the place where we organisers keep rushing for planning things. Has good Internet speed. Acequare has around 40 seating capacity, can easily accommodate 5 to 6 guest. Contact Saurabh – 88888 57920

Need any help?

We tried, to sum-up many things in the single post, Need some help? we got Helpline groups on Whatsapp and Telegram. Join the group on your favourite messaging app using links below:
Whatsapp – https://chat.whatsapp.com/GWiEh4Weu32L5rGNhaG3zA
Telegram – https://t.me/joinchat/AAAAAENzXz-9El5pNyrG0w

Reference:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagpur
http://wikitravel.org/en/Nagpur
https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverVidarbha/

Choosing a venue for WordCamp was the one of the hardest decision. Following are some points we keep in mind while shortlisting the venue:

• The venue had to be at the centre of the city. So that it is convenient for all.
• The venue should have multiple halls and open areas for parallel tracks and networking.
• The venue should have amenities to assist people with impaired mobility.
• The venue Promoters should be supportive.

After visiting almost about 20+ venues across the city we narrowed it down to the choice of Chitnavis Centre. It is the centre of the country, literally just 1.3 km away from zero mile monument.

Chitnavis Centre is centrally located in Civil lines, Nagpur in a large campus admeasuring 4.42 acres. Centre has multiple properties equipped audio-visual facilities for seminars, workshops, training sessions, conferences, dance recitals, plays, music concerts, art exhibitions, film festivals, expositions and many other events.

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Chitnavis Centre is run by NGO – Sir Gangadharao Chitnavis Memorial Medical Research Trust (reg. No. E-831 dt.31.1.1973). It is a charitable trust working in the field of human welfare, human rights, medical relief, education, promotion of art and culture and protection of the environment.

Revenues generated from the Chitnavis Centre are channelized towards many social projects which are managed by the trust.

Regular sessions, various events, activities, and campaigns are organised in the city, under following names we know:

• Pranav – Early intervention centre for hearing impaired Children
• Children’s Movement for Civic Awareness (CMCA) – to promote democracy, citizenship values and civic awareness among children and youth.
• Manjiri – to empower women to help them participate in the growth and development of India
• Akshar – Free of Cost computer classes to underprivileged children, especially from nearby slums.
• Children’s Library, Mahal – The library stocks books from school textbooks to novels, comics and magazines. Books are available in three languages- Hindi, Marathi & English. Library is located at Chitnavis Wada, Mahal

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With all above goodness of people behind Chitnavis Centre, the venue is well maintained, lush green, at centre, without noise and very well built with ample parking. Perfect place for first WordCamp in the city.

A gentle reminder that early birds tickets are already open and going out fast. Book yours today! 🙂