Nestled in the very heart of India, Nagpur is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant energy. As the third-largest city in Maharashtra and its winter capital, Nagpur is a bustling metropolis that combines its historical significance with modern advancements. Known as the “Orange City” for its famed oranges, Nagpur is not just a centre of trade but also a city that holds a unique place in the country’s geography—right at the centre, marked by the famous Zero Mile Stone.
A Glimpse into Nagpur’s History
Nagpur’s history dates back over 3000 years, with human settlements found in the region as early as the 8th century BC. The city is steeped in mythology, often associated with the Nagas—serpent deities in Indian tradition. The name Nagpur itself originates from “Nagapuram,” meaning the city of the Nagas, with its earlier name, Fanindrapur, reflecting this connection to the serpent gods.
The city was formally founded in 1703 by King Bakht Buland Shah of the Gond dynasty and later became a significant part of the Maratha Empire. Over the centuries, Nagpur evolved under various rulers, including the British, who made it the capital of the Central Provinces and Berar. Post-independence, Nagpur played a central role in the formation of modern Maharashtra and continues to hold importance as the state’s second capital, hosting the winter legislative assembly.
How to Reach Nagpur
Given its central location, reaching Nagpur is relatively straightforward, with multiple travel options available.
By Air:
Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (IATA: NAG) is the city’s primary gateway by air. Located just 9.5 km from the city centre, the airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, as well as international destinations such as Sharjah and Doha. Frequent flights make air travel to Nagpur a convenient choice for both domestic and international travellers.
By Rail:
Nagpur Junction is one of India’s oldest and busiest railway stations, a hub that connects the city to various parts of the country. With over 240 trains passing through daily, the station is a vital link for travellers. If finding a ticket to Nagpur Junction proves difficult, Ajni Station, just 3 km away, serves as a good alternative, especially for special trains.
By Road:
Nagpur’s strategic position at the intersection of NH6 and NH7 makes it easily accessible by road. Whether you prefer private or state-operated buses, or even a road trip, the journey to Nagpur is smooth and scenic, with well-maintained highways.
Getting Around Nagpur
Once in Nagpur, navigating the city is quite manageable, though a bit of planning can save you time. The city is undergoing rapid infrastructural development, including the expansion of metro services and the construction of new cement roads. These improvements, while beneficial in the long term, mean that you might need to factor in some extra travel time, typically an additional 10-15 minutes.
Local Transport:
Auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transport, though it’s important to note that most drivers do not use meter.
However, Ola and Uber are available.