Naina Devi Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, where to eat, stay and things to do in Naina Devi with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Naina Devi

Nestled in Central Himachal Pradesh, Naina Devi is a small town flanked by verdant hills and valleys. Dotted with picturesque temples, alluring lakes and never-ending natural vistas, Naina Devi is a perfect retreat for nature lovers, history buffs and spiritual seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Naina Devi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Naina Devi Temple: The chief attraction of Naina Devi, this revered temple is dedicated to Mata Naina Devi, a form of Goddess Durga. Perched atop a hill, the temple is considered a significant pilgrimage for Hindus in India.

  2. Bhakra Nangal Dam: The Bhakra Nangal Dam is a perfect spot for those interested in engineering marvels. This massive dam was built across the Sutlej River and is a significant source of hydropower and irrigation.

  3. Jaitak Fort: Once a strategic fort, this ancient structure was built by the Rajputs in the 16th century. Visitors can admire the fine architecture and learn about its engrossing history.

Natural Attractions of Naina Devi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Gobind Sagar Lake: Located near the Bhakra Nangal Dam, Gobind Sagar is a serene lake encircled by lush greenery. One can enjoy boating, fishing or simply relish breathtaking sights of nature here.

  2. Shivalik Fossil Park: Boasting a rich collection of ancient fossils, the Shivalik Fossil Park is a perfect place for nature and history aficionados. Visitors can explore the remains of the prehistoric era and gain insights into life thousands of years ago.

  3. Changer Valley National Park: Home to diverse flora and fauna, this national park is an ideal destination for adventure seekers. Visitors can indulge in camping, trekking, and wildlife safaris here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Naina Devi

  1. Naina Devi Peak Trek: A moderately difficult trek, the Naina Devi Peak trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It takes about 3-4 hours to complete the trek.

  2. Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh Trek: A relatively easy trek, this 21 km trail enables visitors to explore the picturesque countryside and witness the local day-to-day life of the villagers.

Best Things to Do in Naina Devi: Activities and Tours

  1. Attend the Naina Devi Mela: Held annually during September/ October, the Naina Devi Mela is a fascinating cultural event that showcases the traditional dance, music, and folklore of the region. Over 1 million devotees visit the temple in this period.

  2. Experience paragliding: Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape by experiencing paragliding. Tandem paragliding sessions are available with experienced pilots.

Week-Long Itinerary for Naina Devi

Day Activities
1 Arrival and check-in at a local resort/hotel, leisure time
2 Visit Naina Devi temple and nearby attractions
3 Go bird watching and explore the Shivalik Fossil Park
4 Visit Gobind Sagar Lake and Bhakra Nangal Dam
5 Enjoy trekking at Naina Devi peak or Changer Valley National Park
6 Engage in water sports at nearby rivers
7 Departure from Naina Devi

Food and Drink Scene of Naina Devi

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Dham: A popular dish, Dham is a traditional platter comprising rice, lentils, and curries in a thali.

  2. Madra: An authentic Himachali delicacy, Madra is a creamy gravy made with chickpeas, spices and yogurt.

Local Beverages

  1. Tungri: A local apple cider, Tungri is a refreshing drink made from fermented apple juice.

  2. Chaa: A popular Himachali tea, Chaa is prepared by boiling tea leaves in milk for several minutes, along with cinnamon and cardamom.

Where to Stay in Naina Devi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Naina Devi Heights

  2. Hotel Comfort Inn

  3. Govindam Regency

What to Buy in Naina Devi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handicrafts: Wooden carvings, Shawls, and jewelry are some of the popular handicrafts to buy in Naina Devi.

  2. Apple products: Naina Devi is famous for its apples. Visitors can buy apple jams, juices, and dried slices that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Naina Devi

In Naina Devi, the majority of the population speaks Hindi and Pahari. The local people are amiable and religiously inclined, and visitors are advised to be respectful to their culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Naina Devi

The ideal time to visit Naina Devi is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and apt for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Naina Devi

Do:

  1. Dress modestly when visiting the temples and other religious places to show respect to the culture.

  2. Enjoy locally sourced food and drink, which are often more flavorful than modern meals.

Don’t:

  1. Refrain from smoking in public areas.

  2. Do not talk loudly or create any disturbance at religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Naina Devi

Naina Devi is a relatively safe town. However, visitors should take necessary precautions, such as keeping valuable items safe and secured.

Health in Naina Devi

Visitors are advised to carry enough water bottles, sunscreen lotions, and insect repellents while traveling to Naina Devi. It is also advisable to carry required medications, if any.

Getting to Naina Devi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Naina Devi

The nearest airport to Naina Devi is Chandigarh International Airport, which is about 111 km from the town.

Bus Stations Near Naina Devi

There are frequent bus services to Naina Devi from major cities in Himachal Pradesh.

Other Options

Visitors can take a private taxi, hire a car or board a local bus from the nearby towns to reach Naina Devi.

How to Get Around in Naina Devi

Visitors can hire a taxi or rent a bike to explore the town efficiently. Buses also ply across the town, connecting different regions of Naina Devi.

Where to Go Next from Naina Devi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Una: Located at a distance of 87 km, Una is home to several beautiful temples, enigmatic natural vistas, and tranquil hill stations.

  2. Shimla: The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is located 110 km from Naina Devi. Shimla is known for its colonial architecture, beautiful churches, and snow-clad mountains.

Conclusion

Naina Devi is a perfect place for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure enthusiasts. The beautiful landscapes, serene temples, and the rich history of Naina Devi offer visitors an unforgettable experience. By using this comprehensive travel guide, tourists can plan their itinerary efficiently and make the most of their stay in Naina Devi.

Naina Devi Temple Naina Devi Temple