Naggar Castle closed for two years as revamp work begins

The 500-year-old Naggar Castle, located in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, has been closed for two years for renovation and conservation work. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) is in charge of this project, which aims to preserve the castle's original architecture while adding modern facilities.

The renovation project, worth ₹11.57 crore, is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The work includes repairing the castle’s old structure, improving lighting, and converting unused spaces into wellness facilities. Additionally, a parking area and new toilets will be built.

Naggar Castle was built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu in 1460 AD and served as the royal residence for centuries. In 1978, the Himachal Pradesh government took over the property and converted it into a heritage hotel. The castle is an architectural marvel, built with wood and stone in a medieval style, and has remained a popular tourist attraction.

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Castle’s fascinating history

The castle houses a museum showcasing Himachal’s traditional arts and crafts, including patoos, shawls, carpets, and statues of Hindu deities in traditional attire.

Interestingly, the castle was once exchanged for a rifle. In the 17th century, King Jagat Singh of Kullu made Naggar Castle his capital. Later, in 1846, Raja Gyan Singh traded the castle for a gun owned by British officer Major Hay. The British then used the castle as a government rest house and court office before handing it over to Punjab government.

Naggar Castle has also survived major earthquakes, including the 1905 Kangra earthquake, which led IIT Roorkee to study its strong architecture.

The renovation work is expected to be completed within two years, and officials have assured that no changes will be made to its original design. The castle is one of 18 loss-making hotels under HPTDC, which were ordered to close by the Himachal Pradesh High Court last year, but the order was later stayed.

Once the renovation is complete, the castle will reopen for tourists, with improved facilities while preserving its historic charm.