Whether you are on a solo bike trip or a family vacation to Himachal, take a detour to the beautiful, as its name itself says, Sunder Nagar. You will experience serenity in the atmosphere and warmth in the simplicity of the people. The fresh air will refresh your senses, the food will delight your tastebuds and the overgrown trees will make you feel tiny.
The town is a small one, but its beauty is extraordinary. You can take lazy strolls, visit landmarks, sink in its architectural beauty, or go for a picnic in the campgrounds. Read on, as we provide you with everything you wish to know, from an overview of Sunder Nagar and how you can reach there to what to see and more.
Sunder Nagar: An Overview
Sunder Nagar was earlier known as Suket. It was a princely state that’s believed to have been formed in 765 AD by Bira Sen. The Sen dynasty was from Bengal. The state of Suket was always at odds with the kingdom of Kullu. Raja Bikram Sen of Suket then managed to ensure better relations with Kullu and the British during their reign. After independence, Sundar Nagar became a part of the Union of India.
Where is Sunder Nagar? Well, it is 26 km from Mandi and located at a height of 1174 meters above sea level. The city is a perfect tourist spot for both peace seekers and pilgrims. It is rich in natural beauty, temples, and legends associated with them. The tales go as far as Pandavas of Mahabharata. Plus, there is the Beas Sutlej Link Project here, which is Asia’s fourth-largest hydel project. Then there is Sunder Nagar Lake, which is also one of the prime tourist attractions.
Highlights
| How to reach | Take the KLK SHATABDI SPL train from Chandigarh Railway Station to Kalka Railway Station. If you are arriving from Delhi, take the SVDK VANDE BHARAT train to reach Kalka. You can reach Kullu if you are traveling from Delhi by plane. By road, it is 372.2 km away from Dehradun. |
| Best Rivers | Sunder Nagar is blessed with some beautiful lakes, including Prashar Lake, Rewalsar Lake, etc. The main river is Beas. |
| Population | 111,351 |
| Best months to visit | October to November, March to May |
| Best places to visit | Kamrunag Temple, Mahamaya Temple, Shikari Devi Temple, Murari Devi Temple, Sukhdev Vatika, Prashar Lake, and more |
| Best places to stay | Bhojpur, Harinagar, Barmana, etc. |
Why Visit Sunder Nagar?
Sunder Nagar, Himachal is a quite town. That’s why it is the best place to visit with a tight schedule. If you are short on holidays or just want to take a few casual leaves to enjoy your time with your companion, Sunder Nagar awaits you. You can explore the whole place in just one day. Truth be told, people usually come here for trekking and a small haul when they are traveling to more prolific tourist destinations in the neighborhood like Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala, etc.
The city is home to several lakes, temples, monasteries, and landmarks. Here’re the top places to visit in Sunder Nagar.
1. Murari Devi Temple
This temple was established by Pandavas during their “Agyatvas”. But the story of Murari Devi goes way back before it. A demon named Moor pleased Lord Brahma and asked him for a boon to become immortal. Brahma denied him and said, “no one will kill you, human, animal, or God, but a girl will kill you”.
Riding high on the boon, the high-headed and devious demon tortured humans and even captured heaven. When humans and Gods pleaded to Lord Vishnu for help, he confronted the demon but couldn’t kill him. Recalling the boon, Lord Vishnu sneaked into a cave for a nap. When Moor came calling for him, he found a girl born from Lord Vishnu’s five senses.
The girl challenged Moor and beheaded him after an intense battle. The Devi was named Murari Devi, meaning the goddess who beheaded the demon Moor. Later, she asked Pandavas to make a temple for her. The footprints of Pandavas can be seen here.
2. Sukhdev Vatika
Vatika means garden. Sukhdev Vatika is a beautiful garden where one can go for a lazy stroll amidst the beauty of nature. There is a cave in this garden, which is believed to connect the Vatika with Haridwar. It is said that Saint Sukhdev meditated here and through this cave; he dipped in the Ganges every morning. The place is filled with trees and beautiful blossoms where locals come for a peaceful and refreshing time after a day’s work.
3. Sunder Nagar Lake
If you take a walk alongside this lake, you will find it virtually never-ending. A part of the Beas-Sutlej Link Project, the man-made lake spreads across the heart of Sunder Nagar. The water is diverted at Pandoh dam, and through a canal, it finds its way to the Sunder Nagar Lake. During the evening, the lake looks magical. Many tourists and locals, especially youngsters, are seen hanging around here as the evening approaches.
4. Shikari Devi Temple
Shikhar means peak. This temple is situated at the height of 3359 meters and is 18 km from Janjehli. There are 602 stairs to reach the temple, and the trek is one of the most beautiful treks in Himachal. The apple orchards, pine and deodar forests, and clouds hovering over the mountains make the place magical. The view from up here is magnificent, and you can see as far as Shimla. You can stay at the top of the forest guesthouse by booking room in advance.
5. Mahamaya Temple
One of the most sacred places in the town, the temple is perched at an elevation of 1174 meters. The temple is dedicated to Mother Goddess and populated by idols of Shiv Parvati, Devi Mahamaya, and Lord Vishnu with his wife Laxmi. The throng of pilgrims never stops coming here. It is a relatively new temple built by the then King of Sunder Nagar in 1932.
It is the only temple in town where a Gurudwara is situated in the temple compound. Sukhdev Vatika is nearby. What makes it more appealing is its stunning architecture. The view from the top is awe-inspiring. Never forget to visit it on your visit to Sundar Nagar.
6. Kamrunag Temple
Remember the tale of Yaksha of Mahabharata, who quizzed the Pandavas and killed four of them? That same Yaksha temple with a lake nearby is situated at Kamrunag temple, still worshipped by local Hindu devotees. The temple and the lake are situated at 3334 meters above sea level, and it takes almost 3-4 hours to complete the journey of the lake and temple on foot.
Devotees pray to Lord Kamrunag in anticipation of health and prosperity. They even drop gold, silver, and other metals in the lake. You can’t imagine how much gold and silver lies at the bottom of the lake. The main attraction of this place is the surrounding thick forests and serene atmosphere. Also, the view of the town at the bottom is simply stunning.
7. Parashar Lake
This place is not situated in Sunder Nagar. Rather, you’ll have to cover 77 km from the bus stand to be here. It has an impressive elevation of 2730 meters above sea level. Imagine green mountains on all sides, a lake in between, spanning meadows and green grounds, and a temple. That’s what Prashar Lake is all about. This place is spiritual, beautiful, and peaceful, making it one of the best Sunder Nagar tourist places.
The lake is one of the most beautiful things you’ll ever come across. It has crystal clear water and a small floating island in the center, which keeps changing its position.
As per the legend, Saint Parashar had meditated here. He is the father of the great saint Ved Vyas who is credited with writing Mahabharata. There is a pagoda-styled temple dedicated to Sage Parashar. It was built by King Ban Sen in the 14th century. The forest, snow-capped mountains, a view of flowing Beas, and grazing cows and horses transport you into another world. Whether you are alone, on a honeymoon, or with family, this place is a must-visit.
8. Rewalsar Lake
Only 20 kilometers from Sunder Nagar is the union of three prominent religions of India- Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhism. There are three Buddhist monasteries, a Gurdwara, and temples of Sage Lomas, Lord Krishna, and Lord Shiva situated on the banks of the lake. It is square-shaped with 735 meters of shoreline.
There are several stories related to this place. It is said that Guru Gobind Singh Ji had fled to Rewalsar from Mughals and asked the local kings to help him fight back. The place houses a Gurudwara Shri Rewalsar Sahib, which was built by King Joginder Sen in 1930. Devotees grace this place on Baisakhi to take dips in the lake and rinse their sins.
Sage Lomas is believed to have meditated here and pleased Lord Shiva. It is also said that Buddhist scholar Padmasambhava had used teleportation or his supreme powers to go to Tibet from Rewalsar. And, the tiny islands that float in the lake have his spirit. There is a 123-feet high statue of Padmasambhava, aka Guru Rimpoche. Six lakes are nearby, each deserving your visit. Also, a local zoo is there, which is worth visiting for any animal lover.
Best Hotels to Stay in Sunder Nagar
Sunder Nagar is a place where you can find affordable hotel rooms for a comfortable stay with friends or family. Your best options include:
1. Polo Regency
Polo Regency provides regular as well as guest rooms at affordable costs. You can access the hotel on foot from Sundernagar Bus Stand.
- AC and non-AC rooms are available
- Tasty food available
- Transport Facility
Price: Starts from INR 2,799
Location: Harinagar, Sundarnagar
2. Hotel Valley View
Hotel Valley View is located on NH 21, close to Mandi. The hotel offers 31 rooms in different categories, such as regular and guests. The hotel also hosts marriage ceremonies within budget.
- Free parking facility
- Restaurants, bars, longues
- Laundry service
- Room service
- Pets allowed
Price: INR 2,080
3. The Regent Palms Hotel
The Regent Palms Hotel is a 3-star hotel in Seri Bazar, Near Kargil Park, Mandi. It provides an eye-catching view of the mountains. The hotel has everything you are looking for including restaurant, bar, spa, etc. It’s a perfect place for hosting conferences as well.
- Free parking
- Free WiFi
- Laundry service
- Room service
- Air conditioning
Price: INR 1,911
4. Hotel Panchwati
Hotel Panchwati is located at Bilaspur, NH21, Chandigarh-Manali highway. It is a small hotel but romantic and comfortable place that offers free Internet facilities and air-conditioned rooms.
- Free breakfast provided
- Free High-Speed Internet (WiFi)
- Free parking
- Room service
Price: INR 2,544
5. RS Sarovar Portico
This one is situated at Dharamshala Road Near Ram Chowk but is a little more expensive than the rest on the list. Go for RS Sarovar Portico if you wish to savor luxury and great hospitality.
- Fitness Center with Gym
- Free breakfast
- Free High-Speed Internet (WiFi)
- Babysitting
- Hiking
- Walking tours
- Housekeeping
- Flatscreen TV
- Children Activities (Kids/Family Friendly)
Price: INR 5,935 for one room
Best Resorts to Relax in Sunder Nagar
If budget isn’t a constraint, prefer staying at a resort. Let’s discover the options.
1. Midway Tourist Resorts
Midway Tourist Resorts is located at Sunder Nagar, Slapper, Mandi. This resort also acts as a hotel since the average costs are lower than most luxury resorts. It is a one-stop destination if you are planning on a low-cost stay near Sunder Nagar.
- In House Restaurant
- Free WiFi
- Room Service
- Soundproof Rooms
- Dry Cleaning
- Restaurant available
Price: Starts from INR 1190
2. Visco Resort
Visco Resort, located near Gutkar, Mandi, is a perfect place for enjoyment with your family or a group of friends. The resort, well-decorated with brilliant decor, is a comfortable place for the guests keen on accessing the top-notch amenities the resort has to offer.
- In-house Restaurant
- WiFi Available
- Housekeeping
- Garden
- Parking Available
- A large swimming pool
- AC banquet hall
3. Munish Resorts
Munish Resorts is located at Bhiuli, Mandi Town. It is a popular rental accommodation provider, thanks to an ideal location, great rooms, and luxurious amenities.
- In-house restaurants
- Doctor on call
- Indoor games
- Kids playing areas
- WiFi service
- Room service
- AC and non-AC rooms
Price: Starts from INR 2333
4. AmPm Resort
AmPm Resort is located at NH21, Pandoh, Mandi. With a price range starting from 3000, it’s easy on the pocket. The resort provides quality services including doctors on call, tattoo parlors, etc.
- Pets allowed
- Luxurious interior
- Multi-cuisine restaurant
- Bar
- Playground for kids
Price: INR 3000
5. Himgiri Resort
Himgiri Resort is situated in Himgiri Bhavan in Ner Chowk, Mandi. The resort is easily accessible from Kullu-Manali Airport.
- CCTV Cameras
- In House Restaurant
- Daily Housekeeping
- Banquet Hall
- Parking Available
- Air Conditioned
Best Things to do in Sunder Nagar
While planning your stay in Sunder Nagar, you deserve to know the best things to do here:
- Say your prayers at Mahamaya Temple or Sundernagar Murari Devi Temple
- Hang out at the Sunken Garden or Sundernagar Lake
- Chill near the Prashar Lake
- Enjoy the wildlife at Shikari Devi Wildlife Sanctuary
- Go camping near Rewalsar Lake
How To Reach Sunder Nagar?
You can reach Sunder Nagar by air, road, and rail.
By Air: The nearest airport to Sunder Nagar is Bhuntar in the Kullu district. From there, you can hire a cab or board a bus to Sundar Nagar. There are Shimla and Kangra airports as well. Choose an airport as per your boarding convenience and budget.
By Train: If airfare troubles your bottom line, you can choose a train for transportation. If it is a family trip, you can enjoy the train journey and reach Kalka railway station, which is only 90 km from the city. You can find a bus or a cab to reach Sunder Nagar.
By Road: To enjoy the natural beauty of the town, take a bus. There are several buses to reach Sunder Nagar from Dehradun, Shimla, Solan, Dharampur, and other neighboring cities.
Conclusion
Himachal is a place where every town has some history and lots of stories to tell. Sunder Nagar is one such small town in the state, but its beauty, simplicity, and peace are exceptional. Whether it is the Sukhdev Vatika or Rewalsar lake, the serenity of Prashar Lake or the trek of Shikari Devi, the beauty of Sunder Nagar Lake, or the history of Murari Devi, there’s so much to explore and soak in. Sunder Nagar fills your heart and mind with memories and your soul with a desire to come back to this place again.
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