Nagpur is a city in the state of Maharashtra, the largest city in the central India and the third largest city by population in the state of Maharashtra. With a population of around 2,420,000; Nagpur UA is the 13th largest urban conglomeration in India, the 114th largest city in world, and the 143rd largest urban area in world in terms of population. The city is the seat of annual winter session of Maharashtra state assembly "Vidhan Sabha". Nagpur is the major commercial and political center of the backward Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, and is famous throughout the country as "Orange City" for being a major trade center of oranges. The city derives political importance from being the headquarters for the Hindu nationalist organisation RSS and an important location for the Dalit Buddhist movement.

Nagpur lies precisely at the center of the country with the Zero Mile Marker (indicating the geographical center of India) located here. The city was founded by the Gonds but later became part of the Maratha Empire under the Bhonsles. The British East India Company took over Nagpur in the 19th century and made it the capital of the Central Provinces and Berar. After the first reorganization of states, the city lost its capital status but according to the informal "Nagpur Pact" between political leaders it was made the second capital of Maharashtra.

TOURISM PANORAMA OF NAGPUR

Ambazari : LakeSpread over 15.4 sq. kms. on the western outskirts of the city, Ambazari Lake is surrounded by a picturesque garden. Boating facilities and good walking trials provide an interesting outdoor activity. The musical fountain addsa romantic flavor to this beautiful spot. Ambazari Lake and Garden LyingThe Ambazari Lake has a beautiful garden beside it, which is one of the most beautiful spots in Nagpur, developed as a model garden by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation.

Balaji Mandir at Seminary : The most popular of Indian deities Shri Balaji is the presiding deityin this temple situated in the serene and picturesque surroundings of, Nagpur’s famed Seminary Hills. This temple also houses the idols of Lord Kartikeya who is believed to be the commanderof the army of Gods.

Maharaj Baug and Zoo : The erstwhile Bhonsle rulers laid a beautiful garden,which is now known as The Maharaj Baug. It is converted into a botanical garden housing a zoo,containing some rare species of birds and animals.

Seminary Hill : Named after the Seminary of St. Charles this hillock is about 6 kms.west of the old city giving a captivating panoramic view of the city.

Sitabuldi Fort : A visit to Nagpur is not complete without a visit to this important landmark of Sitabuldi Fort, nestled on the Twin Mountains. In the year 1857 a British officer, built this fort and since then it has been one of the interesting destinations in Nagpur.

Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir : In the year 1923, this beautiful temple was built with marble and sandstone carving work. The three principle characters of the Indian epic-The Ramayana are the presiding deities.

TOTLADOH : The Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru National Park is situated in this area. It is surrounded by Satpuda hills providing a pleasant climate. This National Park is best known for animal viewing, bird watching and trekking. There is also situated a hydroelectric project, a joint venture of Govt. of Maharashtra and Madhya Predesh.

RAMTEK : The story goes that Shri Ram tarried here a while with Laxman and Sita. Hence, the name. It was here that the prolific Sanskrit poet Kalidas wrote his epic Maghdootam. Besides the Shri Ram Temple and the Kalidas Memorial, there is Ramgiri hill, Ramsagar lake. This place has been immortalised by the visit of Lord Ram, Sita and Laxman, hence the name Ramtek. The place is also famous as the place where the poet Kalidas composed his epic "Meghdoot". The main attractions here are the Ram temple which is more than 600 years old, as well as the Jain temple which has some beautiful carvings and sculpture.Ramtek is about 50 kms. from Nagpur.

NAWEGAON BANDH : 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. There's picturesque lake set in the midst of hill ranges with watch towers that enable you to view wildlife. Make sure you visit the deer park, the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, the three beautiful gardens and the children's park. Almost 60% of the birds species found in Maharashtra have been recorded in Nawegaon. You may see the leopard, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, chital or the langur.

NAGARDHAN : Nagardhan is an old town and was formerly of considerable importance as it gave its name to the district. It was founded by a Suryawanshi King, but Mr. Hiralal supposes it to have been established by King named Nandvardhan belonging to the Shail Dynasty. There is a fort said to have been built by the Bhonslas
with brick walls.

DHAPEWADA : 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 Bhonsla. Dhapewada is being known as Vidarbha's Pandharpur.

KHEKRANALA : 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 on two side.

ADASA : A small village in the Nagpur District. The village contains fine old temples. 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.

Ambakhori: Situated around 60kms. from Nagpur. 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.

Pench National Park: Situated around 86kms. from Nagpur, this 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.

Khindsi: Famous mainly for its large and picturesque lake. Boating facilities are also offered. Khindsi is very close to Ramtek, in fact you can combine the two places in a single trip.