Nagpur, the winter capital of Maharashtra and the geographical center of India, is a city that beautifully blends heritage, nature, spirituality, and local flavors. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or exploring with family, a 3-day trip to Nagpur can be both fulfilling and budget-friendly. With historical landmarks, serene lakes, vibrant markets, and spicy street food, the city offers a well-rounded travel experience. This complete travel itinerary will help you plan your 3 days in Nagpur efficiently, covering must-visit places, local food, travel tips, and daily schedules.
Day 1: Heritage and Culture Exploration
Morning: Arrival and Breakfast
- Arrival Point: Nagpur Railway Station or Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport
- Breakfast Stop: Start your day with a traditional Tarri Poha and cutting chai at a local street vendor near Sitabuldi or Itwari (₹30–₹50)
First Stop: Deekshabhoomi
- Timing: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Entry Fee: Free
- What to See: The sacred Buddhist monument where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism. Explore the grand stupa, museum, and tranquil gardens.
- Travel Tip: Wear modest attire and maintain silence inside the prayer hall.
Second Stop: Zero Mile Stone and Sitabuldi Fort
- Zero Mile Stone: Historical center of colonial India; good for quick photos and nearby sightseeing.
- Sitabuldi Fort: If open to public (usually on special occasions), it’s worth visiting for its historical value.
- Travel Tip: Walk or take an auto between landmarks, they are close by.
Lunch Break
- Lunch Recommendation: Try an authentic Saoji Thali at Jagdish Saoji Bhojanalaya or Durga Saoji (₹100–₹150)
- Local Specialties: Spicy chicken or egg curry with bhakri or rice
Afternoon: Maharajbagh Zoo and Garden
- Timing: 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20
- Highlights: Originally a Bhonsale royal garden, now a small zoo and park. A relaxing green space in the heart of the city.
- Travel Tip: Great for families or nature lovers looking for a quiet stroll.
Evening: Futala Lake and Street Food Trail
- Timing: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- What to Do: Enjoy the lakeside promenade, sunset view, and local snacks.
- Must-Try Food: Bhel puri, ragda pattice, dahi puri, matka kulfi (₹30–₹100)
- Travel Tip: Keep some cash handy for food stalls; most do not accept digital payments.
Dinner Recommendation
- Restaurant: Haldiram’s for a clean and affordable North Indian or Maharashtrian meal.
- Average Cost: ₹150–₹250 per person
Day 2: Nature, Spirituality, and Local Markets
Morning: Seminary Hills and Japanese Garden
- Start Early: Reach by 7:00 AM for a morning walk
- Highlights: Panoramic view of the city, nature trails, and peaceful ambiance
- Nearby Attraction: Japanese Garden – great for photography and relaxation
Breakfast Stop
- Option: Local stall or small café in Dharampeth
- Try: Misal pav or samosa with tea (₹30–₹60)
Late Morning: Dragon Palace Temple, Kamptee
- Travel Time: 30–40 minutes from city center
- Entry Fee: Free
- What to See: Japanese-style Buddhist temple surrounded by gardens, known for peace and architecture
- Travel Tip: Use an auto or book a cab for a round trip; no public transport directly available
Lunch: Local Maharashtrian Thali
- Recommended Area: Dharampeth or Sitabuldi
- Restaurants: Thali joints offering dal, sabzi, rice, chapati, salad (₹100–₹150)
Afternoon: Ramtek Temple and Khindsi Lake (Half-Day Trip)
- Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car or MSRTC bus
- Ramtek Temple: Ancient temple believed to be where Lord Rama rested during exile
- Khindsi Lake: Boating, lakeside picnic spots, and relaxation
- Entry & Boating: ₹50–₹150 depending on activities
- Travel Tip: Leave by 1:30 PM and return by 7:00 PM
Evening Snack on Return
- Grab a quick bite like moong dal pakoda or corn chaat from street vendors on your way back (₹20–₹40)
Dinner Recommendation
- Option: Try local dhaba-style restaurant near Civil Lines or Ramdaspeth
- Suggested Meal: Tandoori roti, veg kolhapuri or dal tadka (₹150–₹200)
Day 3: Offbeat Spots, Shopping, and Local Experiences
Morning: Nagardhan Fort (Optional Trip)
- Travel Time: About 40–45 km from Nagpur
- Highlights: Quiet, lesser-known fort with Vakataka dynasty roots
- Entry Fee: Free
- Alternative: If you don’t want to travel far, explore local temples like Balaji Temple or Telankhedi Hanuman Temple and Lake
Breakfast
- Option: Hotel breakfast or local poha with jalebi (₹40–₹60)
Midday: Shopping and Street Markets
- Sitabuldi Market: Clothes, accessories, local products
- Sadar Bazaar: Footwear, watches, electronics
- Itwari Market: Dry fruits, Nagpur oranges, spices
- Budget Tip: Bargain well; most vendors are open to negotiation
Lunch: Try Something Different
- Suggestion: South Indian meal at a local Udipi restaurant (₹100–₹150)
- Specialties: Dosa, idli, vada, sambar, and filter coffee
Afternoon: Relax at Ambazari Lake and Garden
- Timing: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20
- What to Do: Boating, photography, or simply unwind
- Nearby: Science Centre (optional) if traveling with kids
Evening: Final Food Trail and Cultural Stop
- Final Stops:
- Local chaat stall for one last taste
- Telankhedi Lake for sunset
- Evening aarti at a temple like Ram Mandir or Sai Baba Mandir
Dinner Suggestion
- Restaurant: Fine dining or rooftop café in Ramdaspeth or Dharampeth
- Cuisine: Fusion, Mughlai, or Chinese depending on preference (₹250–₹400)
Travel and Budget Summary for 3 Days
- Local Transport: ₹300–₹500 total (autos, metro, buses)
- Meals (per day): ₹300–₹500 depending on where you eat
- Entry Fees & Attractions: Mostly free or minimal (₹100–₹200 total)
- Shopping: Optional (based on your personal budget)
- Accommodation: Budget hotels ₹800–₹1500 per night
Total Estimated Budget for 3 Days (Per Person): ₹3000 – ₹5000 (excluding transport to/from Nagpur)
Useful Travel Apps for Nagpur
- Google Maps (navigation)
- Zomato or Swiggy (food options)
- RedBus and MSRTC (for buses and day trips)
- Nagpur Metro app (metro routes and timings)
- Paytm/PhonePe (for quick payments)
Local Travel Tips
- Always carry a refillable water bottle
- Wear comfortable footwear for walking tours
- Keep cash in small denominations for local purchases
- Avoid roaming late in unknown or deserted areas
- Respect cultural norms, especially at religious sites
This 3-day itinerary helps you explore Nagpur’s historical, spiritual, and local highlights while staying on a budget. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or on a longer Indian tour, Nagpur offers a balanced and rewarding experience for every traveler.