Untouched by the chaos of civilization, Nahan delights tourists with its calm and unadulterated environment, secluded location and verdant scenery. Situated at an elevation of 932 meters, this cantonment town is in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The capital of the erstwhile princely state of Sirmaur during Colonial Rule, Nahan was a major agricultural town. Its rich agricultural heritage can be seen even today.
According to the local legend, the town gets its name from a saint who used to live here with a lion (nahar). Nahan boasts being a sacred destination with many temples in and around it. The Trilokpur Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Mahamaya Bala Sundri, is a popular pilgrimage site in Nahan. Built in 1573 A.D. by Raja Dip Prakash, this holy site is situated at a distance of 23 km from the main town. Witness the grand fairs organized in this temple during the Navratras in April and October. Paudiwala Shiv Temple, Maharishi Temple, Kali Mata Mandir, Shirgul Temple are some of the other Hindu religious site around Nahan. For nature lovers, Nahan and its surroundings have many attractions on offer.
The Renuka Lake, considered the largest lake in Himachal Pradesh, is the most popular tourist attraction near Nahan. Dedicated to the Goddess Renuka, the gleaming lake is also famous for hosting a 5 day long fair in the honour of the goddess. Visit this pristine lake and also experience an adventurous lion safari in the nearby wildlife sanctuary. Another popular sightseeing spot near Nahan is the Suketi Fossil Park (21 km away from the town). A unique and first-of-its kind park in Asia, the Suketi Fossil Park is famous for its exhibition of life size fiberglass models of pre-historic animals, whose fossils were discovered here.
Adorned with colourful and sprawling orchards of citrus plants and mangoes, the Dhaula Kuan, situated 20 km away, is a popular tourist attraction near Nahan. This site also boasts the nearby magnificent and historic temple of Kastasan Devi, where Raja Jagat Singh defeated the army of Rulam Quadir Rohilla in a major battle. Travel to the mesmerizing Jaitak Fort, located at a distance of 15 km from the town. Perched on a hill at an altitude of 1480 meters, this awe-striking structure was built on the ruins of the Nahan Fort.