By Nestled in northern Maharashtra, Nashik is a centuries-old city and one of the most culturally enriching destinations in India. It captivates your heart and soul beyond your imagination.
Nashik is the place where a soul finds its door to heaven after death as believed by the practitioners of Hinduism and that is why Hindus perform their last rites for soul to leave this Earth peacefully, right here. Nashik, one of India’s oldest cities, features in Hindu mythology and is well known for Kumbh Mela, which occurs once in 12 years.
Aside from its religious significance, Nashik features a number of vineyards and has so acquired the title “Wine Capital of India”. So, whether you are a regular tourist or an explorer or anyone craving some cultural stories — Nashik is the dream city for you!
Further, let’s explore some best places to visit in Nashik for a remarkable trip to this peaceful town in India !
Trimbakeshwar Temple
This religious place in India is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas devoted to Lord Shiva. The temple is also mentioned in the Mrityunjaya Mantra, a powerful mantra that symbolizes immortality and longevity. This temple is an old and important pilgrimage center, located near the source of the holy river Godavari. Known for its unique architecture, black stone structure and mystical vibe, this Nashik visiting place is a must visit. What is really interesting about the Jyotirlinga here are three faces that symbolize Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- Modest dressing
- Crowded during festivals and weekends
- Visiting timings : 05:30 am to 09:00 pm
- Entry Fees: Free
Kalaram Temple
One of Nashik’s oldest temples, the Kalaram Temple was built in the 18th century and is devoted to Lord Rama. The temple draws believers all year round because of its serene setting and its black stone statue of Lord Rama. It is believed the temple founded by Sardar Rangarao Odhekar in 1788 came into existence as Lord Rama came in his dreams and desired to dwell on the sacred grounds of Nashik. In addition to Lord Ram, this temple has black colored sculptures of Sita and Lakshman as well as a Lord Hanuman.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- Photography is not allowed inside this temple
- Dress Modestly
- Visiting timings : 05:30 am to 10:00 pm
- Entry Fees: Free
Saptashrungi Devi Temple
A 60 km drive up from Nashik is the Saptashrungi Devi Temple, which attracts devotees of Goddess Saptashrungi as it is one of the Shakti Peethas in Maharashtra. Resting on a series of hills by Nashik, this holy land is an ideal getaway for both spiritual seekers and nature lovers. Nested in the western ghats by seven hills, the temple gives a panoramic view of the city and is a great delight to visit here.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- To reach the temple, you can either climb 510 stairs up the hill or take the easier way through the ropeway facility available.
- The Ropeway facility is available for limited timings only, so knows these timings in advance.
- Visiting timings : 06:00 am to 06:00 pm
- Entry Fees: Free (But ropeway charges would be there)
Panchvati
Deeply ingrained in Indian mythology, Panchvati is a place of great significance in Hinduism since it was a place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a part of their exile. The location draws a lot of travelers who are looking for peace and serenity. Panchvati, a bustling area in Nashik with a calm, spiritual atmosphere, old temples, and holy locations, is named after the five sacred banyan trees present here. Also, the well-known Kumbh Mela is held here on the banks of the Godavari River. Let us explore the reasons why Panchvati is one of the best Nashik places to visit and the things that travelers should consider while travelling.
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Key Attractions :
- Sita Gufa
- Kapaleshwar Temple
- Ramkund
- Godavari Ghat
Visiting timing :
- Open all day
Entry Fees:
- Free of charge
Sula Vineyards
Almost 180 kilometers northeast of Mumbai, the Sula Vineyards is one of the best places to visit near Nashik. It is a well-known vineyard known for its grape wines, including Zinfandel, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. For wine enthusiasts, Sula Vineyards is a heaven. The vineyards, which span several acres, provide winery tours, wine tastings, and an opportunity to see how wine is made. Sula Vineyards claims to be the first winery in the entire country and is home to sixty wineries. The lush green surroundings also make it a charming spot for photography. In addition, there is a resort to live in, a winery, and a tasting area where guests may try different samples of varieties of wine produced.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- Try to visit here during harvest season (January to March )
- Pre-book wine tasting sessions to avoid unnecessary waiting.
- Visiting timings: 11 :30 am to 10:30 pm
- Entry fees : Rs 150 to Rs 200
Coin Museum
One of the most interesting places to visit in Nashik with friends, the Coin Museum, which explains the history of coin minting in India. Its vast collection of coins from various historical periods offers insights into India’s financial past. Visiting here, you can admire coins with each narrating stories about history, explaining the broader narrative of their cultural and economic development. Besides providing insights into the historical significance of different currencies, this museum will also educate you on the art of coinage. For those interested in the complex world of money and its symbolic manifestations, a visit to the Coin Museum promises to be enlightening.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- The museum is present within the Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies campus.
- Visiting timings : 09:00 am to 05:30 pm
- Entry Fees: Free
Pandavleni Caves
Pandavleni Caves are rock-cut caves, also called Pandu Caves or Nasik Caves, and date back to around the 3rd century BC. Comprising a total of 24 caves, which have been cut from the Trivashmi hills, display various carvings depicting Buddha images, stupas, etc. It is a wonderful site for understanding the roots of Buddhist architecture and history. Visiting here you can find musical fountains, museums and food outlets inside the mystic caves. Several monasteries, shrines, water tanks, pillars and carvings also exist. Apart from this a few more decorations of sculptures, chambers, different water structures and stone ladders have been built inside the cave.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- You have to climb a good number of stairsteps to reach the location
- Visiting timings : 09:00 am to 05:00 pm Entry fees:
- For Adults : Rs 2
- For children (below 15) : Free of cost
Dudhsagar Falls
Nashik is not even close to being as crowded as Goa, yet it has its own share of lesser-known gems among the most touristy places in Maharashtra; Dudhsagar Falls is one of those gems. The falls are named because it looks like “milk pouring down” with water flowing over the rocks. It is a perfect place for some peaceful time, a picnic or a few scenic photos. With the sound of roaring waters, this ancient site provides a calm atmosphere for visitors to unwind and refresh. Dudhsagar Falls is undoubtedly one of the top Nashik visiting places for exploring nature.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- Visit during Monsoon season (June to September ) for a full flow view.
- Be vigilant of the slippery paths near the fall
- Visiting timings : Open all day
- Entry fees: Free
Anjneri Hill
The name Anjaneri is derived from Hanuman’s mother, Anjani, as it is believed that Lord Hanuman was born here. Loved by trekkers and pilgrims alike, the place is located in an aesthetic clean area with greenery all around. One of the most attractive trekking points near Nashik, the pleasant weather on the Anjaneri Hills with green nature makes it a perfect place for meditation and connecting to mother nature. The views of the Western Ghats and the Godavari River below are breathtaking as you gain altitude up the hill.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- It’s best to wear sturdy shoes because the trek might be quite difficult.
- In order to escape extreme heat, it is advisable to travel during the winter or monsoon seasons.
- Visiting timings : Open all day
- Entry fees: Free
Gangapur Dam and Backwaters
Gangapur Dam, a famous picnic spot, is known for its placid backwaters surrounding the place, along with picturesque views. The dam is a great place to chill and absorb the beauty of nature; preferably during sunrise or sunset. People come here to relax in the garden; enjoying the blissful, scenic river flowing by as if straight out of a dream. The migratory birds can be seen in the evening; the authorities have made arrangements for a new boating facility to attract more tourists.
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Important things to consider while visiting
- Since there aren’t many facilities close by, bring your own food and beverages.
- There are boat trips available, but be sure the operators are registered.
- Visiting timings : Open all day
- Entry fees: Free
Nashik : A city that is blessed
Nashik is a perfect mix of spirituality, history, and nature, and it is something unique for every kind of traveler. Nashik never fails to entice travelers with its many shades, be it the holy ghats of Panchvati, the peaceful vineyards, or the lovely backwaters. A place where temples ease the soul with stories from Ramayana, hilltops give you a picturesque view and savor the authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a chance to relax in the middle of nature, a spiritual retreat, or a cultural experience, Nashik promises to be a rewarding trip that will leave you with memories that perfectly encapsulate Maharashtra’s essence.
