Religious places in Nashik, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Nashik, located in Maharashtra, is a historically and spiritually significant city on the banks of the Godavari River. Known for its religious importance, vineyards, and pleasant weather, Nashik is often called the “Wine Capital of India” and is one of the four holy cities of the Kumbh Mela.

Religious Significance

1. Trimbakeshwar Temple (30 km from Nashik)

   • One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

   • Located near the origin of the Godavari River (Brahmagiri Hills).

2. Kalaram Temple

   • A famous temple dedicated to Lord Rama, with a black idol.

   • Associated with the Dalit rights movement led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

3. Sita Gufa (Pandavleni Caves)

   • Believed to be the place where Sita stayed during exile.

   • Nearby Pandavleni Caves are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves.

4. Muktidham Temple

   • A white marble temple representing all 12 Jyotirlingas.

5. Kumbh Mela (Every 12 Years)

   • Nashik hosts one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

   • Ritual baths take place at Ramkund (sacred ghat on the Godavari).

Tourist Attractions

• Sula Vineyards – India’s most famous winery offering tours and tastings.

• Saptashrungi Devi Temple (Near Nashik) – A Shakti Peetha.

• Coin Museum – Displays ancient and medieval coins.

• Anjaneri Fort – Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.

How to Reach?

• By Air: Nearest airport is Gandhinagar Airport (15 km).

• By Train: Well-connected via Nashik Road Railway Station.

• By Road: Mumbai (180 km), Pune (220 km).

Religious places in Nashik, Maharashtra

Nashik, one of Maharashtra’s most sacred cities, is a major pilgrimage destination with a rich spiritual heritage. Located along the Godavari River, it is famous for its temples, ghats, and association with the Kumbh Mela. Here are the top religious places in Nashik:

1. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

• Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Unique Feature: The linga has three faces representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

• Location: Trimbak (30 km from Nashik).

• Special Ritual: “Kushavartan Snan” (holy dip in Godavari’s origin).

2. Kalaram Temple

• Significance: Houses a black idol of Lord Rama, built in 1792.

• History: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar led a Dalit rights protest here in 1930.

• Location: Panchavati area.

3. Sita Gufa (Cave) & Panchavati

• Legend: Believed to be where Sita stayed during exile; Ravana abducted her from here.

• Nearby: Five sacred banyan trees (Panchavati) linked to Ramayana.

4. Ramkund & Godavari Ghats

• Significance: Holy bathing spot where Lord Rama is said to have bathed.

• Ritual: Devotees perform ancestral rites (Pind Daan) here.

5. Muktidham Temple

• Unique Aspect: A marble temple replicating all 12 Jyotirlingas and sacred rivers.

• Special Feature: Inscriptions of the Bhagavad Gita on walls.

6. Kapaleshwar Temple

• Dedicated to: Lord Shiva (one of the oldest temples in Nashik).

• Location: Near Ahilyabai Holkar Bridge.

7. Goraram Mandir

• Significance: Features footprints of Lord Rama and Hanuman.

• Location: Near Tapovan.

8. Saptashrungi Devi Temple (Near Nashik)

• Significance: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas; Goddess Saptashrungi is believed to be self-manifested.

• Location: Vani (60 km from Nashik).

9. Pandavleni Caves

• History: Ancient Buddhist caves (1st century BCE) with inscriptions.

• Spiritual Link: Some believe the Pandavas stayed here during exile.

10. Kumbh Mela (Every 12 Years)

• Major Event: Millions gather for the sacred Godavari dip.

• Next Kumbh: 2027 (Nashik-Trimbak will be one of the host cities).

Best Time to Visit

• October–March (pleasant weather)

• Shravan Month (July–August) – Special Shiva worship.

• Kumbh Mela Years – Massive spiritual gathering.