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Cultural Sites

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Artillery Museum

The Artillery Museum, situated in Deolali Gaon, Nashik, is Asia's largest artillery museum. Inaugurated on January 16, 2005, it was founded by the Regiment of Artillery Association (RAA). At the base of the Sahyadri Mountains in the Gandhi Nagar Airport Area, this location was once a hub for British-Indian military operations during World War II. While part of the site has been converted into a museum, the remaining area continues to serve as a training facility for Indian soldiers. The museum, curated by Subedar Jitendra Singh (Retd.), showcases an array of weaponry from ancient to modern times. Notable exhibits include a 400 BCE wooden catapult, a brass cannon from the Mughal era used by Babur, Maratha artillery pieces, Tipu Sultan's Gun Rattanban, and contemporary Indian Army equipment like the T-59 Tank and Krishna MK II Aircraft.

Brahmagiri Hill

The five peaks of Brahmagiri Hill, symbolising the five mouths of Shiva, rise prominently above the Trimbakeshwar region.[1]
The five peaks of Brahmagiri Hill, showcase the five mouths of Shiva, rise prominently above the Trimbakeshwar region.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmagiri_%28…

Brahmagiri Hill, located near Trimbakeshwar in Nashik district, is a prominent mountain peak of religious and mythological significance. Rising to a height of 1,800 ft. from the base and 4,248 ft. above sea level, the hill features five distinct peaks (Sadyo-Jata, Vamdev, Aghora, Ishana, and Tat-Purusha) which are venerated as the five mouths of Bhagwaan Shiv. The main peak, Brahmadri, is associated with a legend where Shankar, moved by Brahmadev’s devotion, declared, “I shall be known by your name,” giving the hill its name, Brahmagiri.

Coin Museum

Exhibits at the Coin Museum near Anjaneri, along the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar road, showcase historical minting techniques and rare Indian coins.[2]
Exhibits at the Coin Museum near Anjaneri, along the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar road, showcase historical minting techniques and rare Indian coins.https://www.trawell.in/maharashtra/nashik/co…

The Coin Museum, located near Anjaneri along the Nashik–Trimbakeshwar road in Nashik district, was established in 1980 as Asia’s only museum dedicated to the history of the Indian currency system. Housed within the Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies campus, the museum was founded to promote a more accurate and scholarly understanding of Indian coinage. Its exhibits include detailed dioramas demonstrating minting and manufacturing techniques across historical periods. The museum also hosts regular workshops and educational programs to encourage numismatic research and coin-collecting in India.

Dhodap Fort

Dhodap Fort, located near Chandwad in Nashik district, features rock-cut chambers, twin gateways, and a summit mazar, all perched nearly 5,000 ft. high.[3]
Dhodap Fort, located near Chandwad in Nashik district, features rock-cut chambers, twin gateways, and a summit mazar, all perched nearly 5,000 ft. high.https://www.mumbaitrekkers.com/event-page/dh…

Dhodap Fort, also known as Dhorapavanki or Dharablocated, near Chandwad in Nashik district, is Maharashtra’s second-highest hill fort, standing at an elevation of approximately 5,000 ft. Believed to have been built during the reign of Burhan Nizam Shah I (1509–1553) of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate, it is also referred to as Dhorapavanki or Dharab.

The fort held military and strategic importance through several historical periods. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is believed to have visited the site in 1670 CE during his return from the Surat campaign and is thought to have hidden treasures within its premises. During the Peshwa era, Dhodap Fort featured in a major conspiracy by Raghobadada Peshwa against Madhavrao Peshwa. It was later captured by the British in 1818. Captain Briggs of the East India Company, who visited that same year, remarked on the fort’s formidable defenses, artillery, and well-planned storage and water systems.

The fort contains several rock-cut chambers once used as living quarters. One large room, around 35 by 25 ft. in size, likely functioned as a granary for storing provisions such as grain, ghee, and jaggery. A small Mandir also remains within the fort. Rising nearly 400 ft. above the main structure, the fort’s summit hosts a mazar (tomb) dedicated to a pir named Bel-pir, which continues to draw devotees.

Today, the fort is a popular but challenging hiking destination. The ascent involves a steep climb that leads to a concealed rock-cut tunnel serving as the main entrance. Near the entry, two Persian inscriptions are carved into the rock, one weathered and the other still legible, recording the name of the fort’s builder. Inside the complex, a massive bastion towers above the entrance path, while to the right lies a structure believed to be the commandant’s quarters, offering a wide view of the Chandor range.

Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls, also known as Someshwar Falls, is situated near the Someshwar Mandir and Balaji Mandir, close to Gangapur in Nashik. Standing at a height of 10 meters, the waterfall is set alongside the Godai River. The waterfall becomes particularly vibrant during the rainy season, with increased water flow, attracting families and nature lovers alike.

Gangapur Dam

Gangapur Dam, located on River Godavari in Nashik district was constructed post-1949.[4]
Gangapur Dam, located on River Godavari in Nashik district was constructed post-1949.https://www.deccanherald.com/india/gangapur-…

The Gangapur Dam, located on the River Godavari in Nashik district, was sanctioned by the Bombay Government in 1949 as a major irrigation and water supply project. Completed in the early post-independence years, the dam rises 120 ft. from its lowest foundation and extends approximately 13,000 ft. in length.

Over time, sediment accumulation in the reservoir has reduced its storage capacity. Additionally, rapid urbanization led to the closure of the right bank canal supplying water to Nashik. In response, the upstream Kashypi Dam was constructed and became operational in 2000 to supplement water needs.

Despite these challenges, Gangapur Dam remains a prominent structure. The site includes a public garden and viewpoints, along with a boat club and water sports facilities operated by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC).

Harihar Fort

Harihar Fort, located in the Trimbakeshwar mountain in Nashik district is a hill fort featuring steep rock-cut steps, a Mandir, and views of the Trimbakeshwar region.[5]
Harihar Fort, located in the Trimbakeshwar mountain in Nashik district is a hill fort featuring steep rock-cut steps, a Mandir, and views of the Trimbakeshwar region.https://www.goldentriangletour.com/en/touris…

Harihar Fort, also known as Harshagad, is located in the Trimbakeshwar mountain range of Nashik district. It was originally constructed during the Seuna (Yadava) dynasty between the 9th and 14th centuries. Strategically positioned in the Western Ghats, the fort served as a watchtower to oversee the Gonda Ghat trade route linking Maharashtra with Gujarat.

Over the centuries, Harihar Fort came under the control of several regional powers, including the Ahmadnagar Sultanate. In 1636, Shahaji Bhosale handed over Harihar Fort—along with Trimbak, Tringalwadi, and other forts (to Mughal General Khan Zamam). The British captured it in 1818 under Captain Briggs, as part of a larger campaign following the fall of Trimbak, which included 17 forts.

Today, much of the original structure lies in ruins, though key architectural elements survive. These include a rock-cut storage house with a narrow entrance and centrally located cisterns carved into stone. At the summit is a small Mandir dedicated to Bhagwaan Hanuman, Bhagwaan Shiv, and his vahana, Nandi, alongside a pond. The route to the top is notable for its steep, narrow steps cut into the rock face, inclined at nearly 80 degrees, making the ascent physically challenging. From the top, the Trimbakeshwar region of the Sahyadris is clearly visible.

Igatpuri

Igatpuri, located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, lies within the Western Ghats and serves as a key gateway to Nashik and Pune due to its proximity to Thal Ghat. Known for its natural landscape and elevation, the town has become a centre for both spiritual and adventure tourism.

Igatpuri is home to the Vipassana International Academy, where individuals from across the world come to learn and practice the ancient technique of Vipassana meditation. Beyond its spiritual appeal, Igatpuri also draws trekkers and adventure seekers with activities such as rappelling, rock climbing, and forest treks. The region is dotted with historic and religious landmarks including Ratangad Fort, Tringalwadi Fort, and the Amruteshwar Mandir and Ghatandevi Mandir, all of which are popular with visitors for their architectural and scenic value.

Jatayu Tirth

Jatayu Mandir at Taked Tirth is located in Nashik district, about 47 km from Nashik city along the Igatpuri–Ghoti route. The site holds religious and cultural importance due to its association with the epic, Ramayan.

At the centre of the site is a large murti of Jatayu, along with a Mandir dedicated to him. Nearby is Sarvatirth, a kund (water tank) that marks the spot where Bhagwaan Ram is believed to have struck the earth with an arrow to bring forth water for the dying Jatayu. According to the Ramayan, Jatayu, a devoted vulture, attempted to rescue Sita from Ravana during her abduction. Ravana severed Jatayu’s wings, and the injured bird fell to the ground. When Bhagwaan Ram found him, Jatayu shared the events before passing away in Ram’s lap. The episode marks the site as one of deep devotion and sacrifice.

Kalaram Mandir

Kalaram Mandir, located in Panchavati (Nashik district) is an 18th-century Mandir known for its black stone murtis of Ram, Sita, and Laxman.[6]
Kalaram Mandir, located in Panchavati (Nashik district) is an 18th-century Mandir known for its black stone murtis of Ram, Sita, and Laxman.https://templeyatri.in/kalaram-temple-nashik/

Kalaram Mandir is located in the Panchavati area of Nashik, a few kilometers from the city’s Central Bus Station. Built in 1782 under the patronage of Sardar Rangrao Odhekar, the Mandir holds deep religious and historical significance. It is believed to be situated on the very site where Bhagwaan Ram lived during his exile, according to the Ramayan.

The construction of the Mandir spanned twelve years and involved around 2,000 laborers. It houses black stone murtis of Ram, Sita, and Laxman, each approximately two ft. in height. The Mandir becomes especially active during the Ramnavami festival in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March–April), drawing people from across the region.

Kalaram Mandir was also a focal point during the 1930 Kalaram Mandir Satyagraha led by B.R. Ambedkar. As part of the Dalit movement for Mandir entry rights, the protest witnessed clashes with upper-caste residents. The satyagraha continued until 1935, marked by defiance and key moments like Bhaskar Kendre breaking through police lines to enter the Mandir.

Kapaleshwar Mandir

The Shivling at Kapaleshwar Mandir near Ramkund, Nashik.[7]
The Shivling at Kapaleshwar Mandir near Ramkund, Nashik.https://kapaleshwar.in/wp-content/uploads/el…

Kapaleshwar Mandir is located near Ramkund in Nashik and is dedicated to Bhagwaan Shiv. Situated in close proximity to the Ramkund, the Mandir is an important stop for pilgrims visiting the Panchavati area. Its most striking feature is the absence of Nandi: who is typically seen as the gatekeeper of Shiv mandirs.

According to local belief, Bhagwaan Shiv once committed the sin of gau-hatya (cow slaughter) by mistake. To seek forgiveness, he approached Nandi, who advised him to purify himself by bathing in the waters of Ramkund. Shiv followed this advice, took a dip in Ramkund, and meditated at a nearby location. This very site of meditation is where Kapaleshwar Mandir was established. As Shiv regarded Nandi as his Guru here, there is no murti of Nandi placed at the Mandir entrance. This act of reverence showcases the bond of humility and devotion even among divine beings.

Today, the Mandir is visited for both its religious significance and its unique place in the spiritual geography of Nashik. It continues to draw those who come to connect with the legends of Bhagwaan Shiv and the sacred traditions of the region.

Mangi - Tungi

Mangi Tungi hills, Tahrabad (Nashik district) is a Jain yatra site featuring ancient mandirs and rock-cut carvings of Tirthankaras.[8]
Mangi Tungi hills, Tahrabad (Nashik district) is a Jain yatra site featuring ancient mandirs and rock-cut carvings of Tirthankaras.https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commo…

Mangi Tungi is a twin-peaked hill in Tahrabad village of Nashik district, known for its Jain temples and religious significance. The site is associated with Rishabhanatha (Adinatha), the first Tirthankara of Jainism. According to tradition, the hills preserve his sacred footprints, linking the site to the early spiritual history of Jainism, possibly dating back to the 7th–5th century BCE.

The hill pair (Mangi to the west and Tungi to the east) has long served as a major pilgrimage destination for Jain devotees. Ancient Jain mandirs built along the slopes and at the summits contain numerous stone carvings. These include depictions of multiple Tirthankaras, each intricately sculpted into the rock face, reflecting the longstanding religious and artistic traditions of the Jain community.

The Jain Tirthankars in Mangi-Tungi caves.[9]
The Jain Tirthankars in Mangi-Tungi Caveshttps://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commo…

One of the most important events held here is the Mahamastakabhisheka, a grand anointment ceremony conducted once every 12 years. During this ritual, large Jain murtis are ceremonially bathed with sacred substances like milk, saffron, and sandalwood paste. Thousands of yatris from across India attend this festival, reinforcing Mangi Tungi’s importance as a pan-Indian center of Jain devotion.

Jainism flourished in the Nashik region for centuries, and royal patronage in later periods helped preserve sites like Mangi Tungi. Today, it remains one of the most revered Jain tirthas in Maharashtra, representing a confluence of ancient heritage, devotional practice, and architectural expression.

The rare eight-armed depiction of Ganpati at the Navshya Ganpati Mandir, Anandvalli (Nashik).[10]
The rare eight-armed depiction of Ganpati at the Navshya Ganpati Mandir, Anandvalli (Nashik).https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A…

The Navshya Ganpati Mandir is situated in Anandvalli, Nashik, along the Gangapur–Someshwar route. It was commissioned in 1774 by Raghoba Peshwa and his wife Anandibai, shortly after the birth of their son Vinayak in 1764. The village was named Anandvalli in her honour, and the Mandir construction was initiated to mark this auspicious event.

The Mandir is located on the banks of the Godavari River, enhancing its tranquil setting. The murti of Bhagwaan Ganpati is carved from black stone and features eight arms, a rare depiction, seated in a calm yet powerful posture. The eyes of the murti are particularly expressive, drawing attention for their striking liveliness.

Architecturally, the Mandir features a stepped descent of about eight steps leading to the garbhagriha (sanctum), echoing design elements seen in Ashtavinayak mandirs. The Mandir is surrounded by a well-maintained garden that adds to the overall serenity of the site.

Adjacent to the Mandir once stood a palace built by Raghoba Peshwa, which was demolished by the British in 1818. The Mandir, however, survived and continues to be an active place of worship, with historical ties to prominent Peshwa figures such as Shreemant Madhavrao Peshwa and Matoshri Gopikabai.

Pandavleni Caves

The Pandavleni Caves or Triasahmi Leni (with "Trirashmi" referring to the surrounding hills and "Leni" meaning caves in Marathi), are situated within the Trishami Hills, approximately 8 km south of Nashik's center. These twenty-four caves, dating back to the 1st to 3rd centuries BCE, prominently feature depictions of Buddha on their rock surfaces. Originally identified as "Pundru" in Pali due to their yellow ochre appearance, these caves once served as residences for Buddhist monks who donned distinctive chivara robes.

The name "Pandav Leni" is derived from local stories that the caves were previously occupied by the Pandavas, the Mahabharata's heroes, during their exile.

Pandavleni Caves[11]
Pandavleni Caveshttps://www.pelago.co/en-IN/activity/pce6xu9…

The transition from "Pundru" to "Pandu Caves" took place after the enactment of the Ancient Monuments Act in 1909, culminating in the adoption of the name Pandavleni Caves. Among these caves, two are of particular interest. The main cave stands out with its impressive Stupa, while cave no. 10 is renowned for its completeness and inscriptions. These inscriptions provide valuable historical insights, shedding light on the rule of three dynasties, the Western Kshatrapas, Satavahanas, and Abhiras, all supporters of Buddhism.

Cave No. 10 Inscriptions

The inscription of Ushavadata dates back to the 2nd century CE. It is an inscription made by Ushavadata, a son-in-law of the Western Satraps ruler Nahapana, on the front porch of Cave No. 10 in the Nasik Caves. This inscription is notable for being the earliest known instance of the usage of Sanskrit in western India, although it is a hybrid form.

The inscription reveals that Ushavadata built Cave No.10 for Buddhist monks and donated 3,000 gold coins for the cave as well as for the food and clothing of the monks. It also documents the Indian tradition of dana (charity) to Brahmins, Buddhists, and the construction of infrastructure to serve the general public during this period.

Additionally, the inscription mentions Ushavadata's philanthropic activities, including the donation of a field for the supply of food to Buddhist monks and the construction of a ghat or tirtha on the river Baranasa. It also records his military campaigns and political achievements, including his role as viceroy of southern Saka territories and his involvement in the Saka-Malava War and the Saka-Satavahana Wars.

Ramkund (Panchvati)

Ramkund, Panchvati is a sacred water reservoir in Nashik district.[12]
Ramkund, Panchvati is a sacred water reservoir in Nashik district.https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/ramkund…

Established in 1696 by Chitrarao Khatav, a landowner from Khatav in Satara, it is believed to be the bathing spot of Bhagwan Ram. The site also houses the Asthivilaya Tirth, a sacred place for immersing ashes. Sita, Ram’s wife was abducted by Ravan, and some people believe that Sita was bathing in Ramkund when she was taken away. In addition to its spiritual significance, many distinguished individuals, including Pandit Nehru and Indira Gandhi, have had their ashes immersed at Ramkund.

Ramshej Fort

Ramshej Fort[13]
Ramshej Forthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramsej_Fort

The Ramshej Fort, situated 10 km northwest of Nashik in Maharashtra, is rooted in the ancient Ramayan epic. It is believed that Ram stayed here during his exile.

During Aurangzeb's reign, the Fort, then under Sambhaji's control, became a target for the Mughals as they sought to conquer Nashik.  Aurangzeb sent Shahbuddin Gaziudin Firozejung with 40,000 soldiers and artillery to besiege the Fort. Despite the massive Mughal army, Ramshej's commander masterfully held the Fort. To counter, Chhatraptai Sambhaji dispatched Rupaji Bhosale and Manaji More with 7,000 troops, leading to a Maratha triumph.

In their desperation, the Mughals consulted a Tantrik who devised a plan using a mystical golden serpent statue. Yet, as the Mughals approached Ramshej's entrance, they were ambushed by Maratha stone attacks, forcing them to retreat. Even subsequent Mughal attempts, like one by Kasimkhan Kiramani, failed.

Saptashrungi Devi Mandir

The Saptashrungi Mandir is situated atop the Saptashrungi Gad.[14]
The Saptashrungi Mandir is situated atop the Saptashrungi Gad.https://hi.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A…

Saptashrungi Devi Mandir, located in Kalwan taluka of Nashik district, is one of Maharashtra’s prominent mandirs dedicated to the Saptashrungi Devi. It is considered an Ardha Shaktipeeth, half of the three and a half Shaktipeeths in the state, alongside Tuljapur, Mahur, and Kolhapur. The villagers of Vani Kasbe believe it to be one of the 51 Pithas of Sati Devi. 

Saptashrungi Gad is situated on the Chandor hills of the Sahyadri range, about 4,659 ft. above sea level. The site lies south of Nanduri village, around 60 km from Nashik, and northeast of Vani Kasbe in Dindori taluka. The hill is surrounded by seven peaks, giving the site its name: 'Saptashrungi' means 'seven peaks'. According to local belief, the hill is a fragment of the Dronagiri mountain that fell when Maruti carried it in search of the Sanjeevani herb for Lakshman. The distinctive curved rock formation of the hill stretches for half a mile, rising steeply with sheer cliffs on most sides.

The Devi is worshipped in a large rock-cut Mandir located on a plateau, approximately 3,000 ft. above sea level. The carving of Saptashrungi in natural rock stands about 8 ft. tall. She has eighteen arms (nine on each side) holding a variety of weapons and symbols, including a conch, trident, bow, bell, thunderbolt, and wheel. The figure is painted red, with white porcelain eyes, and adorned with traditional ornaments. Her posture, with a slight tilt of the neck and one hand behind the head, appears as though she is listening. The murti faces east, and the first rays of the sun are believed to touch her feet.

Local lore traces the origin of the image to woodcutters who struck the rock and noticed sindoor on their axe blades, leading to the discovery of the murti. The earliest known structure is believed to have been built by Govind III of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, who granted 22 villages to the Devi. Fortification walls once protected the Mandir, and the present structure was later rebuilt by the Chief of Vinchur. A portico was added in the early 19th century by the Commander-in-Chief of Satara. The Mandir has traditionally been cared for by the Vahilvadars.

Saptashrungi Devi is associated with the story of Mahishasurmardini—the slayer of the buffalo demon Mahishasur. According to legend, after vanquishing other rakshasas, the Devi battled Mahishasur in his buffalo form. She beheaded him, and the rakshas fled through a rock on a hill called Sidka near Nanduri, leaving an opening still pointed out to visitors. It is believed that after the battle, the Devi chose to rest at Saptashrungi Gad, facing toward Khandesh, the land of her parents. Another version holds that she stayed to hear the Puranas being recited by Rishi Markandeya from the opposite hill.

Markandeya Hill lies to the east, across a deep ravine. Local tradition says that the rishi’s spirit still resides in the rocks, where he once recited the Durga Saptashati. The area has several kunds or water tanks, including Kalikund, Suryakund, and Dattatraya Kund, and the surrounding forests are known for their medicinal plants.

One of the most striking legends tied to the site is that of 'Sitakada,' a steep cliff on the hill. A bhakt, having vowed to cross the precipice if blessed with a son, fulfilled her promise by descending in a bullock cart with her child. The cart is said to have descended safely, and wheel-like marks can still be seen on the rocks.

The Mandir is accessible by three routes: the motorable road from Nanduri, a stairway of 360 steps from Vani Kasbe, and an alternate path known as 'Sathi Payryancha Marga,' with 60 steps. Large fairs are held here during Chaitra and Ashwin Navratris, drawing thousands of bhakts each year.

Saptashrungi Trimbakeshwar Mandir

The Saptashrungi Trimbakeshwar Mandir, often known as Saptashrungi due to its seven distinctive surrounding peaks, is a significant Hindu yatra site located 60 kilometers from Nashik in Maharashtra, India. What sets this mandir apart is its association with Sati, the first wife of Shiva. Sati was not invited to a yajna (sacrifice) organized by her father, Daksha, where all deities were welcomed except Sati and Shiva. In her resolve to sever ties with her father and uphold her husband's honor, Sati self-immolated. This act of self-sacrifice by Sati provoked Shiva to commence the tandava nritya (the cosmic dance of destruction), prompting Vishnu to intervene by dispersing Sati's remains throughout the Indian subcontinent using his Sudarshan Chakra (a divine weapon resembling a wheel).

The sacred site where Sati's right arm is believed to have descended is recognized as one of the esteemed 51 Shakti Peethas: locations of profound spiritual importance scattered across India. The mandir houses an 8-foot murti of Saptashringi Devi, adorned with jewelry and garments. Notably, the murti is entirely covered with sindoor, a red powder, adding to its unique appearance and deep-rooted cultural significance.

Sita Gufaa

A view of the stairs that lead to the Sita Gufaa[15]
A view of the stairs that lead to the Sita Gufaahttps://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A…

The Sita Gufaa (Sita’s Caves) is located in the Panchawati area of Nashik city. It is believed that this is the place where Bhagwan Ram and Sita worshipped Bhagwan Shiva during their exile. The Shivlinga remains at the same spot. It is also believed that Ravana kidnapped Sita from this very place.

Inside the first main gufa, there are murtis of Bhagwan Ram, Sita, and Lakshman. In the second smaller gufa, there is a Shivlinga. It is said that Bhagwan Ram used to hide Sita in this cave when he had to leave her for any reason, and it was from here that Ravana, disguised as a beggar, took her away.

Today, the cave is a well-known pilgrimage site for those visiting Panchawati to connect with the story of the Ramayana. Located near the five sacred banyan trees in the area, the cave is accessible through a narrow staircase. Inside, one can see the murti of Sita along with Bhagwan Ram and Lakshman. To the left, there is another gufa where the Shivlinga is located.

Statue of Ahimsa

The Statue of Ahimsa in Nashik, Maharashtra, is a grand statue of Lord Rishabhdev, the first Jain Tirthankara. Standing about 108 feet tall on Mangi-Tungi hills, it is one of the tallest Jain statues in the world. Carved from a single rock, the statue symbolizes peace, non-violence, and spiritual harmony. Inaugurated in 2016, it has since become a major pilgrimage site and tourist attraction, drawing visitors for its impressive scale and serene surroundings.

Statue of Ahimsa depicting the first Jain Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha (Adinath) at Mangi Tungihttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stat…

Sula Vineyards

Sula Vineyards[16]
Sula Vineyardshttps://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review…

Nashik benefits from ideal temperature fluctuations, especially during the winter months, which aid in maintaining ideal acidity and sugar levels in grapes for wine making. Established in 1999 by Rajeev Samant, Sula Winery has become a significant force in India's wine industry. It has played a major role in branding the region as India's Napa Valley. The winery is named in honor of Rajeev's mother, Sulabha, demonstrating ease and approachability. On the same note, Sula Winery exports approximately 10 to 15% of its wine to 27 global markets. It has introduced new grape varieties such as Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Zinfandel to the Indian market. 

Sundarnarayan Mandir

Sundarnarayan Mandir[17]
Sundarnarayan Mandirhttps://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review…

Located near the Ahilyabai Holkar Bridge in Nashik, the Sundarnarayan Mandir, constructed in 1756 by Gangadhar Yashwant Chandrachud, is dedicated to Bhagwaan Vishnu's form as Sundarnarayan. The Mandir's story is tied to the story of an asur named Jalandhar and his wife, Vrinda Devi. Even though Jalandhar was evil, his sincere devotion earned him immortality from Shiv. With this immortality, Jalandhar's malevolent actions escalated. To address this, Vishnu defeated Jalandhar, assumed his likeness, and lived with Jalandhar's wife, Vrinda Devi. When Vrinda realized the truth, she cursed Vishnu, altering his appearance (making him ‘black’ and ‘ugly’). Vishnu later restored his form by bathing in the Godavari River, thus gaining the title "Sundarnarayan".

Architecturally, the Mandir exhibits elements inspired by Mughal designs, including arched recesses. The inner garbhagriha houses Vishnu, flanked by Lakshmi and Saraswati. A distinctive feature of this Mandir is its orientation, which enables the murtis to be bathed in the first rays of sunlight during the March 21st equinox, attracting numerous believers each year.

Trimbakeshwar Shiv Mandir

A view of the Trimbakeshwar Shiv Mandir at Trimbak, Nashik.[18]
A view of the Trimbakeshwar Shiv Mandir at Trimbak, Nashik.https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?cu…

Trimbakeshwar Shiv Mandir in Trimbak, Nashik, is a prominent example of Yadava-era mandir architecture and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Bhagwaan Shiv. Located between the Brahmagiri, Nilagiri, and Kalagiri hills, the Mandir holds deep religious significance. The Jyotirlinga here is unique for its three faces, demonstrating Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiv.

The Mandir is built in black stone and follows the Nagara style of architecture, with a stepped shikhara and carved exterior walls. The inner garbhagriha houses the linga, which was once adorned with the famous Nassak Diamond. According to local belief, a Maratha aristocratic family gifted the diamond to the Mandir in the 15th century. It remained here until it was taken by the British during the Third Anglo-Maratha War.

Trimbakeshwar is one of the four sites of the Kumbh Mela, a major religious festival rooted in both epic and astrological tradition. According to the Shiv Puran, the Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years when the planet Brihaspati (Jupiter) enters Simha Rashi (Leo). The event is said to commemorate the Samudra Manthan, a cosmic churning of the ocean carried out by the bhagwaans and rakshasas to obtain amrit, the nectar of immortality. During the fierce struggle for the kumbh (pot) of amrit, a few drops are believed to have fallen at four places: Nashik, Prayagraj, Haridwar, and Ujjain. At Nashik, these drops are said to have fallen near Trimbakeshwar and Ramkund, making these sites especially significant for ritual bathing during the Kumbh. The event continues to draw millions of yatris who gather to participate in this spiritually momentous act of purification.

Triveni Sangam

The Triveni Sangam at Nashik is an important religious site located at the confluence of the Godavari, Aruna, and Varuna rivers.[19]
The Triveni Sangam at Nashik is an important religious site located at the confluence of the Godavari, Aruna, and Varuna rivers.https://discoverindiasite.wordpress.com/2017…

Triveni Sangam, located in Nashik, is the confluence of the Godavari, Aruna, and Varuna rivers. It is considered a highly pious site in Hindu tradition, where people perform purification rituals and offer prayers for their ancestors. Bathing at the sangam during auspicious occasions is believed to wash away sins and grant spiritual merit.

The site is closely associated with the Ramayan. It is believed that during their exile, Bhagwaan Ram, Sita, and Lakshman spent time on the banks of the Godavari near this sangam. In South India, the Godavari is revered as a form of Devi Ganga and is considered as sacred as the Ganga of the north.

Several mandirs and kunds (sacred tanks) surround the sangam, where rituals like pind daan and shraddha are performed. The air is filled with chants, mantras, and the sound of mandir bells, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

Triveni Sangam becomes especially significant during the Kumbh Mela, held every twelve years in Nashik. During this time, lakhs of pilgrims gather here to take a holy dip and seek blessings. Even outside the Mela, the sangam remains a peaceful site for devotion and reflection. The stone ghats along the sangam lead directly into the river. Individuals often begin their day with a ritual bath, followed by prayers at nearby mandirs dedicated to Bhagwaan Shiv, Bhagwaan Ram, and Devi Godavari. The area carries a quiet reverence that reflects its timeless role in faith and tradition.

Ved Mandir

The Ved Mandir, often referred to as a "modern" Mandir, is located at Trimbak road in Nashik. It is built using Italian marble and is distinguished by its transparent glass walls and brightly lit interiors. It's dedicated to Gangeshwaranandji Maharaj, a champion of Vedic arts, and features statues of him, as well as Ram, Lakshman, and Sita. The Mandir also has a large collection of Vedic scriptures and multimedia recordings of Vedic chants.

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Last updated on 6 November 2025. Help us improve the information on this page by clicking on suggest edits or writing to us.