Nashik Temples

The holy city of Nashik has River Godavari flowing through it. The Northern part of the city is also known by the name Panchvati as it is believed that Lord Rama with his wife Sita had rested on the banks of the Godavari. He then made his abode in the jungles near the river. There are a number of temples associated with Lord Rama here. Apart from that Trimbakeshwar, the one of the holiest places of pilgrimage for Hindus is just about 25 miles from Nashik. The region of Nashik has been associated with holiest of holy and around 60 miles exists the famous Shirdi, the Shrine of Saibaba.
Shrine of Saibaba at Shirdi
Sabka Malik Ek, the God of all is one, preached by the famous Saibaba of Shirdi is the guiding principle on which this shrine is equally revered by people from all the religions. The place is especially full on Thursdays as it is considered an auspicious day. The saint in loin cloth preached living a simple life of gratitude. It is believed that he had performed many miracles and even today his blessings come in the form of ash. The temple is a marvelous piece of architecture with gold carvings and marble paving.
Trimbakeshwar Temple
Just 40 kms from the Nashik Airport is the holiest of holy places for Hindus. The place of origin of River Godavari, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Hindus, the birth place of the god of wealth Lord Ganesha, and the juxtaposition of Sahyadri hills and Godavari river is considered the most pious place to appease the dead. The Hindus come here to perform Shraadha for their departed loved ones.
Panchvati
The name comes from the five banyan trees in the area and the place derived holy significance as it is believed that Lord Ram and Sita stayed here. The Sita Gumpha is the cave where she stayed and was later kidnapped by the devil King Ravana.
Ramakund
The place again is associated with Lord Rama as he had bathed in the pond. A bath in the pond is considered pious and devout Hindus desire their last remains to be immersed in Ramakund for salvation. The remains of the Father of the Nation, Mahatama Gandhi were also immersed here.
Kalaram Mandir
The word ‘Kala’ in Hindi means black. The temple is made of black stones and was constructed by the Peshwas more than 200 years back. The temple is one of the holy Hindu temples where the lower castes are also allowed entry.
Naroshankar Mandir
An exquisite piece of 18th century temple architecture, the beauty of the temple lies not in the sanctum sanctorum but the outer design and layout. The rows of statues and figurines on the outer walls depict the depth of Hinduism that it is not limited to humans but extends to all the life forms around you. It reinforces the concept that Hinduism is not a religion but a way to live The list of temples in and around Nashik does not end here. The Godavari Temple, Sundarnarayan Temple, Muktidham Temple, Kalpeshwar Temple and Pandu Lena Buddhist Cave Temples, all have their own legacy and deserve a deliberate visit.