Sightseeing Highlights:
Pandavleni Caves are one of the oldest caves in Maharashtra dating back to 1st century BC. Originally the viharas of Buddhist monks, the caves have extensive writings in Brahmi script. Just behind the caves lies the biggest Artillery Centre in Asia. The centre is under the Army's jurisdiction and entry is restricted for civilians. Ramkund is famous for its curative powers. A dip in the tank is considered holy as it is believed that Lord Rama used to bathe here.
Panchavati along the river banks is supposed to be the place where Lord Rama resided. The place is marked with five banyan trees.
Muktidham Temple, 7 Km from the city is built in white marble with an unusual architecture. Eighteen chapters from the epic, Bhagwad Gita, are inscribed on the walls of this temple. The Kalaram Temple built in 1794 is a huge 70-feet black stone structure with a gold-plated copper peak, known for its architectural grandeur. The Nashik Coin Museum is one of its kind in India which houses a rich collection of photographs, articles, line drawings, replicas and real coins besides a detailed analysis of the various currency systems that existed in India from ancient times.
The famous shrine of Shirdi Sai Baba is 60 Km from the town, while Trimbakeshwar 30 Km from Nashik, is the holy spot dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Other Activities:
Nashik is famous for its grapes and the city is home to a large number of wineries. A trip to the first winery of Nashik, Sula is an interesting activity. The old bazaars along the river banks are a good place to buy bronze statues and beaded jewellery.
Tourism info:
MTDC, T/1, Golf Club Old Agra Road, Nashik Tel: 0253-2570059
The city of Nashik on the banks of the Godavari River echoes with history and religious fervour. Located on the western edge of the Deccan peninsula, Nashik had always been a centre of religion, dating back to 1st century BC when Buddhist monks resided here. Nashik hosts the tri-annual Kumbh Mela which draws pilgrims from all corners of India. According to popular legend, Lord Rama and his wife Sita resided here for sometime during his 14 years of exile from the kingdom of Ayodhya. Awed by the city's scenic beauty, the Mughals named Nashik as Gulshanabad. The city is also famous for its growing wine industry, so much so that Nashik is often called the Wine Capital of India. Punctuated by temples, forts, wineries and an equal number of industrial units, Nashik is an eclectic blend of old and new. In fact, it is the third largest industrial township in Maharashtra after Mumbai and Pune. Today, it exports grapes, roses and strawberries amongst other things. |