Located on the banks of the Godavari River, Nashik is known for its historical charm andpreferred travel destination in Maharashtra, India. From ancient caves to the intricate architecture of temples, everything reflects the rich heritage of the city. There are a plethora of historic places in Nashik that you can explore.
It is believed that during 14 years of exile, Lord Rama lived here for a while, which makes it a spiritually significant place. This city is home to various attractive locations, including caves, forts, temples, and museums, catering to every traveller’s choices. By visiting these places, you not only discover some wonders but also add value to your travel memory and experience.
Also Read: How to Reach Nashik by Road, Rail and air?
Let’s Discover the Historical Places in Nashik
Witness the heritage, explore the glory, and experience history in every corner by visiting the following places in Nashik:
1. Trimbakeshwar Temple
Revered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, the Trimbakeshwar temple is among the ancient historical places in Nashik. Surrounded by the Brahmagiri Hills, this significant Hindu pilgrimage site receives a multitude of devotees every day for offering prayers, performing special pooja rituals, and seeking blessings. The architecture features Nagara style and sculptures carved in black stone, which attract tourists. There is a sacred bathing place for the devotees, known as Kushavarta Kund.
2. Pandavleni Caves
These are also known as Nashik Caves, which are a group of 24 rock-cut caves built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD. Pandav Leni caves are believed to have been built by the Jain Rulers for Jain saints. These caves also feature Buddhist sculptures reflecting the shifting religious beliefs. It is also said that the Pandavas had spent some time in these caves. You can witness several stunning sculptures, inscriptions, and engraved figurines of Lord Buddha and Jain deities in these ancient caves.
3. Anjaneri Hills
This is regarded as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman and is popular among history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and trekkers. The Anjaneri Hills feature a cave, known as Anjani Mata Temple, dedicated to Bal Hanuman. There is a Bal Hanuman temple located where the Lord was cured by Indra after being hit by the vajra of Indra. You can reach these temples by trekking through the lush green fields and rocky terrain. Though the trek may not be easy, the view from the top is worth every effort, especially during the monsoon.
4. Ramshej Fort
Located on a hilltop, Ramshej Fort is renowned as the resting place of Lord Ram on his way to Lanka during his exile. It may take almost an hour to climb to reach the fort, where you can visit a small Lord Ram temple on the way. Besides mythological significance, this place has historical importance as well. Ramshej Fort is the same place where Maratha soldiers fought with Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s armies for more than six years, under the reign of the son of great Shivaji Maharaj, Sambhaji.
5. Coin Museum
Established in the year 1980, the Coin Museum of Nashik is a unique historical place to explore and get insights into Indian currencies. This place was founded under the administration of the Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies, which showcases the growth of Indian coins since ancient times through various replicas, models, dyes, and photographs. You can also explore a unique collection of machines, age-old bronze, numismatic materials, terracotta articles, artefacts, and paintings.
6. Ramkund
A holy place for bathing on the bank of the Godavari River, Ramkund is also popular for being the venue hosting the spectacular Kumbh Mela. This sacred water body is believed to be the place where Lord Ram used to bathe during His exile. The Hindu devotees bathe in Ramkund as a sacred ritual believed to purify them of sins. You can also see an Ashthivilaya Kund, where Hindu devotees immerse the ashes of their deceased relatives.
7. Artillery Museum
This is known to be the largest artillery museum in Asia, which is also considered one of the top-notch artillery training centres for the Indian Army. You can witness a large collection of old and new weapons inside the museum that were used in wars, including tanks, canons, guns, and military gear.
8. Chamar Leni
This is a 400 ft high hill located in Mhasrul village in Nashik, which has caves which are associated with the Dighambar Jain sect and is believed to have been constructed in the 4th century. Chamar Leni is among the most scenic historical places in Nashik, where you can reach by climbing a staircase of 450 black stone steps. This hill is also known as Gajapath, and you can see several Jain temples and a sculpture representing the divine preaching ceremony of Jain Tirthankaras, Samvabasara.
9. Sundarnarayan Temple
Another majestic historical temple in Nashik, the Sundarnarayan Temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The architecture of this temple features a unique style and is constructed in a manner that on every 21st March, the first rays of the rising sun fall on the idols of Lord Vishnu, Saraswati and Lakshmi. This attracts the devotees to witness this charisma on this auspicious day.
10. Kalaram Temple
Located in Panchavati, this temple is considered one of the oldest temples, believed to be the place where Lord Rama spent his 14 years of exile. You can witness the divine black statues of Lord Rama, Devi Sita, and Lakshman, which iswhy it is named Kalaram Temple. This temple was constructed in 1972 after Sardar Rangarao Odhekar discovered the black statues of Lord Rama in the Godavari River. There is a black statue of Lord Hanuman at the main entrance of the temple.
Final Words:
Nashik’s historical, mythological and religious significance make it an attractive destination that one must visit. From scenic forts in high hills to the ancient temples with religious significance, the historical sites in Nashik City are more than places to explore. They offer deep insight into the glorious past of this heritage city and fill your heart with wonder, peace and spirituality. Therefore, embark on an enriching journey of exploring Nashik’s heritage sites. Plan your trip with Saibaba Travels, a trusted travel agency, for a well-planned itinerary and comfortable transportation.
