About Nashik
According to the Indian epic, Ramayana, the city of Nashik sheltered Lord Rama, his wife, Sita, and brother Lakshman. It is considered sacred as it is one of the four places in India where the famous Khumbu Mela takes place. This city is one of the pilgrimage destinations mentioned in the epic, Maharashtra. Since the city is surrounded by the Sahyadari Western Ghats, the town has a scenic charm. Nashik is also known for its vineyards and agriculture. Known as the "wine capital of India," it is home to some of the finest vineyards.
Things to do in Nashik
- Sula Vineyards: Sula Vineyards was the valley's first commercial vineyard, covering approximately 160 hectares. The grapes used to make Sula Winery's wines are grown in the Nashik and Dindri districts. This vineyard has a tasting area where visitors can sample house wines. There are also resorts where wine lovers can stay for a day or two and enjoy the scenery.
- Coin Museum: Coins from different eras have been collected and can be viewed in a comprehensive collection. Asia's only coin museum, it promotes understanding of Indian numismatics. Built in 1980, the museum showcases coins with small descriptions on the sides to help the public learn more about them.
- Anjanelli Mountains: The Hindu epic Ramayana is associated with the Anjanelli Mountains. Lord Hanuman is believed to have been born on this summit. At the top of the mountain is a revered temple frequented by devotees. This mountain is named after Anjani, mother of Lord Hanuman. It takes a short hike to reach the summit, and the view from the top are breathtaking.
- Trimbakeshwar Temple: The temple is a marvel of sculpture and architecture. It is made of black stones which give it a unique, dark shade. It is a famous temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was built by Peshwa Balaji Baj Rao and houses 12 Jyotirlingas. A sacred pool or kund, Kusavarta, within the temple grounds is said to be the symbolic source of the River Godavari.
- Pandavleni Caves: This group of 24 caves dates back to the 2ndcentury B.C. It is an intricately carved cave revealing Hinayana Buddhist architecture. The Pandavreni Cave dates from the 3rd century BC. The caves show Vihara style architecture, except for 18 cave from Chaitya. These caves tell a lot about Buddhist teachings, as evidenced by the inscriptions on the walls.
- Muktidham Temple: This white-marble temple was built in 1971 using marble from Makrana, Rajasthan. The temple has unique architecture and houses all 12 jyotirlinga that make the temple sacred. The uniqueness of this temple is that its walls are inscribed with verses from the Bhagavad Gita.
Best time to visit Nashik
Winter is the best season to visit Nashik. The temperature is comfortable and suitable for sightseeing. You can book flights to Nashik during the months of October through March. Avoid Nashik between June and September since the city receives moderate rainfall.
Nashik Airport
Nashik Airport (ISK) is a major domestic airport. The airport is about 20 km from the city and takes about 30 minutes by car/taxi. There are several taxis you can take from the city to get to the airport and from the airport to the city. Buses are also available from the bus terminal that will drop you at the airport. To book flights to Nashik, you can visit goIndiGo.in and explore this stunning city filled with culture, tradition, wine, and nature.