Land of tasty wine and all things fine for 1: Nashik, Maharastra

Nashik in an important city in Maharashtra and is the site of the Kumbh Mela every 12 years. Besides this, it is also the wine capital of India with majority of wine coming from here as vineyards and wineries are located here. 

The city gets its name from the Sanskrit word meaning nose. It is believed to be the place where in the Ramayana Lakshmana cut off the nose of the demon sister of Ravana, Surpanaka. Nashik city has some lovely sights of the Godavari river from the vineyards and the city in general. The origination of the Godavari river is at Trimbakeshwar which is just 24 kms from Nashik. 

Weather in Nashik

Nashik has dry and cool weather. The historic Pandav Leni caves dating back to the 2nd century CE represent Hinayana Buddhism are located in the city. They offer a great view of the city of Nashik. In the complex is a garden as well as a vihara. There is a also a Dadasaheb Phalke museum that shows the evolution of film in India as well as Bollywood over the last 100 years. There is a musical fountain here as well.

The Gangapur dam in the city is a great place to spend time by the Godavari. There is boating and water sports that happens here. It is a wonderful place to witness the sunset. There is a lovely coin museum which shows the evolution of currency in India. The artillery museum is also a must visit with the display of various defence transport and equipment. They have an informative defence movie as well as light and sound show in the evenings.

Places

The Infant Jesus shrine which is a devotional centre for Catholics is also located here. Masses are in the morning at 6:30 and 12 noon. The shrine is open from 6 am to 7 pm for pilgrims. The Someshwar waterfall is a lovely place to visit all year around. The food in Nashik is authentically Maharashtrian with missal, vada pav, poha that are must eats here. 

Many people come to Nashik to savour the wines. The wine tasting experience is a must do while in the city. Since it is located close to Mumbai and Pune, weekends are busy as both people from both cities drive down here. Mumbai-Pune and Nashik form the golden triangle of the state. 

Stays

There are places of various budgets to stay while in Nashik. Two to three days are more than enough to spend in the city. There are local buses and rickshaws around the city to go from one place to another. 

The city is a must visit for tourists as well as travellers as it is a lovely mix of history, nature and devotion. Whatever be the reason for a visit, the city is surely one that will not disappoint.

1. Religious Significance:

The city holds great religious importance as it is one of the four destinations for the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage. The city is home to several temples, including the famous Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

2. Vineyards and Wineries:

The city is known as the Wine Capital of India, with a thriving wine industry. The region is dotted with vineyards and wineries that offer wine tastings, tours, and a chance to learn about the wine-making process.

3. Panchavati:

Panchavati is an important religious and mythological site in the city. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana lived during their exile. The area is famous for its temples, including the Kalaram Temple, Sita Gufa (cave), and the Ram Kund bathing ghats.

4. Vineyards:

The Vineyards is one of the most popular and well-known wineries in India, located in Nashik. It offers vineyard tours, wine tastings, and a scenic setting for relaxation and enjoyment.

5. Pandavleni Caves:

Situated around 8 kilometers from Nashik, the Pandavleni Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 1st century BC. These caves are known for their intricate carvings, and the top offers a panoramic view of Nashik.

6. Dudhsagar Falls:

Located approximately 60 kilometers from Nashik, Dudhsagar Falls is a picturesque waterfall and a popular picnic spot. The water cascades down from a height of approximately 10 meters and resembles a stream of milk, which gives it its name.

7. Saptashrungi Devi Temple:

Situated around 60 kilometers from Nashik, the Saptashrungi Devi Temple is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to the Hindu goddess Saptashrungi. It is perched on a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and lush greenery.

8. Nashik Caves:

The Nashik Caves, also known as the Pandav Caves, are a group of ancient rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BC to the 3rd century CE. These caves serve as a testament to the rich Buddhist heritage of the region.

Nashik offers a mix of religious, cultural, and natural attractions, making it a popular destination for pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers.