Nashik is an ancient holy city in the Western India’s state of Maharashtra. It is a religious pilgrimage destination for many especially the Hindus. It is one of the four pious Kumbh Mela Festival locations. The popular Kumbh Mela is hosted here once every twelve years. Lord Ram along with his wife Sita and brother Lord Lakshman had spent fourteen long years at a Tapovan located close to Nashik. Back in the sixteenth century during the reign of the Mughals, the city was renamed Gulshanabad. Later in the year 1818, it came under the Maratha rule. The city is also known for its active participation in the struggle for freedom. It has given birth to nationalists like Anant Laxman Kanhere and Veer Savarkar. Nashik is a city well known as the landing spot for the pilgrims traveling to Shirdi. There are many places to visit in Nashik that you can explore while traveling to the city. The guide ahead would help you know in detail about the places to see in Nashik.
1. Sita Gufa
https://goo.gl/maps/PTwFCkT6iko1JRH76
Sita Gufa is situated close to Panchvati. It is said to be the place where Ravana had kept Sita, wife of Lord Rama after kidnapping her in disguise. The place features a narrow staircase that leads to the inside of the caves. The inside of the cave houses the idols of Sita, Lord Rama, and Lord Lakshmana. Additionally, it also houses the ancient Shivling which is said to be the one that Sita worshipped during her abducted days. It is one of those places that every Hindu would desire to visit.
Distance from City Centre – 1 km
Approximate Time to Explore the Place – Half an hour.
Visiting Hours – No specific visiting hours
Entry Fee – No entry fee
2 ) Panchavati
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The holy land of Panchvati is quite a popular pious destination for the pilgrims especially the Hindus who are strong believers of the epic Ramayana. This is a peaceful, serene town situated close to Nashik where many sightings hold remarkable significance in the much renowned and holy epic of Ramayana. For someone who has heard stories from the great epic, this place would hold many answers to the inheld curiosity. While exploring Panchvati one can also make plans to visit tourist places like Sita Gufa and Kalaram Temple as these are nestled nearby.
Distance from City Centre – 3 km
Approximate Time to Explore the Place – Half a day
Visiting Hours – During the day time
Entry Fee – No entry fee