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Nasik is one of the most important cities of Northern Maharashtra. It
is a classic mélange of the past and the present, and
has become a centre of tourist attraction because of its beautiful
surroundings and cool and pleasant climate. The city has a
personality of its own due to its mythological, historical,
social and cultural importance, and is active on the
industrial, political, social and cultural fronts.
Nasik is home to many fascinating forts and graceful temples.
This land of exquisite grandeur witnessed 14 years of exile
suffered by Lord Rama. According to Hindu mythology, the Lord
spent his years of exile in the forests of this land.
The city plays abode to most of the industries located in
Maharashtra, including the Security Printing Press of the
government, the nation's currency printer. The core of commerce
and trade, it was earlier the country's largest market arena. Widely
held as the land that produces the maximum varieties of fruits
and vegetables, Nasik is rightly labelled as the green belt
area. It lodges a great diversity of tourist attractions,
religious domains and the nature at its bountiful and beautiful
best.
Trimbakeshwar- Trimbakeshwar temple is
situated 30 km from Nasik. It is famous all over the country
since it is the abode of one of the 12 Jyotirlings (Shiva
Lings) of India.
Ramkund- Ramkund is a sacred tank. The
aborigines state that Lord Rama and his wife Sita used this
tank for bathing during the years of exile. It is a common
belief that if the ashes are immersed in the holy waters of
this kund, salvation or moksha is achieved.
Muktidham Temple- Muktiham temple is located
near the station, around 7 kms. from the city. The temple
has been built with pure white makrana marble, making it a
unique piece of architecture. What makes this temple unique
is that eighteen chapters of the Bhagwad Gita are written
on the walls of this temple.
Coin Museum- It is positioned against the
backdrop of the Ajneri Hill. The museum houses a fine collection
of researched and well-documented history of Indian currency.
Also included in the collection are photographs, articles,
line drawings, replica, real coins and also a detailed analysis
of the various currency systems that existed in the India.
Kalaram Temple- Built in 1794 by Gopikabai Peshwa, this temple
is another architectural gem. This 70 feet high structure
has been built with black stone. The copper peak of the temple
is gold-plated and looks beautiful by day and night. The idols
of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana are sandy black and decked
with ornaments.
Pandavleni caves- These 2000-yr-old caves,
built by the Jain kings, are located on a tableland atop the
Trivashmi Hill. There are around 24 caves situated here
that once formed abode to the Jain saints. The caves lodge
idols of Buddha, Jain Teerthankara Vrishabhdeo, Veer Manibhadraji
and Ambikadevi and the icons of Bodhisatva.
Someshwar- On the way to Gangapur dam, tourists are fascinated
by the beautiful nature spot called "Someshwar".
There is a temple of Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman on the
banks of the river Godavari. The area is covered with greenery
all over, with a pleasant climate. Tourists can take pleasure
of swimming and boating in the river.
Artillery Centre- Behind the Pandav Caves
is the biggest Artillery Center in Asia. This artillery
center was shifted from Pakistan in 1947, and is now completing
its 50th year. The Indian army's officers and soldiers are
trained here. Training for 'Bofors Gun' is given here. The
area is under military and is restricted for civilians.
Kumbh Mela- Nasik is one of the four venues
for the world famous Kumbh Mela which is held once every twelve
years, and the Ardh Kumbh, which is held once every six years.
Seasons to Visit
The weather in Nasik is pleasant throughout the year.
Getting There
Air: Nasik airport is 39 kms from the city.
Road: Nasik is well connected by road
with Mumbai (185 kms), Pune (202 kms)
Rail: Nasik Road railway station is
44 kms from the city. It is one of the major stations on Central
Railway (Mumbai - Nasik 188 kms).
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