Nashik

One of the venues for the Kumbh Mela, Nashik, on the banks of the Godavari river in Maharashtra, is believed to be one of the places where Ram spent time during his exile and is a pilgrimage site for Hindus. Maintaining a fine balance between old and new architecture, the third largest city in Maharashtra has an interesting mix of modern and ancient structures.

Surrounded by nine hills, Durga, Pandav, Chitraghanta, Mhasarul, Dinger Ali, Konkani, Jogwada, Ganesh and Pathanpura, Nashik, at an elevation of 1900 ft, enjoys pleasant weather for several months of the year. The presence of the Samangaon Lake and the Chandshi lake only add to the beauty of the city.

About nine km from Trimbakeshwar, home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Nashik also finds mention in the Ramayana. It is believed that the name Nashik comes from the episode of the Ramayana where Lakshmana hacked off the nasika (nose) of Ravana’s sister.

Apart from its religious importance, Nashik has numerous vineyards that dot the countryside and is known as the wine capital of India. Some of the vineyards allow tours and provide courses on grape cultivation and identification of different wines and how to savor them.