If you are planning to visit Nashik, prepare to be surprised by how tradition and modernity can embrace each other in their truest form. Nashik is known all over the world for being one of the holiest places in India and holding the Kumbh Mela. But, at the same time, it is also called the “Wine Capital of India”, since 90% of the wine in the country calls Nashik its home. Essentially, the best places to visit in Nashik will combine the traditional with the modern, ensuring a holistic trip for you and your loved ones.

Your trip to this beautiful place will entail a mix of experiences, along with some beautiful views as a perk. You will be surprised to know that the caves in Nashik are witness to ancient Buddhist paintings and can intrigue anyone, despite their beliefs. So, let us explore how the Napa Valley of India plans to steal your heart by peeking into some popular attractions and understanding the itinerary.

Places To Visit In Nashik

Apart from the charm of Kumbh Mela and the vineyards, Nashik is one of the most loved tourist destinations for another very significant reason. Tracing its origin to mythology, it is believed to be a part of Dandakaranya, where lord Ram stayed with his wife during his exile.

Apart from these legends, Nashik is visually pleasing and has the historical significance of the Mughal, and British rule written all over it. We will explore more as we progress with our list and try to unravel its many layers. So let us begin.

Spiritual and Historical Places

I am going to start this list with an homage to religious tourism and a few significant places that will appease the pilgrim and the adventurer in you. Traveling for faith and being able to witness significant monuments that have played a major role in shaping our history is always a thrilling experience. 

1. Trimbakeshwar Temple

Location: Trimbakeshwar Jyotirling Mandir, 

Trimbak, Maharashtra 422212, India

One of the major attractions in Nashik, Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of lord Shiva, the Hindu deity who is believed to be the lord of the universe. Owing to its mythological significance, Trimbakeshwar Temple is the first place you should visit if you are seeking some spiritual insights.

In Hindu mythology, Jyotirlingas are sacred, and it is believed that Lord Shiva appeared partially through them. The unique thing about the Jyotirlinga here is it has three faces which embody Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple legend also says that the crown that adorns the linga consists of diamonds and emeralds can be traced back to the early ages of Pandavas. To get a glimpse of the crown, you have to visit around Monday 5 pm.

The temple was built by Balaji Baji Rao. It has a sacred pond inside the temple premises known as the Kusavarta Kunda, and is the source of the second largest river in India. 

Things To Note: 

• It is ideal to visit the temple early in the morning to avoid crowds. 
• Visiting Trimbakeshwar during festivities can incur a very long wait time. 
• It is 30 km away from the main city of Nashik. So, make your arrangements accordingly.

2. Pandavleni Caves

Location: Pandav Lene Rd, Nashik 422010 India

The Pandavleni caves have many identities, namely Trirashmi Caves and Nashik Caves. Consisting of Viharas and Chaitya caves, it is a series of twenty-four Hinayana Buddhist caves.

Located 8 km south of Nashik, the Pandavleni caves are a witness to the magnificent Buddhist rock-cut architecture and its legacy. Representing the Buddhist schools’ traditions, the caves are sculptured beautifully and house the statues of Buddha, Jain Tirthankara Ṛṣabhadeva, and icons of the Jain yakṣas Maṇibhadra and Ambikā.

The caves acted as a meeting place for the Buddhist disciples and had a peaceful aura to them. It is currently taken care of by the Archeological Survey of India and is one of the most loved tourist destinations in Nashik.

Things To Note:

• Visiting the caves includes climbing a series of 230 stairs. 
• The caves have transcriptions, for which you might need a guide. 
• You can visit the caves till 5.30 PM, so plan your itinerary accordingly. 
• Ideally, if you can visit during sunrise, you will be able to witness the Stupa’s and the cave’s carvings more intricately.

3. Saptashrungi Temple

Location: Saptashrungi Garh Rd, Saptashurngi, 

Maharashtra 422215

Famous for being the abode of Saptashrungi Nivasini Devi, this is one of the main tourist attractions of Nashik to seek the divine. Moreover, it is also known to be a three-and-a-half Shakti Peetha, which means it is a significant shrine for people believing the goddess of Shakti and preaching Shaktism.

The legend says that it is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where Sathi’s (Godess Durga’s) right arm had fallen off. It was when she had committed suicide out of humiliation. The protector of the universe and her husband, Lord Shiva, was grief-stricken and was carrying her around the world before Vishnu’s intervention.

Another legend goes that it was 18-armed Saptashrungi Devi who took the form of Durga to stop the Demon King Mahishasura from wreaking havoc in the land. The temple has many stories to feed your quest for the divine and in turn, offer you peace on your trip.

Things To Note:

• There will always be an influx of crowds in this temple, so make sure you are prepared accordingly. 
• You have to climb 500 steps to reach the top of the temple. However, trolly facilities have also been introduced. 
• It is 65 km away from Nashik and puts a lot of pressure on the parking situation.

Vineyards and Wineries

Once you have embraced spirituality and attained a bit of calm by visiting the temples of Nashik, it is time to unwind with a few drinks. The trip won’t be considered a vacation if you do not visit the Vineyards. Let us see what the Wine Capital of India has to offer. 

4. Sula Vineyards

Gat 36/2, Govardhan Village, Off, 

Gangapur-Savargaon Rd, 

Nashik, Maharashtra 422222

Established in the year 1999, Sula Vineyards is an ideal place if you wish to get a bit tipsy while surrounded by a great view and good food. The vineyard landscape, apart from the picturesque view, also holds the merit of making Nashik the wine capital and establishing its name in the field of wines. 

Rajeev Suresh Samant, the CEO and founder of the Sula Vineyards, had named it after his mother ‘Sulabha’. It offers an excellent experience for any wine enthusiast. The restaurants and the hotel in the vineyards promise a stay with a great view, the finest wine, and lip-smacking food. 

The tour of the vineyard is an elaborate guided tour on the art of winemaking. It even allows you to taste the finest of the brands, in their award-winning wine-tasting rooms. The overall trip to Sula Vineyard is a perfect way to unwind with a nice stay in the villas and some extra calories to take it up a notch. 

Things To Note: 

• You can directly book a stay with them at +919970090010 and learn more about the itinerary. 
• The timings for the tour and restaurant vary. Make sure you confirm the same before making a move. 
• Do not carry any outside food or drinks. If you wish to return the same day, a trip to Sula Vineyards requires a minimum of 2 hours.

5. York Winery

Location: Gat No.15, 2, Gangapur-Savargaon Rd,

Gangavarhe, Nashik, 

Gangavhare, Maharashtra 422222

Another prominent winery that has helped Nashik become a tourist favorite is the York Winery. Stretched over 99 acres of land and cradled by the Gangapur Dam, it is a twenty-minute drive from the main city. A team of young winemakers is responsible for helping Nashik make its mark on the map, and also make it an unforgettable experience for wine lovers. 

The entire setup of the place is picturesque and offers wine tasting, touring along with finger foods, and an open-air restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience. Not only it is an ideal romantic gateway, but the tour is also informative, and a dream come true for any wine enthusiast. 

What is exciting about this place is the lake view from the tasting, which makes it a calming experience backed by some eye-pleasing aesthetics. 

Things To Note: 

• • The tasting time is up to 6:30 PM on Weekdays and 7:30 PM on weekends, so you must make sure you plan your day accordingly. 
• Tthe restaurant remains open till 11 PM and offers some delectable cuisines.

6. Grover Zampa

Location: Grover Zampa Vineyards

Survey No. 116,

Nashik-Sinnar Road,

Nashik, Maharashtra 422111, India.

Grover Zampoa gives you the taste of Napa Valley in Nashik itself, with its fine vineyards and state-of-the-art wines. A 7.5 km drive off the Mumbai-Nashik highway, the Grover Vineyards Ltd (GVL) and Vallee De Vin Pvt Ltd (VDV) merger is the second-biggest wine producer in the country. 

The vineyard is on top of a hill and along with finely produced wines, it ensures a great view and a classy experience to wind it all up. You will be able to taste some of the finest wines produced in the country, along with a secluded and exclusive experience of the vineyard only. 

Things To Note: 

• It is yet to have a café and restaurant, so you’ll have to make arrangements for food.
• The timings are from 10:30 AM to 6 PM every day. 
• The best time to experience Grover Zampa in its full glory is during the winter.

Natural Attractions

Now that you have tasted the wine and sought the divine, let us see what more Nashik has to offer. It is inherently beautiful when it comes to its landscapes, and has been attracting tourists and travelers alike. Let us see a few places to add another name to your travelogue.

7. Anjaneri Hills

Location: Western Ghats, 20kms away from Nashik

With an elevation of 4,264 feet (1,300 m) above sea level, Anjaneri Hills is one of the famous hiking spots in Nashik. The name of the slope traces its origin to Indian mythology where Anjana Devi, Lord Hanuman’s mother, is said to have meditated in search of penance. Anjaneri is also the birthplace of the Lord himself, and is considered a sacred place by the Hindus.

You will come across Anjaneri Hills before going to Trimbakeshwar Temple and the trek is all about a great view, overlooking the lush greens of Nashik. If you are someone who likes magnificent views but doesn’t want to take up the hassle that comes with trekking, Anjaneri Hills is the perfect place for you.

Things To Note:

• The steps are steep and can be a bit of a hindrance for the older members of your family.
• Anjaneri Hills is a tourist spot with a religious sentiment attached to it. Do take proper permissions before embarking on the trip. 
• The ideal time to visit the place is during monsoon, since the waterfall that adds to the beauty of this place will be in its full glory.

8. Someshwar Waterfalls

Location: 2PHF+M97, Ambedkar Nagar,

 Nashik, Maharashtra 422222

Finally, we have arrived at a destination for all the water lovers. Someshwar Falls is one of the many natural spectacles that adds glory to Nashik’s list of attractions.

This 10m waterfall is one of the hidden gems of the place and is only 2 km away from the Someswar temple. Nourished by the Godavari river, the waterfall is also known as Dudhsagar Falls (not to be confused with the one in Panjim) owing to the fierce flow that gives it a whitish impression.

The fall is an ideal picnic spot and a social media enthusiast playground, owing to its scenic beauty. However, the dramatic flow of the water leading to a pristine lake and the refreshing air is certain to enthrall anyone who visits the place.

Things To Note:

• Since it is a waterfall, you must remember you can only witness it in its full glory if you visit it during the monsoon. 
• If you are planning to take a dip in the water, make sure you follow all the necessary protocols before jumping in.

9. Brahmagiri Hills

Location:  20 kilometers northwest of Nashik city.

Located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Brahmagiri Hills is situated a few km away from the Trimbakeshwar Temple. Apart from its religious significance, the place is known for its unadulterated terrain, which is a thrill seeker’s paradise. This 1,298 m, hill is known to be the source of the sacred river of Godavari and the literal meaning of its name is the Hill of Lord Brahma.

It was initially considered a sin to climb this hill, owing to its significance to Lord Shiva. However, Seth Lalchand of Karachi and Seth Ganeshdas built concrete steps into the mountain, which enabled people to relish the charm of this untamed beauty.

Even though the trek can be completed in one day, you won’t find much of a crowd on this route. However, you will find lush green trees, along with unexplored flora and fauna, making your climb all worth it.

Things To Note:

• The place is in its unadulterated habitat, so you will encounter leeches while on the trek. 
• Make sure to carry ample drinking water and snacks as per your requirements.

Outdoor Activities and Adventure Spot

Well, you can count this section within the natural attractions column, but I wanted to give you a specific list. Let us see in a bit of detail how Nashik plans to satisfy your adrenaline cravings. 

10. Dugarwadi Waterfall

Location: Latitude: 19.9122° N

Longitude: 73.7065° E

Accessible from Nashik City, Dugarwadi Waterfall is known for its scenic views throughout the trail. The monsoon seasons are a witness to its majestic flow, and the greenery appeases nature lovers and photographers alike.

It has a dense canopy of forests and is known for trekking and exploration. The trails from the falls lead to smaller streams and unexplored places. The place is also known to attract birds and is a loved family picnic spot.

Things To Note:

• Carry essential gear to ensure safety. 
• Follow the said protocols to preserve the flora and fauna and avoid any danger to yourself. 
• You can visit the falls during monsoon to witness its full potential, but for trekking, you have to wait it out till winter.

11. Igatpuri For Trekking

Location: Mumbai-Agra NH-3

Located in the Western Ghats Igatpuri is a hill station in Nashik popular for its Vipassana International Academy. The place is surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the Western Ghats range, which makes it an ideal location for trekking and exploring.

There are multiple camping routes you can take when you decide to give this quaint town a visit. Even though the terrains might be tough, you will be witnessing breathtaking views, which will make it all the more worth it.

In fact, you can even visit the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary or opt for any water sports apart from exploring its terrain.

Things To Note:

• You must decide on a route for your trek before you set out. 
• Carry all necessary accessories and try to adhere to the instructions to avoid any mishap.

Cultural and Heritage Sites

If you think Nashik can only appeal to your spiritual or adventurous side, you will be mistaken since this place is a cultural hotspot too. The rich heritage of Nashik weaves Mughal and British cultures together, making it historically significant.

12. Nashik Artillery Museum

Location: Artillery Centre, Gandhi Nagar Airport Area, 

Deolali Gaon, Nashik, Maharashtra 422101

Nashik Artillery Museum is the biggest artillery museum in Asia, and was established by the Regiment of Artillery Association (RAA). It became a public affair in the year 2005. Entering the museum will make you feel like you have time-traveled to the times of the British Raj, and history is unfurling itself one more time.

An exhilarating experience for any history enthusiast, you will be able to see modern weapons including army tanks, radar systems, and aircraft exhibited live. Not only that, Bofor guns, cannons, tanks, military agreements, and different paintings and photographs of historical events are showcased in this museum.

But the main attractions of the museum are the AOP aircraft and MIG-23UM. There’s also a wooden catapult from 400 BC, a pot-de-fet artillery, and a brass cannon from the Mughal era that belonged to Babur in the First Battle of Panipat. However, the list doesn’t end here, and you have to witness this live to keep track of it.

Things To Note: 

• Saturdays and Sundays treat you with a light and sound show from 07:15 PM to 08:00 PM (in Summers: 01 March to 30 September) and 06:00 PM to 06:45 PM (in Winters: 01 October to 28 February) in the museum. 
• You must carry an ID proof to enter and photography is not allowed.

13. Coin Museum

Location: INHCRF Campus, Opposite Grape County Resort, Near Vadholi, Trambakeshwar Rd, Phata, Nashik, Maharashtra 422213

The Coin Museum, or the Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies, was founded in 1980 by numismatist Parmeshwari Lal Gupta and industrialist K. K. Maheshwari. The museum traces the history of money and displays its journey in India. Another half of the library has the photographic work of K G Maheshwari.

Apart from various records of numismatic collections, the library has around 1,50,000 items, which include houses photo indexes of coins, organized by series. You will also see coins from the Mughal period and artifacts dating way back in the history of the great South Indian rulers. Fun Fact: Did you know that there are knife-shaped coins in this museum?

Things To Note:

• The timing of the museum is from 10 AM to 5 PM and can vary during national holidays. 
• Pricing of the ticket is Rs 70 for adults and Rs 50 for photography.

Popular Markets and Local Experiences

Now that you have experienced Nashik as a tourist, the last leg of your trip should include you experiencing its magic as a localité. This will help you remember the place more memorably and make your trip an experience.

14. Saraf Bazar

Location: Saraf Bazar, Panchavati, Nashik, Maharashtra, India

Saraf Bazar is popular all over India owing to its Gold and Silver jewelry, and has a plethora of shops you can opt for. It is one of the busiest markets in the area and you will always find more women shopping here. 

The place is known to attract hundreds of tourists every day, since it is also a hub of local artisans showcasing their craftsmanship and attracting tourists. But the versatility of the bazaar is not limited to jewelry, and it also has textiles and handicrafts for its countless visitors.

It is located near Kalaram Mandir and Panchavati, which makes visiting the bazaar a bit of a spiritual experience too. However, after you have laid your hands on the things that you need, do not forget to try the local street food to appease the foodie in you. In fact, it is an ideal place to observe the local life and align yourself culturally with Nashik.

Things To Note: 

• Do not forget to carry cash. 
• The place is always crowded and there is a visible rush.

15. Tibetan Market

Location: Mumbai-Agra Highway (NH 60)

 Near Bhagwan Shri Sitaram Mandir, Tibetan Colony. 

Similar to how Saraf Bazar offers jewelry and handicrafts, Tibetan Market offers a wide range of fashionable clothing and woolens for you to choose from. It is another significant place to indulge in shopping if you are in Nashik.

A mixture of culture and commerce, the place has been set up to especially support the Tibetian community of Nashik. Since we are talking about Tibet, it is crucial to mention that the market offers an array of Tibetan dishes that you have to try.

Apart from the clothes, you will get any type of handmade jewelry, along with prayer flags, metalwork, and wooden works. Like Saraf Bazar, it is another place where you can understand how the lives of the people in Nashik play out on the daily.

Things To Note:

• It is advisable to carry cash. 
• This market also has a significant amount of rush every day. 

Conclusion

By this time, I am sure you have pinpointed the places that you want in your itinerary to the Napa Valley of India. The thing is, you will rarely find a place where your group of believers and nonbelievers in religion can come together to have an adventure. 

What you seek from a trip can vary from person to person. You might seek spirituality and your friend or partner can seek tranquility. So with Nashik, you don’t have to adjust with just one. 

While you plan your trip, make sure you immerse yourself in its culture, try the local cuisine, explore its rich historical past sip some wine, and seek god. It is a perfect gateway to come back refreshed and maybe with a new perspective towards life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the top 3 tourist attractions in Nashik?

The top 3 tourist attractions in Nashik include the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, Pandavleni Caves, and the Sula Vineyards. 

2. Which are the most famous temples to visit in Nashik?

The famous temples in Nashik are Trimbakeshwar Temple, Kalaram Temple, and Muktidham Temple.

3. What is Nashik famous for in terms of tourism?

Apart from being the “Wine Capital of India”, Nashik is known for its temples, scenic landscapes, and ancient caves with Buddhist paintings. 

4. What outdoor activities can tourists enjoy in Nashik?

There are multiple ways through which you can immerse yourself in the Nashik experience. This includes hiking, wine tasting, nature walks, paragliding, and many more.

5. How far is Trimbakeshwar Temple from Nashik city?

The distance between Trimbakeshwar and Nashik is about 30 km.

6. Are there any waterfalls to visit in Nashik?

Nashik has a list of waterfalls that you can visit by traveling for a few hours from the main city. This includes the likes of Dugarwadi Waterfall Someshwar Waterfall, Bhagirath Falls, and others.

7. What are the top wineries to explore in Nashik?

The top wineries that you must visit in Nashik include Sula Vineyards, Vallonne Vineyards, York Winery, and Grover Zampa Vineyards.

8. What are the hidden gems of Nashik tourism?

The hidden gems of this beautiful place include Dugarwadi Waterfall, Nashik Caves, and the Pisola Fort.

9. How many days are enough to explore Nashik?

You have to make an itinerary of at least four days to ensure you get to witness Nashik in its full glory. 

10. What is the best time to visit Nashik for tourism?

The best time to visit Nashik is after the monsoon, which is from October to March, for pleasant weather and sightseeing.