A popular weekend getaway, the city of Nashik is located on the banks of the River Godavari, in the foothills of the Western Ghats. Historically, it has been termed significant because of its religious affiliations, considered to be an ancient city that has found mention in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Additionally, it is one of the sites of worship of the Kumbh Mela that is held every 12 years. However, Nashik is home to a number of gems that are waiting to be enjoyed by travellers. We bring to you a complete guide on the best places to see, the best food to eat and things to do on a three-day weekend sabbatical to the city.
Sula Vineyards: Fondly known as the Wine Capital of India, Nashik’s Sula Vineyards are a must visit for any traveller to the city. Spread over an area of 160 hectares, the vineyards are popular for providing tourists with an opportunity to learn about the process of wine making, for organizing wine tastings and educating people about the different kinds of wines.
You can also opt for staying at one of the private bungalows or the rooms at the vineyard for a day and experience the breathtaking expanse of the surrounding hills and the Gangapur Dam that the winery is situated in, all the while getting a taste of the finest wine that the country has to offer.
The Winery is open from Monday to Sunday and has an entry fee of INR 150.
Coin Museum: A one-of-its-kind museum in the entire country, the Coin Museum was established in 1980 under the aegis of the Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies in Nashik. The museum is a witness to the evolution of the Indian currency over the years, having molds, dyes and photographs of innumerable coins of the years. It is also home to the casting and striking machines used in the process of coin production as well as coin minting tableaus.
The museum is operational Monday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and 2 pm to 5:30 pm.
Dudhsagar Waterfalls: Alternatively known as the Someshwar Waterfalls, this small but beautiful waterfall is one of the main attractions in Nasik. It is situated about 8kms from the city centre and falls over the river Godavari. It is about 10m and is the most picturesque during the monsoon season. For the locals it is a popular picnic spot with a lot of greenery and the relief it provides from the heat. There is a Balaji Temple nearby, which only adds to the charm of the place.
Anjaneri Hills: For the adventure enthusiasts in you, Anjaneri Hills, situated very close to the city of Nashik, is a popular hiking spot as well as home to the Anjaneri Fort. The Fort is situated at a height of about 4,000 metres and is a 30-minute trek. The trek is easy and is suitable for all kinds of travellers, and hence is a great option to visit with family and friends. The views from the top are incredible, and you will be able to see a number of caves and hilltops from the Anjaneri Fort.
Trimbakeshwar Temple: The Trimbakeshwar Temple is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site, home to one of the 12 jyotirlingas. The temple complex was built in the 17th century and has a spacious courtyard and a square structure decorated with intricate artwork of flowers animals and Gods. On the floor, in the inner sanctum of the square is the Shiva Linga, built of black stone. Water continuously flows on the Shiva Linga and it is said to be adorned with a crown made of diamonds and gems.
The temple is flooded with devotees on the weekends and during the festival season, so it is advisable to visit on the weekends to make the most out of the experience.
If you wish to savour authentic Maharashtrian cuisine, Nashik is the place for it. The thalipeeth at Heramb is a local favourite and is sure to titillate your taste buds with the variety of Maharashtrian curries and breads it offers.
Missal Pav, although found all over Maharashtra, has its home in Nashik. Ambika Missal, serving the locals since 1970 is the home of the original Missal and therefore it is almost mandatory to pay this joint a visit.
For a comfortable stay in the city, you can choose to stay at The Holiday Inn in Nashik and Ibis Nashik, both associated with famous chains.
If you are in the mood to relax and rejuvenate in a luxurious space, The Gateway Hotel Ambad should be the first choice. For a budget stay, you can opt for The Hotel Royal Heritage, a 3-star hotel near the city centre.
The best way to get to Nashik is to drive down from Mumbai or Pune. Nashik has good rail connectivity, with trains from all the major cities of India. If you live far away, the nearest airport is the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, from where you can again take a road trip to the city.