Nashik

History of Nashik

Archaeological excavations show that the region around Nashik was inhabited during the Stone Age. Stone tools characteristic of the period have been discovered near Gangavadi, about 16 km northwest of the city.

According to tradition, the sage Agastya was among the first Aryans to cross the Vindhya Mountains and settle on the banks of the Godavari. Other sages followed him, and their hermitages along the river were known as “Janasthana”. Lord Rama, accompanied by Lakshman and Sita, is believed to have met Agastya here. He advised Rama to settle in Panchavati, a place named after its five great banyan trees.

Nashik was later included in the powerful empire of Ashoka. During the Satavahana period, the district became prosperous as it was located along an important trade route. During the Mughal period, the city was known as “Gulshanabad”. The ancient name Nashik was restored when the Peshwas took control in 1751.

In 1818, Nashik was a considerable city with palaces, gardens and vineyards. On April 19, 1818, Nashik surrendered to the British. During the freedom struggle of 1857, the city witnessed considerable unrest.

Development of Nashik

The Nashik Municipality was established in 1864. In 1869, Nashik became a full-fledged district with its present 13 talukas. The railway network was also introduced around this period.

Nashik Road subsequently developed with the establishment of the Central Jail, India Security Press and a distillery. The city gradually developed into an important commercial centre, with skilled artisans producing utensils and craftsmen working with silver and gold ornaments.

Nashik and the Freedom Movement

Nashik was an important centre of revolutionary activities. Anant Kanhere, a prominent revolutionary, shot Mr. Jackson, the then Collector of Nashik, on December 21, 1909, while he was watching a play at Vijayanand Theatre.

Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement also found support in Nashik through forest satyagrahas and underground activities. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar organised a temple-entry movement against untouchability, and a major satyagraha was held in 1932.

In 1950, a session of the Indian National Congress was held in Nashik at a location that is now known as Nehrunagar.

How to Reach Nashik

By Air

The nearest international and domestic airport mentioned in the source is Mumbai, approximately 200 km from Nashik.

By Train

Nashik Road railway station is approximately 9 km from Nashik city.

By Bus

The City Bus Stand (C.B.S.) is located within Nashik city and provides local bus services.

Shopping in Nashik

Nashik offers various shopping centres and local markets catering to different shopping needs. The city is known for its traditional craftsmanship and commercial markets.

Festivals and Fairs in Nashik

Religious Significance

Nashik is situated on the banks of the Godavari River and has been an important religious centre since ancient times. The ghats along the river are considered sacred, and pilgrims visit them to take holy baths.

Ramkund holds special religious importance because the Godavari flows from north to south at this point. Thousands of pilgrims visit the ghats, particularly during important religious occasions.

Sinhastha and Kumbh Mela

Nashik hosts the famous Kumbh Mela, a major gathering of sadhus and pilgrims. According to religious tradition, bathing in the sacred ghats during the designated period is associated with attaining spiritual purification and moksha.

The Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years in Nashik. The other major locations associated with the Kumbh Mela are Ujjain, Allahabad and Haridwar.

Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is celebrated in January. People exchange tilgul and ladoos and may also enjoy flying kites. A traditional Marathi saying associated with the festival is “Tilgul ghya ani gaud bola”, encouraging people to be sweet and kind to one another.

Diwali

Diwali is celebrated with colourful lights and decorations throughout Nashik. Laxmi Poojan is performed on the night of the festival, and fireworks are also enjoyed.

Rath Yatra

The Janmotsava festival is celebrated every year at Shri Kalaram Mandir in Panchavati, Nashik. The 15-day festival begins on the first day of Chaitra and continues until Chaitra Purnima.

The main attraction is the Rathyatra, held on the second day, when the chariots of Shri Ram and Garuda move through the city.

Hotels in Nashik

• Hotel Taj Residency
• Hotel Emerald Park
• Hotel Natraj
• Manas Resort
• Cosmo Hotel
• Hotel Crystal Palace
• Hotel Golden Resort
• Hotel Royal Garden
• Hotel Ambrosia