Trimbakeshwar

Situated at the source of India’s longest river, Godavari, in the town of Trimbak, Trimbakeshwar is an ancient Hindu temple. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Trimbakeshwar is famous for the amazing feature of the Jyotirlinga found here. There are three celestial faces embodying Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra. However, these have started eroding due to undue exposure to precipitation – perhaps a symbolization of the erosion of human values in the present age. The lingas are protected by a bejeweled crown that is studded with many precious stones and gems. The crown is displayed to the public every Monday between 4 and 5 pm. Trimbakeshwar is the birthplace of Lord Ganesha.

The existing temple was built from basalt which is a kind of rock that forms when liquid lava from a volcano gets solid after exposure to the earth’s surface. The Peshwa Nanasaheb who commissioned the building of the temple debated that the rock was solid and not hollow as was known to many people. He even held a stake on the issue and eventually lost. This led the large hearted Peshwa to build a spectacular temple at the site. That’s the story behind its construction.

The Shiva deity ensconced within the temple was cut out from a piece of Nassak Diamond. This was however eventually appropriated by the British during the Third Anglo-Maratha War. Its whereabouts were veiled under yards of yearn. According to some news reports, the diamond deity is currently being kept under the possession of a nondescript trucking guy living in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA.

It has been said that those who visit Trimbakeshwar will attain salvation. That’s one reason why thousands of pilgrims come here every year. Others visit the temple to see its architecture.

How to reach: The Trimbakeshwar temple is very close to Nashik. There is an airport and railway station in Nashik. You will find taxis and auto rickshaws on hire at both these places. Buses leave Mumbai and Pune regularly for Nashik. So you can take the bus too. If you are driving from Mumbai, then you should know that it might take you about four hours.

The best option would be to stay at Nashik. There aren’t any decent hotels in Trimbakeshwar or resorts in Trimbakeshwar.