TLDR;
This video explores the city of Nashik, Maharashtra, highlighting its historical, cultural, and culinary significance. It covers famous spots like Ram Kund and Kalaram Temple, local cuisine such as Nashik's Misal, and attractions like Sula Vineyards and the Gondeshwar Mahadev Temple. The video also introduces viewers to unique experiences like visiting the Gargoti Museum and enjoying the sunset at Gangapur Backwaters.
- Historical and spiritual significance of Nashik
- Culinary experiences, including Misal and Khandeshi food
- Attractions like vineyards, temples, and museums
Introduction to Nashik [0:00]
The video introduces Nashik, a city in Maharashtra with historical, social, and cultural importance, deeply connected to the Ramayana. Situated on the banks of the Godavari river and surrounded by nine mountain ranges, Nashik has been a prominent trade city since ancient times. Known as Padma Nagar in Satya Yuga and Treta Yuga, and as Trika Dwapar Yuga, it got its current name when Lakshmana cut the nose of Ravana's sister Surpam during Lord Rama's exile in Panchvati.
Historical Significance of Nashik [1:08]
Nashik's history spans from the Ramayana era to India's freedom struggle. After the Mughal invasion, its name was changed to Gulshanabad, but Peshwa restored its original name in 1751. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, housing the Pandu and Chan caves. Currently, it is Maharashtra's third-largest district and India's wine production hub, known as the Napa Valley of India. Nashik is also one of the four cities hosting the Simhastha Kumbh Mela and has produced notable figures like Dadasaheb Phadke and Swatantra Veer Savarkar.
Ram Kund: The Identity of Nashik [2:55]
Ram Kund is a religiously significant pond in Nashik where Lord Rama and Sita Maiya are believed to have bathed and immersed the ashes of King Dasharatha. Built in 1969 by Chitra Rao Turkar, it hosts the Simhastha Kumbh Mela every 12 years. The area around Ramkund has many temples and a peaceful atmosphere, reflecting India's deep spiritual connection. Located in old Nashik, it is best accessed by auto due to narrow roads.
Kalaram Temple: A Visit to Lord Shri Ram [4:57]
The Kalaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shri Ram, features an idol made of black stone. Built in 1792 by Sardar Rangarao Odkar after a dream, it took 12 years to complete. The temple has 14 stairs symbolizing Ram Ji's 14-year exile and houses statues of Sita Maa and Lakshman Ji. An old tree within the temple premises has footprints of Lord Dattatreya on a stone. The temple is open from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm and is 500 meters from Ramkund.
Panchavati: The Complex of Banyan Trees [6:24]
Panchavati is significant due to its five banyan trees and the cave from where Ravana abducted Sita Maa. The cave is narrow, so those with claustrophobia or back/knee problems should avoid it.
Nashik's Culinary Delight: Misal [7:14]
Nashik's Misal is considered the best in Maharashtra. Shri Ambika Restaurant, serving Misal for over 50 years, is known for its homemade kala masala. The Misal includes mixed Ussar with matki, batana, and moong, topped with thick and thin sev, fried peanuts, and onions, served with fresh lemons and pav. It has a smoky flavor from the black masala and a spicy kick.
Exploring Old Nashik: Sarafa Bazar and Sarkarwada [9:05]
The lanes of Nashik feature old houses and the Sarafa Bazar, known for its high-quality gold jewelry. Sarkarwada, built by Nana Saheb Peshwa, served as the administrative headquarters and a jail. It is primarily built with wood and once had three floors, now with two, housing a museum with old coins and art flutes. Freedom fighters like Anant Kanhere were imprisoned here.
RK and Pineapple Sherbet at Samarth Juice Center [11:08]
Sunday Karan Go, known as RK, features the famous Samarth Juice Center. Their pineapple sherbet, made with pineapple pulp, milk-based ice cream, and crushed ice, is a local favorite, especially during summers.
Sweet Endings at Buddha Halwai [12:11]
Buddha Halwai is a sweet shop famous for its Kurchan Vadi and Jalebi. The Jalebi is crispy on the outside and soft inside, not overly sweet, and pairs well with the cold, creamy Basundi.
Sula Vineyards: The Wine Capital of India [13:32]
Nashik, the wine capital of India, produces over 50% of India's wine. Sula Vineyards is a popular destination with an entry fee that can be redeemed on wine and food. It offers vineyard tours, dining options, and accommodations.
Gangapur Backwaters: Sunset Views [15:09]
Gangapur Backwaters, with a boat club built by MTDC, is a favorite spot for sunset views. Boating is available from October, and there is a cafe, making it a family-friendly place to end the day.
Misal at Grape Embassy [16:31]
Grape Embassy offers authentic Nashik Misal in a grape vine setting. The Misal includes matki, rassa, gravy, curd, and Reginus (Manu's toasted pav), with options like vada pav and kothimbir vadi. The Misal uses thin and thick sev instead of farsan, with fried peanuts for added crunch and sweetness.
Gondeshwar Mahadev Temple: A Historical Temple in Sinnar [18:47]
The Gondeshwar Mahadev Temple, located in Sinnar, is a 12th-century temple built in the Hemadpanti Bhumija style. It is one of the Gopiji Panchayatan mandar, with temples of Ganesha, Maa Parvati, Surya, and Vishnu around the main temple. The temple features detailed carvings and a seven-tier shikhara.
Khap Pare Karke: Windmill Viewpoint [22:45]
Khap Pare Karke, near the Gondeshwar Mahadev temple, offers a viewpoint with numerous windmills and scenic greenery. The road leading to it is partially unpaved but worth the visit for its peaceful and beautiful environment.
Khandeshi Food at Jai Malhar Khana [23:29]
Jai Malhar Khana in Sinnar is famous for authentic Khandeshi food, including shev bhaji, amti, and mutton. The special mutton thali includes two types of mutton, rassa, boiled egg, rice, and sukat chutney. The bhaji, made of gram flour, is enjoyed with Bhakri made of millet.
Gargoti Museum: A Collection of Minerals and Stones [26:22]
The Gargoti Museum features a collection of minerals and stones from around the world, including stones from the Moon and Mars. It showcases minerals formed from lava and fossils dating back 450 million years. The museum is divided into two parts: one for minerals from the Deccan Plateau and another for international stones and minerals.