Panchavadi

Panchavati

According to the legends,when Lord Rama,Sita along with Laxmana left Ayodhya on exile for 14 years, Panchavati was the place where these three made their home .Panchavadi means 'garden of five banyan trees'. The trees can still be seen nearby Sita Gufaa.

Ramkund

The most important and holy place in Panchavati is Ramkund and considered a sacred bathing ghat on the banks of the Godavari. Lord Rama is believed to have taken bath here. A dip in this sacred kunda is considered very pious. Ramkund attracts people all over India, some of them wanting to take a holy bath some to immerse the ashes of the departed. This holy site at present hosts the Kumbh Mela once in twele years.

Devotees by Diya or lamps made of leaves from the street vendors and float them in the river beleiving that their wishes or prayers will come true.

Way to Five Banyan Trees and Sita Gumpa

The Gumpha or Cave is near the five Banyan trees in Panchavati. One can enter the cave through very narrow staircase. The entrance is very narrow and you have to get down on your knees and crawl.Senior people and those who are claustrophobic should avoid going inside. The cave has the idol of Rama, Laxmana and Sita. Legends say that Ravana kidnapped Sita from this place.

Festivals
The Kumbh Mela is the major festive event here when sadhus known as Vaishnav Akhadas and Shaiva Akhadas assemble here for a holy bath in the river once in 12 years. Apart from this Rama Navami is celeberated here in a grand manner.

Location It is located just 2 kms from Nashik.

How to reach?The nearest airport is Ozar,Nashik. Nashik Road railway station is the nearest one.Tere are BEST buses stop at this important place.

A few helpful information During Kumbh Mela, hundred thousands of devotees visit. If you are averse to crowd, please avoid during these Kumbh Mela days.

Where to Stay?There are plenty of hotels in Nashik at various budgets.

Nearby places of Interest Trimbakeshwar is a must visit temple. Shani Shingnapur , and Shirdi Sai Baba temple are nearby.

Contact NA

Useful data
State:Maharashtra
District: Nashik
Famous for: Pilgrimage
Languages: Hindi,Marathi
Best Season: Throughout the year. Summer( from Apr to July) could be very sultry when the mercury shoots to 40 degree celsius.
Weather: Summer 33-42°C, Winter 18-24°C
Altitude: at sea level.