Artillery Centre Nashik

⭐ Overview

Artillery Centre Nashik is one of the largest artillery training establishments in Asia, located near the iconic Pandavleni Caves on Nashik Road. Surrounded by the scenic Sahyadri foothills, this centre functions like a self-contained cantonment dedicated to the training and development of India’s artillery soldiers.
Although entry for civilians is restricted, the area is a point of interest due to its historical significance, national importance, and proximity to popular tourist spots.

📜 History & Importance

During the reorganization period after the India–Pakistan division, the artillery training centre was shifted to India and later established at Nashik. Since then, the centre has been under strict military supervision.

Over the decades, the Artillery Centre has:

• Served as a major training hub for Indian Army artillery units

• Enabled training for advanced weapon systems, including the Bofors Gun

• Produced more than 2.7 lakh artillery-trained soldiers

• Contributed significantly to the operational strength of the Regiment of Artillery

The centre also houses an Artillery Museum and War Memorial, which showcase the proud history, evolution, and achievements of India’s artillery forces.

Its mission is to develop disciplined, mentally strong, and highly capable gunners who can seamlessly operate with the Regiment of Artillery. The centre has shaped thousands of soldiers over six decades, making it one of India’s most important defence institutions.

🚗 How to Reach Artillery Centre Nashik

Location: Nashik Road, near Pandavleni Caves, Maharashtra

• By Road:
  Easily accessible via Mumbai–Agra National Highway (NH 160).

• By Railway:
  Nashik Road Railway Station is the nearest railhead (approx. 4–6 km).

• By Bus:
  Regular MSRTC buses and city buses operate from Nashik Road and CBS.

• By Air:
  Ozar Airport (Nashik International Airport) is around 20–22 km away.

❗ Note: Entry inside the Artillery Centre is restricted for civilians and only allowed with valid permissions.

⏰ Timings & Entry Fee

Since the Artillery Centre is a defence establishment, it is not open to general public visits.

• Entry: Restricted

• Entry Fee: Not applicable

• Museum Access: Only with prior permission during special events or army programs

🌤 Best Time to Visit the Nearby Area

Although direct entry is restricted, the surrounding region near Pandavleni and Nashik Road can be visited anytime.

• October to February (Winter): Best weather

• June to September (Monsoon): Green surroundings & beautiful views

• March to May: Hot afternoons; visit mornings or evenings

📍 Nearby Attractions

The Artillery Centre area is surrounded by several well-known attractions:

1. Pandavleni Caves (Pandav Caves) – 2nd-century Buddhist caves

2. Gargoti The Mineral Museum – India’s unique gem and mineral museum

3. Anjneri Hills – Birthplace of Lord Hanuman

4. Deolali Camp – Historic military cantonment

5. Someshwar Waterfall & Temple

6. Sula Vineyards – Famous wine tourism destination

7. Dadasaheb Phalke Smarak – Cultural memorial

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the Artillery Centre Nashik open for tourists?

No, it is a restricted military area. Only authorized personnel and visitors with special permissions are allowed.

2. Is there a museum inside the Artillery Centre?

Yes, the Artillery Museum and War Memorial exist inside the campus, but access requires approval from the Army.

3. Where is the Artillery Centre located in Nashik?

It is located at Nashik Road, behind the Pandavleni Caves, near the foothills of the Sahyadri range.

4. What is the importance of the Artillery Centre?

It is one of Asia’s largest artillery training centres and has trained over 2.7 lakh artillery soldiers of the Indian Army.

5. What tourist places can be visited near the Artillery Centre?

Pandavleni Caves, Gargoti Mineral Museum, Deolali Camp, Sula Vineyards, and Dadasaheb Phalke Smarak.