Seeta Gumpha (Gupha)

Sita Gufa, Panchvati – History, Timings, Location & Visiting Information

Overview

Sita Gufa (Sita Gumpha) is one of the most sacred and frequently visited religious spots in Panchvati, Nashik. Located about 3 km from Nashik Central Bus Stand, this cave is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita stayed during the Vanvas period. The shrine houses idols of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Lord Laxman along with a small cave containing a Shivling, representing Sita’s devotion to Lord Shiva. Due to its religious value and proximity to Kalaram Temple, Sita Gufa is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees and tourists.

History / Importance

According to ancient beliefs and Ramayana references:

  • During the 14-year exile (Vanvas), Lord Rama, Sita, and Laxman lived in Panchvati.

  • Sita used to worship Lord Shiva daily, so a Shivling was placed inside a smaller cave to make her worship convenient before meals.

  • It is believed that Lord Rama kept Sita safely inside this cave whenever he had to leave the area.

  • The spot also marks the place from where Ravana abducted Sita, disguising himself as a saint (bhikshuk).

  • Outside the cave, you can see artistic depictions of Ramayana episodes such as Marich Vadh and Sita Haran.

  • The area around the cave has five ancient banyan trees (Vad Vruksha), due to which the place came to be called Panchvati.

These historical and mythological connections make Sita Gufa a significant spiritual landmark in Nashik.

How to Reach

Sita Gufa is easily accessible from all parts of Nashik:

  • By Road: 3 km from Nashik Central Bus Stand

  • Nearest Landmark: Shri Kalaram Temple

  • Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, city buses, taxis, and private vehicles

  • Visitors must bend or crawl through a narrow 4-feet-high cave passage, which adds to the unique experience.

Timing & Entry Fee

  • Timings:

    • Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

    • Open all days of the week

  • Entry Fee:

    • No entry fee (Free for all visitors)

  • During festivals and weekends, the spot may experience long queues.

Best Time to Visit

  • October to February (pleasant weather)

  • Early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan

  • Avoid peak afternoon hours in summer due to crowd and heat

Nearby Attractions

Visitors can explore several religious and historical places around Sita Gufa:

  • Shri Kalaram Temple – 1 min walk

  • Panchvati Area – Ramkund, Tapovan

  • Ramkund – Sacred bathing ghat

  • Kapaleshwar Temple

  • Sundarnarayan Temple

  • Godavari Ghat
    These attractions make Panchvati one of the most important pilgrimage circuits in Nashik.

FAQ – Sita Gufa (SEO Friendly)

1. Why is Sita Gufa famous?

Sita Gufa is believed to be the place where Goddess Sita stayed during the Vanvas and the location from where Ravana abducted her.

2. What is inside Sita Gufa?

Inside the cave, you will find idols of Ram, Sita, and Laxman, along with a small Shivling that Sita used to worship.

3. How tall is the cave path?

The internal passage is around 4 feet high, so visitors need to bend or crawl to pass through it.

4. Is there any entry fee?

No, Sita Gufa is free to visit.

5. What is the best time to visit Sita Gufa?

October to February is ideal due to pleasant weather.