Overview

Shree Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India, located in the holy town of Trimbak, around 28 km from Nashik city and 40 km from Nashik Road. The temple is world-famous for being one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and sits near the origin of the sacred Godavari River.
Known for its spiritual energy and ancient heritage, Trimbakeshwar attracts lakhs of devotees seeking blessings, peace, and religious rituals like Kaal Sarp Puja, Narayan Nagbali, and Tripindi Shraddha.

History & Importance

Trimbakeshwar holds deep significance in Hindu tradition. According to ancient texts, the original Jyotirlinga manifested here as a divine pillar of light. The present temple, built by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao (Nanasaheb) in the 18th century, is a masterpiece of black stone architecture rich with carvings and spiritual symbolism.

A unique aspect of Trimbakeshwar is its three-faced Jyotirlinga, representing the Trimurti:

• Brahma – The Creator

• Vishnu – The Preserver

• Mahesh (Shiva) – The Destroyer

Over years, the linga has naturally eroded due to abhishek rituals, symbolizing the cycle of life and the impermanence of the physical world.

The temple also houses a sacred pond Kushavarta, believed to be the starting point of the Godavari River — the longest river in peninsular India. This makes Trimbakeshwar a powerful spiritual and cultural center.

Architecture

The temple is nestled between three majestic hills — Brahmagiri, Nilagiri, and Kalagiri, enhancing its divine aura.
Key architectural highlights include:

✔ Three Lingams

Representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.

✔ Temple Tank – Amritavarshini

A huge sacred tank measuring approx. 28 m × 30 m.

✔ Sacred Water Bodies

Other holy ponds include:

• Bilvatirtha

• Viswanathtirtha

• Mukundatirtha

✔ Sculptures & Deity Idols

The temple features idols of:

• Gangadevi

• Jaleshwar

• Rameshwar

• Gautameshwar

• Kedarnath

• Rama

• Krishna

• Parshurama

• Lakshmi Narayana

The temple complex also includes several monasteries and samadhis of saints, making it a vibrant spiritual hub.

Mythological Significance

According to Shiv Purana, a dispute once arose between Brahma and Vishnu regarding supremacy. To resolve it, Lord Shiva manifested as a massive pillar of light — the Jyotirlinga.
While Vishnu accepted his limits, Brahma lied about finding the top of the pillar, leading Shiva to curse him that he would no longer be worshipped in temples.

Thus, Jyotirlingas represent the infinite, formless nature of Shiva.

Among the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas — Somnath, Mahakaleshwar, Bhimashankar, Kedarnath, Kashi Vishwanath, and others — Trimbakeshwar is one of the holiest.

At Trimbakeshwar, the Jyotirlinga uniquely symbolizes the Tridev, making it spiritually more powerful.

The ancient jeweled crown placed during special rituals is believed to date back to the Pandava era and is displayed every Monday from 4–5 PM.

How to Reach Trimbakeshwar

By Road

• Nashik City → 28 km (approx. 45–50 minutes)

• Nashik Road Railway Station → 40 km
  Regular buses and taxis are available.

By Train

Nearest stations:

• Nashik Road (NK) – Well-connected to Mumbai, Pune, Delhi

• Devlali – Secondary option

By Air

Nearest airport:

• Ozar Airport (Nashik) – 45 km

• Mumbai Airport – 175 km (3.5–4 hours by road)

Timing & Entry Fee

• Temple Timings: 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM

• Darshan: Free

• Special Poojas (like Kaal Sarp Yog Puja): Chargeable; rates vary by type of ritual

• Crown Darshan: Every Monday, 4 PM – 5 PM

Best Time to Visit

The temple is open year-round, but the best seasons are:

✔ July to February (Pleasant weather)

✔ Shravan Month (Highly auspicious)

✔ Mahashivratri (Peak spiritual importance)

Avoid visiting during extremely crowded days unless for special rituals.

Nearby Attractions

You can explore several popular places near Trimbakeshwar:

1. Brahmagiri Hill

The origin point of the Godavari River; ideal for trekking.

2. Kushavarta Kund

The holy reservoir where devotees take a ritual bath.

3. Anjaneri Fort

Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.

4. Gangadwar

A sacred cave-like structure on Brahmagiri Hill.

5. Gajanan Maharaj Ashram

Peaceful spiritual place near the temple.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why is Trimbakeshwar famous?

It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and the origin of the Godavari River.

2. What is unique about the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga?

It has three lingams representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva) — a rare and sacred form.

3. Can I perform Kaal Sarp Puja at Trimbakeshwar?

Yes. Many priests specialize in Kaal Sarp, Narayan Nagbali, and other rituals.

4. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

No, photography and mobile phones are not allowed inside the main temple.

5. What is the best time to visit?

Shravan, Mahashivratri, and winter months offer the best experience.

6. How far is Trimbakeshwar from Nashik city?

Around 28 km, approx. 45 minutes by road.