Nashik; The Fusion of Mythology and Vogue
As soon as it was discovered in the 1990s that Nashik was bestowed with a climate that is ideal for wine-growing it witnessed a tremendous transformation in its lifestyle. Gradually vineyards were dotted through its landscape. And today, when we think of Nashik the rouge and sparkle of wine appears in the back of our minds. You can amble through the vineyards, learn about the processes of wine-making and then lie back upon a couch, cross your legs and purse your lips against the wine glass. The wine tours would get you in acquaintance with the knowledge of different kinds of wines, and their tastes.
There is so much more to Nashik than its budding wine scene. Nashik, Maharashtra’s third largest city, embraces the blend of mythologies and vogue. Pandavleni, the 3rd century Buddhist caves, add on to its bubbling history. Even if you are a trekker, there is so much to explore in Anjaneri and Saptshrungi and in the end the view would leave you in utter awe. For someone who prefers tranquillity there is Gangapur Dam, where you can relax and watch the sunset. And a foodie can never get enough of its traditional culinary delight Khandeshi, especially when combined with Indian wine.
Nashik has a number of rivers meandering though it- such as Vaitarana, Bhima, Girana, Kashyapi, Darana and Godavari. The second largest river of the country, Godavari is also known as the Ganges of the South owing to its piousness and originates in Nashik itself, from the Brahmagiri Hill, right where Trimbakeshwar Temple is perched. Though the city is dotted with temples – Trimbakeshwar Temple is specially visited by pilgrims coming from far-off regions. This temple of Lord Shiva is a jyotirlinga temple, along with 11 others. Once in every 12 years Nashik plays host to one of the largest peaceful gatherings of the world- Kumbha Mela.
During the 14-year exile, Lord Ram along with Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshman, traversed through woods and reached Nashik. There they made a home out of bamboos, chanted mantras, meditated and bathed in Godavari. When Lord Lakshman cut off the nose of a devil-in-disguise Surpnakha, that’s when Nashik got its name, as Nashik sounds similar to Naak which means nose.
The Wander Girls is heading to Nashik, on a women-only trip, this November. We will sip wines, behold the sunset from backwaters, shop for some goodies and seek blessings at the Trimbakeshwar Temple. If you are excited about this trip, then save the dates, pack your bags and click here to know more.
