Trimbakeshwar, located in Maharashtra State, Western India, at foothills of the Brahmagiri Range, Western Ghats is a sacred centre of pilgrimage for Hindus. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India and is a very historical, religious and culturally important temple of Lord Shiva.
History and Significance
Trimbakeshwar Temple or Trimbak or Trimbakshwar is one of the ancient temples of Lord Shiva. While the foundations for the temple date back to ancient period, the temple is said to have been established by the great Maratha king, Shivaji Maharaj in the 18th century. There are legends that say Lord Shiva Himself took a form of a light or Jyotirlinga to shower his favor on his devotees.
It is most famous for the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, as because this deity has three faces which symbolizes Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The followers go to this temple to receive God’s blessings, conduct sevas and purify themselves form sins.
Architecture of Trimbakeshwar Temple
The architecture of Trimbakeshwar Temple is an exquisite blend of the South Indian and Maratha styles. The temple is built from black stone, and its intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and decorative motifs are a testament to the architectural prowess of its builders.
The Sacred River Godavari
Temples of Trimukhi, Ranwar and others are part of the Mukti Tour and Trimobhakeshwar Temple is located near Trimukhi where Godavari River begins. This is of the opinion that this Prakriti Pooja was done by Lord Brahma itself and this river flows from the Brahmagiri Hill. Religious wise Godavari river is very important and most of the devotees take bath here before offering prayers in the temple for Darshan.
The river water also gives it a religious touch because people go near the river to take bath and erase their sins of the world before praying to Lord Shiva.
Importance of Trimbakeshwar in Hindu Mythology
Trimbakeshwar is an integral part of Hindu mythology, particularly in relation to Lord Shiva’s role as the destroyer and transformer in the universe. The temple is not only dedicated to Shiva but is also closely associated with the mythological story of Lord Ganesha’s birth and the purification of Lord Vishnu by Brahma. The temple’s location at the foot of the Brahmagiri Hill signifies the convergence of these important cosmic powers.
Festivals and Celebrations at Trimbakeshwar
The Trimbakeshwar Temple witnesses a large number of devotees during various festivals, especially during Mahashivaratri, the most auspicious occasion dedicated to Lord Shiva. On this day, thousands of devotees gather at the temple to offer prayers, perform Abhishek (ritualistic bathing of the Shiva Linga with holy substances like milk, honey, and water), and chant mantras, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Other important festivals include Shivaratri and Ganesh Chaturthi, which attract a large number of devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva and his son Lord Ganesha.
Key Information Before Visiting Trimbakeshwar Temple
Location: Trimbak, Nashik District, Maharashtra.
Temple Timings:
- Opens: 5:00 AM
- Closes: 9:00 PM
Contact details
Phone Number: +91 2594 234 335 / +91 2594 234 002
Address: Trimbakeshwar Temple, Trimbak, Nashik District, Maharashtra, 422212, India.
– Best time to visit: Early morning or during aarti hours.
Aarti Timings:
- Morning Mangala Aarti: 4:30 AM
- Evening Shiva Aarti: 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free; charges applicable for special poojas/rituals.
- Dress Code: Modest and traditional attire preferred.
- Rituals: Ideal place for Pitru Tarpan (ancestral rituals).
- Festivals: Crowded during Mahashivaratriand Shravan Month.
How to Reach:
– By Road: 28 km from Nashik; buses and taxis available.
– By Rail: Nashik Road Railway Station (30 km away).
– By Air: Nearest airport: Nashik (40 km) or Mumbai (150 km).
Donation Facilities at Trimbakeshwar Temple
– On-site Donation Counters: Located within the temple premises.
– Online Donations: Available via the official Trimbakeshwar Temple Trust website.
– Donation Types: Cash, cheques, and offerings for specific poojas or rituals.
– Special Funds: Contributions can be made towards temple development, Annadanam(food distribution), and maintenance.
For more details, inquire at the temple office or visit the official website.
Accommodation: Options include budget hotels, dharamshalas, and hotels in Nashik.
Nearby attractions
- Brahmagiri Hill (Godavari River origin).
- Nashik city temples. Kalaram Temple, Panchwati, Godavari Aarti in Nashik
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
Plan early and avoid weekends or festival days for a more peaceful experience.