Wednesday, July 21, 2010

त्र्यम्बकेश्वर

Trimbakeshwar darshan
Trimbakeshwar (Sanskrit: त्र्यम्बकेश्वर, Tryambakeśvara) or Trambakeshwar is an ancient Hindu temple in the town of Trimbak, in the Nashik District of Maharashtra, India, 28 km from the city of Nashik GPS Reference 20.021944 N, 73.729935 E. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The extraordinary feature of the Jyotirlinga located here is the Linga in the temple is in the form of a three faced embodying Tridev, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishu and Lord Shiva. All other

Jyotirlingas have Shiva as the main deity
The Linga is crowned with a jewel studded crown believed to be from Pandavas. The crown is adorned with diamonds, emeralds, and many other types of precious stones.
Trimbakeshwar town is an ancient Hindu Pilgrim centre located at the source of the Godavari River, the longest river in peninsular India. The Godavari River, which is considered sacred within Hinduism, originates from Bramhagiri mountains at Trimbakeshwar and meets the sea near Rajahmudry.

The town is appealing with natural attractions. It is at the foothills of amazing Brahmagiri & Gangadwar mountains nestled among lusting green woody trees and picturesque environments. The serene ambiance and the pleasant climate make the town of Trimbakeshwar a hot spot for nature loving tourists apart from Hindu pilgrims.

History of Trimbakeshwar temple

There was built a city which later on became famous as Trimbakeshwar. In the period of the Peshwas regime Nana Saheb Peshwa had instructed to construct the Trimbakeshwar temple and developed and beautified the city of Trimbakeshwar.

Religious significance

The Hindu belief is that those who visit Trimbakeshwar attain salvation or Moksha. Trimbakeshwar is considered as the most sacred town India. There are many reasons for this belief. Godavari originates from the Brahmagiri hills in this town and it is believed that it is the birth place of Lord Ganesha, known as place of Tri-Sandhya Gayatri. This place is believed to be the holiest and ideal place to do Shraddha ceremony, a Hindu ritual for the salvation of the soul.
Sinhastha Mahatmya speaks of Lord Rama having made the Yatra at Trimbakeshwar. A shraddha on the river Godavari gives great satisfaction to the forefathers. If it is not done in this place, it is considered as a religious sin. So Ganga Pujan, Ganga Bhet, Deh Shuddhi Prayaschitta, Tarpan Shradha, Vayan, Dasha Dana, Gopradan etc. Rituals are done in Trimbakeshwar. Mundana and Tirtha Shraddha are also performed here. The Lord Shiva at Trimbakeshwar is worshipped by recitations of Rudra, Rudri, Laghu Rudra, Maha Rudra or Ati Rudra puja. Actually Rudrashak is a religious fruit which is said to be found in lord Shiva's neck in the form of Rudra garland. Some of the trees of Rudrashak are also found in Trimbakeshwar.

The holy Jyothirlinga circuit will be complete with the visit to this sacred Shiva temple.
Other facilities at Trimbakeshwar
The public and religious institutions in the town are Veda shala, Sanskrit Pathashala, Kirtan Sanstha, Pravachan Sanstha, two gymnasiums, Lokmanya Free Reading Room, municipal office, post and telegraph office, Bus station, dispensary and a police sub-inspector’s office. Sanskrit Pathashala has produced a good many disciples who have become Shastris and Pandits.
Noted film maker and father of Indian cinema, Dadasaheb Phalke was born here.
Pradakshina (Ring routes/ Pheri)
There are two pradakshinas (ring routes) in this kshetra - one round the Brahmagiri and the other one round Hariharagiri. Pilgrim has to go for pradakshina with holy garment early in the morning visiting and bathing in various tirthas. The tour is to be completed in either a day, three days.


Godavari River

Brahmadev worshipped God Trivikram when he came to Satya Loka (on earth) with the same holy water of the Ganges, to get the river Ganges held up by God Shankar on his head, to flow. River Ganges in the form of a woman was enjoying with Lord Shiva, which was noticed by Lord Shiva's wife Parvati. She planned to drive Ganges away from her husband.

Parvati and her son Ganesh came to live in Gautama's Ashram with Parvati's friend Jaya. There was a famine of 24 years and people were affected by the pangs of hunger. However, Varun - the God of Rains, pleased with Sage Gautama arranged rains every day in Gautama's Ashram (dwelling place) which was in Trimbakeshwar. Gautama used to sow rice in the surrounding fields of his Ashram in the morning, reap the crop in the afternoon and with it fed a large group of Rishis, who took shelter in his Ashram on account of the famine. The blessings of the group of rishis increased the merit (Punya) of Gautama. Lord Indra's position became shaky because of his increased merit. So Indra ordered clouds to rain all over Trimbakeshwar, so that the famine will be over and Rishis will go back and the increasing merits of Gautama will be weakened. Although the famine was over, Gautama urged the Rishis to stay back and kept on feeding them and gaining merit.
Once he saw a cow grazing in the paddy field and he drove her away by throwing Darbha (sharp, pointed grass). The slender cow died by this. It was Jaya - Parvati's friend, who had taken the form of a cow. This news upset the Rishis and they refused to luncheon at his Ashram. Gautama requested Rishis to show a way out of this sin. He was advised to approach Lord Shiva and request him to release Ganges and a bath in the Ganges would set him free of his sins.
Gautama then practiced penance by going to the peak of Brahmagiri. Lord Shankara was pleased by his worships and gave him the Ganges. However, Ganges was not prepared to part with Lord Shiva, which irritated him. He made TandavNrutya (dance) on the peak of Brahmagiri and dashed his jata there. Frightened by this action, Ganges appeared on Brahmagiri. Later on Ganges appeared in the Trimbak Tirtha. Gautama praised her but she off and on appeared on the mountain at various places and disappeared in anger. Gautama could not bathe in her waters. Ganges then appeared in Gangadwar, Varaha-tirtha, Rama-Laxman tirtha, Ganga Sagar tirtha. Still Gautama could not bathe in her waters. The Gautama surrounded the river with enchanted grass and put a vow to her. The flow stopped there and the tirtha thus came to be called Kushavarta. It is from this Kushavarta that the river Godavari flows up to the sea. The sin of killing a cow by Gautama was wiped off here.


Pujas performed here

This place is famous for lots of religious rituals (vidhis). Narayan Nagbali, Kalsarpa Shanti, Tripindi vidhi etc are done here. Narayan Nagbali puja is performed at Trimbakeshwar only. This puja is performed for three days. This puja is performed on special dates (muhurt). Some days in the year are not suitable to perform this puja. This puja is performed for many reasons like to cure an illness, going through bad times, killing a Cobra (Nag), childless couples, financial crisis or you want to perform some religious puja to have a peacefull & happy life to you and your family members.

Narayan Nagbali Vidhi-
Narayan Nagbali consists of two different rituals. Narayan bali is done to get rid of ancestral curse (pitru dosh /Pitru Shaap) while Nag bali is done to get rid of sin performed by killing snake, specially Cobra which is worshipped in India. It can be performed only at Trimbakeshwar.
Narayan Bali ritual is done to fulfill the unsatisfied desires of the ancestral souls which are stuck in the world and trouble their progeny. Narayan Bali consists of the same ritual as Hindu funeral. An artificial body mostly made of wheat flour is used. Mantras are used to invoke such souls who are having certain wishes remaining attached. The ritual makes them possess the body and the funeral frees them to other world.
Nagbali ritual is done to get rid of sin of killing nag (Cobra). In this ritual also the funeral is performed on the body of snake made with wheat though.
Narayan Nagbali is one of the main rituals performed at Trimbakeshwar. Ancient scriptures like Dharma Sindhu, which describes various religious rites, mentions that this particular ritual should be done only at Trimbakeshwar. The references are found even in Skandh Puran and Padma Puran about this age-old tradition.
NARAYAN NAGBALI Both performed with a desire of fulfillment of certain wishes. Hence they are known as Kamya.
1. To get issues.
2. To remove the troubles from Ghosts.
3. If any member of the family is dead to any mishap (accident, suicide, sinking in water etc.) and his family is troubled because of him, these formalities are done to get rid of this trouble.
4. To remove the trouble from Ghosts, black magic etc
People used to avoid seeing the face such person early in the morning. far this feeling was seen in the public It is a strong desire of ever married couple to get at least one male bat The family life remains incomplete without any issue. Love for kids and affection is the natural feelings, these feelings are not fulfilled, then man feels unhappy than poverty or economic backwardness. In modern era, the means of "Test tube baby" are available. Even though the couple does not afford, they get the necessary treatment, sometimes even by getting money on loan. But when they do not get any positive response of all modern treatment, they turn the astrologers in frustration. The astrologers can only analyze the reasons of failure of all medical treatments. After carefully examining the sex organs of both, if it is found that there is no fault in anybody and still there is no chance of issue, astrologers can only reply this question. Always when there is deceased, there must be some remedy also. Keeping in mind this rule, our ancestors had mentioned the remedies in the science of Astrology to overcome this problem. First they find out from birth chart of both of them whether there is any possibility of getting issue or not. If yes, then they try to find out the exact reason of not getting the essues out of certain, reasons like curse of previous birth, curse from Pitras, Yoga discontinuance of the race etc. When they come to exact conclusion, then they find out the remedy to cure the problem if possible. Out of the remedies, the remedy of Narayan Nagbali is recommended and if this formality is properly fulfilled, there is a sure chance of getting an issue especially the male baby. This is out past experience. Hence it is essential to study the birth charts of both husband and wife. Then a media check up both of them should be made from Expert Doctor. Simultaneous!' with the medical treatment if the support of Narayan Nagbali is properly given, surely that couple will get an issue.

Importance & Procedures of the Pooja?
For Problems like Bhoot Pishach Badha, unsuccessful in Business, Waste of Money, Family health Problems, Argument with others, Educational hindrances, Marriage Problems, Accidental Death, Unnecessary expenses, Health problems in many family members, All kind of Curse (shrap). Narayan Nagbali is performed to get respite from various problems.
It gives good health, success in business and career and fulfils wishes. It is a three day ritual on a particular day and time (muhurta). On the first day, the devotees should take a holy bath in Kushavarta and resolve to give dashdaan (give ten things in charity). After offering prayers at the Trimbakeshwar temple, they go to the dharmashala at the confluence of rivers Godavari and Ahilya for performing Narayan Nagbali.

Pooja of Narayan Nagbali is of 3 days
• Please come one day before or early in the morning till 6 AM on the date muhurta.
• The daxina includes all the Pooja Samugri & Food arrangement for 3 Persons .You can stay at hotels & Dharmshala in Trimbakeshwar during your ritual.
• Please bring with you new White clothes dhoti, gamcha, and napkin and for your wife saree, blouse etc. (Other than black or green colors).
• Bring with you and one nos of idol of snake made using 1.25 gram of pure gold And 8 nos of pur silvers.
Reservation for this ritual must be made minimum 4 days in advance by informing respective Guruji. Your name and telephone number is to be registered before coming for the rites. It is inevitable to make reservations to avail all the facilities. Reservations can be made through phone or mail. Those individuals who are interested in getting the Pooja to be done should get the time booked at least 5 days in advance.

Tripindi Shraddha (Pitru Dosha)-
Tripindi Shradha is an offering in the memory of the dear departed. If for three consecutive years the offerings are not made to the dear departed then the dead gets vehement, so to calm them these offerings are made.

Kalsarpa yoga Puja-
Combinations of planets formed specific position in the Horoscopes are called Yogas. YOGAS play an important role and enjoy a prominent position in Hindu Astrology. This happens when there are all planets coming between Rahu and Ketu. This results in failure and dejection. Because all the karyas do not happen accordingly to the efforts put in. often leading to negativity, and inferiority complex. This vidhi done by vaidik procedure is very effective although very simple. There is a special pooja to be done which can be done at Trimbakeshwar or you can get this pooja done at your place, Panditji are open for help regarding the pooja. When all the planets are hemmed between Rahu and Ketu i.e., the moon's north node and the moon's south node Kal Sarp Yoga is formed. Complete Kal Sarp Yoga is formed only when half of the chart is unoccupied by planets.
The Kal Sarp Yoga is a dreaded yoga that can cause one's life to be miserable. A person under the affliction of this yoga leads a life of pain and misfortune. If it is highly afflicted this yoga has the capacity to cancel out all the good Yoga's of the chart.
This Kal Sarp Yoga can be formed in any person's horoscope like king, rich, president, prime-minister, peon, poor etc. and those who have Kal Sarp Yoga in their horoscope, in spite they have all kind of facilities but still they always suffer from some tension, fear, & insecurity.
A person who has bitten by snack cannot sit comfortably like this a person who has KalSarpa Yog in his horoscope always fear from death.
This yog is more dangerous than other malefic yoga. This yog effects a person till 55 years and some time throughout his life, its depend upon the position of KalSarpa yoga.

In the Birth chart (Horoscope) if all planets are placed at one side between Rahu & Ketu it forms a yoga namely KALA- SARPA YOGA. KALA SARPA YOGA is regarded as one of the dreaded evil Yogas having significance in 'Mundane Astrology. Hindu ancient astrological literature is more or less silent about it. Even the learned commentators did not make any detailed scrutiny as to the effects of this Yoga in 'NATAL ASTROLOGY'. Last ten years after deep study and scrutiny of about 1200 Horoscopes We have found that there is an evil Yoga formed by Rahu & Ketu. In the year 1990.

People who are unable to see in the day light are called 'DAY BLIND (DIVANDHA)', such persons blame the sun for their blindness. Mere admission or non-admission of a certain thing cannot be challenged the existence of a certain thing. In the practical life we have to consider so many things in good faith. It is quite difficult to prove the exact father of certain child. Even though the medical science is on the top of mountain today.

Kalsarpa Yog is meant to fulfill pleasing wishes and desires so it is important to purify the body by passing atonement resolution. One gets the right to perform the rituals only after attaining expiation for the sins committed with ones knowledge or ignorance. To expiate all the sins committed one is asked to donate cow, the earth, sesame, butter gold and similar such ten donations are made to the spiritual guide. The Worshipper has to claim that the elimination of the Kalsarpa appeared in the horoscope namely Birth/ Gochar /Zodiac that is mentioned in the prime resolution would be carried as per the Vedic Traditions.
After the claim is been made by the worshipper the main ceremony begins. It begins with worshipping Lord Ganesh. By doing this all the obstacles and danger is eliminated and the purpose is achieved sooner.
After Ganesh pujan, Lord Varun pujan also termed as Kalash pujan is performed. In this ceremony Holy Water is bestowed with the respect of God and is worshipped like one worships God. All holy power, holy water and all God and Goddess are invoked through this Kalash (Pot). The worshipper is blessed through Swastivachan with Punyam, Kalyanam, Ridhim, Swastim and Shreeha.
In the main ritual, the sixteen forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped as the second important rite. To embrace all the powers and vitality one has to worship Goddess Durga. We commemorate our ancestors by performing Nandi Shradh to gain blessings of our forefathers.
In the principal ritual along with Lord Shiva Rahu, Kaal (God of Time), Sarpa (Golden Serpent), NavNag (Nine Serpents), Nagpash Yantra and tiny silver serpents for immersion. After consecration of all Gods they are worshiped with faith and which embodies sixteen items due to which all the Gods are pleased and delighted.
Nine planets exude energy and is beneficial (Yogkarak) for us. By worshipping Planets/Stars humans gain strength, intellect and knowledge. Along with this they win over their enemy and make success out of it.
Lord Shiva is worshipped for forgiveness for all the guilt and misconduct. We reap immediate results for an act after worshipping Lord Shiva and while worshipping all the flaws are eradicated.
After that Fire is worshiped to satiate all the Gods, the established powers are fed with oblation by fire. Fire is a messenger to God. When you worship a certain power then God disguise itself as fire and appears in person to accept the oblation paid by fire. When humans are in proximity with fire then all his diseases and vexations are eradicated. Environmental energy is conserved.
After that sacrifice is to be made to satiate left/reverse powers. An oblation of rice is paid to goblin, corpse, devil, fiend, a witch, and a female spirit, ghost.


Trimbakeshwar Town
Culture
The people of Trimbakeshwar are very religios. The next generation implement traditional culture and belifes honelstly and sincerely given by the ancestors of the family.

Cuisine Daily meal of local communities of Trimbakeshwar is a Maharashtrian food, but in Restaurant or Hotels you may get food of your choice.

Population Population of Trimbakeshwar is about 20,000 (Year 2008-09)

Languages speak Marathi is the main language in Trimbakeshwar town, but Hindi, Sanskrit, Gujrati & English also speaks by some local people.

Communities Trimbakeshwar town has a large number of Brahmin households and is also a centre for Vedic Gurukuls (kind of boarding school). It also has ashrams and Muths devoted to Ashtanga Yoga, the Hindu art of living.

Education: (Governement & Private)
Primary Schools
Secondary & Higher Secondary schools
Junior & senior college for the Arts & Commerce stream


WAY TO GO

Location
Trimbakeshwar, in the Nashik District of Maharashtra, India, 28 km from the city of Nashik (GPS Reference 20.021944 N, 73.729935 E).

Transport
Nashik city is 200 kms away from Mumbai. Major cities like Mumbai and Pune and other cities in Maharashtra are well connected with Nashik by means of road and rail services. Trimbakeshwar is reachable by state transport bus and or private transport like taxi services from Nashik. Trambakeshwar and Nashik have facilities of food and lodging.
By Road Transport:
Nearest Central Bus Station - Nashik, Maharashtra (28kms). States Transport Buses runs frequently from 04.00am to 11.00pm to Trimbakeshwar.
Contact: CBS, Nashik - +91-253-
Private Transport is also available from Nashik to Trimbakeshwar frequently
Contact: Nashik - Trimbakeshwar Taxi Association - +91-253-
By Rail Transport:
Nearest Railway Station - Nashik Road, Maharashtra (40kms) on Central Railway
By Air transport:
Ozar(Mig), Nashik, Maharashtra (39kms).

Accommodation
Many religious 'Dharmshala', Private hotels, lodgs are there for stay in Trimbakeshwar


PLACES TO VISIT

Trimbakeshwar Temple
History Legend goes that a sage name Gautam Muni resided on the Brahmagiri hill with his wife Ahilya. By virtue of his devotion, the sage received from Varuna, a bottomless pit from which he received an inexhaustible supply of grains and food. The other rishis, jealous of his fortune, arranged for a cow to enter his granary and caused it to die as Gowtam Rishi attempted to ward it off with a bunch of Darbha grass.

Gautam Rishi, therefore, worshipped Lord Shiva to bring the Ganga down to his hermitage to purify the premises. Pleased with devotion, Shiva requested Ganga to flow down and make Sage Gautam pure. After that Ganga flowed down. Lord Shiva told Ganga to stay there eternally for the good of everyone. All the Gods started singing the praises of Gautam Rishi, Ganga and Lord Shiva. On the request of all the Gods, Lord Shiva resided by the river Gautami by the name Trimbakeshwar (one of the Jyotirlingas). Hindus believe that Trimbak Jyotirlinga is one, which fulfills everyone’s desires. It emancipates all from their sins and miseries.

Another popular legend behind Trimbakeshwar Temple is the legend of Lingodbhava manifestation of Shiva. It says once Brahma and Vishnu searched in vain to discover the origin of Shiva who manifested himself as a cosmic column of fire. Brahma lied that he had seen the top of the column of fire and was hence cursed that he would not be worshipped on earth. In turn Brahma cursed Shiva that he would be pushed underground. Accordingly, Shiva came down under the Brahmagiri hill in the form of Tryambakeshwar. Trimbakeshwar Temple is the only place where Shivlinga is not out but it’s inside the floor.

Some scholars say that Goddess Parvati also came down along Lord Shiva and Ganga. The place is therefore called Tryambakeshwa (three lords). Others believe that the place is so called because of the presence of three Shivlinga of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The Shivlinga of Lord Mahesh has always-flowing water among the three Shivlingas.


Trimbakeshwar Temple The entire black stone temple is known for its appealing architecture and sculpture and is at the foothills of a mountain called Brahmagiri. Three sources of the Godavari originate from the Brahmagiri mountain.
Trimbakeshwar temple is imposing with ancient Hindu temples’ architectural styles.
The existing temple was built out of basalt after it was commissioned by Peshwa Nanasaheb. It so happens that the Peshwa made a bet on whether the stone surrounding the Jyotirlinga, is hollow from the inside or not. The stone was proved to be hollow, and on losing the bet, the Peshwa built a marvelous temple out of it. The Shiva idol of the temple consisted of the world famous Nassak Diamond. It was appropriated by the British in The Third Anglo-Maratha War and lies with one owner or the other ever since. The diamond presently lies with Edward J. Hand, a trucking firm executive from Greenwich, Connecticut, USA
When was the temple built and by whom ?
The work of constructing the present temple of Trimbakeshwar was begun by Shrimant Balaji Bajirao alias Nanasahib Peshawe in 1755 in the first half of the Margashirsha month (around December) and was completed in 1786. It took 31 years to construct the temple and the cost of 16 lacs then. There are three “Linga” of the size of a thumb and they are called as Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh - the creator, the organizer and the destroyer. These lingas are natural ( emerged naturally )Water of Ganges flows over the Linga of Shiva. The grant of Rs. 1000.00 per month was given for performing puja and offerings etc. The deity is worshipped here thrice a day and an additional worship with flowers at pradosha time.

Structure of Trimbakeshwar Temple
Trimbakeshwar Temple is an ancient shrine, however the current structure is a result of the reconstruction efforts undertaken by the Peshwa Balaji Bajirao in mid 18th century. The temple
is built of black stone in the Nagara style of architecture and is enclosed in a spacious courtyard. The sanctum internally a square and externally a stellar structure houses a small Shivalingam - Tryambaka. The sanctum is crowned with a graceful tower, embellished with a giant Amalaka and a golden kalasha. In front of the garbagriha and the antarala is a mandap with doors on all four sides. Three of these doorways are covered with porches and the openings of these porches are ornamented with pillars and arches. Curvilinear slabs rising in steps form roof of the mandapam. The entire structure is ornamented with sculptural work featuring running scrolls, floral designs, and figures of gods, yakshas, humans and animals.

The Shivalingam is seen in a depression on the floor of the sanctum. Water constantly oozes out from the top of the Shivalingam. Usually, the Shivalingam is covered with a silver mask but on festive occasions a golden mask with five faces, each with a golden crown covers it.


Kushavart Trith Kusavarta, a kund is considered the symbolic origin of the river Godavari, and revered by Hindus as a sacred bathing place.

Religious significan
Kushavarta is called as Teertharaj, since it has six corners. After finishing the tirtha-yatra at Kushavarta, a pilgrim should proceed by the northern bank of Godavari and visit Nilsangameshwar, Vivah Vinayak, Satya Narayan, Dhaneshwar Mahadev, Tarangeshwar, Setupaleshwar etc.
Kushavarta was a large area. Shreemant Rao Sahib Parnekar has built up the banks with stone pavement and with verandahs on all sides. Near Kushavarta is Kanchan and Kankhala tirtha where , the it is said , that dead human bones disappear. The flow of Godavari runs from this place. There are temples at the four corners of Kushavarta. On the south east conrner is the temple of Kedareshwar Mahadev, who in disguise of Kedarbhatta made Gautam to bathe in the waters and gave him prayaschitta (repentance) for the sin of killing a cow. To the south-west is Sakshi Vinayak , who is a witness to the yatra -vidhi of all pilgrims. To the north-west is Kusheshwar Mahadev and to the north-east is the temple of Godavari. It is said in Trimbak Mahatmya that Godavari was pleased with Gautam and gave him her “Darshana” - appearance in person . At this place the Godavari temple is built.
History
To the rear of the temple Gangamandir, Shrimant Peshawa has built a big caravansary where Rama and Karpureshwar Mahadev are enthroned. There is a separate temple of Ashwini Kumar in front of Gangamandir. There is a big Ashwattha Narayan tree in front of Kushavarta tirtha. In addition, there are temples of Jwareshwar Mahadev and Kanchaneshwar and statues of Dash Avatar and of thirty-three kinds of deities. The old holy books say that by the order of Lord Shiv, all deities stay here in person, during the period of Sinhastha Parva, to wipe off their sins and to get themselves purified.

Kedareshwar Temple Kedareshwar temple in Trimbakeshwar is located in the picturesque area known as Kushavarta. This temple is on the South East corner of Kushavarta. The temple is dedicated to Kedareshwar Mahadev, one of the forms of Lord Shiva. The temple resembling age old style of Hindu caves.

Legends tell that Lord Kedarnath appeared in the form of Kedarbhatta to save Saint Gautama from the sin of killing a cow. He made Gautama to take bath in the water flows through the place assumed to be from Ganga and hence saint had performed the repentance.

Kanchan and Kankhala tirtha are nearby attractions. It is believed that from here dead human bones disappear.


Other important Tirth around Trimbakeshwar Bilwa Tirtha Bilwa Tirtha is to the north of Nila mountain. It is one of the five tirthas. There is a temple of Bilvakeshwar Mahadev built by Naro Vinayak Gogte in 1738 at a cost of Rs. 25,000.00
Gautam Tirtha Gautam Tirtha is to the south of the Ganges and the Trimbakeshwar temple. Varun being pleased with Gautam gave this tirtha as a permanent source of water. To the north is Gautameshwar and to the south is Rameshwar Mahadev. This tank is 600 x 400 ft and is built by Shrimant Pandit Zashivale at a cost of Rs. 50,000.00
Indra Tirtha Indra Tirtha is to the east and near Kushavarta. This is known as Shakra-Kupa for Indra wiped off his curse given by sage Gautam for enjoying Ahilya, by a bath in this tirtha. This is built with cut stone in octagonal form by Vishnu Mahadeo Gadre at a cost of Rs. 22000 in 1778. On the bank of the tirtha is a beautiful temple of Indreshwar Mahadev with an idol of Indra seated on an Airavata elephant.
Besides this there are Vishwanath tirtha, Nilambar tirtha or Moti-tank, Mukund tirtha, Prayag tirtha and Veni-Madhav and other Mahadev temples on the bank of Prayag tirtha. Here is a matha of Nirvana Sampradaya (sect) Nilganga tirtha and nilsangameshwar Mahadev temple are on the north bank of Godavari.
Ahilya Sangam tirtha To force Gautam to give up his penance, a friend of Ganga named Jatila took the form of Ahilya, Gautam’s wife. Gautam could make it out and cursed her to be transformed into a river. Then she begged his pardon. Gautam granted her pardon and said that she will be freed of her curse on her joining with Godavari river. This is the Ahilya-Sangam tirtha where Ganga and Godavari join. There is a temple of Sangmeshwar Mahadev.

Sant Shreshth Shri Nivruttinath Maharaj Samadhi Temple
The elder brother and Guru of Dnyaneshwara took Samadhi here . In his memory a temple is built. Devotees come to visit this temple. There is a three days festival in this temple in the month of Pausha - sometime in January.
Sant Nivrutti Nath Samadhi is located at Trimbakeshwar. Saint Nivrutti Nath was the elder brother of great saint Gyandev. Nivrutti Nath was assumed to be the Guru of Gyandev and Nath sect started with Nivrutti Nath.

Legendary stories tell that after the Samadhi of Gyandev, Nivrutti Nath went for a pilgrimage along with his sister and they were caught in natural disasters like thunder storms. He lost his sister during this calamity. Nivrutti Nath attained Samadhi at Trimbakeshwar.

The temple erected on the Samadhi of Nivrutti Nath attracts thousands of devotees. The temple is preserved with all its cultural and traditional values and the aesthetic ambiance at this place makes it a famous pilgrim center.

Brahmagiri Mountain
the Brihmagiri Mountain 18 K.M. from the city of Nasik in the Nasik district. This is one of the parts of the Sahayadri Vallies. The city of Trimbakeshwar is located in the bottom of this mountain. This is a beautiful natural place with the cold weather as it is situated 3000 ft. above from the sea. There are two different routes to get to here. From Nasik to Trimbakeshwar, it is only 18 K.M. This route was built by the help of Shri Kashi Nath Dhate in A.D. 871.
This is one of the parts of the Sahayadri Vallies. The city of Trimbakeshwar is located in the bottom of this mountain. This is a beautiful natural place with the cold weather as it is situated 3000 ft. above from the sea. Original Ganges and Trimbak Tirtha are on Brahmagiri mountain adjacent to Trimbakeshwar temple. Brahmagiri is considered as a huge form of Lord Shiva and hence the mountain climbing was considered as a sin. However in 1908 Seth Lalchand Jashodanand Bhambhani of Karachi and Seth Ganeshdas built 500 steps of stone at a cost of Rs. 40,000 then. This has facilitated easy access to Brahmagiri. Godavari is flowing in three directions on the mountain. The one flowing towards east is called Godavari, one flowing towards the south is called Vaitarna and the one flowing towards the west is called the west-flowing Ganga and meets Godavari near Chakra Tirth. River Ahilya meets Godavari in front of the Trimbakeshwar temple. Childless families worship at the Ahilya sangam and it is believed that they do get a child
The first peak of Sahyadri is called Brahmadri. The story associated with this is that Shankar was pleased with Brahmadev and said “ I shall be known by your name”. Hence it is called as Brahmagiri. The mountain is 1800 feet high . Its height from sea level is 4248 feet. Five peaks of this mountain are called Sadyo-Jata, Vamdev, Aghora, Ishana and Tat-Purusha and are considered as five mouths of the Lord Shiva and they are worshipped
Brahmagiri hill is the place where the famous River Godavari originates. The source is on the top of the hill. After its emergence from this spot, the river appears first time only half way on the hills. This place is known as Gangadwar. The name Gangadwar (way or passage of Ganga) come from the legendary stories relating to Brahmagiri and Ganga.
Brahmagiri, the hill (giri) of Lord Brahma, appear in many mythological and legendary documents. Legend says that the saint Gautam and his wife Ahalya resided on this hill. Saint Gautam worshiped Lord Shiva to bring Ganga in this hill. This river is known as River Gautami in the Brahmagiri hills.
The undulated terrains of Brahmagiri are challenging spots for adventurous travels like nature walk and trekking. There are many trekking trails nestled among the woody trees. The ranges are rich with natural attractions and scenic spots.

One can reach this place by an ascent of about 750 steps made on concrete. There is a shrine dedicated to Goddess Ganga. The river appears here as coming out from the mouth of Nandi. Kolambika Devi temple and a group of 108 shivalings are seen nearby. Gorakhnath cave is few steps down from Gangadwar.
Gangadwar Mountain
Gangadwar is half way to Brahmagiri mountain. There is a temple of Ganga, now known as Godavari River. Ganga appears first time here, after it vanishes from Brahmagiri Mountain. Godavari comes to Gangadwar from Brahmadri. There are 750 steps to Gangadwar. These were built by Karamsi Ranamull of Village Maska. The work was commenced on 1st of Chaitra in Samwat 1907 and was completed on 5th of Chaitra Samwat 1918 by Seth Hansraj Karamsi. Gangadwar is one of the five tirthas. There is an idol of Ganga and near her feet is a stone of the shape of cow’s head through which Ganga water is flowing drop by drop.
Nearby is Kolambika Devi, Varah tirtha further on is the cave of Gautam for practicing penance where there are 108 Shivalingas. A little further on is Gorakh Gumpha, a place where Gorakhnath practiced penance, the idol is worth seeing. After descending a few steps, Ganga flows from the roots of Audumbar tree. This is known as Rama-Laxman tirtha. Here Rama stopped for a few days and did Shraddha ceremony in memory of Dasharatha. There is Rama temple and Gopalrao Ghanekar built it at a cost of Rs. 25000.00 in 1857. Ganga Sagar is a big tank in the flow of river and is 300 x 400 ft. Shrimant Rajebahadar built it about the year 1678. The Ganga Sagar water is distributed in the village nearby.

Gorakhnath Gufa
Gorakhnath Gufa is a famous cave located at the halfway ascent in Brahmagiri hills. It is located few steps down to Gangadwar. The cave is intriguing with many attractive carvings. The gufa is on the premises of the Shrine dedicated to Goddess Ganga in The Brahmagiri hills.
It is believed that the noted Guru Gorakhnath had undergone penance here in this cave. Devotees offer prayers at this Gufa to remove all the sins committed during the earthly living. The beautiful serene ambiance in the region make it a pleasant spot for pilgrimage.

Ram Lakshman Tirtha Ram Lakshman Tirtha is located just few steps down to Gorakh Gumpha. Gorakh Gumpha was the place where Guru Gorakhnath practiced penance for removing the sin of killing a cow. At this location, River Ganga flows from the roots of a big Audumbar tree. This flow of Ganga in this hilly terrain of Brahmagiri hills is known as Rama-Laxman tirtha.
Legends teach us that Lord Rama spent few days at this Tirtha to do the Shraddha (rituals for the salvation of the souls) for his father Dasharatha. There is a Rama temple at this location. The temple is built by Gopalrao Ghanekar in 1857.


Nilparvat Mountain Neel Parbat (Peak) is located on the eastern side of Brahmahgiri hills. This peak is amazing with undulated and unexplored regions. The lush green trees, springs and tranquil atmosphere makes it a must see region in Trimbakeshwar. The eye catching views of the foothills from the Neel Parbat are really praise worthy. The cool ambiance of the hilly terrains makes it a perfect location for mountaineering, nature walks and trekking. Neel parbat offers mild to medium trekking challenges for trekking enthusiasts.

Neel Parbat houses Bilwa Tirtha, one of the five tirthas in Panch Tirtha Yatra. This tirtha is located at the north of Neel Parbat. A temple known as Bilwakeshwar is located at this temple
This temple is on top of the Neel mountain. All goddesses ('Matamba','Renuka','Mananmba') came here to see 'Parashuram' when he was performing penance (tapas).After his penance he requested all goddesses to stay there and the temple was formed for these goddesses. There's a myth that God Dattatrya too was born here.

Shri Nilambika/Dattatreya Temple
This temple is on top of the Neel mountain. All goddesses ('Matamba','Renuka','Mananmba') came here to see 'Parashuram' when he was performing penance (tapas).After his penance he requested all goddesses to stay there and the temple was formed for these goddesses. There's a myth that God Dattatrya too was born here.

Shri Swami Samarth Temple
Swami Samarth Ashram is located in the close vicinity of Trimbakeshwar temple. The ashram is devoted to Swami Samarth, a popular saint and spiritual leader lived during 19th century in Maharashtra. This ancient Ashram still preserves its traditional customs and rituals,

Swami Samarth Ashram is established in a scenic and naturally imposing spot near Nasik in Maharashtra. The Ashram faces the eye pleasing Sahyadri hills and Trimbakeshwar temple. One can have entertaining views of Sahyadri ranges from the premises of Ashram. The Ashram is open to devotees all the days. Ashram performs different Hindu religious rituals every day.

Shri Gajana Maharaj Temple
Gajanan Maharaj Ashram is located in Shegaon near to Trimbakeshwar. Gajanan Maharaj was a revered saint and considers him as Sai Baba of Shirdi. This place is known for the Samadhi of Shri Gajanan Maharaj. Ashram ambiance is serene and suitable for meditation and relaxing in religious atmosphere.

The Ashram dedicated to the mystic and immaculate saint carries out many social activities for the well being of common people. The ashram extends its helping hand to needy and deprived people. Thousands of devotees visit this ashram every year to pay their respects to the saint. Thursday is believed to be the auspicious day to visit this ashram.


MISCELLANEOUS
Event calendar
Religious festivals at trimbakeshwar
1. Sinhastha Kumbha Mela - Once in twelve years when Bruhaspati or Jupiter is in Sinha Rashi (zodiac sign Leo)
2. Godavari day - In the month of Magha (February) - the first twelve days of bright moon.
3. Nivrutti Natha festival - three days in Pausha - sometime in January.
4. Rathayatra of Trimbakeshwar - On the full moon day of the month Kartika , called Tripuri Paurnima- sometime in November
5. Mahashivaratri - on the 13th day of Krishna paksha of the month Magha - some time in March.

2 comments:

  1. Nice post. Trymbakeshwar is one of the famous Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra. Tryambakeshwar Temple, Gorakhnath Gufa, Brahmagiri Hill, Neel Parvat, etc are the sightseeing at Tryambakeshwar .

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  2. Great blog post. :) Trimbakeshwar is known for Trimbakeshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingaas. The town also looks outstandingly beautiful during the monsoons. Explore various hotels in Trimbakeshwar.

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