Trimbakeshwar Temple

Significance

Trimbakeshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and stands near the source of the Godavari river, in the Brahmagiri hills. Its linga is unusual: a hollow holds three small lingas, representing Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The temple is also known for rituals such as Narayan Nagbali and Kaal Sarp shanti, performed by local priests.

History and legend

Tradition holds that the sage Gautama brought the Ganga down at Brahmagiri to atone for a sin, and she flowed on as the Godavari. The Jyotirlinga stotram describes Trimbakeshwar as standing on the banks of the Gautami, another name for the river.

The present black-stone temple was built in the 18th century under Peshwa Balaji Bajirao, also known as Nanasaheb Peshwa. The Kushavarta tank in the town is regarded as the river’s ritual source. Together with Nashik, Trimbak hosts the Simhastha Kumbh Mela every twelve years.

Before you go

• Expect long queues on Mondays, during Shravan and at Mahashivratri. Weekday mornings are quieter.
• Book rituals such as Narayan Nagbali in advance with a priest; they can take more than a day.
• Brahmagiri hill, above the town, is a popular trek to the Godavari’s traditional source.