Are you planning a spiritual journey from Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar? This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know about visiting the sacred Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 most revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India.
About Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Trimbakeshwar Temple, located in Trimbak town near Nashik in Maharashtra, is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. This ancient temple holds the distinction of being one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Unique Features of Trimbakeshwar Temple
The temple’s most distinctive feature is its unique three-faced Jyotirlinga, representing the Hindu trinity – Brahma (Creator), Vishnu (Preserver), and Shiva (Destroyer). This rare architectural marvel makes Trimbakeshwar stand apart from other Jyotirlinga temples.
Historical Significance
The present temple structure was built by Peshwa Balaji Bajirao (also known as Nana Saheb) between 1740-1760 on the site of an ancient temple. The entire temple is constructed using black stone, showcasing magnificent Nagara-style architecture.
Religious Importance
According to Hindu mythology, Sage Gautama worshipped Lord Shiva here to release the holy Ganga River. The sacred Kushavarta pond at the temple is believed to be the origin of the Godavari River, making this site doubly sacred for devotees.
Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar Distance and Route
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Approximately 120-125 km
- Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours by road
- Route Type: Well-maintained highways with scenic countryside views
Best Route from Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar
Route 1 (Recommended – Shortest):
Shirdi → Shani Shingnapur → Nashik → Deolali → Trimbakeshwar
- Distance: 125 km
- Time: Approximately 2.5-3 hours
- This route passes through good highways with regular traffic
Route 2 (Alternative):
Shirdi → Aurangabad-Nashik Highway → Trimbakeshwar
- Distance: 144 km
- Time: Approximately 3 hours
- Slightly longer but offers alternative scenic views
Transportation Options
1. Private Cab/Taxi:
Book a comfortable cab from Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar for a hassle-free journey. Private cabs offer flexibility and comfort for families and groups.
2. Self-Drive Car:
Rent a car and enjoy the scenic drive through Maharashtra’s countryside at your own pace.
3. Bus Service:
Both government (MSRTC) and private buses operate daily between Shirdi and Trimbakeshwar. Over 3 bus services are available daily.
4. Organized Tour Packages:
Many tour operators offer combined Shirdi-Trimbakeshwar tour packages with comfortable transportation and guided services.
Trimbakeshwar Temple Timings
Daily Darshan Timings
- Temple Opening Time: 5:30 AM
- Temple Closing Time: 9:00 PM
- Open all days of the week
Special Puja Timings
- Rudrabhishek: 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
- Morning Puja (Brahma Dev): 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
- Afternoon Puja (Mahadev): 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM
- Shiva Golden Crown Darshan: 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM
- Special Poojas: 7:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:30 PM
VIP Darshan
VIP Darshan passes are available at the temple for Rs. 200 per person. This allows devotees to have a closer darshan with reduced waiting time. Online booking is also available through the official temple website.
Note: Temple timings may vary during special festivals like Mahashivratri, Shravan month, and other auspicious occasions.
What to See at Trimbakeshwar
Main Temple Complex
The temple complex features beautiful Indo-Aryan architecture with entry gates on all four sides. The main sanctum houses the unique three-faced Jyotirlinga, which is covered with a jeweled crown believed to date back to the Pandava era.
Kushavarta Kund (Sacred Pond)
This is the holiest spot where the Godavari River originates. Devotees take holy dips here before entering the temple for darshan.
Brahmagiri Hill
The temple is situated at the foothills of Brahmagiri mountain, from where the Godavari River originates. The hill offers trekking opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.
Gangadwar
A scenic spot where devotees can witness the source of the Godavari River flowing from the mountains.
Best Time to Visit Trimbakeshwar
Winter Season (October to February)
Ideal time with pleasant weather (15°C to 30°C). Perfect for temple visits and sightseeing.
Monsoon Season (June to September)
The temple and surrounding areas look beautiful during monsoons, but heavy rainfall may affect travel plans.
Summer Season (March to May)
Temperatures can reach up to 40°C. Visit early morning or evening to avoid heat.
Festival Times
- Mahashivratri: Huge crowds, special celebrations
- Shravan Month (July-August): Most auspicious time for Shiva worship
- Kartik Purnima: Special festivities and rituals
Complete Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar Tour Itinerary
Day Trip Itinerary (10-12 hours)
5:00 AM – Depart from Shirdi
8:00 AM – Arrive at Trimbakeshwar
8:30 AM – Temple Darshan and Puja
11:00 AM – Visit Kushavarta Kund
12:00 PM – Lunch at local restaurants
1:30 PM – Visit nearby attractions (Anjaneri Hill, Coin Museum)
3:00 PM – Start return journey to Shirdi
6:00 PM – Reach Shirdi
Two-Day Itinerary with Nashik
Day 1: Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar (stay overnight)
Day 2: Trimbakeshwar to Nashik (visit wine vineyards, Panchavati) and return to Shirdi
Accommodation Near Trimbakeshwar
Budget Options
- Dharmashalas and guest houses (Rs. 500-1000 per night)
- Budget hotels near the temple
Mid-Range Hotels
- Comfortable hotels with AC rooms (Rs. 1500-3000 per night)
- Modern amenities and good service
Premium Options
- Luxury resorts near Nashik (20 km away)
- Heritage properties with premium facilities
Important Travel Tips
Temple Dress Code
- Wear traditional and modest clothing
- Men: Dhoti or traditional wear preferred for inner sanctum entry
- Women: Saree or salwar kameez recommended
- Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothes
General Tips
- Start Early: Begin your journey early morning to avoid traffic and complete darshan comfortably
- Book in Advance: During peak seasons, book cabs and hotels in advance
- Carry Essentials: Keep water bottles, snacks, and basic medications
- Photography: Photography may be restricted inside the main sanctum
- Cash: Keep sufficient cash as many local shops may not accept cards
- Footwear: You’ll need to remove footwear before entering the temple complex
- Local Guide: Consider hiring a local guide to understand the temple’s history and rituals
Places to Visit Near Trimbakeshwar
Anjaneri Hills (10 km)
Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, this hill offers excellent trekking opportunities.
Nashik (28 km)
- Panchavati temples
- Sula Vineyards
- Ramkund
- Kalaram Temple
Shani Shingnapur (85 km from Trimbakeshwar)
Famous temple dedicated to Lord Shani, can be covered while returning to Shirdi.
Puja and Rituals at Trimbakeshwar
Regular Pujas
- Rudrabhishek: Special abhishekam for Lord Shiva
- Mahamrityunjaya Mantra Jaap: For health and longevity
- Laghurudra Puja: Complete Vedic rituals
Special Rituals
- Kalsarp Puja: Trimbakeshwar is famous for Kalsarp Dosha Nivaran
- Narayan Nagbali: Ancestral rituals
- Tripindi Shradh: Special rituals for departed souls
Note: Contact temple authorized priests for authentic puja bookings and avoid touts.
Food and Dining Options
Near the temple, you’ll find numerous restaurants and eateries serving:
- Traditional Maharashtrian thalis
- Pure vegetarian food
- South Indian dishes
- North Indian cuisine
- Local snacks like vada pav, misal pav
Recommended: Try authentic Maharashtrian food at local restaurants near the temple.
Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar Tour Packages
Many tour operators offer customized packages including:
- One-way drop: Rs. 2,000-3,000
- Round trip same day: Rs. 3,500-5,000
- 2-day package with hotel: Rs. 6,000-10,000 per person
- Group tours: Discounted rates for groups
Packages typically include:
- Comfortable AC vehicle
- Experienced driver
- Fuel charges
- Toll charges
- Parking fees
Conclusion
A visit to Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga from Shirdi offers a perfect spiritual experience combining two of Maharashtra’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. The comfortable 2.5-hour journey through scenic landscapes makes it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway for devotees and spiritual seekers.
Whether you’re seeking divine blessings, spiritual peace, or exploring ancient temples, the Shirdi to Trimbakeshwar tour promises an enriching and memorable experience.
Plan your trip today and experience the divine energy of Lord Trimbakeshwar!
