Introduction to Trimbakeshwar Jyothirlingam Temple
The Trimbakeshwar temple, located in Trimbak, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and offers devotees of Lord Shiva a place of solace to unload their burdens and seek divine intervention. Nestled in the revered city of Nashik, Maharashtra, this temple holds a significant place as a sacred destination where celestial beings gather to bestow their blessings. The temple narrates the tale of the descent of the holy river Ganga in the form of Godavari and the manifestation of Lord Trimbakeshwar, representing the divine trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.
The Godavari River, also known as the Gautami River, named after the sage Gautama, is one of the four rivers believed to possess the divine elixir, Amrit. Its presence enhances the allure of this sacred town, complemented by the serene natural beauty of the surrounding hills and mountains of Brahmagiri and Gangadwar. Embracing this serene environment and witnessing the exquisite artistry of the temple's black stone carvings feels like a purifying experience, washing away all sins.
Legend of Trimbakeshwar Jyothirlingam Temple
The legend associated with Trimbakeshwar Temple revolves around Lord Shiva's abode, Tryambaka, and bears resemblance to the story of the Lingodbhava murti of Shiva. Once, Brahma and Vishnu engaged in a dispute over their supremacy among the Gods. In that moment, a magnificent pillar appeared before them. Brahma and Vishnu, intent on establishing their dominance, took the forms of a swan and a boar, respectively, and set out to find the upper and lower ends of the pillar. Brahma, returning midway, falsely claimed to have discovered the end of the pillar, while Vishnu returned empty-handed. Shiva, who had manifested as the pillar or linga, became displeased by Brahma's deceit and cursed him, decreeing that no one would ever worship him in temples. In response, Brahma counter-cursed Shiva, condemning him to reside in the form of the linga within the earth at Sahyadri Mountain. Thus, the three-eyed deity, in the form of the linga, emerged at the eastern spur of the Sahyadri ranges and established Tryambakeshwar as his abode.
The Origin of the River Godavari is another fascinating aspect of the temple's legend, as described in the Padma Purana. According to the account, Sage Gautama resided on the mountain of Brahmagiri, located behind Tryambakeshwar. His wife Ahalya possessed an earthen pot that remained perpetually filled with grains and food, allowing the couple to feed the hungry and needy. Envious of their virtuous deeds, other sages conspired to diminish Gautama's merit. They sent a cow into his field, which Gautama accidentally killed while trying to shoo it away with the Darbha grass. Overwhelmed with remorse, Gautama began to worship Shiva. Pleased by his penance, Shiva appeared before him and granted him a boon. Gautama requested that Shiva release the sacred river Ganga on earth from Brahmagiri to cleanse him of the sin of cow-killing. Granting his wish, Shiva caused the River Godavari to emerge from a place called Gangadwar on Brahmagiri. This legend has left such a deep impact that the local people commonly refer to the river as Ganga instead of Godavari.
Architecture of Trimbakeshwar Jyothirlingam Temple
The temple's popularity has made the place synonymous with its name. The construction of the Shiva temple, which steals the show, is credited to the Peshwas. Legend has it that the Pandavas of the Mahabharata installed the crown made of gold and precious jewels on the Linga. The temple also has historical significance because it was once linked to the Nassak Diamond, a piece of Lord Shiva's idol that the British later confiscated and took away.
The architecture of Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlingam Temple showcases the classic Nagara style of the 18th century. Skilled craftsmen crafted the entire temple using black stone, adorning its walls with exquisite carvings depicting deities, flowers, animals, and humans. Within the temple complex, there is a spacious open courtyard, followed by a raised platform known as the shikhara. The shikhara of Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple boasts a stunning stone lotus carving. The main lingam resides in the central sanctum, known as the garbhagriha, which is accompanied by a beautifully decorated hall with entrances on three sides.
The Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple stands as a testament to architectural brilliance, captivating the hearts of tourists and visitors alike. The temple's serene and powerful atmosphere is an experience worth cherishing at least once in a lifetime. So, prepare a packed lunch and embark on an early weekend getaway to witness the splendour of this unique Shiva temple nestled amidst the foothills of lush greenery.
Festivals in Trimbakeshwar Jyothirlingam Temple
The Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple hosts several important festivals throughout the year. The biggest celebration is Mahashivaratri, observed in March/February, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It attracts a large gathering of devotees. Additionally, the Tripuri Purnima in November/December and the Rath Purnima in January/February are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
During the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, numerous pilgrims visit the Kaushavarta Kund to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Godavari river. After their bath, they make it a point to offer worship at the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple.
Benefits of worshipping in Trimbakeshwar Jyothirlingam Temple
Many devotees visit this temple to attain a peaceful mindset and seek spiritual enlightenment. This shrine bestows salvation and helps break the cycle of birth and death for the devotees. People who worship here are said to feel fulfilled and their desires are satisfied. It is a profound and enlightening experience for those who seek spiritual solace.
How to reach Trimbakeshwar Jyothirlingam Temple
To reach Trimbakeshwar, you have several options:
Air: Mumbai has the closest airport. You can then use a taxi service to travel to Trimbakeshwar.
Train: The Nashik Railway station is only 28 km away and connects the holy city to various major cities and towns across the country.
Road: There are bus services available from cities like Nagpur, Mumbai, and Pune. Alternatively, travellers can also choose to hire a car or taxi based on their preference.
Temple Timings of Trimbakeshwar Jyothirlingam Temple
The Trimbakeshwar temple opens its doors at 5:30 AM and welcomes devotees until 9:00 PM. The auspicious timings for Rudrabhishek are from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM. During general darshan, devotees are allowed to view the deity from a distance of 5 meters. However, only men who perform special poojas are permitted to enter the inner sanctum of the temple.
