The drive up the Nashik highway
From Pune, the road runs north on the Pune–Nashik highway through Chakan, Rajgurunagar, Manchar and Narayangaon, then over the plateau via Alephata and Sangamner to Sinnar and Nashik. From Nashik city, a separate road heads west for about 30 km to Trimbak, at the foot of the Brahmagiri hills.
It is a long day of highway driving, and parts of the road pass through busy towns. That is where a comfortable AC seat and a driver who knows the stretch make a real difference, especially for elderly parents.
Why Trimbakeshwar is special
Trimbakeshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Its lingam is unusual: a small hollow holds three tiny lingas, representing Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The black stone temple was rebuilt in the 18th century under the Peshwas and is known for its fine carving.
The Godavari, one of India’s great rivers, starts on Brahmagiri hill above the town, and Kushavarta Kund in Trimbak is considered its sacred starting point. Trimbak is also one of the four places where the Kumbh Mela is held, along with Nashik.
For families coming for a puja
Many people travel to Trimbakeshwar for specific rituals like Narayan Nagbali, Tripindi Shraddha and Kaal Sarp Shanti, performed by the local priests. These often stretch over one or two days and begin early, so staying overnight in Trimbak itself is usually the most practical choice. A Pune to Trimbakeshwar tempo traveller lets the whole family travel together with puja items, and the vehicle waits for you between rituals.
Around the temple town
Trimbak is a small, busy town, and the temple lanes are full of puja shops, prasad stalls and small eateries. After darshan, walk to Kushavarta Kund, where pilgrims take a holy dip, and look up at Brahmagiri rising behind the town. Fit and keen walkers sometimes climb Brahmagiri to see the Gangadwar shrine at the Godavari’s origin, but that needs a few spare hours and good shoes.
On the road between Trimbak and Nashik you pass Anjaneri, the hill many devotees believe is the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. It makes a quick stop for photos and a short prayer on the way to your hotel.
If you are planning a Pune to Trimbakeshwar tempo traveller trip during the monsoon, expect heavy rain and mist in the hills. The drive is beautiful, but allow extra time on the Nashik highway and on the last stretch from Nashik to Trimbak.
Adding Nashik and beyond
Once you are this far, it makes sense to see Nashik too. Panchavati has Ramkund on the Godavari, the Kalaram Mandir and Sita Gufa, all closely linked with the Ramayana. Our Pune to Nashik page covers the city in more detail. Some groups also add Saptashrungi Devi at Vani or continue to Shirdi before heading home.
Vehicle size and fare for puja trips
For 2 or 3 day trips, a 14-seater or 17-seater is a popular middle size. The fare is per km with a daily minimum distance for each day, and toll, parking and driver allowance are usually extra. Check the price page or send us your dates for a clear quote.
