Ram Kund, Nashik - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Ram Kund

At a distance of 2 Km from Nashik Central Bus Station, Ramkund is the most important sacred bathing tank in the Panchavati area of Nashik City. Located on the banks of the Godavari River, this is one of the popular places to visit as part of the Nashik pilgrimage packages. Ram Kund is a holy site visited by people from all across the world. Devotees believe that a dip in this tank will fulfill their wishes and also free them from their sins.

History & Mythology of Ram Kund

Ram Kund was built by Chitrarao Khatarkar in 1696 AD, and was later restored by Gopikabai, the mother of the fourth Peshwa Madhavrao. According to the legend, this sacred bathing tank on the bank of river Godavari is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama had taken his bath during their exile. It is also said that Lord Rama has performed his father's funeral rites in this Kund and hence Ram Kund is also known as Asthi Vilaya Tirtha (Bone Immersion Tank). It is also believed that if one takes a bath here, they will be forgiven, according to Hinduism. According to folklore, Ram Kund was made sacred when a few drips of nectar from the amrita urn landed there while the sea was churning.

Architecture of Ram Kund

Ram Kund is a rectangular tank with dimensions of 27 by 12 square meters. The Godavari River makes a 90-degree turn at this location, which is regarded as a sacred site by pilgrims. Many Hindus visit to immerse the ashes of their deceased loved ones here, as it is widely believed that doing so grants salvation to the souls of the departed. Notable figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad had their ashes scattered in Ram Kund.

Adjacent to Ram Kund is Gandhi Talav, a lake featuring a white marble monument erected in honor of Mahatma Gandhi. In the vicinity, there is also a temple dedicated to Ganga Godavari. This location is significant for hosting the Kumbh Mela every twelve years, organized by Simhastha, during which numerous saints and sadhus congregate. Additionally, Lakshmana Kund and Sita Kund are located near Ram Kund.

Festivals of Ram Kund

Ram Kund serves as a central hub for numerous Hindu rituals and celebrations. Among these, the Kumbh Mela stands out. It is one of the largest religious congregations globally, occurring every 12 years, during which devotees immerse themselves in the sacred waters of the Godavari River. In addition to this grand event, daily practices such as the 'pind daan' ceremony for honoring deceased souls are conducted at this site. Furthermore, devotees enthusiastically observe festivals like Ram Navami, Makar Sankranti, and Maha Shivaratri at Ram Kund.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Ram Kund

While Ram Kund in Nashik doesn't have a strict dress code, it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, ensuring that your upper arms and legs are covered as a mark of reverence. Men are suggested to wear a dhoti or pajama along with an upper garment, or alternatively, trousers and shirts. Women may choose to wear a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is recommended to avoid clothing that is revealing, such as shorts, mini-skirts, and sleeveless tops.

As a prominent Hindu religious site, Ram Kund generally permits non-Hindus to visit the ghats and adjacent areas; however, they may be restricted from entering the inner sanctum or engaging in certain rituals.

Ram Kund Timings

Monday: 24 Hours & Aarti: 7 PM - 8 PM
Tuesday: 24 Hours & Aarti: 7 PM - 8 PM
Wednesday: 24 Hours & Aarti: 7 PM - 8 PM
Thursday: 24 Hours & Aarti: 7 PM - 8 PM
Friday: 24 Hours & Aarti: 7 PM - 8 PM
Saturday: 24 Hours & Aarti: 7 PM - 8 PM
Sunday: 24 Hours & Aarti: 7 PM - 8 PM

Ram Kund Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Ram Kund

The best time to visit Ram Kund is from October to March when the climate is enjoyable. It is advisable to avoid monsoon season, as the river may pose risks due to elevated water levels. If you are interested in attending the Kumbh Mela, ensure your visit aligns with the festival dates, which take place approximately every twelve years. In contrast, summer is not recommended for a visit, as temperatures can soar to 45 degrees, leading to uncomfortable heat, and the water quality tends to be somewhat poor.

How to Reach Ram Kund

Mumbai Airport is the nearest airport which is about 167 Km from Nashik. Nashik Road Railway Station is well connected by train with all major towns and cities in India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. Nashik Central Bus Station at Thakkar Bazar is well connected by bus with Indore, Pune, Aurangabad, Shirdi, Mumbai, Nanded, Nagpur, Akola, Hyderabad, Latur, Satara, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri, Ahmednagar, Ahmedabad, Solapur, Surat, Ahmadabad, Vadodara, etc. From the railway station or bus stand, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ram Kund.