Kale Ram Temple, Nashik

The Kalaram Temple in Nashik, Maharashtra is a testimony to the enduring legacy of Hindu faith and the unwavering spirit of social justice. This revered temple with black idols of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana has been captivating the hearts and minds of devotees for centuries, and pilgrims come here from far and wide to enjoy its divine aura.

Table of Contents

1. History of Kale Ram Temple
2. How did Sardar Rangarao Odhekar's dream influence the reconstruction of Kale Ram Temple?
3. Architecture of Kale Ram Temple
4. 14 Steps of Kale Ram Temple
5. When should one visit Kale Ram Temple?
6. How to reach Kale Ram Temple?
7. Best places to visit near Kalaram Temple in Nashik

History of Kale Ram Temple

The Kale Ram Temple in Nashik, Maharashtra is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple was built by Sardar Rangarao Odhekar in 1792. It derives its name from a black idol of Rama, known as "Kala Rama," which means "Black Rama." The temple has idols of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana in the sanctum sanctorum and a black idol of Hanuman at the main entrance. Historically, the temple has played a key role in the Dalit movement. In 1930, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar led a protest outside the temple to demand the right of entry for Dalits. The event, known as the Kalaram Mandir Satyagraha, was part of a larger movement for social justice and the right of temple entry for Dalits.

How did Sardar Rangarao Odhekar's dream influence the reconstruction of the Kalaram Temple?

Sardar Rangarao Odhekar had a dream in which he saw a black idol of Lord Rama in the Godavari River. Inspired by this dream, Odhekar recovered the idols from the river and built the Kalaram Temple in 1792. The temple derives its name from the black idol of Lord Rama – “kala” meaning black and “ram” meaning deity. The place where the idols were found was named Ramkund. Odhekar’s dream and subsequent work led to the construction of this important Hindu temple in Nashik, which has since played a significant role in the religious and social history of the city.

Architecture of Kale Ram Mandir

The architecture of the temple shows the Hemadpanti style, which is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures and adds to the beauty of the temple even more. The main temple has a 17-foot high wall of plain stone that encloses a well-planned enclosure measuring 245 feet long and 105 feet wide. The temple has a separate Sabhamandap (assembly hall) that measures 75 feet x 31 feet x 12 feet and is open on all sides. The sanctum sanctorum houses standing black stone idols of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana, each of which is about 2 feet in height. There is a black statue of Hanuman at the main entrance. The main temple has 14 steps, symbolizing the 14 years of Lord Rama's exile, and 84 pillars, representing the cycle of 84 lakh yonis that one has to complete to be born as a human. There is also an ancient tree under which a stone has Lord Dattatreya's footprint imprinted on it, adding to the sanctity of the temple complex.

14 Steps of Kalaram Temple

The 14 steps in the main temple of Kalaram represent Lord Rama's 14 years of exile, as described in the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to Ramayana, Lord Rama spent 14 years of exile with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman in the dense forests of Dandakaranya, including Panchavati (where the Kalaram Temple is located). The 14 steps leading to the main temple serve as a symbolic representation of this important period of Lord Rama's life. Kalaram Temple's connection to Ramayana and Lord Rama's exile in Panchavati adds to its religious and cultural significance in Nashik. The 14 steps are a unique architectural feature that pays tribute to this important event in Hindu scriptures.

When to visit Kale Ram Temple?

The Kale Ram Temple is open to devotees every day from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, so it can be visited throughout the year. The months from October to March are considered the best time as the weather is relatively cool and comfortable to visit the temple and roam around the surrounding areas. Festivals like Ram Navami and Dussehra are celebrated with great pomp at the temple, attracting large crowds of devotees. Visiting during these festivals can be a unique experience, but involves large crowds. Usually an hour is enough to visit and pray at the temple. The temple is located just 3 km from the Nashik city centre.

How to reach Kale Ram Temple?

By taxi or auto-rickshaw: Kalaram Temple is located just 3 km from the Nashik city centre. You can easily hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple. This is the most comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or you are travelling with family.
By bus: Kalaram Temple is about 3 km away from Nashik Central Bus Stand. You can take a city bus or local transport from the bus stand to reach the temple.
By train: If you are arriving at Nashik Railway Station, which is 10 km away from the temple, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Kalaram Temple.
By own vehicle: If you have your own vehicle, you can reach Kalaram Temple from anywhere in Nashik
One can also drive easily to the temple from there. Parking is available near the temple premises.

Best Places to Visit Near Kalaram Temple in Nashik

Panchvati: Located just 1 km from Kalaram Temple, Panchvati is an important pilgrimage site associated with the Hindu epic Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama spent some time here during his exile with Sita and Lakshman.
Ramkund: This holy bathing pool is located next to the Kalaram Temple. It is believed that Lord Rama bathed here, and it is an important part of the Kumbh Mela held in Nashik every 12 years.
Sita Gufa: This cave is located in Panchvati and is believed to be where Ravana held Sita captive in the Ramayana. It is a popular tourist attraction near Kalaram Temple.
Tapovan: This serene ashram is located on the banks of the Godavari River, about 2 km from the Kalaram Temple. It is known for its spiritual atmosphere and is a popular spot for meditation and yoga.
Nashik City Centre Mall: This modern shopping mall is located just 3 km from Kalaram Temple and offers a wide range of shops, restaurants and entertainment options for visitors.