About Kalaram Temple
The Kalaram Temple stands in the Panchavati area of Nashik in Maharashtra, close to the Godavari river. Its name means the black Rama, after the dark stone images of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana in the sanctum, each about two feet tall. According to the Ramayana, Rama, Sita and Lakshmana lived for a time at Panchavati on the northern bank of the Godavari during their exile, and tradition holds that the temple stands on the very spot of their dwelling. It is one of the most important Rama temples in western India and the heart of Rama Navami celebrations in Nashik.
An older shrine on the site is thought to date from the Rashtrakuta period, and a wooden temple stood here before the present one. A popular account says the image was hidden in the Godavari during early invasions, and that Sardar Rangrao Odhekar later dreamed of the black Rama in the river, recovered it and had it reconsecrated. Odhekar built the present temple, completed in 1782; the work is said to have taken twelve years with about 2,000 workers daily. In 1930 Dr B.R. Ambedkar led a satyagraha here for the right of Dalits to enter the temple, a landmark in India's social reform movement that continued until 1935.
The temple is built of black stone within a walled enclosure about 245 feet long and 105 feet wide. Fourteen steps lead up to the main shrine, said to stand for the fourteen years of Rama's exile, and the structure has 84 pillars. In front is a spacious sabhamandap open on all sides, where devotees sit for bhajans. A black image of Hanuman faces the sanctum from near the entrance, and a statue of Odhekar stands in the complex. The calm courtyard is a contrast to the busy lanes of Panchavati outside.
Kalaram Temple timings & aarti
Usually open from early morning to night, with a short afternoon break. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Kakad aarti | Early morning (approx.) |
| Madhyan aarti | Around noon (approx.) |
| Shej aarti | Late evening (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Kalaram Temple
By air
Nashik (Ozar) airport is about 24 km from the city centre.
By train
Nashik Road station is about 10 km away.
By road
The temple is about 3 km from Nashik Central Bus Stand; city buses and auto-rickshaws reach Panchavati easily.
Festivals at Kalaram Temple
- Rama NavamiMar/Apr
- NavaratriSep/Oct
- DiwaliOct/Nov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest traditional clothing is expected; remove footwear before entering.
- Entry
- Free.
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful darshan before the crowds.
- Explore Panchavati on foot; the Godavari ghats and Kapaleshwar temple are close by.
- Rama Navami is spectacular but extremely crowded.
- Photography may be restricted inside the sanctum.
Places to visit near Kalaram Temple
- Kapaleshwar Mahadev TempleOld Shiva temple near the Godavari ghats, under 1 km away
- Godavari ghats, PanchavatiSacred bathing ghats of Nashik, about 1 km away
- Trimbakeshwar JyotirlingaOne of the twelve Jyotirlingas, about 30 km away
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called Kalaram Temple?
Because its main image of Rama is carved from black stone; Kalaram means the black Rama.
Who built Kalaram Temple?
Sardar Rangrao Odhekar built the present temple, completed in 1782, on the site of an older wooden temple.
What happened at Kalaram Temple in 1930?
Dr B.R. Ambedkar led a satyagraha demanding temple entry for Dalits, which began on 2 March 1930 and continued until 1935.
How far is Kalaram Temple from Nashik Road station?
About 10 km; autos and buses run to Panchavati.
What is the aarti time at Kalaram Temple?
Kakad aarti: Early morning (approx.); Madhyan aarti: Around noon (approx.); Shej aarti: Late evening (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
What are the Kalaram Temple timings?
Usually open from early morning to night, with a short afternoon break. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
Is there a dress code at Kalaram Temple?
Modest traditional clothing is expected; remove footwear before entering.
Visited recently and noticed something has changed? Suggest an update — Sevaks help keep every temple guide accurate.
