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PILGRIMAGE · MAHARASHTRABhimashankar
A Jyotirlinga of Shiva set deep in a lush Sahyadri wildlife sanctuary, wrapped in forest and mist.
A Jyotirlinga in the forest hills
Bhimashankar lies high in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, a revered temple town built around one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva and the traditional source of the Bhima river.
What sets it apart is its setting: the shrine sits within a lush wildlife sanctuary of dense forest, home to the rare giant squirrel, with trails, waterfalls and viewpoints all around.
This blend of pilgrimage and pristine nature makes Bhimashankar a rewarding trip for both devotees and nature lovers, within reach of Pune and a green contrast to the plains for travellers from Gujarat.
The Bhimashankar temple stands amid the misty Sahyadri forest.
Reasons to make the time
Sacred Jyotirlinga
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva.
Forest sanctuary
A lush reserve wrapping the shrine.
Giant squirrel
Home of the rare Indian giant squirrel.
Hills & waterfalls
Trails, mist and monsoon cascades.
Top sights in Bhimashankar
Photos via Wikimedia Commons
How to spend an hour or two
Take darshan
Visit the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.
Walk the sanctuary
Follow forest trails through the reserve.
Spot the giant squirrel
Look for the rare Indian giant squirrel.
Visit Hanuman Lake
Rest by the tranquil forest lake.
See Gupt Bhimashankar
Walk to the hidden river source.
When to go
The forest is greenest and waterfalls run full.
Cool, clear and pleasant for temple and trails.
Milder in the hills but past its lush best.
🚶 The temple involves a descent of steps, and forest trails can be slippery in the rains — wear sturdy shoes.
Timings & entry
- The temple opens early; aim to arrive before midday crowds.
- The approach is a scenic but winding ghat drive.
Getting there
By Air
Pune airport is the nearest, about three hours.
By Rail
Pune is the nearest major railhead.
By Road
About 700 km from Ahmedabad; a winding hill drive from Pune.
Know before you go
Bhimashankar FAQ
Why is Bhimashankar famous?
For its Jyotirlinga of Shiva set within a lush Sahyadri wildlife sanctuary, and as the source of the Bhima river.
What wildlife lives there?
The sanctuary is best known for the rare Indian giant squirrel, along with rich birdlife and forest.
How far is Bhimashankar from Pune?
About 100 km, a scenic but winding ghat drive of roughly three hours.
When is the best time to visit?
The monsoon for lush greenery and the cool winter months for comfortable trails and darshan.
How far is it from Gujarat?
About 700 km from Ahmedabad, usually reached via Pune.
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