Bhimashankar

Located at a distance of 128 kms from Pune in Maharashtra, Bhimashankar is a place full of greenery and natural beauty, and is surrounded by dense forests. Adding to its beauty are the rare species of flora and fauna that are found here. Situated at the end of the Sahyadri mountain range, it gives you a magnificent view of the mountains, peaks and hill stations around. Bhimashankar is a major pilgrim center. It is home to one of the 12 jyotirlinga shrines in India. Though any part of the year is fine to visit Bhimashankar, August to February (after monsoon and before summer) is the perfect time.

The Bhimashankar temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Dating back to the 18th century, the Bhimashankar temple was built by Nana Fadnis. Enshrined within the temple is a jyotirlingam, one of the 12 holiest lingams (symbol of worship) of Lord Shiva. This lingam is approximately 1.5 feet tall. The temple also enshrines Goddess Kamalaja. Built in the Nagara style, the architecture of the temple is stunning and the intricate carvings are gorgeous. The walls and doors of the temple are engraved with carvings of human figures, deities and various scenes from mythology. Within the main complex of the temple there is a small Shani temple. At the entrance of the temple you will find a statue of the Nandi. Nandi is the bull which Lord Shiva rides and it is also the gatekeeper for Shiva and Parvati in Hindu mythology. There are a number of shops on the way to the temple that sell prasad, herbs and medicinal plants, flowers and other items related to puja. Mahashivratri is celebrated with great vigor here. The temple comes alive during this season as thousands of devotees throng to the temple to get a glimpse of their favorite god.

Bhimashankar is famous not only for its pilgrim centre, but also for its evergreen forests, wildlife and nature trails. For all you adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, Bhimashankar offers an amazingly beautiful trek. The trek from Karjat to Bhimashankar goes through beautiful valleys, jungles, peaks and some thrilling rocky patches. It offers a magnificent view of the peaks and the whispering mountain stream. While the view along the trek is spectacular, the trail does get steep in parts, making it a difficult trek. Bhimashankar is also a known site for Paragliding.

The Sahayadri wildlife sanctuary is located in Bhimashankar. Built on an area of 100 sq Kilometers, It is home to a wide range of rare species of animals like the barking deer, jumbo sized giant Indian squirrel, wild pig, leopard etc. The Jyotivanti tree in the forest, which glows in the dark, is a big attraction here.