Bhimashankar is a small village located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. However, this village holds a significant place in the hearts of millions of Hindus across the world as it is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas – the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Bhimashankar Temple is a popular pilgrimage spot, attracting devotees from all over the country.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Pune Airport, which is located around 130 km from Bhimashankar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple..
By Bus: There are several state-run and private buses that run from Pune and other nearby cities to Bhimashankar. The buses are operated by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators.
By Car: Bhimashankar is well-connected by road, and it’s around 195km from Mumbai and 130km from Pune. You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle to reach the temple.
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Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
The temple complex is a beautiful blend of ancient and modern architecture. The main temple is built in the Nagara style and has a shikhara or tower, which is adorned with intricate carvings. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the Jyotirlinga, which is a cylindrical-shaped stone, representing Lord Shiva in his formless aspect. The temple also houses a number of other shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya, Lord Vishnu and other deities.
One of the unique features of the Bhimashankar Temple is the presence of a natural spring, which is believed to have healing powers. Devotees take a dip in the spring before offering prayers at the temple. The temple also has a beautiful garden, which is a perfect place to relax and meditate.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is a must-visit for all devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple not only offers a spiritual experience but also an opportunity to explore the beauty of nature. The peace and serenity of the place will leave a lasting impression on your mind and soul.
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Bhimashankar Temple is also an important pilgrimage site for nature lovers. The temple is situated in the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. Trekkers and adventure enthusiasts can take a trek to the source of the Bhima River, which is also located within the sanctuary.
The sanctuary is spread across an area of 131.98 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is known for its diverse landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls. The vegetation in the sanctuary includes tropical moist deciduous forest, dry deciduous forest, and semi-evergreen forest. The sanctuary is also home to a wide variety of tree species, including Teak, Bamboo, and Sandalwood.
For trekkers and hikers, the sanctuary offers a number of trekking routes, including the trek to the source of the Bhima River, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful treks in Maharashtra. The trek takes you through dense forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Best time to visit
The temple is open all days of the week, and the best time to visit is during the monsoon season, when the surrounding hills are lush green and the waterfalls are in full flow.
The temple also holds a number of festivals throughout the year, the most important being the Mahashivaratri, which is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm.
Budget
800 – 1000 INR
Attractions nearby:
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Bhimashankar wildlife sanctuary, Shivneri Fort, Ozar Ganpati Temple, Lenyadri Caves
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