Bhimashankar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, located 110 km from Pune in the Sahyadri hills. It is the source of the Bhima River, which flows southeast and merges with the Krishna River. Built in the Nagara style of architecture, the temple is a modest yet graceful structure dating back to the 13th century. The surrounding Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Malabar Giant Squirrel (Shekru), the state animal of Maharashtra. Devotees visit here to experience a unique blend of spiritual peace and raw natural beauty.
The Malabar Giant Squirrel
Commonly known as 'Shekru', this large colorful squirrel can often be spotted in the dense forests surrounding the temple.
Indo-Aryan Architecture
The temple features a rare 'Nagara' style architecture that has been preserved since the 13th century, showing intricate stone carvings.
Status
Open Now
Ritual
Abhishekam
Era
13th Century
Distance
110km fr Pune
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Bhimashankar from Pune?
It is approximately 110-120 km from Pune, taking about 3.5 to 4 hours by road.
Is trekking possible to the temple?
Yes, there are popular trekking routes from Khandas village near Karjat. The 'Shidi Ghat' and 'Ganesh Ghat' routes are famous.
What is the best time to visit?
The best time is from September to March. Monsoon (July-August) is beautiful but can be slippery and crowded.
Are there stay options available?
Yes, there are several dharmashalas and private hotels near the temple, and MTDC resorts are available nearby.
Temple Contact
Location
Bhimashankar, Village Bhavagiri, Pune, Maharashtra 410509
