Bhimashankar Temple

Bhimashankar is the sixth of the twelve Jyotirlingas, set in the forested Sahyadri hills about 110 km from Pune in Maharashtra. The temple marks the source of the Bhima river and stands within the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, home of the rare Indian giant squirrel — a setting that makes it as much a green retreat as a pilgrimage.

The sixth Jyotirlinga in the Sahyadris

Deep in the Western Ghats, Bhimashankar is reached by a descent of stone steps through dense forest. The Jyotirlinga is linked in the Shiva Purana to Shiva’s battle with the demon Tripurasura, and the sweat of that effort is said to have formed the Bhima river that rises here.

History and the temple

The shrine is ancient, but the present structure took shape between the 13th and 18th centuries, with notable additions by Nana Phadnavis, the Peshwa-era statesman, who built the sabha-mandap and the tall shikhara. A large bell of Portuguese origin, gifted by Chimaji Appa, hangs at the entrance.

Architecture

Built from local black stone in a blend of the old Hemadpanti style and Nagara spires, the temple is compact and richly carved, with figures of deities worked into its pillars and walls. Its modest scale suits the forest clearing in which it stands.

The wildlife sanctuary

The temple lies within the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected stretch of the Sahyadris and the chosen home of the Indian giant squirrel (Shekru), Maharashtra’s state animal. Trekking trails from Khandas and the Shidi Ghat bring walkers up through the same forest.

Festivals

Maha Shivaratri is the principal festival, when the forest road fills with pilgrims. Kartik Purnima and the Mondays of Shravan also draw large crowds, and a fair is held around the temple on these days.

Darshan timings

The temple is generally open from about 5:00 am to 9:30 pm, with morning, midday and evening aartis. Entry is free; the long flight of steps and the hill weather make sturdy footwear and a light layer worthwhile.

How to reach Bhimashankar

• By road: about 110 km from Pune and 210 km from Mumbai by the ghat road.
• By train: Pune is the nearest major railhead.
• By air: Pune airport is ~125 km.

Tips for your visit

• Start early to allow for the winding ghat drive.
• Monsoon weekdays are lush but slippery underfoot.
• Carry water for the long flight of steps.
• Watch the canopy for the Indian giant squirrel.

Frequently Asked Questions

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