Bhimashankar
Range
Bhimashankar
Altitude
1066m
Difficulty
Hard
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About Bhimashankar
Bhimashankar: A Must-See Jyotirling! This pilgrimage spot, one of India's 12 sacred Jyotirlings, sits approximately 3500 high in the hills. The area is a dense jungle, protected as a Sanctuary by the Maharashtra Government.
Best time to visit
October, November, December, January, February
History & Significance
Ancient site associated with Lord Shiva slaying the demon Tripurasura. The temple architecture is a mix of old Nagara style and later Maratha influence (Nana Phadnavis built the Sabhamandap in the 18th century).
Places to See
Fascinating Spots **The Temple:** Ancient Bhimashankar Temple (1200-1400 years old), built in Hemad Panthi style. Look for beautiful sculptures/paintings on the roof/pillars, a seated god sculpture in the outer corridor, and a huge metal bell (cast in 1729). Don't miss the 15-20ft "Deepmala" (lamppost) with an inscription. Fun fact: The Bhima River, which originates here, is the original name of the Chandrabhaga River at Pandharpur. **Gupt Bhimashankar:** Find the water stream route left of the Ram Temple. Hike 25 mins through a thick jungle to reach another temple. A route left of that temple leads to a waterfall where the "water sculpted" Shiva Linga is found. Huge waterfall during monsoons\! **Nagphani Peak:** Climb towards Bhimashankar from the Ghat to reach a pond. Take the route right towards the Hanuman Temple, then follow the path up to Nagphani Peak. Enjoy stunning views of Peth and Padhar Forts, and the Peth and Matheran plateaus. This spot inspired a poem by the famous "Samarth" Ramdas\! Hanuman Lake, and Bombay Point.
Journey & Transport
How to Reach
Bhimashankar: Getting There **Base Village:** Khandas (34 km from Karjat) **From Mumbai/Pune:** Reach Karjat (via Swargate or train from Pune). Take S.T. Bus, jeep, or rickshaw to Khandas. **Trekking Routes (from Khandas):**1. **Ganesh Ghat (Easiest):** * Find the bridge 2 km from Khandas. Take the right track. * Reaches Ganesh temple in 1 hr. * 3 more hours to the top. 2. **Shidi Ghat (Difficult/Treacherous in Monsoon):** * Find the bridge 2 km from Khandas. Take the left track to the village. * Follow the route left of the village well. * Features three ladders within the first 2 hours. * Settlement (Pundlik Hande's house) reached 30 min after the 3rd ladder.**Junction Point:** Routes merge at a thatch (tea available\!). 1.5 hr further is a pond. Left from the pond leads to the temple. **Vehicular Route:** Tar road available to the village on top via the Pune – Talegaon – Chakan route.
Bus Schedule
Important Notes
~13 km via Ganesh Ghat; ~9 km via Shidi Ghat (one way) Ganesh Ghat Trek: Easy path, but a long 6-7 hour journey. Nearby police station: Bhimashankar Police Station, Pune Nearby hospital: Rural Hospital Manchar, Pune
Facilities
- StayStay near Bhimashankar! MTDC offers facilities just outside the village. Villager accommodations are also available for tourists/trekkers, but expect higher costs. Note: Monsoon season makes finding a place difficult.
- FoodHotels in Bhimashankar offer eating facilities.
- WaterYear-Round Drinking Water Available! Available at the base village, at the midpoint plateau (stalls), and near the temple. Carrying 2–3 litres is recommended for the ascent.