About Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, set in the forested Sahyadri hills of the Western Ghats in Pune district, Maharashtra. It lies near the source of the Bhima river and inside the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, known for the Indian giant squirrel, Maharashtra's state animal. The cool climate, mist-covered hills and green forest make the pilgrimage as refreshing as it is sacred, and many visitors come during the monsoon to see the hills at their most beautiful.
According to the Shiva Purana, Shiva took the fierce form of Bhima here to destroy the demon Tripurasura, and the sweat that flowed from his body after the battle is said to have formed the Bhima river. Another legend speaks of Bhima, son of Kumbhakarna, who troubled the world until Shiva destroyed him at this spot. The temple has an old sanctum, while the hall and spire were renovated in the 18th century under the Peshwa minister Nana Phadnavis. The Maratha leader Chimaji Appa is said to have offered the temple's large bell.
The temple is built of black stone in the Nagara style, with finely carved pillars, doorways and figures of gods. The sanctum is set lower than the hall, and devotees step down to see the linga. Outside you will see the large old bell, a few smaller shrines and a peaceful forest setting all around.
Bhimashankar Temple timings & aarti
Usually open about 4:30 AM – 9:30 PM, with a short break around the afternoon aarti. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Kakad Aarti | About 4:30 AM |
| Madhyahna Aarti | About 3:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | About 7:30 PM |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Bhimashankar Temple
By air
Pune Airport is about 110 km away.
By train
Pune Railway Station is about 110 km away.
By road
State buses and taxis run from Pune via Manchar. From the parking area there is a walk down a flight of steps to the temple. Trekkers also come up from the Karjat side.
Festivals at Bhimashankar Temple
- Maha ShivaratriFeb/Mar
- Shravan MonthJul/Aug
- Tripurari Purnima (Kartik Purnima)Oct/Nov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest traditional clothing recommended.
- Entry
- Free entry; paid quick darshan may be available on busy days.
- Leave Pune early, as the drive takes about three to four hours.
- Carry rain gear in the monsoon and wear shoes with good grip for the steps.
- Weekends and Shravan Mondays are very crowded; weekdays are calmer.
- Food options are basic; carry water and snacks if you plan to explore the forest trails.
Places to visit near Bhimashankar Temple
- Gupt BhimashankarForest spot believed to be the origin of the Bhima river, about 1.5 km walk
- Bhimashankar Wildlife SanctuaryForest home of the Indian giant squirrel, around the temple
- Hanuman LakeSmall lake in the forest, about 2 km away
- Nagphani PointCliff-top viewpoint over the Konkan, about 2 km away
Frequently asked questions
How far is Bhimashankar from Pune?
Bhimashankar is about 110 km from Pune, roughly a three to four hour drive.
What are the Bhimashankar temple timings?
The temple usually opens around 4:30 AM and closes around 9:30 PM, with a short break around the afternoon aarti.
Is Bhimashankar good to visit in the monsoon?
Yes, the hills are lush and misty, but roads and steps can be slippery, so travel carefully.
Which river starts at Bhimashankar?
The Bhima river, a tributary of the Krishna, originates near the temple.
What is the aarti time at Bhimashankar Temple?
Kakad Aarti: About 4:30 AM; Madhyahna Aarti: About 3:00 PM; Evening Aarti: About 7:30 PM. Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Bhimashankar Temple?
Modest traditional clothing recommended.
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