Sights

Explore Bhimashankar

Bhimashankar is a significant religious, historical, and natural destination located in the Western Ghats, about 110 km from Pune, Maharashtra. It is famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Bhimashankar Temple, which is one of the Twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Surrounded by dense forests, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic landscapes, Bhimashankar is a perfect blend of spirituality and nature.

Places You'll See

Tour Highlights

Tour Itinerary

Bhimashankar

3 Days 4 Nights
Maharashtra: Bhimashankar

Days Plan

Day 1: Arrival and Temple Visit

  • Morning:

    • Arrive at Pune and take a 3-hour drive to Bhimashankar.
    • Check into your hotel and freshen up.
    • Visit the Bhimashankar Temple, explore the temple complex, and spend time meditating and offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
  • Afternoon:

    • After lunch, take a walk around the temple complex and explore the surrounding area. The temple is situated amidst dense forests, adding to its serene atmosphere.
    • Visit the Hanuman Lake, which is close to the temple, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • Evening:

    • Relax and enjoy the local Maharashtrian cuisine at a nearby restaurant. You can also explore the small markets around the temple to buy souvenirs and religious artifacts.

Day 2: Trekking and Wildlife Exploration

  • Morning:

    • Start early and embark on a trek to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. There are several trekking routes of varying difficulty. The sanctuary is known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife, including the Malabar giant squirrel.
    • Explore the dense forests and enjoy the scenic views along the trail.
  • Afternoon:

    • Continue your trek and reach the Shivneri Fort (optional, depending on your interest). This fort has historical significance as the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj.
    • Alternatively, you can explore nearby waterfalls such as Sambhar Waterfall.
  • Evening:

    • Return to Bhimashankar for a relaxing evening. Enjoy the calm environment and have a simple, traditional dinner.

Day 3: Exploration and Departure

  • Morning:

    • After breakfast, visit Nagphani Hill, also known as the Camel's Hump. The hilltop offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is an excellent spot for photography.
    • Spend some time relaxing and enjoying the view.
  • Afternoon:

    • Take a leisurely walk through the dense forests and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
    • Visit other small temples around the area, such as Kedareshwar Temple, if time permits.
  • Evening:

    • Depart from Bhimashankar and head back to Pune for your onward journey.
Notes:

    • 2 passport size photos
    • Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence /  Voters       ID / Passport
    • Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
    • Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
    • NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
    • Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on         tour as well

Bhimashankar

Tour Details


Hear from Our
Happy Travelers

Bhimashankar is truly a spiritual and nature lover's paradise. The trek through the wildlife sanctuary was an unforgettable experience, and visiting the Bhimashankar Temple was peaceful and rejuvenating. I highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a mix of adventure and spirituality."

Ramesh Nair from Mumbai, India:

Bhimashankar has an unmatched charm. The temple, the scenic trails, and the serenity of the place make it an ideal getaway. The Malabar giant squirrel sighting during our trek was an added bonus. A must-visit for nature and history lovers!"

— Rajesh Verma, Mumbai

Bhimashankar is a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and nature. Whether you're a pilgrim, trekker, or nature enthusiast, Bhimashankar offers an enriching experience that is sure to leave you with lasting memoriesThe temple, the scenic trails, and the serenity of the place make it an ideal getaway. The Malabar giant squirrel sighting during our trek was an added bonus. A must-visit for nature and history lovers

Anjali Sharma from Pune, India:

Best Time to Visit:

  • Winter (October to February):
    The weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking and temple visits. This is the best time to explore the outdoors and enjoy the serene beauty of the region.

  • Monsoon (June to September):
    Bhimashankar is lush and green during the monsoon season, but the trails might be slippery, making trekking more challenging. This period is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy the monsoon vibe.

How to Reach:

  • By Air:

    • The nearest airport is Pune Airport (PNQ), about 110 km from Bhimashankar. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar.
  • By Train:

    • The nearest railway station is Pune Junction. From Pune, you can take a taxi or a bus to Bhimashankar.
  • By Road:

    • Bhimashankar is well-connected by road from Pune. It takes about 3 hours to reach Bhimashankar by car or taxi. State-run buses also operate from Pune to Bhimashankar.

Importance of Bhimashankar:

Bhimashankar is renowned for the Bhimashankar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage site and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered the holiest of Shiva temples in India. The temple has a rich history, dating back to the 18th century, and attracts thousands of devotees every year.Bhimashankar is part of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its lush forests and diverse flora and fauna. The area is home to several species of birds, including the endangered Malabar giant squirrel