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Bhimashankar appeals to both the religiously inclined and the one in love with nature. It is located 128 km from Pune and can be reached via Manchar. Bhimashankar is 270 km from Mumbai. The place derives its name from the river Bhima. Legend has it that Lord Shankar got angry and killed rakshas (demon) Tripurasura. The heat generated by the intense war between the two caused the river Bhima to evaporate and thus the name Bhimashankar.

Bhimashankar is an ideal weekend getaway from Mumbai. It is one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India and hence a revered spot for the Hindus. Bhimashankar is a good place to take a break in the lap of nature. It is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, jungle lovers and bird watchers.

The Bhimashankar Temple is the main tourist attraction in Bhimashankar. The temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India. The temple constructed by Nana Fadnis is built in Indo Aryan and the Nagra style. The Bhimashankar Temple is surrounded on three sides by small shrines — a Ram Mandir, Dutt Mandir, Vitthal Mandir and Mataji ka Mandir. (Timings: 5 am-9.30 pm but the inner sanctum is closed after 3 pm, except on Mondays and during Amavasya)

Nagfani is a mountain peak located not too far from the temple at an altitude of 2750 feet above sea level. The peak provides a lovely panoramic view of the landscape around. It is a perfect place to spend some time in the lap of nature.

The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular place of tourist interest near Bhimashankar. It is famous for the giant size Indian Squirrel and many other animals and birds. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 120 sq km on the Western Ghats in the Sahyadri ranges. The area receives heavy monsoon rainfall.

Accommodation is limited in Bhimashankar and in most cases priests of the temple make stay arrangements for pilgrims. There are a few dharmshalas and resorts that one can opt to stay in Bhimashankar. Bhimashankar is a day-trip from Pune and travellers may stay in various hotels in Pune. Check hotels in Pune

By Air: The nearest airport is Pune’s Lohegaon Airport. The airport is 140 km away from Bhimashankar.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune, which is well connected by regular trains from Mumbai.

By Road: Bhimashankar is well connected by road with Pune. There are regular buses from Pune to Bhimashankar. One can also hire car from Pune to reach Bhimashankar.

Check driving directions from Mumbai to Bhimashankar

Best time to go: October to February is the best time visit Bhimashankar. The weather this time of the year is cool, dry and pleasant.