Bhimashankar Temple is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India and is located in the dense forest of the Sahyadri ranges in Pune district. Situated about 110 km from Pune and approximately 210 km from Mumbai, Bhimashankar is not just a pilgrimage destination but also a famous wildlife sanctuary and trekking destination.
About Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is the sixth among the twelve Jyotirlingas of India. The temple is situated at an altitude of about 3250 feet above sea level amidst dense semi-evergreen forests of the Sahyadri mountains. The Bhima River originates from near the temple and flows through Maharashtra before joining the Krishna River. The temple is an important center of Shaiva worship in western India.
History of Bhimashankar Temple
The Bhimashankar Temple is ancient and is mentioned in the Shiva Purana. According to the Shiva Purana, the demon Tripurasura was killed by Lord Shiva here in the form of Bhimashankar, and the sweat from Lord Shiva's body after the battle formed the Bhima River. The current temple structure dates to the 13th century and was renovated by the Peshwas in the 18th century. The nagara-style architecture of the main shikhara (tower) is notable.
Temple Timings
Bhimashankar Temple is open from 4:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily. The morning aarti (Kakad Aarti) starts at 4:30 AM and the evening Shej Aarti is at 8:30 PM. Mondays, Shravan month, and Mahashivratri are the most crowded times. The forest path to the temple is scenic and best experienced during the monsoon when the waterfalls are active.
How to Reach Bhimashankar from Mumbai
Bhimashankar is approximately 210 km from Mumbai. By road, you can drive via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and then via Khed (Rajgurunagar) and Ghodegaon to Bhimashankar. The journey takes about 4.5 to 5 hours. State Transport buses are available from Pune's Shivajinagar bus stand to Bhimashankar. There is no direct train to Bhimashankar; the nearest railway station is Pune.
Bhimashankar Trek
Bhimashankar is also famous for its trekking routes. The popular trek from Khandas village or Shidi Ghat covers about 7-8 km of dense forest trail. The trek is moderately difficult and offers stunning views of the Sahyadri ranges. The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary protects the Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru) which is the state animal of Maharashtra.
Flowers for Bhimashankar Shiva Pooja
Bhimashankar being a Jyotirlinga temple, the traditional Shiva flower offerings are important here. Devotees offer:
- Bel patra (Bilva leaves) - most sacred for Shiva
- White flowers especially white lotus
- Dhatura flowers
- White hibiscus
- Marigold garlands
- Mogra jasmine strings
- Aakda flowers
Mumbai Florist Hub delivers fresh Shiva pooja flowers including bel patra, white flowers, marigold garlands, and complete Jyotirlinga pooja flower kits. For your daily Shiva worship at home or before your Bhimashankar pilgrimage, order fresh flowers delivered across Mumbai every morning.
FAQ
How far is Bhimashankar from Mumbai? Bhimashankar is approximately 210 km from Mumbai and takes about 4.5 to 5 hours by road.
Is Bhimashankar accessible throughout the year? Yes, the temple is open year-round. The monsoon season (June-September) is the most scenic but roads can be challenging. Winter (October-February) is the most comfortable time.
What is the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary known for? The sanctuary is known for the Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru), the state animal of Maharashtra, and is home to rich biodiversity including leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is a divine destination that combines spiritual energy, natural beauty, and the thrill of the Sahyadri mountains. Plan your pilgrimage trip from Mumbai and experience the blessings of Lord Shiva at this sacred Jyotirlinga. Mumbai Florist Hub is your daily flower partner for Shiva devotees across Mumbai.
