Bhimashankar
Bhimashankar, nestled in the lap of the Sahyadri hills, is one of the top tourist attractions from Pune and Mumbai. It is located in Bhorgiri hamlet at 3500 feet above sea level. It is known as Maharashtra's temple town since it is home to one of India's most important Jyotirlingas. Furthermore, the strategic location and gorgeous terrain, which includes rolling hills and verdant rainforests, draw trekkers, hikers, mountain climbers, pilgrims, photographers, and holidaymakers alike.
Places To Visit Maharashtra Near Bhimashankar:
Malshej Ghat:
Approximately 60 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Malshej Ghat is a scenic mountain pass renowned for its breathtaking views, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls. It is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and birdwatchers. The ghat is also known for its rich avian diversity, particularly during the monsoon season.
Shivneri Fort:
Located around 80 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Shivneri Fort is a historic hill fortress and the birthplace of the legendary Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and houses several ancient structures, including temples, water tanks, and residential quarters.
Ozar and Lenyadri:
Ozar and Lenyadri are two important pilgrimage sites near Bhimashankar. Ozar is known for its Vigneshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, while Lenyadri is home to the famous Girijatmaj Temple, also dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Both temples are architecturally significant and attract devotees from far and wide.
Bhandardara:
Situated approximately 150 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Bhandardara is a serene hill station known for its tranquil lakes, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls. The pristine Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, and the famous Wilson Dam are popular attractions in this region. Bhandardara is an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway, offering boating, trekking, and camping opportunities.
Lonavala and Khandala:
Located around 130 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations famous for their scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Surrounded by misty hills, deep valleys, and verdant landscapes, these hill stations offer numerous viewpoints, such as Tiger Point and Duke's Nose, which provide breathtaking vistas. The region is also known for its iconic attractions like the Karla and Bhaja Caves and the picturesque Lonavala Lake.
Pune:
The vibrant city of Pune is approximately 120 kilometres from Bhimashankar and serves as a cultural and historical hub in Maharashtra. Pune has several noteworthy landmarks, including the Aga Khan Palace, Shaniwar Wada, and the Osho Ashram. The city also offers a vibrant food scene, bustling markets, and a thriving nightlife.
Rajmachi Fort:
Located around 100 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Rajmachi Fort is a historic hill fort known for its scenic beauty and trekking opportunities. The defence offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and lush green valleys. It is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and history buffs.
Junnar Caves:
Situated approximately 100 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Junnar is known for its ancient rock-cut caves. The Junnar Caves comprise over 200 individually carved caves, including the famous Lenyadri Caves, Tulja Lena Caves, and Manmodi Caves. These caves showcase intricate sculptures, rock-cut architecture, and Buddhist and Hindu influences.
Matheran:
Located around 150 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Matheran is a charming hill station and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its pollution-free environment and lush greenery, Matheran is a popular weekend getaway from nearby cities. Visitors can explore the hill station on foot or by riding horses, as vehicles are not allowed inside. The panoramic views from viewpoints like Echo Point and Charlotte Lake are truly mesmerizing.
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary:
While Bhimashankar is known for its temple, it also has a wildlife sanctuary worth exploring. The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various species of flora and fauna, including the Indian Giant Squirrel, leopards, and many bird species. Nature lovers can enjoy trekking and birdwatching in this sanctuary.
Alibaug:
Situated approximately 140 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Alibaug is a popular coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historical forts, and delicious seafood. The pristine beaches of Alibaug, such as Kashid Beach and Nagaon Beach, attract tourists looking for a relaxed beach vacation. The Kolaba Fort, built by Shivaji Maharaj, is another major attraction in the region.
Panchgani:
Located around 170 kilometres from Bhimashankar, Panchgani is a picturesque hill station known for its scenic beauty, strawberry farms, and pleasant climate. The hill station offers panoramic views of the Sahyadri ranges, lush valleys, and charming colonial-era buildings. Table Land, Sydney Point, and Parsi Point are popular viewpoints in Panchgani.
These are just a few more recommendations for visiting places near Bhimashankar in Maharashtra. The state is rich in natural and historical attractions, offering travellers diverse experiences.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Bhimashankar?
The grandeur of Bhimashankar flourishes as soon as the monsoon recedes in October, leaving behind a stunning verdant glow to the rainforests and the petrichor that takes travellers to calm. The tranquil impact of the monsoon season keeps the weather pleasant until the end of March, making these months excellent for exploring the enthralling Bhimashankar hike and other exciting activities in this area.
During the auspicious holiday of Maha Shivratri, many Shiva worshippers visit Bhimashankar to pay homage to the country's most important pilgrimage temple. The Fireflies Festival, one of India's distinctive celebrations, is held in this region just before the monsoon season, making it an even better opportunity to visit this picturesque hill destination in Maharashtra.
History Of Bhimashankar
According to Hindu mythology, Bhima, the son of Kumbhkarna, and his mother, Karkati, dwelt in the deep forest of Dakini in the Sahyadri hills many years ago. When he learned of his father's death, he became enraged and vowed to avenge Lord Vishnu. Bhima underwent great penance and delighted Lord Brahma in increasing his might. He got control of Lord Vishnu and Indra after gaining superhuman powers. Suddenly, his ego grew, and he begged Lord Shiva's greatest devotee, Kamarupeshwar, to worship him instead of Lord Shiva. Bhimashankar Temple's history is very heartwarming. Shiva was forced to go before Bhima and put an end to his oppression after sages appealed to him. As a result, he was reduced to ashes after the conflict. Since then, Lord Shiva has guarded the Sahyadri hills in the form of the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. Go for the Bhimashankar trip this vacation.
Another well-known mythology about Bhimashankar Temple from the Shiva Purana claims that in ancient times, the demon Tripurasura tormented sages and Gods in all three worlds, which worried everyone. Lord Shiva descended on Earth to defeat Tripurasura to free the three planets. Bhimashankar trekking is one of the best things to do here. Both of them got into a big fight that lasted for days and resulted in the death of the evil demon. After the conflict, Lord Shiva is said to have slept in the Sahyadri mountains, and his sweat changed into the river Bhima, which still flows today and is revered as the holy river.
Bhimashankar Tourist Attractions
Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar Temple, one of India's twelve Jyotirlinga temples, is the main attraction of this Maharashtra holy site. The walls of the temple, built in the 12th century in the Nagara and Indo-Aryan styles of architecture, depict prominent episodes from the Shiv Puran, Ramayana, Krishna Leela, and Dashavataras. Aside from Bhimashankar Mandir's religious significance, the temple's placement in the deep woodland area gives visitors a picturesque glimpse of nature's grandeur.
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which has distinctive flora, Malabar Giant Squirrels, and many other animal species, is a popular destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers. Travellers may enjoy a fantastic experience of finding various flora and fauna in this ideal location for bird viewing and wildlife photography. In addition, travelling through the deep forest at Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful experience.
Hanuman Lake
Hanuman Lake, located 2 hours from Bhimashankar Temple, is a perfect picnic location for visitors exploring this unusual destination from Pune and Mumbai. The pure lake attracts many exotic species from the adjacent woodlands to quench their thirst, providing breathtaking views of thriving species in their native habitat. If you want to spend a hearty day at this neighbouring place from Bhimashankar, bring your food, plenty of drink, and enjoyable games.
Manmodi Caves
Manmodi Caverns, located at an elevation of 1000 meters, is one of the heritage sites surrounding Bhimashankar that displays several rock structures with ancient famous carvings and inscriptions influenced by the revered Jyotirlinga temple nearby. Apart from the traditional Buddhist art style, the stunning panoramas of the Sahyadri highlands may also be seen from these caves on the hilltop.
Ahupe Waterfalls
Bhimashankar is a popular trekking location because it provides a great trekking experience that includes finding forests, waterfalls, lakes, temples, and other natural wonders. The Ahupe waterfall is one of the hidden beauties that can be discovered while travelling through the Bhimashankar wildlife sanctuary. To book your Bhimashankar tourism packages, contact Sea Water Sports now. Aside from the stunning view of the falling waterfall, one can climb to the base hamlet Dimbhe Khurd for a spectacular view of the Dimbhe Dam's backwaters.
Bhimashankar is a popular non-secular middle situated within the state of Maharashtra, near the popular hiking destination of Karjat. Bhimashankar is especially well-known for being domestic to one of the twelve Holy Jyotirlinga shrines discovered in India, 5 of which are based in Maharashtra. Bhimashankar temple, squatted at the top of 3,250 ft, is situated exactly in the village of Shiradhon, generally 568-kilometre northwest of Khed, near Pune city. It is located in the Ghat region of the majestic Sahyadri Ranges. A Religious Place Legend has it that Lord Shiva began to reside in the Sahyadri Hills, in Bhima's form, in recognition of the requests made by way of the Gods. The region has other temples, just like the Kamalaja, an incarnate of Goddess Parvati.
The Moksha Kundu Tirtha is situated at the back of the Bhimashankar Temple, whilst the Kusharanya Tirtha and the Sarva Tirtha are other non-secular locations that must now not be missed while you're here. Bhimashankar is not the handiest of pilgrim's paradise but also a top-notch place for nature lovers. It gives many trekking opportunities, given its vicinity among the hilly terrains of the Sahyadris. Several birds are located inside the reserved forest regions and the flora and fauna sanctuaries based here. Bhimashankar is not best well-known amongst the spiritual population but additionally among adventure-in search of tourists.
FAQ
Q.1 Where is Bhimashankar Located?
Ans Bhimashankar Temple is a Jyotirlinga shrine located 50 km Khed taluka, near Pune, in Maharashtra, India. It is located 127 km from Shivajinagar in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri Mountains.
Q.2 How to reach Bhimashankar?
Ans By Air: Pune Airport is the nearest airport to Bhimashankar. From Pune airport, Bhimashankar is around two, and a half-hour drives away. By Train: Pune Railway Station is the closest railway station. By Road: Buses are available from Kalyan and Ghatkoper in Mumbai and from Shivajinagar in Pune.
Q.3 What are the places to visit near Bhimashankar?
Ans Hanuman Lake, Mumbai Point, Tungi Fort and Solanpada Dam.
Q.4 What is Bhimashankar famous for?
Ans Bhimashankar is a famous religious centre situated within Maharashtra, near the popular trekking destination of Karjat.
Q.5 What are the adventure activities to do near Bhimashankar?
Ans Boating, Camping, Trekking, and many more.