Bhimashankar Temple- Maharashtra , India Complete Guide to Travel (2025 )

Bhimashankar Temple Trekk - Maharshtra , India

Bhimashankar is a famous temple located in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated in the Bhorgiri village of Pune district in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats.
Apart from its religious significance, Bhimashankar is also renowned for its natural beauty. The area surrounding the temple is a wildlife sanctuary and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Indian giant squirrel and the Malabar giant squirrel. The sanctuary is popular among nature enthusiasts and trekkers.
The architecture of the Bhimashankar temple reflects traditional Indian temple design, with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple complex also includes other smaller shrines dedicated to different deities.
Devotees from all over the country visit Bhimashankar to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and to experience the serene natural environment surrounding the temple.
Best time to visit : July to September (Best during Monsoons )
October to Feb( Winter )
Food : Please carry your own food ,ample water and Snacks , Food is also available at the stalls & Restaurants near the temple area.

Nearest Airport : Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) or Pune Airport.

Trekking to Bhimashankar via Ganesh Ghat :
Trekking to Bhimashankar via Ganesh Ghat is a popular route known for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain. Here's a guide to trekking to Bhimashankar via Ganesh Ghat:
1. Starting Point : The trek usually begins from a village called Khandas, which is accessible from Mumbai by road. Khandas serves as a common base village for treks to Bhimashankar via Ganesh Ghat.
2. Route: The trek from Khandas to Bhimashankar via Ganesh Ghat involves ascending through lush forests and rocky terrain. The route passes through picturesque landscapes, streams, and waterfalls, offering breathtaking views along the way.
3.Difficulty: The trek via Ganesh Ghat is considered moderately challenging due to steep ascents, rocky paths, and sometimes slippery terrain, especially during the monsoon season. Please wear Good GripShoes while trekking
4. Duration: The trek typically takes around 6-8 hours to reach Bhimashankar Temple from Khandas via Ganesh Ghat, depending on the trekking pace and weather conditions.
5. Accommodation: While Bhimashankar offers accommodation options, many trekkers prefer to camp overnight in tents along the trekking route. There are designated camping sites with basic facilities, but it's advisable to carry your camping gear if you plan to camp.
Before embarking on the trek, it's crucial to check the weather forecast, carry necessary supplies, and inform someone about your trekking plans for safety purposes. With proper planning and preparation, trekking to Bhimashankar via Ganesh Ghat can be an exhilarating adventure amidst nature's beauty.
From Mumbai City:
To reach Bhimashankar Temple by road from Mumbai city, you can follow these directions:
1. Mumbai to Bhimashankar Route:
   - Start from Mumbai city and head towards the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
   - Take the Expressway towards Pune. The distance from Mumbai to Pune is around 150 kilometers and usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic.
   - After reaching Pune, continue on the Expressway towards Lonavala.
2. Lonavala to Bhimashankar Route:
   - After crossing Lonavala, take the Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH 48).
   - Continue on NH 48 until you reach Manchar, which is approximately 45 kilometers from Lonavala.
   - From Manchar, take the State Highway towards Bhimashankar. The distance from Manchar to Bhimashankar is around 50 kilometers.
   - Follow the signboards and directions to Bhimashankar Temple.
3. Estimated Travel Time:
   - The total travel time from Mumbai to Bhimashankar by road is around 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose to take.
4.Road Conditions:
   - The roads are generally well-maintained, but it's advisable to check for any road closures or diversions beforehand, especially during the monsoon season.
5.Fuel and Facilities:
   - Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel for the journey as there might not be many fuel stations on the way, especially after leaving Pune.
   - It's also a good idea to carry some snacks and water for the journey, although you'll find food and refreshment options at Lonavala and Manchar.
6. Accommodation:
   - If you're planning to stay overnight, there are accommodations available near Bhimashankar Temple as well as in nearby towns like Manchar and Ambegaon.
7. Traffic Tips:
   - Start early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic, especially while leaving Mumbai.
   - Weekdays usually have lighter traffic compared to weekends.
8. Navigation:
   - It's recommended to use a GPS navigation system or map application on your phone to navigate through the route, especially if you're not familiar with the area.
By following these directions, you should be able to reach Bhimashankar Temple from Mumbai city by road without much hassle.
From Pune City:
To reach Bhimashankar Temple by road from Pune city, you can follow these directions:
1. Pune to Bhimashankar Route:
   - Start from Pune city and head towards the Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH 48).
   - Continue on NH 48 towards Lonavala. The distance from Pune to Lonavala is approximately 65 kilometers, and it usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Lonavala depending on traffic.
2. Lonavala to Bhimashankar Route:
   - After crossing Lonavala, continue on the Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH 48) towards Mumbai.
   - Approximately 20 kilometers after Lonavala, you'll reach the town of Manchar. At Manchar, you'll need to take a right turn towards Bhimashankar.
   - Follow the signboards and directions to Bhimashankar Temple. The distance from Manchar to Bhimashankar is around 50 kilometers.
3. Estimated Travel Time:
   - The total travel time from Pune to Bhimashankar by road is approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose to take.
4. Road Conditions:
   - The roads are generally in good condition, but it's advisable to check for any road closures or diversions, especially during the monsoon season.
By following these directions, you should be able to reach Bhimashankar Temple from Pune city by road without much hassle.