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Nestled in the scenic Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, representing the divine presence of Lord Shiva. The temple attracts thousands of devotees and tourists, not only for its religious significance but also for its breathtaking natural surroundings.
Significance of Jyotirlingas in Hinduism
In Hinduism, the twelve Jyotirlingas are considered the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. Each Jyotirlinga is believed to have manifested as a pillar of divine light, symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva. Devotees believe that worshipping these Jyotirlingas grants spiritual liberation and divine blessings. Pilgrimage to these sites is considered an essential part of attaining moksha (liberation).
Bhimashankar: The 6th Jyotirlinga
The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is regarded as the sixth among the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. It holds immense religious importance, with its presence mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. The temple is situated in the Pune district of Maharashtra and is a key pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees. The surrounding dense forests and the pristine environment add to the temple’s mystique, making it a spiritual and natural retreat.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Story
The origin of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is linked to the legend of Lord Shiva’s battle with the demon Bhima. According to mythology, Bhima, the son of Kumbhakarna (brother of Ravana), performed intense penance to please Lord Brahma. Granted immense power, he began tormenting the sages and the people. To protect his devotees, Lord Shiva appeared and vanquished Bhima. After the victory, Shiva manifested as the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, blessing the land with his divine presence. This sacred site continues to be a beacon of faith and devotion for millions of devotees.
Architecture of Bhimashankar Temple
The Bhimashankar Temple is an architectural marvel that showcases the ancient Nagara style. Constructed with black stone, the temple features intricate carvings and a unique blend of old and new architectural elements. The sanctum houses the revered Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, where devotees offer prayers and seek blessings. The temple complex also includes a grand courtyard and sculptures depicting Hindu deities. The temple is believed to have been built during the 13th century and later expanded by the Maratha ruler Nana Phadnavis in the 18th century.
Significance of Pilgrimage in Hinduism
Pilgrimage plays a vital role in Hinduism, offering spiritual purification and devotion. Visiting sacred shrines like the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple is believed to cleanse sins and bring inner peace. Devotees from all over India undertake the journey to seek Lord Shiva’s divine grace and enlightenment. It is also believed that a visit to all twelve Jyotirlingas leads to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Best Time to Visit Bhimashankar
The ideal time to visit the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making it easier to explore the temple and nearby attractions. Monsoon, from June to September, also brings lush greenery but can make travel difficult due to heavy rainfall. Devotees also visit during the auspicious month of Shravan, which falls between July and August, as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Religious Festivals and Events
Several Hindu festivals are celebrated with grandeur at the Bhimashankar Temple. The most significant is Mahashivaratri, dedicated to Lord Shiva, when thousands of devotees throng the temple for prayers and rituals. Other important festivals include Shravan Maas, Diwali, and Kartik Purnima, each attracting pilgrims seeking divine blessings. During these festivals, the temple is beautifully decorated, and special pujas (rituals) are performed.
Exploring Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Apart from its religious significance, the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers. Spread across dense forests, the sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru), which is the state animal of Maharashtra. The sanctuary is also a designated biodiversity hotspot and offers a unique opportunity to witness nature’s beauty up close. It provides a peaceful environment for meditation and spiritual reflection.
Trekking and Adventure Opportunities
For adventure enthusiasts, Bhimashankar offers thrilling trekking experiences. The trek to the temple passes through dense forests, waterfalls, and rocky terrains, providing a challenging yet rewarding journey. Popular trekking routes include the Shidi Ghat Route and the Ganesh Ghat Route, each offering mesmerizing landscapes. The trek can take around 3-4 hours, making it a favorite among trekkers and pilgrims alike.
Accommodation and Travel Tips
There are several accommodation options available for devotees and tourists near Bhimashankar Temple, ranging from budget lodges to comfortable resorts. It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during festival seasons. The temple is well connected by road, and the nearest railway station is Pune, which is approximately 110 km away. From Pune, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar.
The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple is not just a place of worship but also a destination of spiritual awakening, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether you visit for devotion, history, or trekking, this sacred site promises an unforgettable experience.
How to Reach Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar is one of the revered Jyotirlinga temples located in Maharashtra. Here’s how you can reach this sacred site from various nearby cities:
Traveling to Bhimashankar from Pune By Road/Car:
- From Pune station, take the Old Pune-Mumbai road for about 13 km until you reach Nashik phata/Kasarwadi.
- Turn right onto the Pune-Nashik road.
- Continue on this road for approximately 60 km until you reach Manchar.
- Manchar, take a left towards the Bhimashankar road.
- The distance from Manchar to Bhimashankar is about 65 km.
The entire journey takes around 3.5 hours. The total distance from Pune to Bhimashankar is approximately 110 km. Driving during the rainy season can be particularly enjoyable, with scenic greenery and fog along the way. However, please drive carefully in foggy conditions.
By Train:
There are no direct trains from Pune to Bhimashankar. The nearest railway station is Pune itself. Travelers must take a bus from Pune to reach Bhimashankar.
By Bus:
Frequent buses run from Shivaji nagar Bus Stand to Bhimashankar, with departures every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The bus journey takes about 4 hours. To reach Shivaji nagar Bus Stand from Pune station, you can take an auto-rickshaw (around 2 km distance).
Traveling to Bhimashankar from Mumbai By Road/Car:
- Begin your journey on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
- Continue on the expressway until you reach Talegaon toll plaza (the second toll).
- Exit towards Chakan, which is about 25 km away.
- At Chakan Chowk, turn left towards Nashik.
- Follow the Nashik road to reach Manchar, which is about 31 km from Chakan.
- At Manchar, take a left towards Bhimashankar.
- The total travel time from Mumbai to Bhimashankar is also around 3.5 hours.
By Bus:
- Direct bus services from Mumbai to Bhimashankar are limited. You can find buses from:
- Kalyan to Bhimashankar (available from Kalyan bus depot).
- Ghatkopar (Kurla) to Bhimashankar (available from Kurla bus depot).
- There are no direct buses from Dadar, Mumbai Central, or Borivali to Bhimashankar.
By Train:
There is no direct train from Mumbai to Bhimashankar. The best route is to take a train to Pune and then continue by bus to Bhimashankar.
Traveling to Bhimashankar from Nashik By Road/Car:
From Nashik, take the Nashik-Pune road via Sangamner/Manchar. At Manchar, turn right towards Bhimashankar. The total distance is around 210 km, and it takes approximately 4.5 hours to travel.
By Train:
There are no direct trains from Nashik to Bhimashankar. Traveling by road is recommended.
By Bus:
There are no direct buses available from Nashik to Bhimashankar. Travelers must take a bus from Nashik to Pune, then switch to another bus at Manchar to reach Bhimashankar.
Bhimashankar Temple Nearest Railway Stations
- Neral Railway Station
Located about 23 kilometers from Bhimashankar, Neral Railway Station is approximately a 3-hour drive away. For a direct route, consider hiring a cab or taxi from Neral to Bhimashankar. Alternatively, you can take a train from Neral to Pune and then continue your journey to Bhimashankar by bus. - Karjat Railway Station
Situated 29 kilometers from Bhimashankar, Karjat Railway Station offers convenient access to the temple. You can either head to Neral and catch a cab or take a train to Pune, where you’ll find more transportation options to reach Bhimashankar. - Lonavala Railway Station
About 38 kilometers away, Lonavala Railway Station provides another option for travelers. Similar to the other stations, you can hire a cab or taxi for the journey. Alternatively, take a train from Lonavala to Pune and explore various bus services or more economical taxi options to reach Bhimashankar.
Queue Duration for Bhimashankar Darshan
Expect to spend about 3-4 hours in the queue for darshan at Bhimashankar. To make the most of your visit, it’s advisable to arrive early. If you get hungry while waiting, feel free to bring some snacks along, or you can find a variety of options at the temple entrance. There are also a couple of small restaurants nearby that serve decent snacks like idli, vada pav, and bhajiya. Enjoy your spiritual journey and stay nourished along the way!
VIP Pass Information for Bhimashankar Temple
The cost for a VIP pass at Bhimashankar is Rs. 500 per person. When you arrive, you will notice a barricaded area along the steps leading to the general darshan (which is free and does not require a ticket). If you prefer a more expedited experience, you can purchase the VIP darshan ticket for Rs. 500 per person. With this pass, you can descend the stairs directly without having to wait in the regular queue. Enjoy a smoother and more serene visit to this sacred site!
Bhimashankar Abhishek Puja Costs and Booking
At Bhimashankar, devotees can participate in various Abhishek Puja offerings to seek blessings and enhance their spiritual experience. Here are the available options along with their costs:
- Abhisheka: ₹151
- Rudrabhisheka: ₹351
- Panchamruth Snan Rudrabhisheka: ₹551
- Ekadasa Rudrabhisheka: ₹1,100
- Maha Pooja + Panchamrutha Rudrabhisheka + Bhojan for 5 Brahmins: ₹2,100
- Laghu Rudra: ₹3,100
- Laghu Rudra + Bhojan for 11 Brahmins + Bhagawan Naivedya: ₹5,100
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Aarti Timings
The sacred Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga offers a series of aartis and pooja ceremonies throughout the day, allowing devotees to immerse themselves in spiritual devotion. Here are the key timings:
- Kakada Aarti: 4:30 AM
- Nijarup Darshan: 5:00 AM
- Regular Pooja and Abhishek: 5:30 AM
- Naivedya Pooja (No Abhishek inside): 12:00 PM
- Regular Pooja and Abhishek: 12:30 PM
- Madhyan Aarti (No Darshan for 45 minutes): 3:00 PM
- Shringar Darshan (No Abhishek inside): 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM
- Mandir Closure: 9:30 PM
Hotels Near Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple
If you’re planning a visit to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga and looking for budget-friendly accommodation, here are seven excellent options to consider. These hotels offer comfortable stays at affordable rates, ensuring you have a pleasant experience while exploring the spiritual charm of the area. With convenient locations ranging from 2.9 km to 5 km from the temple, you’ll find it easy to access this revered site and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Hotel Vrinda Regency
– Location: Near Guwahati Bus Stand
– Distance: 3.5 km from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
- Hotel O Gorchuk
– Formerly known as Victoria Villa Garchuk
– Distance: 2.9 km from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
- Hotel GS Residency
– Location: Ahom Gaon
– Distance: 4.1 km from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
- Happy Home Living
– Location: Near Guwahati Bus Stand
– Distance: 4.7 km from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
- Hotel Nezone
– Location: Near Guwahati Bus Stand
– Distance: 3.9 km from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
- Hotel Royal Heritage
– Location: Near Guwahati Bus Stand
– Distance: 5 km from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
- The Homestead
– Location: Garchuk
– Distance: 3.9 km from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Places to Visit Near Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Nestled in the lush Western Ghats, Bhimashankar is not just a sacred pilgrimage site; it’s a gateway to breath-taking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Beyond the revered Jyotirlinga temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this enchanting region offers a plethora of attractions that cater to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history enthusiasts alike. Here’s a curated list of must-visit places that promise to enhance your experience in and around Bhimashankar:
- Moshi Dam
A tranquil reservoir embraced by nature’s beauty, Moshi Dam is an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation amidst serene surroundings.
- Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden
This beautifully landscaped garden features serene ponds, charming bridges, and lush greenery, providing a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility.
- Shivneri Fort
The birthplace of the legendary Shivaji Maharaj, Shivneri Fort is steeped in history and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Morya Gosavi Temple
Dedicated to the revered Sant Morya Gosavi, a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement, this temple offers spiritual solace and rich historical insights.
- Bhandardara Lake
Surrounded by rolling hills and verdant landscapes, Bhandardara Lake presents a peaceful and picturesque setting perfect for unwinding.
- Randha Falls
A majestic waterfall plunging into a deep gorge, Randha Falls captivates visitors with its breathtaking and awe-inspiring beauty.
- Bhavani Museum
This culturally significant museum houses a collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and artworks, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.
- Induri Fort
A historical hill fort showcasing intricate architecture, Induri Fort offers panoramic views and a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
- Lenyadri Caves
These ancient rock-cut caves, adorned with beautifully carved sculptures and inscriptions, showcase the cultural and religious heritage of the area.
- Ozar Ganpati Temple
A revered temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Ozar Ganpati Temple attracts pilgrims with its sacred ambiance and traditional architectural beauty.
- Siddhatek Ashtavinayak Temple
Known for its unique idol, this significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ganesha holds great spiritual importance in Hindu mythology.
- Bhimashankar Trek
An adventurous trek through lush green forests and hilly terrains, Bhimashankar Trek provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and explore the area’s stunning beauty.
- Shiv Mandir, Bhimashankar
This quaint and serene temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers a peaceful ambiance for devotees and visitors seeking spiritual solace.
- Karjat
Nestled in the nearby hills, Karjat is a charming hill station known for its scenic beauty, trekking trails, and adventure activities, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.
Some other things to keep in mind when visiting the Bhimashankar Temple include
When planning your visit to Bhimashankar Temple, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Footwear: If you’re visiting during the monsoon season, opt for shoes with good grip, as some areas can become slippery.
- Accessibility for Senior’s: For senior citizens, dolis and palkis are available to assist them on their journey to the temple. Additionally, buses conveniently stop near the temple entrance.
- Dress Code: While there aren’t strict dress regulations, wearing traditional attire is always appreciated when visiting the temple, enhancing the spiritual experience.