Getting there from Pune
The drive starts on the Pune–Nashik highway through Bhosari, Chakan and Rajgurunagar (Khed). Near Manchar you turn west towards Ghodegaon, and from there the road climbs steadily into the hills past the Dimbhe dam backwaters. The last stretch winds through thick forest, and in the rains it is one of the most beautiful drives around Pune.
Because of the ghat section, it matters who is behind the wheel. A Pune to Bhimashankar tempo traveller with a driver who knows these curves means the family can enjoy the views instead of worrying about the road.
About the temple
Bhimashankar is counted among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, and it is also where the Bhima river begins its long journey east towards Pandharpur and beyond. The stone temple is built in the Nagara style, with the hall and shikhara dating mainly from the 18th century, when Nana Phadnavis is said to have supported the work.
The temple sits in a hollow below the bus stand and parking area, so the walk down is quick and the walk back up takes a little patience. Inside the complex you will also find a large old bell, one of the familiar sights for visitors.
The forest around Bhimashankar
The whole area is part of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, home of the shekru, the Indian giant squirrel and Maharashtra’s state animal. You may not spot one on a short visit, but the forest itself, with its mist, moss and tall trees, is worth the trip. Short trails lead to Gupt Bhimashankar, where the river flows over rocks, and to viewpoints like Bombay Point and Hanuman Lake.
In the monsoon, waterfalls appear all along the ghat, and many groups stop for photos on the way. If you enjoy this kind of trip, our list of monsoon getaways near Pune has more ideas.
Monsoon, winter and Shravan
Bhimashankar changes a lot through the year. From July to September the hills are green and full of waterfalls, but the fog can be thick and the steps wet, so allow extra time. Winter mornings are cool and clear, which makes the walk down and up the steps much easier for older family members. Summer is pleasant in the forest, though the drive across the plains gets warm.
The month of Shravan, especially its Mondays, and Mahashivratri bring huge crowds. On these days the road can slow to a crawl near the temple, and vehicles may have to park further away. If your Pune to Bhimashankar tempo traveller trip falls on such a day, leave Pune even earlier than usual.
Choosing a vehicle and fare
For a family of 8 or 9, the 10-seater or 12-seater is plenty. Office teams and mandals usually take a 17 or 20 seater. Since this is a same-day outstation trip, the fare follows a per km rate with a daily minimum distance, and toll, parking and driver allowance are usually extra. See our price page for how this works.
Make it a Jyotirlinga circuit
Maharashtra has several Jyotirlingas, and Bhimashankar is the closest to Pune. Many devotees plan it alongside Trimbakeshwar near Nashik and Grishneshwar near Ellora. We can plan each one as a separate trip or as one longer journey, with pickup and drop at your door.
