Pune to Bhimashankar Temple Cab Tour
One of India's 12 Sacred Jyotirlingas
Experience a blessed journey to Bhimashankar - where Lord Shiva resides in the serene Sahyadri hills. Perfect combination of spirituality, nature, and adventure.
Hill Temple
Sahyadri mountain range, 1,200 m elevation, scenic beauty
Wildlife Sanctuary
Visit Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, spot giant squirrels
Easy Access
Temple accessible by vehicle, minimal walking required
Best in Monsoon
Lush greenery, waterfalls, pleasant weather June-September
About Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Sacred Significance
Bhimashankar is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas—the holiest shrines of Lord Shiva where he manifested as a column of light (jyoti). According to legend, Lord Shiva defeated demon Tripurasura at this location and established himself as Bhimashankar.
Temple Architecture
Built in Nagara style architecture with intricate stone carvings dating back to 13th-18th centuries. The temple complex features beautiful sculptures, a large courtyard, and a serene atmosphere. The Shiva lingam is self-manifested (swayambhu) and considered extremely powerful.
Bhima River Origin
The Bhima River originates near this temple (Bhimarathi River), flowing eastward across Maharashtra. Devotees take holy bath in the water tank (kund) near temple before darshan.
Best Time to Visit
- • Monsoon (June-Sept): Lush green surroundings, waterfalls, pleasant weather
- • Winter (Oct-Feb): Clear skies, comfortable temperature, best for wildlife
- • Mahashivratri: Grand celebrations, lakhs of devotees (Feb/Mar)
- • Shravan (July-Aug): Very auspicious month for Shiva worship
Temple Details
Special Rituals Available:
- • Abhishek (bathing of Shiva lingam)
- • Rudrabhishek
- • Maha Rudrabhishek
- • Bhasma Aarti
Contact temple priests for puja bookings.
Your Journey: Pune to Bhimashankar
Scenic mountain drive through Western Ghats
Route Overview
Road Condition: Good highway for first 95 km, then scenic ghat roads (narrow but motorable). SUV recommended for comfortable ghat driving.
Journey Highlights
Drive through lush green valleys, dense forests, and winding mountain roads. Monsoon transforms the landscape into a paradise.
During monsoon, numerous waterfalls cascade down the hills along the ghat section. Perfect for photo stops.
Drive through Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary area—spot birds, butterflies, and if lucky, the Indian Giant Squirrel.
Multiple viewpoints offer panoramic views of Sahyadri ranges. Driver knows best spots for family photos.
Temperature 5-8°C cooler than Pune. Misty mornings, pleasant afternoons, chilly evenings—carry light jacket.
🎒 What to Carry
- • Light jacket/sweater (cool at temple elevation)
- • Comfortable walking shoes (temple premises)
- • Traditional clothing for temple (dhoti for men, saree/salwar for women preferred)
- • Water bottles, light snacks
- • Camera (beautiful scenery!)
- • Umbrella/raincoat if monsoon
- • Personal pooja items if desired
Tour Packages & Pricing
Flexible options for same-day or overnight visits
Itinerary:
- • 6:00 AM: Depart from Pune
- • 9:00 AM: Reach Bhimashankar
- • 9:00-1:00 PM: Temple darshan, explore
- • 1:00-2:00 PM: Lunch nearby
- • 2:00 PM: Return journey
- • 5:00 PM: Reach Pune
Includes:
- ✓ AC sedan/SUV (4-7 passengers)
- ✓ Driver food & allowance
- ✓ All toll charges & parking
- ✓ 4-hour wait time at temple
- ✓ Fuel for 220 km
Itinerary:
- • Day 1 Morning: Depart Pune
- • Day 1 Afternoon: Reach, darshan, explore
- • Evening: Wildlife sanctuary, sunset
- • Night: Stay at local hotel/resort
- • Day 2 Morning: Early morning darshan
- • Day 2 Afternoon: Return to Pune
Includes:
- ✓ AC SUV (recommended for 2-day comfort)
- ✓ Driver stay & food charges included
- ✓ All toll charges & parking
- ✓ Flexible timing, no rush
- ✓ Evening wildlife sanctuary visit option
Temples Covered:
- • Day 1: Pune → Bhimashankar
- • Day 2: Bhimashankar → Trimbakeshwar
- • Day 3: Trimbakeshwar → Grishneshwar → Pune
- Total: 3 of 12 Jyotirlingas!
Includes:
- ✓ Comfortable AC SUV/Innova
- ✓ Experienced driver (knows all temple routes)
- ✓ 2 nights driver accommodation
- ✓ All toll & parking charges
- ✓ Flexible temple timing
Additional Pricing Information
Vehicle Upgrade Options:
- • Sedan (4 passengers): Base price
- • SUV/Innova (6-7 passengers): Add ₹800
- • Tempo Traveller (12+ passengers): Add ₹2,500
Special Occasion Pricing:
- • Mahashivratri: +20% (heavy demand)
- • Shravan Mondays: +15% (peak season)
- • Regular weekdays: Standard pricing
- • Advance booking (7+ days): 5% discount
What's NOT Included:
- • Your accommodation (for overnight tours)
- • Your meals
- • Temple dakshina/donations
- • Special puja charges (abhishek, rudrabhishek, etc.)
- • Wildlife sanctuary entry fee (if visiting): ₹50/person
Beyond the Temple: What Else to Explore
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to the endangered Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru), this 131 sq km sanctuary boasts rich biodiversity. Spot barking deer, flying squirrels, peacocks, and over 200 bird species.
- • Entry: ₹50 per person
- • Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
- • Duration: 1-2 hours nature walk
- • Guide available: ₹200-400 (recommended)
Gupt Bhimashankar
A hidden gem 2 km from main temple, accessible via a short trek through forest. Believed to be the original spot where Shiva manifested. Peaceful, less crowded than main temple.
- • Trek difficulty: Easy (30-40 minutes)
- • Distance: 2 km from main temple
- • Highlight: Serene forest shrine
- • Best for: Adventurous devotees
Hanuman Lake
Serene lake 1 km from temple, surrounded by dense forest. Perfect spot for peaceful reflection, photography, or picnic. Local legend associates it with Lord Hanuman.
- • Distance: 1 km walking path from temple
- • Activities: Photography, bird watching
- • Duration: 30 minutes-1 hour
- • Best for: Nature lovers, families
Nagphani (Duke's Nose)
Spectacular viewpoint offering 360-degree views of Sahyadri ranges. Sunrise/sunset views are breathtaking. Moderate trek from Khandas village.
- • Trek difficulty: Moderate
- • Duration: 2-3 hours (round trip)
- • Best time: Early morning for sunrise
- • For: Trekking enthusiasts (optional)
Mokshakund Waterfall
Sacred water source near temple where Bhima River originates. Devotees bathe here before darshan. Monsoon transforms it into a spectacular cascade.
- • Location: Temple premises
- • Significance: Holy bath before darshan
- • Best in: Monsoon (June-September)
- • Facilities: Changing rooms available
Ancient Nagara Temples
Several smaller ancient temples dot the Bhimashankar complex—dedicated to various deities. Beautiful stone architecture, intricate carvings worth exploring.
- • Temples: Kamalaja, Santanagopala, others
- • Architecture: 13th-18th century Nagara style
- • Duration: 30-45 minutes
- • Photography: Allowed outside temples
Our drivers are familiar with all these spots and can help you plan your visit based on your time and interests!
Why Choose Us for Bhimashankar Pilgrimage?
Ghat Driving Expertise
Our drivers are experienced in navigating Sahyadri ghat roads—smooth handling of hairpin bends, steep gradients. You enjoy scenery while we handle the challenging drive.
Temple Knowledge
Drivers familiar with temple layout, darshan timings, best parking spots, nearby facilities. They can suggest best time for less crowded darshan and recommend puja options.
Flexible Timing
Want early morning darshan? Need extra time exploring wildlife sanctuary? Elderly parents walking slowly? We adjust to YOUR pace and preferences—no rigid schedule.
Photo Stop Assistance
Drivers know the best viewpoints for family photos—scenic ghat views, waterfall backgrounds, panoramic mountain shots. They'll happily stop at safe photo spots along the route.
Weather Preparedness
Bhimashankar gets heavy rain, fog, and cold weather. Our vehicles are well-maintained for mountain conditions. Drivers experienced in monsoon and winter ghat driving.
Family-Friendly Service
Child seats available, patient with elderly travelers, comfortable SUVs for families. We understand this is a spiritual journey for entire family—treat you with care and respect.
Book Your Bhimashankar Pilgrimage
Begin your blessed journey to one of India's sacred Jyotirlingas
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bhimashankar accessible throughout the year?
Yes, Bhimashankar is accessible year-round by road. However, each season offers a different experience: Monsoon (June-Sept) has lush greenery and waterfalls but heavy rain; Winter (Oct-Feb) has pleasant weather and clear views; Summer (Mar-May) is warmer but less crowded. Mahashivratri (Feb/Mar) sees maximum crowd.
How difficult are the ghat roads? Can sedans go or do we need SUV?
The last 15 km involves ghat roads with hairpin bends and some narrow sections, but the road is motorable for sedans. However, we recommend SUVs for better comfort, higher ground clearance (useful during monsoon), and easier handling on ghats. If traveling with elderly or children, SUV is definitely more comfortable.
Is same-day trip sufficient or should we stay overnight?
Depends on your pace. Same-day is feasible (6 AM departure, 5 PM return) with 4-5 hours at temple for darshan, lunch, and basic exploration. However, overnight stay is recommended if you want to: (1) Explore wildlife sanctuary, (2) Visit Gupt Bhimashankar trek, (3) Attend evening and morning aartis, (4) Avoid rushing, especially with elderly/children. Overnight allows a more peaceful, complete experience.
Are there accommodation options near the temple?
Yes, multiple options: (1) MTDC Resort - Government-run, clean, budget-friendly (₹1,500-3,000/room), (2) Private hotels/resorts - ₹2,000-5,000/room, (3) Temple guest house/dharamshala - Basic, very affordable (₹300-800), (4) Homestays - Local hospitality (₹1,000-2,000). Book in advance during weekends/festivals. We can help with recommendations based on your budget.
What should we wear for temple darshan?
Traditional clothing is preferred: Men should wear dhoti-kurta or at least formal shirt-pants (avoid shorts). Women should wear saree, salwar-kameez, or long skirt with dupatta. Footwear must be removed before entering temple. The temple is at higher elevation and can be cool—carry a light shawl/jacket. If visiting wildlife sanctuary after temple, comfortable walking shoes are needed.
Can we do special pujas like Rudrabhishek at Bhimashankar?
Yes, the temple offers various special pujas: Abhishek (₹500-1,000), Rudrabhishek (₹1,500-3,000), Maha Rudrabhishek (₹5,000-10,000), and other rituals. It's best to contact the temple priest in advance for booking (especially during peak times). Our driver can guide you to the temple office where puja bookings are done. Allow 1-2 hours extra time if planning special puja.
Is the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bhimashankar is home to the endangered Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru), found only in Western Ghats. The sanctuary has nature trails perfect for a 1-2 hour walk. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon. Entry fee is nominal (₹50/person). If you're a nature/wildlife enthusiast, this is a bonus—combine spirituality with nature. However, if time is limited or you're focused only on temple darshan, you can skip it.
How crowded is Bhimashankar compared to other Jyotirlingas?
Bhimashankar is generally less crowded than Trimbakeshwar or Grishneshwar on regular days—you can complete darshan in 1-2 hours. However, during Mahashivratri, Shravan Mondays, and weekends, crowd increases significantly (2-4 hour queues possible). If you want a peaceful experience, visit on weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) during non-festival periods. Early morning darshan (5:30-7 AM) is always less crowded.