Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple is an ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located at a distance of 50 km from Ambegaon taluka, Near Pune, Maharashtra, India. It is a prominent pilgrimage center, located 125 km away from Pune, in the region of the Sahyadri hills. It is one of the twelve jyotirlinga temples and is very sacred for Hindu pilgrims. Besides pilgrimage visits, Bhimashankar is famous for adventurous activities like trekking, hiking, and rock climbing.

About Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple

It is believed that the Bhimashankar temple was built around the self-manifested (Swayambhu) lingam. The lingam is at the center of the floor of the sanctum sanctorum. Intricate carvings of Gods and Goddesses adorn the pillars and the doorframes.

Bhimashankar temple attracts huge crowds across India. Pilgrims are allowed to take closer darshan and can touch the lingam and pray in this place. Lingam is covered with a silver cover and if you would like to see nijarupam (without the cover), then visit the temple before 5 AM.

Pilgrims have to climb 250 steps to reach the main temple. However, climbing the steps is not that difficult. There is a paid facility for Senior citizens.

What is Jyotirlinga

Jyotirlinga means a column of light. Lingam signifies the infinite nature of Lord Shiva, without the beginning and the end. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India, where it is believed that the supreme deity of Hinduism, Lord Shiva himself resides in different manifestations in the form of linga.

Read more on Jyotirlinga and legends

History and Architecture

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple is a very ancient temple but some renovations have been made later. It is built in the Nagara style of architecture. The inscriptional evidence suggests that the temple has a history way back from the 13th century. The shikhara and the sabha mandap were built in the 18th century by Nana Phadnavis (minister in the Maratha Empire).

Intricate carvings of statues can be seen on pillars and doorframes. At the entrance of the temple, there is a statue of Nandi. There is a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shani within temple premises.

A large unique roman style bell is placed in front of the temple. This was donated by Chimaji Appa, who was the brother of Bajirao Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. After defeating the Portuguese army by capturing the Vasai fort, Chimaji Appa had collected the five large bells. The bells have an idol of Mother Mary with Jesus. It is a symbol of victory over the enemies. He then offered one of those bells at Bhimashankar temple. He offered other bells at Omkareshwar temple (Pune), Banshanker temple (Pune), a Shiva temple (Menavali), and Ramlinga temple (Shirur).

Legend behind Bhimashankar Temple

According to the Puranic story, there was once lived a demon called Tripura. He did harsh penance and worshipped Lord Shiva. Pleased by his efforts, Lord Shiva appeared and blessed him with immortality on the condition that he would use the powers only for positive purposes. However, over time, he used it to harass people and devas. Unable to bear the brunt, devas approached Lord for help. Lord Shiva assumed gigantic Bhima form and attacked Tripura and a fierce battle took place between them. Finally, on the eve of Kartik Poornima, Lord Shiva killed the demon and the day began to be called Tripurasura Poornima. The sweat that poured from his body is said to have formed the Bhimarathi river.

Bhimashankar Temple Timings

• Aarti Timings:

  .	4:30 AM	Kakada Aarti
  .	5:00 AM	Nijarup Darshan
  .	5:30 AM	Regular Pooja
  .	12:00 PM	Naivedya Pooja
  .	12:30 PM	Regular Pooja
  .	3:00 PM	Madhyan Aarti (No Darshan for 45 Min)
  .	4:00 PM to 9:30 PM	Shringar Darshan
  .	7:30 PM	Aarti
  .	9:30 PM	Closing time

• Entry Fee: Free; Special darshan with the ticket available.

• Special Poojas: Abhishek, Rudrabhishekam,

• Special Days: Maha Shivaratri

• Best Time to Visit: August to February

• Travel Tip: Carry extra cash as there is no ATM facility near the temple.

Bhimashankar is a reserved forest area and was declared wildlife sanctuary in 1985. A variety of plants, birds, and animals can be seen in the forest. Bhimashankar is also the source of the Bhima river, which flows and merges with the Krishna river in Raichur.

Places to visit near Bhimashankar Temple

• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

  Bhimashankar is a reserved forest area and was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985. Originally it was created to safeguard the rare species, Indian giant squirrel, it has now become the major tourist destination. A variety of birds, animals, insects, and plants can be seen here. The forest is occupied with thousands of years old trees. Trekking can also be done within the safe routes with permission. There is an option of a safari car ride to savor the beauty of the forest.

• Kamalaja Devi Temple

  There is a shrine dedicated to Kamalaja (incarnation of Goddess Parvati) near Bhimashankar temple.It is believed that, she helped Lord Shiva in his battle against demon Tripurasura. Shakini and Dakini, the shivaganas, who also helped in the battle are also worshipped here.

• Mokshakund Thirtha

  The Mokshakund Thirtha is localed behind the Bhimashankar temple. It is believed to be associated with Rishi Kaushika. There are also the Sarvathirtha, the Kusharanya thirtha (Bhima river begins to flow eastward) and the Gyankund.

• Hanuman Lake

  A famous tourist destination in Bhimashankar, Hanuman Lake attracts many visitors throughout the year. It is home to several species of birds, squirrels, and animals. It’s a good picnic spot to spend quality time with family. There is also a temple in the vicinity.

• Gupt Bhimashankar

  Gupt Bhimashankar is Located inside the forest at 2.5 km from Bhimashankar jyotirlinga temple. It is believed that the original shivalinga was discovered at this site. It is also the place of origin of River Bhima.

How to reach Bhimashankar Temple

The temple is located in the midst of a forest with wonderful nature around. There are two routes from Pune to the temple. One taking left in Rajgurunagar along the Bhima river. This is a shorter route with spectacular scenery. The other route is a bit longer but the roads are good. The ride along the Bhima river through Sahyadri hills crossing picturesque mountains, beautiful forests, and lush green farms is worth experiencing.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Pune, which is 110 km away. Other airports are Shirdi (181 km) and Nashik (205 km)

• By Train: Pune Railway station is 100 km in distance. Pune is well connected with all the cities of India.

• By Road: Bhimashankar is around 125 km from Pune by road. State buses ply from Pune daily and it takes around 5-6 hours to reach. Private vehicles and cabs can be hired.

Significance of Bhimashankar Temple

A large unique roman style bell is placed in front of the temple. This was donated by Chimaji Appa, who was the brother of Bajirao Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. After defeating the Portuguese army by capturing the Vasai fort, Chimaji Appa had collected the five large bells. The bells have an idol of Mother Mary with Jesus. It is a symbol of victory over the enemies. He then offered one of those bells at Bhimashankar temple. He offered other bells at Omkareshwar temple (Pune), Banshanker temple (Pune), a Shiva temple (Menavali), and Ramlinga temple (Shirur).

Bhimashankar is a reserved forest area and was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985. A variety of plants, birds, and animals can be seen in the forest. Bhimashankar is also the source of the Bhima river, which flows and merges with the Krishna river in Raichur.