About Bhimashankar Temple

Bhimashankar is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, nestled in the Western Ghats at ~1,000 m altitude in Maharashtra's Sahyadri hills. The temple is built in the Nagara architectural style with a beautifully carved shikhara. The surrounding Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a UNESCO biodiversity hotspot and home to the endangered Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru), the state animal of Maharashtra. The Bhima river, a major tributary of the Krishna, originates from the glaciers near the temple. A moderate 4–5 hour trek from Khandas village through the forest is the most popular approach.

According to the Shiva Purana, this is where Shiva defeated the demon Bhima (son of Kumbhakarna of the Ramayana) at the request of the gods. The temple was reportedly renovated and expanded by Nana Phadnavis of the Maratha confederacy in the 18th century. Inscriptions on the premises confirm its antiquity to the Hemadpanthi period.

Darshan & Aarti

🚌 How to reach

Last mile: Local buses and shared jeeps from Rajgurunagar. The temple is at the end of the ghat road.

Where to stay

Estimated expense (per person)

Estimated for a short 2-day pilgrimage.

Gallery