Bhimashankar Trek

Located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Bhimashankar sits at an elevation of 3,400 feet and spans around 120 km² amidst dense jungle. This serene site is home to a revered temple of Lord Shiva, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, drawing pilgrims and devotees from all over.

Bhimashankar holds deep religious significance, particularly during the holy month of Shravan when devotees flock to the temple. According to legend, Lord Shiva, in his wrath, defeated the demon Tripurasura, and the heat from their battle gave rise to the Bhima River, lending the site its name. The Bhimashankar temple, a blend of old and new architectural styles, is simple yet elegant, with origins tracing back to the 18th century.

Bhimashankar Hills Trek Information

We ascend via Ganesh Ghat, passing a Ganesh temple along the way, which marks the halfway point of the journey. After the two trails converge, the path becomes a steep climb through thick forests and lush green bushes, leading directly to the Bhimashankar temple at the summit. Along the way, you catch a glimpse of history as you pass Paddar Killa, also known as Padargad. To the left of the temple, a streamlet path descends into a dense jungle. About 25 minutes along this route, you’ll encounter the Sakshi Vinayak temple. From here, a path toward a nearby waterfall leads to a naturally “water-sculpted” Shiva Linga beneath the falls, known as Gupt Bhimashankar.

Places to see Bhimashankar Trek

Bhimashankar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Bhorgiri, 50 km northwest of Khed, near Pune.
It is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, dating back to the mid-18th century, with the shikhara built by Nana Phadnavis.
Linked to the legend of Lord Shiva defeating the demon Tripurasura, the Bhimarathi River is said to have formed from his sweat.
Key landmarks include Hanuman Lake, Gupt Bhimashankar, Sakshi Vinayak, and Nag Phani, offering views of Peth Fort and Bombay Point.
The surrounding wildlife sanctuary is home to rare birds, animals, and the Indian giant squirrel (“Shekru”).
Bhimashankar is popular among nature lovers, trekkers, and pilgrims for its spiritual and scenic significance.

When to visit Bhimashankar Trek

This trek is of moderate difficulty, taking approximately 4 hours to ascend and 4 hours to descend via Shidi Ghat. The trail is filled with a serene, rustic charm throughout. While the monsoon season offers the best experience for this trek, it can be enjoyed in other seasons as well.

How to Register

You can register on this link – https://www.banjaraoutdoors.com/book-now/