Bhimashankar Yatra: A Journey to the Abode of Lord Shiva

Bhimashankar Yatra: A Journey to the Abode of Lord Shiva

Located in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra, Bhimashankar temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple is nestled amidst the lush green forests of Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary and is surrounded by the beautiful Sahyadri hills. In this blog, we will take you on a virtual tour of the Bhimashankar Yatra and explore the history, significance, and different places to visit in and around the Bhimashankar temple.

History of Bhimashankar Temple

The Bhimashankar temple is believed to have been built in the 18th century by Nana Phadnavis, a minister in the Peshwa dynasty. The temple architecture is a blend of both Nagara and Hemadpanthi styles.

According to legend, it is said that Lord Shiva took the form of a Bhima (a large-sized person) and killed the demon Tripurasura in this place. Hence the name Bhimashankar, where “Bhima” means Bhima and “Shankar” means Lord Shiva. It is also believed that the temple was once a Buddhist shrine and was later converted into a Hindu temple.

The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga

The Bhimashankar temple houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The Jyotirlinga is a symbol of Lord Shiva in his self-existent form. According to Hindu mythology, the Jyotirlinga represents the infinite nature of Lord Shiva. The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is believed to be the source of the Bhima River, which flows through the temple complex.

Places to visit in and around Bhimashankar

Apart from the Bhimashankar temple, there are several other places to visit in and around Bhimashankar. Here are some of the must-visit places:

  1. Hanuman Lake: It is a beautiful lake located near the Bhimashankar temple. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and hills and is a popular spot for picnics.
  2. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several endangered species like the Indian Giant Squirrel, Malabar Grey Hornbill, and Indian Eagle Owl. The sanctuary also has several trekking trails and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.
  3. Gupt Bhimashankar: It is a hidden cave temple located about 1.5 km from the main temple. The cave temple houses a small Shivlinga and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva hid from the demon Tripurasura.
  4. Bombay Point: It is a scenic point located about 5 km from the Bhimashankar temple. The point offers a panoramic view of the Sahyadri hills and is a popular spot for nature lovers.

How to Visit Bhimashankar Temple

Bhimashankar temple is located about 110 km from Pune and can be reached by road. The nearest airport is Pune International Airport, which is about 125 km from Bhimashankar. The nearest railway station is in Karjat, which is about 100 km from Bhimashankar. From Karjat, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar.

The best time to visit Bhimashankar is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the hills and forests are lush and green. However, it is advisable to avoid visiting during heavy rains as the roads can become slippery and dangerous.

Once you reach Bhimashankar, you can hire a local guide who can take you around the temple complex and the nearby attractions. It is important to dress appropriately while visiting the temple as it is a religious place. Both men and women are required to wear traditional clothes, and women are advised to cover their heads with a dupatta.

Mytirthindia.com – Your One-stop Destination for Bhimashankar Yatra

If you are planning to visit Bhimashankar temple, then mytirthindia.com can be your one-stop destination for all your travel needs. Mytirthindia.com is a travel portal that provides customized travel packages to various pilgrimage sites in India. The portal offers a range of services like accommodation, transportation, and tour guides to ensure a hassle-free travel experience for its customers.

At mytirthindia.com, you can choose from various travel packages to Bhimashankar temple that suit your budget and preferences. The packages include accommodation in hotels or guest houses near the temple, transportation to and from the temple, and a local guide who can take you around the temple complex and the nearby attractions.

Bhimashankar temple is a sacred place for Hindus and is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the spiritual and natural beauty of Maharashtra. The temple complex and the nearby attractions offer a unique blend of history, spirituality, and adventure. Whether you are a devout Hindu or an adventure enthusiast, Bhimashankar temple has something to offer for everyone.

So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and embark on the Bhimashankar Yatra to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and experience the beauty of the Sahyadri hills. And don’t forget to visit mytirthindia.com to make your travel experience hassle-free and memorable.