Bhimashankar Temple
Jyotirlinga hidden in the dense Sahyadri hills within a wildlife sanctuary. Source of the Bhima river.
Photos of Bhimashankar Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- 13th century CE
- Architecture
- Nagara-Hemadpanti
- Address
- Bhimashankar, Khed 410509
- Timings
- 04:30–12:00, 16:00–21:30
History of Bhimashankar Temple
Built in the Nagara style by Nana Phadnavis in the 18th century over an older shrine. The temple is set in a lush forest that is also a sanctuary for the giant Indian squirrel.
Festivals Celebrated at Bhimashankar Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Karthik Purnima
How to Reach Bhimashankar Temple
110 km northwest of Pune by road. The temple is reached by descending a stone staircase into a wooded valley.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bhimashankar Temple
Where is Bhimashankar Temple located?
- Bhimashankar Temple is located at Bhimashankar, Khed 410509, in Bhimashankar, Maharashtra, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Bhimashankar Temple?
- The presiding deity at Bhimashankar Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Bhimashankar Temple?
- Bhimashankar Temple is generally open 04:30–12:00, 16:00–21:30. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Bhimashankar Temple built?
- Bhimashankar Temple was established 13th century CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Bhimashankar Temple?
- Bhimashankar Temple is built in the Nagara-Hemadpanti style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Bhimashankar Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Bhimashankar Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Karthik Purnima. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Maharashtra and beyond.
How can I reach Bhimashankar Temple?
- 110 km northwest of Pune by road. The temple is reached by descending a stone staircase into a wooded valley.
Why is Bhimashankar Temple significant?
- Jyotirlinga hidden in the dense Sahyadri hills within a wildlife sanctuary. Source of the Bhima river.
Is there an entry fee at Bhimashankar Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Bhimashankar Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Bhimashankar Temple?
- Bhimashankar Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Maharashtra temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.