Overview
Bhimashankar Temple is a Jyotirlinga shrine located in the Sahyadri hills near Pune, Maharashtra, amid dense forests. Dating to the 13th century with later Maratha additions, it is built in Nagara style with wooden and stone elements. The legend says Shiva took the form of Bhima to kill the demon Tripurasura here, hence the name. The swayambhu lingam is small and sits at a lower level than the floor. The temple area is also a wildlife sanctuary, home to the rare Shekru or Indian giant squirrel. Mahashivratri and Shravan months see heavy pilgrim traffic despite difficult ghat roads. The surrounding forest is considered sacred and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Hemadpanthi architecture is visible in the sabha mandap and shikhara. Local Mahadev Koli tribes have been traditional priests here for centuries. Bhimashankar combines natural beauty, biodiversity, and deep Shaiva faith.
Top Highlights
- Source of Bhima River
- Nagara Style + Forest
- 250 Steps Down
- 3-faced Jyotirlinga; mirror at 45° above so devotees see deity clearly
