Bhimashankar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples of Lord Shiva. It is located in Pune district, Maharashtra, at a height of 3,250 feet in the Sahyadri hills. The temple is around 110 km from Pune and 220 km from Mumbai. The temple is famous for its Nagara-style architecture and ancient stone carvings. Many people visit this temple during Maha Shivaratri and the Shravan month.
The temple opens at 4:30 AM and closes at 9:30 PM every day. The first Aarti happens at 4:30 AM, and the last Aarti is at 9:30 PM. Bhimashankar is also home to the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can see rare animals like the Indian Giant Squirrel.
To reach Bhimashankar, you can travel by road, train, or air. The nearest railway station is Pune Junction (110 km away), and the nearest airport is Pune Airport (120 km away). Buses and taxis are available from Pune and Mumbai.
Many devotees visit Bhimashankar to pray to Lord Shiva and enjoy the beautiful hills and forests. The temple is a peaceful and sacred place for all visitors.
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Overview of Bhimashankar Temple
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pune District, Maharashtra, India |
| Elevation | 3,250 feet (990 meters) |
| Distance from Pune | 110 km |
| Distance from Mumbai | 220 km |
| Jyotirlinga Rank | One of 12 Jyotirlingas |
| Temple Timings | 4:30 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Morning Aarti | 4:30 AM |
| Night Aarti | 9:30 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | Maha Shivaratri, Shravan Month |
| Nearest Railway Station | Pune Junction (110 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Pune Airport (120 km) |
| Wildlife Sanctuary | Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Famous For | Ancient architecture, Shiva Jyotirlinga |
| Main Attraction | Lord Shiva Jyotirlinga, Scenic Hills |
Bhimashankar Temple is a very important spiritual place where devotees come to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
What are the timings of the temple
The Bhimashankar Temple follows a specific daily schedule for various rituals and darshan (viewing) times. Here’s an overview of the temple’s daily timings:
Daily Schedule:
- 4:30 AM: Kakada Aarti (Morning Aarti)
- 5:00 AM: Nijarup Darshan (Viewing the deity in its true form)
- 5:30 AM: Regular Pooja and Abhishek (ritual bathing) commence
- 12:00 PM: Naivedya Pooja (Offering of food to the deity; during this time, Abhishek inside the temple is paused)
- 12:30 PM: Resumption of Regular Pooja and Abhishek
- 3:00 PM: Madhyan Aarti (Afternoon Aarti); darshan is paused for approximately 45 minutes during this time
- 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM: Shringar Darshan (Viewing the deity adorned); note that Abhishek inside the temple is not performed during these hours
- 7:30 PM: Evening Aarti
- 9:30 PM: Temple closes for the day
Please note that on Mondays, during Pradosh (a specific time period), the month of Shravan, and on Mahashivratri, the Abhishek inside the temple continues until 2:00 PM.
It’s advisable to check the temple’s official website or contact the temple authorities directly for any updates or changes to the schedule before planning your visit.
The Bhimashankar Temple offers a structured schedule of sevas (ritual services) and darshan (viewing) opportunities for devotees. Below is a detailed overview of the daily timings:
Casual Timings of the temple
Daily Schedule:
- 5:00 AM: Temple Opens
- 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM: Morning Worship
- 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Darshan and Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity)
- 12:00 PM – 12:20 PM: Naivedyam Puja (offering of food to the deity)
- 12:20 PM – 2:45 PM: Darshan and Abhishekam continue
- 2:45 PM – 3:20 PM: Afternoon Worship
- 3:20 PM – 7:30 PM: Dev Darshan (viewing of the deity)
- 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Evening Worship
- 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Dev Darshan continues
- 9:30 PM: Temple Closes
Additional Notes:
- On special occasions such as Mondays, Pradosh, during the Shravan month, and on Mahashivratri, the Abhishekam inside the temple is extended until 2:00 PM.
Devotees are encouraged to plan their visit according to these timings to participate in the various sevas and darshan sessions offered throughout the day.
Prices of the Temple darshans and sevas
The Bhimashankar Temple offers various sevas (ritual services) for devotees. Below is a list of some of the sevas along with their respective prices:
| Seva | Price (INR) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Abhisheka | ₹151 | Official Website |
| Rudrabhisheka | ₹351 | Official Website |
| Panchamruth Snan Rudrabhisheka | ₹551 | Official Website |
| Ekadasa Rudrabhisheka | ₹1,100 | Official Website |
| Maha Pooja + Panchamrutha Rudrabhisheka + Bhojan for 5 Brahmins | ₹2,100 | Official Website |
| Laghu Rudra | ₹3,100 | Official Website |
| Laghu Rudra + Bhojan for 11 Brahmins + Bhagawan Naivedya | ₹5,100 | Official Website |
Please note that these prices are subject to change. It’s advisable to confirm the latest rates and availability by contacting the temple authorities directly or visiting the official temple website before planning your visit.
Contact Information
For those seeking to connect with the Bhimashankar Temple, here is the official contact information:
Address:
Shivtirtha Bhimashankar
Shri Kshetra Bhimashankar
Via – Dimbhe Colony
Taluka – Khed
District – Pune
Maharashtra, India
Pincode: 410509
Email:
Phone:
+91 9970045972 (Contact Person: Ganesh Gawande)
For additional information or specific queries, it’s advisable to reach out directly to the temple authorities using the provided contact details.
How To reach
Traveling from Hyderabad to Bhimashankar Temple involves covering a distance of approximately 600 kilometers. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between train, bus, or car travel.
By Train:
- Hyderabad to Pune:
- Several trains operate between Hyderabad and Pune. For instance, the BBS Pune Express (Train No. 22882) departs from Secunderabad Junction (SC) at 5:30 AM and arrives at Pune Junction (PUNE) the next day.
- Pune to Bhimashankar:
- Upon reaching Pune, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bhimashankar, which is approximately 110 kilometers away. The journey by road typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.
By Bus:
- Direct bus services from Hyderabad to Bhimashankar are limited. However, you can travel from Hyderabad to Pune by bus and then proceed to Bhimashankar. Various private operators offer bus services between Hyderabad and Pune. After reaching Pune, local buses or taxis can be hired to reach Bhimashankar.
By Car:
- Driving from Hyderabad to Bhimashankar offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views. The route via NH65 passes through Solapur and Pune. The total driving time is approximately 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
For a visual representation of the road journey, you might find this video helpful:
Before embarking on your journey, it’s advisable to check the latest travel schedules and road conditions. Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons, can help ensure a smoother trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the temple’s opening hours?
The Bhimashankar Temple is open for darshan from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
2. When can devotees perform Abhisheka?
Abhisheka rituals are conducted from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Devotees should arrive before 12:00 PM to participate. On special occasions like Mondays, Pradosh, Mahashivratri, and during the Shravan and Kartik months, Abhisheka is extended until 5:00 PM.
3. Is there a dress code for visitors?
While there’s no strict dress code, it’s advisable to wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, respecting the temple’s sanctity.
4. What is the best time to visit the temple?
The ideal time to visit is between October and February when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, making travel challenging
5. How can I reach Bhimashankar Temple?
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Pune and Mumbai.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Junction, approximately 110 km away.
- By Air: The closest airport is Pune Airport, about 120 km from the temple.
6. Are there accommodation facilities near the temple?
Yes, there are several guesthouses and lodges near the temple premises. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
7. Is there a VIP darshan facility?
Yes, devotees can opt for a VIP darshan pass priced at ₹500 per person for a quicker experience.
8. How many steps are there to reach the temple?
For more detailed information or specific inquiries, it’s advisable to contact the temple authorities directly or visit the official temple website.