Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra | Pilgrimage Destination India

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra 

Bhimashankar is located in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri Mountains. Bhimashankar temple is among the twelve Jyotirlingas situated all over India. It is located in the village of Bhojgiri, 50 km northwest of Khed taluka (alias Rajgurunagar), near Pune, in Maharashtra, India. Bhīmāshankar is also the source of the river Bhima, which flows southeast and merges with the Krishna river near Raichur. 

The Significance of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga 

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva took the form of Bhima and defeated the demon Tripurasura. It is also said that the temple was built on the site where Lord Shiva appeared to the great saint, Bhagawan Nityananda Maharaj. The temple is thus considered to be a source of immense spiritual energy, attracting devotees from far and wide. 

The History of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga 

The history of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga dates back to ancient times, with the temple being mentioned in several Hindu scriptures. It is said that the temple was first constructed during the reign of the Maratha ruler, Shivaji Maharaj. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and is now an architectural masterpiece, showcasing the ancient Dravidian style of architecture. 

The Architecture of Bhimashankar Temple 

The Bhimashankar temple is a stunning example of ancient Indian architecture, with its intricate carvings, sculptures, and pillars. The temple is divided into three parts - the main entrance, the central hall, and the sanctum sanctorum. The main entrance, also known as the Nandi Mandap, has a life-size statue of Nandi, the divine bull, which is considered to be the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The central hall, also known as the Sabha mandap, has beautiful carvings on the walls and ceilings, depicting stories from Hindu mythology. 

Best Time to Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga 

The best time to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is during the monsoon season, which starts from June and lasts till September. During this time, the entire region comes alive with lush green forests, waterfalls, and streams. The weather is pleasant, and the surroundings are serene, making it the perfect time for a pilgrimage and spiritual journey. 

Accommodation and Facilities 

There are various accommodation options available near Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation also operates a guest house near the temple for the convenience of visitors. The temple complex also has various facilities, including a cloakroom, food stalls, and restrooms 

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in India. The temple is renowned for its ancient architecture, unique style of construction, and serene surroundings. The temple complex offers various spiritual places to visit, including the Bhimashankar Temple, Hanuman Lake, Gupt Bhimashankar, Bombay Point, and Nagphani Point. The best time to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is during the monsoon season, and there are various accommodation options and facilities available near the temple complex. 

Hidden facts about Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra:-

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, located in the state of Maharashtra. Here are some hidden facts about this revered shrine:

Mythological Significance: According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva took the form of Bhima at this place and destroyed the demon Tripurasura.

Location: Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is situated in the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is spread over an area of around 130 sq. km. This sanctuary is home to several endangered species of flora and fauna.

Unique Architecture: The temple has a unique Nagara style of architecture, with intricate carvings on the walls and pillars. The temple also has a large Nandi statue made of black stone.

Trekking Destination: Bhimashankar is a popular trekking destination, with several trails leading up to the temple. The most popular trail is the Shidi Ghat, which is a steep climb of around 1000 steps.

Annual Festival: The Mahashivratri festival is celebrated with great fervor at Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. Thousands of devotees flock to the temple during this time to seek Lord Shiva's blessings.

Healing Powers: The water from the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is believed to have healing properties, and devotees often take a dip in the temple tank to cure various ailments.

Environmental Awareness: The temple management is actively involved in promoting environmental awareness and conservation. They have initiated several projects for the preservation of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary and the surrounding ecosystem.

Overall, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is a fascinating shrine that is steeped in mythology and natural beauty. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of India.

How to travel by road to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra, and the nearest bus stand 

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra is well-connected by road and can be easily accessed by bus, car, or taxi. The nearest bus stand to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is the Bhimashankar Bus Stop, which is located just a few minutes' walk away from the temple complex. 

If you are traveling from Pune, you can take the Pune-Nashik Highway and turn towards Manchar at Narayangaon. From Manchar, take a right turn towards Bhimashankar, which is about 42 km away. The road leading to Bhimashankar is a scenic one, passing through lush green forests, small villages, and winding roads. 

If you prefer to travel by bus, there are regular state transport and private buses available from Pune, Mumbai, and other major cities in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates regular buses from Pune to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. 

If you are traveling from Mumbai, you can take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and then take the Pune-Nashik Highway towards Bhimashankar. The distance between Mumbai and Bhimashankar is approximately 220 km, and it takes around 5-6 hours to reach Bhimashankar by road. 

Overall, traveling by road to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the region and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the temple complex. 

How to travel by train to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra, and the nearest railway station 

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is a popular pilgrimage destination in Maharashtra and is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest railway station to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is Pune Railway Station, which is approximately 110 km away from the temple complex. 

From Pune Railway Station, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. The journey takes around 3-4 hours and passes through beautiful countryside and scenic landscapes. 

Alternatively, visitors can take a train to Karjat Railway Station, which is approximately 95 km away from Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. From Karjat, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. 

It is important to note that there is no direct train to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, and visitors have to make a stop at either Pune or Karjat railway station before proceeding to the temple complex. However, the journey is well worth it, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and serene surroundings on the way to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. 

How to travel by air to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra and the nearest airport 

The nearest airport to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is the Pune International Airport, which is approximately 110 kilometers away. Pune International Airport is well-connected to major cities in India and has direct flights to international destinations as well. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. The journey from Pune to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga takes approximately 3-4 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions. It is advisable to book a taxi in advance or take a bus from Pune to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga to avoid any last-minute hassle. 

FAQs 

Q.1 What is the significance of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga? 

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a Jyotirlinga. 

Q.2 How do I reach Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga? 

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is well-connected by road, and the nearest airport and railway station are located in Pune. 

Q.3 What are the spiritual places to visit in Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga? 

The spiritual places to visit in Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga include the Bhimashankar Temple, Hanuman Lake, Gupt Bhimashankar, Bombay Point, and Nagphani Point. 

Q.4 When is the best time to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga? 

The best time to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is during the monsoon season, which starts from June and lasts till September. 

Q.5 What facilities are available near Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga? 

Various accommodation options and facilities, including food stalls, restrooms, and a cloakroom, are available near the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple complex.