Sixth Jyotirlinga

The Forest Shrine

Nestled in the Sahyadri Wildlife Sanctuary, where the sacred Bhima River originates. A divine blend of nature and spirituality.

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Pune, Maharashtra

Sanctuary of Shiva

Bhimashankar is the sixth Jyotirlinga, uniquely located within a Wildlife Sanctuary in the Western Ghats.

It marks the spot where Lord Shiva defeated the demon Bhimasur (son of Kumbhakarna) in a battle that caused his sweat to form the Bhima River. The temple is surrounded by rich biodiversity, including the state animal, the Giant Squirrel (Shekaru).

6th

Jyotirlinga

13th

Century

125km

From Pune
Bhimashankar Temple
Nagara Style
A blend of ancient and Maratha architecture.
Expansion

Nana Phadnavis (18th C)

Style

Nagara (Indo-Aryan)

Deity

Bhimashankar (Shiva)

Setting

Wildlife Sanctuary

Timeline of Legend

Puranic Era

Demon Bhimasur terrorized the world. Lord Shiva manifested here to destroy him. The heat of the battle caused the Bhima river to evaporate and reform.

13th Century CE

The core temple structure dates back to this period, with references in literature from the 13th century.

18th Century CE

The great Maratha statesman Nana Phadnavis built the Sabha Mandap and the Shikhara, giving the temple its current form.

Modern Era

In 1985, the surrounding area was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary to protect the Malabar Giant Squirrel (Shekaru).

Architectural Marvel

Shikhara
The Shikhara

The spire built by Nana Phadnavis showcases intricate stone carvings of deities and human figures.

Gupt Bhim
Gupt Bhim

The origin point of the Bhima River is located behind the temple in the dense forest.

Sanctuary
The Sanctuary

Surrounded by the dense Sahyadri forests, home to diverse flora and fauna, creating a serene atmosphere.

Pilgrim Services

Darshan Timings
Kakad Aarti 4:30 AM - 5:00 AM
Morning Darshan 5:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Afternoon Break 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Evening Darshan 3:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Special Poojas
Rudrabhishek ₹500 - ₹2,500
Laghu Rudra ₹5,000+
VIP Darshan ₹200 (Approx)
General Entry Free
Online Booking
Nature Trails
MTDC Resort
Transport

Visual Journey

Main Temple
Ancient Walls

13th-century stone work

Hills
Sahyadri Hills

The misty mountains

Aarti
Divine Aarti

Evening prayers

Official Resources

Official Website MTDC Booking MH Tourism

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