Located in the lush Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga: A devotional epitome
Nestled in dense forests and serene surroundings, this sacred temple is not only a spiritual haven but also a treasure trove of natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for both spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the most awakened and energetic temples in India. But why is Lord Shiva manifested here in the form of Jyotirlinga? Was there any reason for that? What is the story behind its name, Bhimashankara? In this post, we will uncover the stories behind the emergence of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. We will also unveil the facts related to this place and provide a one-stop guide to explore this spiritual realm.
However, this is not just a single Shiva temple near Pune. This post 10 most famous Mahadeva Temples near Pune is a must-read for every Shiva devotee visiting Maharashtra.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga and Tripurasura
In Tretayuga, the Yuga(युग) of Lord Rama, there happened to be 3 devotees of Lord Shiva who were of the Asura clan. They worshipped Lord Shiva for years and asked for immortality in return. Lord Shiva told them that whoever takes birth has to die so it is not possible. But as they worshipped Lord Shiva for so long, Lord Shiva gave them another blessing. He told them that no human, male or female, or even Devatas could kill them.
After getting Lord Shiva’s blessings, they assumed themselves immortals and spread chaos everywhere. When the other Deities and Devatas requested Lord Shiva for help, he with the help of Goddess Parvati, took the form of Ardhnarishwar (an amalgamation of male and female). With this, neither a human nor a Devata killed Tripurasura with just one arrow.
And then Lord Shiva named it Bhimashankar
Those Asuras were so huge that they were sometimes referred to as Bhima(giant). The other deities requested Lord Shiva to stay there and bless everyone. Lord Shiva obliged them and everyone else by manifesting himself in the form of a Jyotirlinga. Lord Shiva also gave it the name after his devotee Asura who was also known as Bhima naming it the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – A Spiritual Retreat in Maharashtra
The Significance of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Bhimashankar is famous for being the site where Lord Shiva vanquished the demon Bhasmasura. The name ‘Bhimashankar’ is derived from the demon Bhasmasura, who, after receiving a boon from Lord Shiva, used it to create destruction. Lord Shiva, in an epic battle, defeated him here, earning this place the title of Bhimashankar, the place where Bhasmasura was destroyed.
The temple, situated in the town of Bhimashankar in the Pune district, is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in Maharashtra and is visited by thousands of devotees, especially during Maha Shivaratri.
The Temple and Its Architecture
The Bhimashankar Temple is a beautiful blend of ancient and modern architecture. The temple complex is built in the traditional Nagara style, featuring intricately carved stone pillars, sculptures of gods and goddesses, and stunning architecture. The main sanctum houses the Shiva Lingam, which is worshipped with great devotion by the pilgrims.
The temple is set in the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, adding an element of peace and spirituality to the visit. The scenic surroundings make this temple a site of worship and an experience of tranquillity amidst nature.
The Maha Shivaratri Celebrations at Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Maha Shivaratri at Bhimashankar is one of the grandest spiritual events in Maharashtra. Devotees from across the country gather to observe the night of Lord Shiva, participating in all-night vigils, chanting mantras and offering prayers. The atmosphere is filled with the fragrance of incense, the ringing of bells and the sound of bhajans.
Must-See During Shivratri:
1. Night-long Prayers:
Devotees chant the sacred Om Namah Shivaya mantra and take part in special rituals held throughout the night.
2. Bhasmasura Mythological Reenactment:
Some local traditions include reenacting the legendary battle between Lord Shiva and Bhasmasura, creating a unique spiritual experience.
3. Ganga Aarti:
A special aarti is held on the banks of the nearby rivers, where devotees offer flowers, and light lamps and sing praises of Lord Shiva.
Things to Do and See Around Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
While the temple is the central attraction, Bhimashankar is also famous for its natural beauty, offering visitors a variety of experiences:
1. Trekking in Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary:
The temple is located within the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to diverse flora and fauna. If you’re a nature lover, consider taking a trek through the sanctuary, where you might spot Indian giant squirrels, peacocks and other wildlife species.
2. Bhimashankar Waterfalls:
A short distance from the temple, the Bhimashankar Waterfalls provide a serene backdrop to your spiritual journey. The scenic beauty is heightened during the monsoon season when the falls are at their most picturesque.
3. Sunset and Sunrise Views:
The hill station offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Watching the sunrise or sunset from the Bhimashankar temple complex is a breathtaking experience.
Travel Tips to Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
1. Best Time to Visit:
The temple is open throughout the year, but the most favourable time to visit is during Maha Shivratri, when the temple and the town come alive with vibrant celebrations. The cooler months of winter (October to February) are also ideal for exploring the area.
2. Travel and Accessibility:
Bhimashankar is around 110 kilometres from Pune and can be easily accessed by road. The nearest railway station is Wakad and the nearest airport is in Pune. For a more adventurous experience, you can also trek to the temple from Khadakwasla, though it’s a challenging route best suited for experienced trekkers.
3. Accommodations:
There are several guesthouses and hotels in Bhimashankar for pilgrims, but they tend to fill up quickly during the festival season. Booking in advance is recommended.
Importance of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga in today’s world
Even hundreds of thousands of years later, the Bhimshankar Jyotirlinga is considered to be one of the important religious sites in Sanatani culture. It is also one of the Dwadash(12) Jyotirlingas in India. These Jyotirlingas which we will read more about later in this article are the manifestation of Lord Shiva.
Even today, devotees of Lord Shiva from across the globe visit here to seek blessings. This Jyotirlinga is known by the name of Shiva’s devotee Bhima(Tripurasura), and it is said that Lord Shiva never returns his devotees empty-handed. A lot of devotees visit this temple to meditate and do penances. A vibrant energy can be felt inside this temple, especially in the Sanctum Sanctorum.
How to reach Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga?
Located almost 100km from the beautiful city of Pune, it is well-connected by smooth and ditch-free roads. You can find a bus, or taxi or even book a cab from anywhere in Pune.
Pune is one of the most amazing cities in India situated in the state of Maharashtra. It is well connected by rail, road and air routes. You can reach Pune by any of the above means i.e. by a bus or a car or train and even by a flight. You can easily find cabs, taxis and other transport options from the Pune Bus Stand, Pune Railway Station or the Pune Airport. The distance from all of these locations in Pune to the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is approx 100km. Here are some important points to remember while planning to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga via Pune.
Key Information:
- Travel Time by Bus from Pune: 4hrs – ₹200
- Travel Time by Car from Pune: 4hrs – ₹2500
Temple Timings:
Darshan Timings: 5 am to 8 pm
Some of the best places to stay near Bhimshankar Jyotirlinga:
Some of the best places to explore nearby:
- Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Bhimashankar Trek
- Hanuman Lake
- Ahupe Waterfalls
Timings and Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is from August to February. Within these months, the beauty of the Bhima River reaches its peak. The forest sees new flora lives coming after the rainy season which colour the entire forest green.
General tips for visitors:
- As Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the most sacred sites in Hindu culture, remember to wear clothes that can cover your knees and shoulders.
- Respect the local community.
- Wear traditional clothes if possible, it not only looks great but will also enhance your mood.
- If you are a trekking enthusiast then carry a pair of trekking shoes as well.
- Wear comfortable clothes while visiting Bhimashankar.
- Nearby is the wildlife sanctuary so try not to do trekking alone after sunset.
- Carry a raincoat with you as Bhimshankar sees rain throughout the year.
Takeaways:
In the state of Maharashtra, nearly 100km from Pune, the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga stands as a testament to devotion and faith. Considering the dedication and faithfulness of the Asura, Lord Shiva named it Bhimashankar. As we moved ahead in this article, we got to know about the stories of the past. Visiting such an epitome of deference and fidelity will definitely bring good charm to one’s life. Through this post now we all know exactly how to reach here and how much time and money we need to spend on it. We also covered the temple timings and the best places to visit nearby. Visitors can explore the nearby areas which will enhance their trip experience. This post stands out by providing the best time to visit and a list of general tips for visitors.
I hope, this post has covered each and everything that you expected and need to know about visiting Bhimashanka Jyotirlinga. Do comment below if you have anything to say to us. You can also ask us just anything related to travelling. Let us know your experiences at Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga in the comment section below. If you like our posts please subscribe to our weekly newsletter and follow me on Instagram. We also have this YouTube channel Travelling Legend where we upload travel-related videos regularly. Hope to see you soon in the next article. Till then, keep travelling and stay safe🧡.
FAQs =》
Q1. When is the best time to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga?
Ans. The best time to visit Bhimashankar is during Maha Shivratri (usually in February or March), as it is a time of grand celebrations. However, the months from October to February are also ideal for visiting due to the pleasant weather. Avoid visiting during the monsoon (June to September) due to heavy rainfall and slippery roads.
Q2. Are there accommodation options available near Bhimashankar?
Ans. Yes, several guesthouses and hotels in Bhimashankar cater to pilgrims, especially during the festival season.
Q3. What is the dress code for visiting Bhimashankar?
Ans. Devotees visiting the Bhimashankar temple are expected to wear modest clothing. Women should avoid wearing revealing attire, and men typically wear traditional Indian clothes or simple clothing like pants and shirts.
Q4. Is there an entry fee to visit the Bhimashankar temple?
Ans. There is no entry fee to visit the Bhimashankar temple. However, donations are welcome and can be made to the temple trust for the maintenance and upkeep of the temple and its surroundings.
Q5. What is the timing of the Bhimashankar temple?
Ans. The temple is generally open from 05:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day. On special occasions like Maha Shivratri, the temple may remain open longer to accommodate the influx of devotees.
Q6. Can I trek to Bhimashankar?
Ans. Yes, there is a popular trekking route that leads to the Bhimashankar temple from Khadakwasla, offering trekkers a chance to experience the natural beauty and serene environment. The trek is moderate to difficult, so it’s best suited for experienced trekkers.
