Introduction

Tucked away in the majestic Western Ghats, the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a thriving expanse of lush green forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Spread over 131 square kilometers across Pune, Thane, and Raigad districts, and located just 6.3 km from Eshi, this sanctuary is a unique blend of biodiversity and spirituality. Established in 1984, it was created primarily to protect the endangered Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru), which is also the state animal of Maharashtra.

At an altitude of around 3,250 feet, the sanctuary offers misty landscapes, evergreen canopies, and a rich ecosystem that makes it a paradise for trekkers, wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and pilgrims alike.

Ecological and Wildlife Importance

Flora

• The sanctuary falls under the tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests ecozone.

• Dense evergreen and semi-evergreen forests dominate, with trees like mango, jamun, hirda, bamboo, and medicinal plants.

• During monsoon, the sanctuary transforms into a vibrant tapestry of green moss, lichens, and blooming wildflowers.

Fauna

• Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru) – the flagship species, often spotted gliding between treetops.

• Mammals: Leopards, wild boars, barking deer, sambar, langurs, and rhesus macaques.

• Birds: Malabar grey hornbill, quails, jungle fowl, and a variety of migratory birds.

• Reptiles and Amphibians: Snakes, monitor lizards, and rare frogs unique to the Western Ghats.

With its rich biodiversity, the sanctuary is recognized as part of the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bhimashankar Temple – A Sacred Core

At the heart of the sanctuary lies the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims from across India visit the shrine, combining their spiritual journey with the natural beauty of the forests. The temple’s presence within the sanctuary makes Bhimashankar a rare destination where religion and ecology harmoniously coexist.

Trekking and Nature Trails

The sanctuary is also a hotspot for adventure and eco-tourism. Popular trekking routes include:

• Ganesh Ghat Route: A scenic and moderately challenging trek with panoramic views.

• Siddhi Ghat Route: A tougher route, preferred by experienced trekkers, offering dense forest paths and hidden waterfalls.

• Nagphani Point (Duke’s Nose): A cliff resembling a serpent’s hood, offering breathtaking views of the valleys below.

• Gupt Bhimashankar Trail: Leads to a cave temple and hidden waterfall, steeped in local legends.

For birdwatchers and photographers, the sanctuary’s trails provide ample opportunities to spot exotic species and capture mist-laden landscapes.

Best Time to Visit

• Monsoon (June–September): Forests come alive with greenery, streams, and waterfalls. However, trekking trails can be slippery.

• Winter (October–February): Cool, pleasant weather makes it the best season for trekking, temple visits, and wildlife spotting.

• Summer (March–May): Hot and humid; wildlife sightings are rare, not ideal for travel.

How to Reach

• By Road:

  • From Pune: ~110 km (3.5–4 hours drive).

  • From Mumbai: ~220 km (6–7 hours drive).

  • From Nashik: ~200 km.

• By Rail: Pune Junction is the nearest major railway station (~111 km away).

• By Air: Pune International Airport (~105 km) is the closest.

State transport buses and private cabs connect Pune and Mumbai to Bhimashankar.

Entry and Timings

• Entry Fee: ₹20–30 per person (approx., varies by season).

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (forest trails); temple remains open longer for darshan.

• Guides: Local guides are available for treks and nature walks.

Accommodation Options

• MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism) Guest Houses: Basic yet comfortable stay near the temple.

• Forest Rest Houses: Managed by the Forest Department; advance booking required.

• Private Hotels and Resorts: Available in nearby towns like Manchar and Ghodegaon.

• Pilgrim Dharamshalas: Affordable stays for devotees near Bhimashankar Temple.

Travel Tips

• Carry rain gear during monsoon and warm clothing during winter.

• Wear trekking shoes with good grip.

• Avoid littering inside the sanctuary; it is an eco-sensitive zone.

• Respect wildlife — do not feed or disturb animals.

• Carry enough cash, as ATMs may not be available nearby.

• Try local Maharashtrian food — pithla-bhakri, zunka-bhakri, and modaks are popular.

Nearby Attractions

1. Shivneri Fort (65 km) – Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

2. Lenyadri Caves (30 km) – Ancient Buddhist caves, also an Ashtavinayak Ganesha temple.

3. Ozar (36 km) – Famous for the Vigneshwara Ashtavinayak temple.

4. Malshej Ghat (60 km) – Picturesque mountain pass with waterfalls and viewpoints.

Conclusion

The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a rare destination where wilderness meets divinity. From the call of the Malabar hornbill echoing through dense forests, to the sacred chants resonating in the Bhimashankar Temple, every moment here is an experience of balance between nature and spirituality.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, trekker, birdwatcher, or a pilgrim, Bhimashankar offers a journey of discovery, serenity, and reverence. Truly, it is one of Maharashtra’s crown jewels — a sanctuary not just for animals, but also for the human spirit.