Jyotirlinga 6 of 12 · Maharashtra
Bhimashankar
भीमाशंकर
Location: Bhimashankar (Pune district), Maharashtra
Swayambhu (self-manifest)Online booking
Darshan timings
04:30–12:00, 12:50–21:30 IST
Average wait
30 mins–1.5 hours
Best season
October–February (avoid monsoon — slippery)
Daily visitors
3,000–6,000 (Sawan Mondays 25k+)
Signature ritual
Madhyaranha Naivedya
Time: 12:00 IST
Significance
6th Jyotirlinga. Surrounded by Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary (Indian giant squirrel reserve).
Legend
Shiva took massive form (Bheema) here to slay demon Tripurasura. Sweat from the battle became Bhima river.
How to reach
Sahyadri ghats 110 km from Pune. Hairpin road; many trek up Khandas route.
Nearest airport: Pune (110 km)
Nearest railway: Pune Junction (PUNE) — 110 km
Where to stay
MTDC Bhimashankar resort; ashram guesthouses at base.
Abhishekam fee
₹501 Rudrabhishek; ₹1,100 Laghu Rudra
VIP darshan
No VIP queue (all egalitarian)
Primary pujas performed here
- Rudrabhishek
- Laghu Rudra
- Mahamrityunjaya
What to offer: Bel patra, wildflowers, panchamrit
Dress code
Traditional preferred; bare feet from outer compound
Photo policy
No phones in sanctum; outdoor mandap OK
Modern access
Online booking via Bhimashankar Devasthan Trust app. Trekker-friendly destination.
Plan online from anywhere
Cannot travel? Book a remote puja with video proof at this Jyotirlinga. Or join the full 12 Jyotirlinga circuit.