Bhimashankar Temple is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of India. It sits deep in the peaceful Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra. Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit this Shiva temple in Maharashtra for darshan and blessings.
About Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is located in Khed taluka, Pune district, Maharashtra. The main deity here is a Swayambhu Shivlinga, believed to have appeared on its own naturally.
The sacred Bhima River origin point is located very close to this temple. This makes it one of the most powerful Maharashtra pilgrimage destinations in all of India.
History and Architecture of Bhimashankar Temple
The temple dates back to the 13th century. Major renovations were carried out under Nana Phadnavis Maratha during the Maratha Empire era.
The structure follows the Nagara architecture temple style, built with strong dark stone. It blends beautifully with the dense forests of the Sahyadri hills temple region.
Bhimashankar Temple Darshan Timings
What time does Bhimashankar Temple open in the morning? The temple opens daily at 4:30 AM. Morning darshan runs from 4:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
Evening darshan is available from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The temple’s closing time is 9:30 PM every night.
Darshan Timings vs Aarti & Pooja Schedule — Comparison Table
| Darshan Session | Timing | Aarti / Ritual | Timing |
| Temple Opens | 4:30 AM | Kakad Aarti | 4:30 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 4:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Nijaroop Darshan | 5:00 AM |
| Afternoon (Limited) | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Morning Abhishek | 5:30 AM onwards |
| Evening Darshan | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Naivedya Ritual | 12:00 PM |
| Temple Closes | 9:00 PM – 9:30 PM | Madhyan Aarti | 3:00 PM |
| — | — | Evening Aarti | 7:30 PM |
| — | — | Shringar Darshan | 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM |
Aarti, Pooja, and Seva Timings at Bhimashankar Temple
Kakad Aarti Shiva begins at 4:30 AM every single morning. Nijaroop Darshan takes place at 5:00 AM for early devotees.
The Naivedya ritual is performed at 12:00 PM daily without exception. Madhyan Aarti at 3:00 PM briefly closes darshan, and Shringar Darshan beautifully resumes at 4:00 PM.
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VIP Darshan Pass Booking Online at Bhimashankar Temple
Is there an online booking for the Bhimashankar darshan? Yes, the temple offers VIP pass booking online.
This helps devotees skip long queues during Mahashivratri 2026 and Shravan month darshan. The VIP pass cost is nominal, and a booking confirmation is sent instantly by SMS or email.
How to Book Bhimashankar Temple VIP Darshan Pass Online
How do I book a VIP darshan pass for Bhimashankar? Follow these simple steps carefully.
- Visit the official Bhimashankar Temple website first.
- Click on the Special Darshan or Puja registration option.
- Select the VIP Darshan Pass from the available services.
- Enter your name and valid ID proof details correctly.
- Complete payment using any online payment method.
- Receive booking confirmation via SMS or email instantly.
- Carry your ID and confirmation print on the day of darshan.
The temple trust contact number and full booking details are available on the official website. Parking availability near the temple is very limited, so arrive early.
Prasad details and offering options can also be checked during the booking process. Advance booking is strongly advised on all peak days.
Best Time to Visit Bhimashankar Temple
What is the best time to visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga? November to February is the ideal season for a visit.
The weather is cool, the roads are clear, and crowds stay manageable. Can I visit Bhimashankar during the monsoon? Yes, but those roads become slippery, foggy, and risky during heavy rain.
How to Reach Bhimashankar Temple
How far is Bhimashankar Temple from Pune? The temple is about 110 to 125 km from Pune city. You can reach by air, train, or road comfortably.
How long does it take to reach Bhimashankar from Pune by road? It takes roughly 3 to 4 hours by car on the scenic ghat route.
By Air
The nearest airport to Bhimashankar is Pune International Airport. From the airport, hire a taxi for the 110 km journey to the temple.
Pre-booked cabs offer the most comfort and convenience. No direct flight connectivity exists to Bhimashankar itself.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Bhimashankar is Pune Railway Station. It is well-connected to Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad by express trains.
From Pune station, take a state bus or hire a private taxi. The journey from the station takes around 3 hours by road.
By Road
Regular buses run from Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik to Bhimashankar daily. Private taxis and self-drive cars are very popular among pilgrims.
The route passes through beautiful Sahyadri hills ghat roads with scenic views. Drive carefully on narrow stretches, especially during the monsoon season.
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Nearby Attractions Around Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the rare Shekru giant squirrel, the state animal of Maharashtra. Naneghat trekking offers stunning panoramic views of the entire Sahyadri mountain range.
The Bhima River’s origin point near the temple is peaceful and spiritually very significant. Manchar town is the nearest stop for food, fuel, and basic rest facilities.
Do’s and Don’ts for Devotees Visiting Bhimashankar Temple
Every devotee must follow basic temple rules without exception. Modest dress code clothing is required for Jyotirlinga darshan at all times.
Plastic use and littering are strictly prohibited inside the temple complex. Smoking, alcohol, and loud behavior are not tolerated on the Pune district temple premises at all.
Do’s
- Arrive early for the peaceful temple abhishek pooja and darshan.
- Carry cash for prasad, details purchases, and small offerings.
- Book the VIP Darshan Pass well in advance on peak days.
- Follow the forest department and Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary guidelines strictly.
- Wear modest dress code clothing and proper footwear for ghat walking.
- Carry drinking water and basic medicines for the hill journey.
Don’ts
- Do not litter or use plastic bags near the temple or forest area.
- Do not enter restricted zones inside Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Do not smoke or consume alcohol anywhere on temple premises.
- Avoid loud noise, music, or any disruptive behavior during darshan hours.
Important Tips for a Smooth Bhimashankar Darshan
Reach the temple before Kakad Aarti Shiva at 4:30 AM for the most peaceful experience. Carry sufficient cash as ATMs near the temple are very limited.
Confirm darshan timings and road conditions before you start your travel. Respect all wildlife and natural surroundings inside the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary during your entire visit.
Personal Opinion and Recommendation
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is, in my personal view, one of the most spiritually powerful temples in all of India. Booking a VIP darshan pass in advance genuinely makes the visit far more stress-free and comfortable. This sacred Maharashtra pilgrimage site beautifully combines divine energy with breathtaking natural beauty that stays with you forever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What time does Bhimashankar Temple open in the morning?
The temple opens daily at 4:30 AM for Kakad Aarti Shiva and morning darshan. Devotees can enter from this time every single day of the year.
How do I book a VIP darshan pass for Bhimashankar?
Visit the official Bhimashankar Temple website and register for Special Darshan. Complete the online booking steps and pay online to confirm your VIP pass instantly.
Is Bhimashankar Temple open on Monday?
Yes, the temple is open every Monday without fail. Crowds are significantly higher on Mondays and during the Shravan month darshan, so booking early is strongly advised.
What is special about the Bhimashankar Temple?
It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and houses a Swayambhu Shivlinga that appeared naturally. The Bhima River origin point and the beautifully carved Nandi statue add deep spiritual significance.
Which Jyotirlinga is in the Pune district?
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, located in Khed taluka, Pune district, is a sacred Jyotirlinga found in Pune district, Maharashtra.
Conclusion
Bhimashankar Temple is a truly sacred destination for every devotee of Lord Shiva across India. Knowing the darshan timings, aarti schedule, and VIP pass booking process makes your visit smooth and fulfilling. Plan your trip between November and February for the best weather and most comfortable experience. Your Maharashtra pilgrimage to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga in 2026 will be a journey you will truly never forget.
Alich, a skilled content writer with 3+ years of experience, known for creating clear guides and 1000+ published articles across multiple niches.
