Bhimashankar Temple: A Guide to the Temple in Maharashtra, India

Location and History

The Bhimashankar temple is located in the village of Bhorgiri, in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is about 125 km from the city of Pune and is in the Ghat area of the Sahyadri Mountains. It is known as the source of the Bhima river.

 The temple is believed to have been constructed in the 13th century and is credited to the skilled craftsmanship of Vishwakarma sculptors. In the 18th century, Maratha Empire statesman Nana Phadnavis added structures such as the shikhara (spires) to the temple. 

The Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is also said to have made contributions to the temple through endowments.

Special Features

The Bhimashankar Temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures on the pillars and doorframes, depicting scenes from mythology. Inside the temple, there is a shrine dedicated to Lord Shaneeshwara and a statue of Lord Shiva’s mount, Nandi, at the entrance. The temple’s sanctum is said to house a swayambhu linga, a linga that originated on its own.

Legend and Story

There are different legends surrounding the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. One legend states that a demon named Tripurasura performed penance in the Bhimashankar jungle to gain immortality from Lord Shiva but later began to harass humans and gods. 

Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati then appeared as Ardhanari Nateshwara and killed the demon, restoring peace. Another legend tells of Bhima, a demon who vowed vengeance on Lord Vishnu for killing his father and terrorised the world with his immense strength.Lord Shiva appeared and reduced Bhima to ashes, and the spot where this occurred is believed to be the location of the temple’s Shivalinga.

Interesting Facts

• Bhimashankar has been declared a wildlife sanctuary; it is a reserved forest area, and as it is part of the Western Ghats, it is rich in flora and fauna.
• The state animal of Maharashtra, the Malabar giant squirrel, is a rare animal found here.
• While Bhimashankar is accessible round the year, at 3,500 feet above sea level, it would be best to visit it post-monsoon as it experiences heavy showers in the monsoon period. You can also visit it in the winter months, so August to February is a good time for a visit. It would be ideal to visit this divine destination during Mahashivratri.