Situated on a high peak, surrounded by thick dense forests, is a major pilgrim centre called Bhimashankar. The place has got its name because of the origin of Bhima, a prominent river in Maharashtra. Near the origin of the river, Bhimashankar houses one of the five 'Jyotirlinga' of Maharashtra. The annual Mahashivaratri fair is held in Bhimashankar in February-March and attracts upto 25,000 pilgrims.

Countless devotees from all over Maharashtra and from places outside the state, flock near the temple during 'Tripuri Poornima'. Bhimashankar is more popular as a tourist place than a religious one due to its extravagant beauty and breathtaking scenery. This place is situated at a height of approximately 3250 feet resulting in chilly weather. Being at the edge of the mountain range, the place gives a clear view of the surrounding areas. The thick and dense forests are a major attraction for trekkers and mountaineers as well as tourists.

The 'Shani temple' is located inside the main complex of the temple of Bhimashankar. Between the two pillars outside the 'Shani' temple, one comes across an ancient huge Portuguese bell. Behind the temple, there is a small pathway that leads us to the banks of a river. The dense forest of the Bhimashankar Wild Life Sanctuary, plays abode to most of the flora and fauna. To name a few, there are boars, sambars, hyenas, porcupines and even the leopards. The plant life includes anything and everything from mangoes to spices.

After a short climb to the west of the temple, one comes across a peak termed the 'Nagfani'. The height of all these peaks is approximately 2750 feet above sea level. The peaks reveal a beautiful picture of all the forts and hill-stations like Matheran and even small lakes.

Two routes lead to Bhimashankar from Khandas that meet at a plateau. The Koli village is situated on the plateau. The route to Bhimashankar begins from this village. One comes across the Pune-Bhimashankar road nearby. The first route is the tar route of a distance of 2 kilometres. This route though longer, is less difficult than the second one. The second route is shorter but much steeper and climbs straight out to Koli village.

This place is at a distance of 265 kilometres from Mumbai via Pune by road. The nearest airport is the Pune Airport which is at a distance of 95 kilometres from Bhimashankar. The nearest rail route is from Pune too.

Bhimashankar is situated around 260 kms and 7 hours drive from Mumbai. You could drive upto Bhivandi along Mumbai-Agra (Highway No.3), and then via Kalyan to Murbad. You have to take the road that goes to Wada to reach Bhimashankar.

The route takes you through the fast moving highway traffic where you need to be extra careful while driving. The forest road has lesser traffic and driving along this road is an experience to cherish.

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