Getting Around Within Bhimashankar

Bhimashankar is a compact pilgrimage town set in the Sahyadri hills. There is no motorised public transport within the town itself — the entire area around the temple is accessible only on foot. Here is everything you need to know about getting around once you arrive.

From the Parking Area / Bus Stand to the Temple

Whether you arrive by private vehicle, shared jeep, or MSRTC bus, you will need to walk the final stretch to the temple. The main route from the bus stand and parking area to the temple entrance involves a climb of approximately 200–250 stone steps, taking 15–25 minutes depending on your pace. The steps are wide, well-maintained, and lined with small stalls selling flowers, coconuts, and prasad items.

• Distance from main parking to temple: Approximately 500–700 metres on foot (includes the stone steps).
• Walking time: 15–25 minutes at a comfortable pace.
• The path: Fairly shaded by forest cover. The incline is steady — not steep enough to be difficult for a reasonably healthy adult, but noticeable for elderly visitors or those with knee issues.

Doli (Palanquin) Service for Elderly & Disabled Pilgrims

For pilgrims who cannot climb the steps due to age, disability, or health conditions, doli services (palanquins carried by 2–4 porters) are available near the base of the main steps. The carriers are local residents who have been providing this service for generations and are familiar with the terrain.

Parking at Bhimashankar

Shared Jeeps from Ghodegaon

If you arrive at Ghodegaon by bus (the nearest major stop on the MSRTC route from Pune), you can find shared jeeps that ply between Ghodegaon and Bhimashankar. These jeeps carry 6–10 passengers and run throughout the day. The jeep ride takes approximately 45–60 minutes and covers the final winding 45 km ghat road up to Bhimashankar.

Within the Temple Complex

The Bhimashankar temple complex itself is compact. All the main shrines — the Jyotirlinga sanctum, Kamalaja Mata Mandir, Moksha Kund, and Hanuman Lake — are within walking distance of each other, typically 2–5 minutes on foot. No vehicles are permitted within the complex. Footwear must be removed and deposited at the stalls outside the main entrance gate.

Tips for a Comfortable Visit

• Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear that is easy to remove at the temple entrance. Avoid sandals with many buckles.
• In the monsoon (June–September), the steps can be slippery. Walk slowly and use the handrails.
• Small battery-operated lights or torches are useful if you attend the pre-dawn Kakad Aarti, as the path to the temple in the early morning is not always well-lit.
• Cloak rooms for bags and valuables are available near the main temple entrance. Leave heavy bags there before the climb.