Pune Sri Bhimashankar (Jyotirlinga) Temple, Maharashtra

Address

Pune Sri Bhimashankar Temple, Sahyadri Hills, Pune ,Bhimashankar, Maharashtra 410509

Deity

Bhimashankar (Shiva)

Introduction

• Location: 50 km from Khed Taluka, near Pune, Maharashtra, India; situated in the Sahyadri Mountains, 127 km from Shivajinagar (Pune).
• Significance: Bhimashankar is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is also the source of the Bhima River, which flows southeast and merges with the Krishna River.
• Other Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra: Trimbakeshwar (near Nashik) and Grishneshwar.

Puranic Significance

• Tripurasura: The demon Tripurasura, drunk with power, harassed the three worlds—Swarg (Heaven), Narak (Hell), and Patal (Netherworld). Lord Shiva assumed a colossal form to destroy him. After a fierce battle, Shiva killed Tripurasura and restored peace.
• Shiva’s Rest: After the battle, Shiva settled on the Sahyadri Mountains to rest. As he sweat profusely, the sweat formed streams that collected in a pond, eventually becoming the Bhima River.
• Lord Shiva’s Promise: Devotees prayed to Shiva, asking him to reside there as a Jyotirlinga to protect the good. Shiva listened and made the area his eternal home.
• Demon Bhima: The temple is also linked to the demon Bhima, whose story is tied to his heritage from Kumbhakarna (Ravana’s brother) and Karkati.

Beliefs

• Nature and Beauty: Bhimashankar is set in a serene, forested area, making it a peaceful pilgrimage site. The dense forests are home to rare flora and fauna, and the surrounding Sahyadri Mountains offer stunning views. The Bhima River originates here.
• Spiritual Experience: Bhimashankar is regarded as a “pilgrim’s paradise,” with its tranquil environment and majestic mountains. It is also a popular spot for trekkers and travelers.

Special Features

• Jyotirlinga Legend: The Jyotirlinga is a fiery column of light where Lord Shiva manifested to resolve the dispute between Brahma and Vishnu over supremacy. Brahma lied about finding the end of the light, while Vishnu accepted defeat. As a result, Shiva cursed Brahma and declared that Vishnu would be worshipped forever.
• 64 Forms of Shiva: There are 64 forms of Shiva, though not to be confused with the twelve Jyotirlingas, which represent different manifestations of Shiva.

Festivals

• Shivaratri: A major festival, during which large crowds gather at the temple. Devotees come to take Darshan (blessed sight) of Lord Bhimashankar.

Century/Period/Age

2000 years

Managed By

Bhim sankar trustee

Nearest Bus Station

Bhimashankar

Nearest Railway Station

Pune

Nearest Airport

Pune

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