Pune To Bhimashankar One Day Trip

Day 1: Pune – Bhimashankar – PuneBhimashankar is about 110 km from Pune, a 3 to 3.5 hour drive via Manchar and Ghodegaon. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and sits inside a forest sanctuary in the Sahyadri hills, which makes it an easy and rewarding day trip. 5:00 AM: Depart from Pune Take the Pune-Nashik highway towards Manchar. The early start helps you beat the crowds and the traffic. 7:00 AM: Breakfast stop near Manchar Enjoy chai and a hot Maharashtrian breakfast at a roadside restaurant before the hill section begins. 8:30 AM: Arrive at Bhimashankar Park at the base and freshen up. The temple is reached by around 200 to 250 steps. A doli (palanquin) is available for senior citizens. 9:00 AM: Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Darshan This ancient Nagara-style temple is the source of the Bhima river. Darshan takes 1 to 2 hours on regular days, and longer on Mondays and weekends. 11:00 AM: Kamalaja Mata Temple and Sakshi Vinayak Visit the Kamalaja Mata temple and the Sakshi Vinayak shrine near the main complex. 11:30 AM: Gupt Bhimashankar and Hanuman Lake Walk to Gupt Bhimashankar, where the Bhima river is believed to appear, and to the peaceful Hanuman Lake. 12:30 PM: Nagphani Point A short trek leads to a scenic viewpoint over the valley, best on clear days and in the post-monsoon season. Sightings of the Shekru (Indian giant squirrel), Maharashtra’s state animal, are possible in the sanctuary. 1:30 PM: Lunch Have a simple veg meal at the restaurants and food stalls near the temple. 2:30 PM: Return to Pune Drive back with a tea break on the way. You should reach Pune around 6:30 to 7:00 PM. Travel Tips Mondays, weekends, and the Shravan month are very crowded, so choose a weekday if you can. Monsoon (July to September) is lush and beautiful, but the steps and trails are slippery. Wear grip-friendly footwear. Carry a light rain jacket, water, and snacks. The Nagphani trek is moderate, so skip it if you are travelling with young children or elders. Dress modestly and keep valuables to a minimum. Why Choose This Trip? This trip combines a sacred Jyotirlinga darshan with forest scenery and cool hill air, all in one comfortable day. A private cab means no changes of vehicle and a flexible pace for families, seniors, and friends. For a comfortable Pune to Bhimashankar cab with an experienced driver, book with Wonder India Cab Trip Zone.