Morning: Start your day early by visiting the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread over an area of 130 sq km, the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. You can go on a guided trek or take a safari to explore the sanctuary and spot animals like barking deer, wild boar, and Indian giant squirrel. The sanctuary also has a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Afternoon: Head to the Hanuman Lake, a picturesque water body located near the Bhimashankar Temple. You can enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake or take a boat ride to explore the tranquil surroundings.
Evening: End your day with a visit to the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva took the form of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. The temple's architecture is a blend of ancient and modern styles, and the atmosphere is serene and peaceful.
Morning: Start your day by visiting Nagphani Point, also known as the Duke's Nose. The point offers a panoramic view of the Sahyadri range and is named after the Duke of Wellington, who had a nose that resembled the cliff. The trek to the point is relatively easy and takes around 30 minutes, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
Afternoon: Visit Gupt Bhimashankar, a cave temple located near the Bhimashankar Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the place where he meditated before taking the form of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. The temple is located inside a cave and can only be accessed by climbing down a series of steps. The atmosphere inside the cave is mystical and serene.
Evening: End your day by exploring the Bhimashankar village, which is located near the temple. The village has a rustic charm, and you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. You can also shop for souvenirs and handicrafts made by the locals.
If you have some extra time, you can visit the Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, which is located around 20 km from Bhimashankar. The dam is a popular picnic spot and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. You can also explore the nearby villages and learn about their culture and traditions.
Another popular side trip is to the nearby Malshej Ghat, which is located around 70 km from Bhimashankar. The ghat is known for its lush green hills, picturesque waterfalls, and exotic bird species. You can go on a trek or take a drive to explore the natural beauty of the region.
To maximize your fun, make sure to carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent. You can also try the local cuisine, which includes spicy vegetarian dishes made from local ingredients like bamboos, mushrooms, and colocasia leaves.
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