Exploring Bhimashankar: A Family Friendly 3-Day Itinerary

Monday, August 21: Arrival in Bhimashankar

Welcome to Bhimashankar! Start your journey by checking into your hotel and settling in. In the morning, visit the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the twelve revered Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the exquisite architecture and soak in the divine atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk through Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of flora and fauna. The evening can be spent enjoying a serene boat ride on the Bhimashankar Dam, surrounded by lush greenery.

• Bhimashankar Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Bhimashankar Dam: Estimated cost - INR 100 per boat ride, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Sagar which offers a variety of freshly baked goods and delicious South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, try out Shri Krishna Super Thali, a popular vegetarian restaurant serving a delectable thali with a variety of authentic Maharashtrian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at Hill View Restaurant which offers a stunning view of the Bhimashankar hills along with a menu featuring a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.

Tuesday, August 22: Trekking and Adventure

Embark on an exciting day of adventure and exploration. Start your day early with a trek to Hanuman Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by dense forests. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is suitable for families with moderate fitness levels. In the afternoon, head to Nagphani, also known as the Duke's Nose, a cliff with stunning panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountain range. You can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. In the evening, visit the Gupt Bhimashankar caves, an underground network of ancient caves with unique rock formations.

• Trek to Hanuman Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Nagphani (Duke's Nose): Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Gupt Bhimashankar Caves: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, August 23: Village Exploration and Wildlife Safari

Spend your last day in Bhimashankar immersing in the local culture and wildlife. Start with a visit to Khandas Village, a quaint village known for its traditional way of life. Interact with the locals, learn about their customs, and indulge in local cuisine. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating wildlife safari in Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep an eye out for animals like the Indian giant squirrel, wild boar, and various bird species. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful sunset at Bhimashankar Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills.

• Khandas Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Wildlife Safari: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Bhimashankar Viewpoint: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Nagphani trek during the monsoon season when the surrounding landscapes are adorned with lush greenery and waterfalls. Another hidden gem is the Bhorgiri village, located near Bhimashankar, where you can witness the traditional lifestyle of the locals and enjoy mesmerizing views of the Sahyadri mountain range. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like Kanda Bhaji (onion fritters) and Vada Pav (spicy potato burger), which are popular among the locals and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds!

Check out the best hotel and flight deals for your Bhimashankar trip here.