Bhimashankar Temple is a famous Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is located in the Bhimashankar Reserve Forest near Pune, Maharashtra. The temple stands at an altitude of about 3,500 feet, surrounded by lush green hills of the Sahyadri range.
Bhimashankar is also the origin of the holy River Bhima. Devotees believe that taking a holy dip in this river washes away sins and brings spiritual purification.
Mythological Story of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
According to legends from the Shiva Purana and Matsya Purana, a powerful demon named Tripurasura lived in the dense forests of Bhimashankar. After intense penance, he received a boon of immortality from Lord Brahma, with a condition that he must protect people. However, Tripurasura misused his powers and started troubling sages, devotees, and even the Gods.
The demon ordered everyone to worship him instead of Lord Shiva. A devoted sage named Kamarupeshwar refused and continued worshipping the Shiva Lingam. Enraged, Tripurasura tried to destroy the Lingam. At that moment, Lord Shiva appeared, and a fierce battle began.
Lord Shiva prayed to Goddess Parvati, and together they took the form of Ardha-Narya-Nateshwar. In this divine form, they destroyed Tripurasura. The victory day is celebrated as Tripurasura Purnima. On the request of Gods and sages, Lord Shiva stayed here in the form of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.
Legend of Tripura Destruction
Another legend speaks of three demon brothers—Vidyunmali, Tarakaksha, and Viryavana—known as Tripurasura. They received a boon that only a single divine arrow could destroy their three flying cities (Tripura).
Lord Shiva prepared a divine chariot:
- Earth became the chariot
- Sun and Moon became the wheels
- Lord Brahma became the charioteer
- Mount Meru became the bow
- Vasuki the serpent became the bowstring
- Lord Vishnu became the arrow
When the three cities aligned, Lord Shiva destroyed them with one arrow. Later, he rested here as the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.
Important Facts About Bhimashankar Temple
- Located in Bhorgiri village, Maharashtra
- Surrounded by Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Experiences heavy monsoon rainfall, making it very scenic
- Temple lies on the banks of River Bhima, which joins the Krishna River
- The area is perfect for trekking, hiking, and nature lovers
- Home to rare wildlife like the Malabar Giant Squirrel (Shekaru)
- Rich in rare birds such as Malabar Pied Hornbill and Black Eagle
- Temple has Dashavatar carvings of Lord Vishnu, a unique feature
- Renovated by Peshwas, with donations from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
- Shrines of Lord Shani, Dakini, and Shakini are inside the temple complex
- Mokshakund Tirtha, linked to Sage Kaushika, is located behind the temple
Spiritual and Natural Beauty
Bhimashankar is not only a sacred place but also a natural paradise. Dense forests, ancient caves, sacred groves, and fireflies before monsoon make it a magical destination. The temple beautifully blends devotion, mythology, and nature.