Pune to Bhimashankar Trip by Cab: Jyotirlinga Darshan, Route and Monsoon Tips

Bhimashankar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and sits inside a wildlife sanctuary in the Sahyadris, so the trip combines devotion with forest scenery. It is a rewarding day trip from Pune, especially in monsoon and winter.

Quick facts

• Distance from Pune: About 110 km one way
• Drive time: 3 to 3.5 hours each way
• Best time to go: July to February; Shravan Mondays and Mahashivratri are extremely crowded
• Ideal for: Devotees, nature lovers and trekkers

Suggested itinerary

• 5:00 AM: Leave Pune via Manchar and Ghodegaon.
• 8:30 AM: Reach the parking area and walk down the steps to the temple.
• 9:00 AM: Jyotirlinga darshan.
• 11:00 AM: Short walk to nearby viewpoints in the sanctuary (look out for the Indian giant squirrel, locally called Shekru).
• 1:00 PM: Lunch and start return; reach Pune by evening.
• 2-day option: Day 1: Ozar (Vighnahar Ganpati), Lenyadri caves and Shivneri Fort near Junnar. Day 2: Bhimashankar darshan and return.

What a cab package usually includes

• Private AC cab with a verified driver (sedan, Ertiga/Innova or Tempo Traveller – your choice)
• Fuel, tolls, parking and driver allowance
• Pickup and drop at your home, society or hotel in Pune
• Flexible stops for food, photos and washroom breaks

Usually not included:

• Temple/monument entry tickets, boating, rides and activities
• Meals and hotel stay (unless you book a stay package)
• Personal expenses and any extra km or waiting beyond the agreed plan

Practical tips

• The temple involves a flight of steps each way; seniors may prefer the palkhi/doli option available locally.
• Fog and slippery roads in monsoon: drive slowly and avoid late-evening ghat driving.
• Carry a raincoat from July to September and avoid the day during heavy rain alerts.

Book this trip

Tell us your date, number of people and pickup area on the Contact page and we will send a clear, all-inclusive quote. Rates depend on the car type, season and pickup point, so we quote each trip individually – no hidden charges, no surprises at the end.