PILGRIMAGE
IN INDIA
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga:- Bhimashankar,
the origin of
Bhima river, is located on a high peak, surrounded by thick
dense forests. It is one of the major pilgrim center which
is
the abode for one of the five 'Jyotirlinga' of
Maharashtra.
Innumerable devotees flock near the temple during 'Tripuri
Poornima'. The breathtaking scenic beauty &
the picture
perfect setting of Bhimashankar has made it
a hit tourist
center, especially famous for trekking,
sight seeing &
mountaineering. Bhimashankar temple houses
the main
'Shani temple'. One of the two main pillars outside the 'Shani'
temple is actually an ancient huge
Portuguese bell. The
impact of Nagara style can be well make out. Dating back to
mid 18th century, the shikhara was built by Nana Phadnavis. The sanctum
is located at the lower level. The shrine
Bhimashankaram, though dates back to the 13th century. Bhimashankar temple is
well surrounded with Kamalaja shrine & Mokshakund thirtha.
As per the ritual, at least three worship services are offered on a daily
basis. Mahashivratri is the most auspicious day here.Lord Shiva's killing of
the demon Tripurasura is the main legend associated
with the temple. It even states that Shiva took abode on the Sahyadri
hills in the form of a Bhima upon the request of the Gods,
on the crest of the Sahyadri hills. The sweat of Shiva
poured after the battle ultimately led to the origin of Bhimarathi
river.
Getting there and Around
By Air - The nearest
airport is the Pune Airport which is at a distance of 95 kilometres from Bhimashankar.
By Rail - The nearest
Railhead is the Pune which is at a distance of 95 kilometres from Bhimashankar.
By Road - Bhimashankar
is situated around 260 kms from Mumbai via Pune.From Pune You have to take
the road that goes to Wada to reach Bhimashankar.
