Bhimashankar Trek Guide
Trek Through Divinity: Explore the Sacred Trails of Bhimashankar Guide
The Bhimashankar Trek is a popular pilgrimage and adventure route through the dense forests surrounding the Bhimashankar temple. This trek offers a unique blend of spiritual experience and natural beauty, attracting both devotees and adventure seekers. The trails wind through lush greenery, across streams, and past cascading waterfalls, providing a refreshing and challenging experience. The trek's history is deeply connected to the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple, one of the twelve most sacred Shiva temples in India. Pilgrims have traversed these trails for centuries to reach the temple, seeking blessings and spiritual solace. The trails themselves have evolved over time, with some sections being ancient pathways used by locals and pilgrims alike. The surrounding forests have also played a significant role in the region's history, providing resources and shelter to various communities. The primary activity is, of course, trekking! There are several routes available, ranging in difficulty from moderate to challenging. Popular routes include the Ganesh Ghat route and the Shidi Ghat route. Along the way, you can enjoy birdwatching, photography, and simply immersing yourself in the natural surroundings. Remember to carry sufficient water and snacks, and wear appropriate trekking shoes. While trekking, you might encounter local villagers offering simple refreshments.
Transportation
The starting points for the Bhimashankar Trek are usually accessible by road. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Pune or Mumbai to villages near the trekking routes, such as Khandas or Ganesh Ghat. From these villages, you can begin your trek. It's advisable to hire a local guide for the trek, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.