Bhimashankar Temple, Bhimashankar

The Bhimashankar Temple, located in the village of Bhimashankar, is also referred to as the Holy Jyotirlinga and is an exquisite temple built in dedication of Lord Shiva. Constructed by Nana Phadnavis, this temple belongs to a group of five Jyortilingas found in the state of Maharashtra, and twelve Jyotirlingas in the country.

Legend has it that when Lord Shiva resided in the Sahayadri Hills, he had taken the form of Bhima and killed the Rakshas Tripurasura. It is said that after the battle, the sweat of the Lord became the holy Bhima river.

The Holy Jyotirlinga follows a Nagra style of architecture. It houses manuscripts dating back to the 13th Century. The premises hold a small Shani Temple within it, along side a huge bell that portrays the Hemandpathi style of architecture.

This religious site is not only famous amongst worshippers and devotees but also amongst bird watchers and trekkers. The temple precincts get especially crowded during the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.