The pillars and door frames are adorned with elaborate carvings of human figures, deities, and several scenes from mythology. The entrance is flanked by a statue of Nandi. There is also a small shrine of Shani Dev inside the temple. The sacred Shiva Linga is placed on the center of Garbagriha’s floor.
Bhimashankar Sanctuary is a well known tourist’s attraction beside the Bhimashankar temple. Wide variety of flora and fauna are housed by the Bhimashankar sanctuary. Besides panther, sambar, mouse deer, hyena, and wild boar, one of the main attractions of this wild life park are the giant Indian squirrels.
The temple remains open everyday. But the best time to visit is from august to February or during the Maha Shivratri.
Getting there:
Bhimashankar is 110 km from Pune. State buses run twice a week from Pune to Bhimashankar. Special bus service is offered daily during the Maha havarti. One can also walk down from Kariat to Bhimashankar. Nearest rail heads and airport is also in Pune.
