Karjat, a popular town in Maharashtra's Raigad district, serves as a gateway to many scenic and spiritual destinations. Bhimashankar, located in the Pune district, is renowned for its ancient temple and the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a favored spot for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.

This route from Karjat to Bhimashankar is popular among weekend travelers, trekking enthusiasts, and devotees. In this guide, you will find detailed options on how to reach Bhimashankar from Karjat, including train, bus, car, and taxi services, along with practical travel tips and a step-by-step plan to make your journey hassle-free.

Getting from Karjat to Bhimashankar – Main Options

Train

While Karjat is well-connected by rail, there is no direct train to Bhimashankar. Travelers can use train services to reach nearby stations and then opt for road transport. This mode is less practical for direct travel but useful for combining rail and road.

• Nearest railway stations:

  Karjat is the starting point, and the closest major railway station to Bhimashankar is Pune Junction, about 110 km away. From Pune, you will need to take a bus or taxi to Bhimashankar.

• Travel time and cost:

  The train from Karjat to Pune takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹50 to ₹200 depending on the train class. From Pune, a bus or taxi takes about 3 hours to Bhimashankar.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Karjat-Pune trains run frequently throughout the day, including local and express trains. Booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended during weekends and holidays.

• Seasonal tips:

  Trains can get crowded during festivals like Mahashivratri when Bhimashankar sees a surge in pilgrims. Early booking and traveling in non-peak hours can help avoid rush.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Pune station, prepaid taxis and MSRTC buses are available to Bhimashankar. Buses depart from Pune’s Swargate bus station.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Bhimashankar from Karjat, though there is no direct bus connecting the two. Travelers usually change buses at Pune or nearby towns.

• Route details:

  Take an MSRTC bus from Karjat to Pune, then switch to another MSRTC bus heading towards Bhimashankar via Rajgurunagar (Khed). The total distance is approximately 140 km.

• Travel time and fares:

  Karjat to Pune bus takes about 3 hours, costing ₹80–₹150. Pune to Bhimashankar bus takes around 3 hours with fares near ₹100. Total journey time can be 6–7 hours.

• Bus frequency:

  Karjat-Pune buses run frequently, but Pune to Bhimashankar buses are limited, mostly in the morning and early afternoon. Confirm timings in advance at Pune’s Swargate bus station.

• Comfort and tips:

  Buses are basic but reliable. Avoid traveling during monsoon due to slippery roads on the Pune-Bhimashankar stretch. Carry water and snacks as stops are limited.

• Local quirks:

  The Pune-Bhimashankar route passes through scenic Western Ghats with ghat roads. Bus drivers are experienced but expect some hairpin bends and narrow stretches.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Karjat to Bhimashankar is a flexible and comfortable option, ideal for groups or those wanting to explore en route. The route offers scenic views but requires cautious driving in ghat sections.

• Route overview:

  The most common route is via NH48 from Karjat to Pune, then take the Pune-Nashik highway (NH60) towards Rajgurunagar and onward to Bhimashankar. Total distance is about 140 km, taking 4 to 5 hours.

• Road conditions:

  NH48 and NH60 are mostly well-maintained highways. The last 30 km towards Bhimashankar involves narrow, winding roads through the Western Ghats, so drive carefully, especially during monsoon.

• Tolls and fuel stops:

  Expect tolls on NH48 near Karjat and Pune. Fuel stations are available in Karjat, Pune, and Rajgurunagar. Plan refueling before entering forested areas.

• Parking and access:

  Bhimashankar temple has designated parking areas, but they can get crowded on weekends and festivals. Arrive early to secure a spot.

• Scenic value:

  The drive offers lush greenery, waterfalls, and forest views. Avoid night driving due to limited street lighting and wildlife crossing risks.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Karjat to Bhimashankar is convenient for travelers seeking comfort and direct service. This option is costlier but saves time and hassle.

• Availability:

  Taxis can be booked via Ola, Uber, or local operators in Karjat. Pre-booking is advisable, especially on weekends.

• Cost and duration:

  A one-way taxi fare ranges between ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 depending on vehicle type. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours, including ghat road driving.

• Driver experience:

  Choose drivers familiar with the Pune-Bhimashankar route, as the ghat section requires skilled driving.

• Flexibility:

  Taxis allow stops en route for sightseeing or meals. You can also hire a taxi for a round trip with waiting charges.

• Late arrival tips:

  Bhimashankar temple closes by evening, so plan your trip accordingly. If arriving late, book a taxi back to Karjat or Pune in advance.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Karjat to Bhimashankar efficiently, combining transport and timing tips.

• Book your train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains and MSRTC online portals for buses. Booking 2-3 days in advance is recommended during weekends.

• Start early from Karjat:

  Begin your journey by 6–7 AM to avoid traffic and reach Bhimashankar before temple closing time.

• Reach Pune station or bus stand:

  From Karjat, take a train or bus to Pune. At Pune, head to Swargate bus station for buses to Bhimashankar or meet your taxi.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  If using public transport, confirm bus timings Pune to Bhimashankar in advance. For taxis, pre-book to avoid waiting.

• Carry essentials for the trek:

  Bhimashankar involves some walking from the parking area. Carry water, snacks, and comfortable shoes.

• Plan return trip:

  Check return bus or train timings or pre-book your taxi back to Karjat or Pune to avoid last-minute hassles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on ghat roads:

  Drive cautiously on the narrow and winding roads near Bhimashankar, especially during monsoon when landslides and slippery patches are common.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as eateries are scarce on the final stretch. Avoid drinking tap water to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC and MSRTC official apps for reliable ticket booking. Avoid third-party sellers to prevent scams.

• Local commute:

  Use prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber in Karjat and Pune. In Bhimashankar, local shared jeeps or taxis are available but may be infrequent.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light as the temple area requires some walking. Secure your belongings and avoid carrying valuables unnecessarily.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to roadblocks and slippery terrain. Winter mornings can be foggy on ghats, so plan accordingly.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bhimashankar from Karjat is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and roads are safer. Avoid monsoon peak months for smoother travel.

Early morning departures help avoid traffic congestion near Pune and ensure ample time for temple visits and trekking.

• Avoid weekends and festival days like Mahashivratri to escape heavy crowds and booked accommodations.

• Monsoon (June to September) brings lush greenery but also risks of landslides and slippery roads on the ghat section.

• Depart Karjat before 7 AM to bypass Pune city traffic and reach Bhimashankar comfortably by noon.

• Winter months offer cool weather but carry warm clothing for early mornings and evenings.

Arrival at Bhimashankar & What to Expect

On arrival at Bhimashankar, travelers are greeted by the serene temple complex surrounded by dense forests and the sanctuary. The area is peaceful, ideal for spiritual reflection and nature walks.

Local transport options include shared jeeps and taxis that connect the parking area to the temple entrance. Accommodation options are limited near the temple, so many prefer to stay in Pune or nearby Rajgurunagar.

Nearby attractions include the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, trekking trails, and waterfalls. Prepaid taxis and local buses are available for onward travel or return trips.

Conclusion

Among the various options, traveling by car or taxi from Karjat to Bhimashankar offers the most convenience and flexibility, especially for groups or those carrying luggage. The scenic drive through the Western Ghats enhances the travel experience, making it ideal for first-timers.

With proper planning, early starts, and awareness of road conditions, you can confidently make this journey to Bhimashankar. Whether for pilgrimage or trekking, this guide equips you with all the practical details needed for a smooth and enjoyable trip.