Lonavala, a popular hill station in Maharashtra, is well-known for its scenic beauty and proximity to Mumbai and Pune. Bhimashankar, located in the Western Ghats, is a revered pilgrimage site famous for its ancient temple and rich biodiversity. Traveling from Lonavala to Bhimashankar is a favored route for nature lovers, trekkers, and devotees seeking a peaceful retreat.

This guide covers all practical transport options from Lonavala to Bhimashankar, including train, bus, car, and taxi. You will find detailed travel times, routes, costs, and tips to plan your journey smoothly and enjoy the scenic Western Ghats en route.

Getting from Lonavala to Bhimashankar – Main Options

By Train

Train travel between Lonavala and Bhimashankar is limited as Bhimashankar does not have a direct railway station. However, trains can be used for part of the journey combined with road transport.

• Lonavala Railway Station:

  Lonavala is well connected by the Mumbai-Pune railway line with frequent trains. From here, travelers can take a train towards Pune or Kalyan to reach nearby stations like Talegaon or Khed.

• Nearest station to Bhimashankar:

  The closest railway station to Bhimashankar is Khed, about 35 km away. From Khed, you must hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Bhimashankar.

• Train frequency and ticket cost:

  Trains from Lonavala to Khed run several times a day, with ticket prices ranging from ₹30 to ₹100 depending on the train type. Booking via IRCTC is recommended for reserved trains.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Since Bhimashankar is in a hilly area, direct train access is unavailable. Prepare for a taxi or bus ride from the nearest station, which can take 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid traveling by train during monsoon due to potential delays and landslides in the Western Ghats region.

By Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical option for reaching Bhimashankar from Lonavala, especially for pilgrims and trekkers. Maharashtra State Transport buses connect these points with varying frequency.

• MSRTC buses:

  State transport buses run from Lonavala to Rajur or Khed, which are the closest towns to Bhimashankar. From there, local buses or shared jeeps can be taken to Bhimashankar.

• Travel duration and cost:

  The bus journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, covering around 80 km. Ticket prices range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the bus type.

• Bus frequency:

  Buses run mostly in the morning and early afternoon. It is advisable to check the latest MSRTC schedule or book tickets online via the MSRTC website or app.

• Comfort and facilities:

  State buses are basic but reliable. Carry water and snacks as stops are limited on this hilly route.

• Seasonal considerations:

  During the pilgrimage season and weekends, buses can be crowded. Arrive early at the bus stand to secure a seat.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Lonavala to Bhimashankar offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy the scenic Western Ghats at your own pace. The route is popular among weekend travelers and nature enthusiasts.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 from Lonavala to Talegaon, then taking the state highway SH60 towards Rajur and onward to Bhimashankar. The total distance is about 80 km and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Road conditions:

  The roads are mostly well-maintained but narrow and winding in the ghats section. Drive cautiously, especially during monsoon when landslides and slippery roads are common.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Fuel stations are available at Lonavala and Talegaon. Few eateries are available en route, so carry water and snacks for the journey.

• Parking:

  Bhimashankar has designated parking areas near the temple and trekking start points. Arrive early to find parking during peak seasons.

• Advantages:

  Self-drive allows flexibility to stop for photos, explore nearby spots like Rajmachi Fort, and avoid crowded public transport.

By Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Lonavala to Bhimashankar is convenient for those who prefer comfort and door-to-door service. It is ideal for groups or families traveling together.

• Taxi availability:

  Prepaid taxis and private cabs can be booked from Lonavala taxi stands or via apps like Ola and Uber. Confirm the fare beforehand as Bhimashankar is a remote destination.

• Travel time and cost:

  The taxi ride takes about 2.5 to 3 hours covering 80 km. Expect fares between ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• Advantages:

  Taxis offer comfort, air-conditioning, and flexibility to stop en route. Drivers often know the best routes and local conditions.

• Booking tips:

  Book your taxi in advance during weekends and festivals to avoid last-minute hassles. Confirm if the driver waits or charges extra for return trips.

• Local cabs near Bhimashankar:

  From Rajur or Khed, local shared jeeps or taxis can be hired for the final stretch to Bhimashankar temple.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan a smooth journey from Lonavala to Bhimashankar, balancing convenience and cost.

• Book your transport tickets early:

  Whether train or bus, use IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to secure seats and avoid last-minute rush.

• Start early from Lonavala:

  Begin your journey by 6–7 AM to avoid traffic and reach Bhimashankar before noon, especially if trekking or visiting the temple.

• Carry essentials:

  Pack water, snacks, rain gear (during monsoon), and comfortable shoes for walking or trekking.

• Use local transport for last mile:

  From Khed or Rajur, hire local shared jeeps or taxis to reach Bhimashankar temple, as private vehicles may not be allowed inside.

• Plan return trip:

  Check bus or train timings for your return to Lonavala, or arrange a taxi in advance to avoid waiting.

• Stay overnight if needed:

  If you wish to explore nearby wildlife sanctuary or trek, consider staying at guesthouses in Rajur or Bhimashankar forest rest houses.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on ghats roads:

  Drive carefully on narrow, winding roads. Avoid night travel during monsoon due to landslide risks and poor visibility.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as eateries are sparse on the route and near the temple.

• Booking strategies:

  Use official IRCTC and MSRTC apps for ticket bookings to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Lonavala and Talegaon but may not be available near Bhimashankar. Pre-arranged taxis are better for last-mile connectivity.

• Luggage considerations:

  Travel light if trekking. Secure your belongings as mobile network coverage can be patchy in forested areas.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid monsoon travel if prone to motion sickness or if you dislike slippery roads. Winter mornings can be foggy, affecting visibility.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Lonavala to Bhimashankar is during the cooler months from October to February. Weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking and temple visits.

Avoid the heavy monsoon months of June to September when roads can be slippery and landslides may cause delays or route closures.

• Avoid weekends and festival days to escape crowds, especially during the Bhimashankar fair in January.

• Start early in the day to avoid afternoon rains and traffic on the ghats roads.

• Winter mornings can be foggy; plan to travel after sunrise for better visibility.

• Summer months can be hot; carry sun protection and hydrate well.

Arrival at Bhimashankar & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bhimashankar, travelers find a serene environment surrounded by dense forests and hills. The Bhimashankar temple is the main attraction, drawing pilgrims year-round.

Local transport options include shared jeeps and taxis from Rajur or Khed. The temple area has basic amenities, and forest rest houses are available for overnight stays. Nearby attractions include the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary and trekking trails offering panoramic views.

Conclusion

Driving or hiring a taxi from Lonavala to Bhimashankar is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach this tranquil destination. It offers flexibility, scenic views, and ease of access to the temple and surrounding nature.

With proper planning, early starts, and awareness of seasonal conditions, travelers can enjoy a smooth journey and a memorable experience at Bhimashankar. This guide equips you to plan confidently and make the most of your trip from Lonavala.