Surat, a bustling city in Gujarat known for its textile industry and diamond cutting, serves as the starting point for many travelers heading to Bhimashankar. Bhimashankar, located in Maharashtra's Pune district, is famous for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and its rich biodiversity in the Western Ghats.

This route is popular among pilgrims, nature lovers, and weekend travelers seeking a spiritual retreat or trekking adventure. In this guide, you will find detailed options for traveling from Surat to Bhimashankar by train, bus, car, and flight, along with practical tips to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Surat to Bhimashankar – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a practical option for those who prefer comfort and affordability. While there is no direct train to Bhimashankar, Surat is well connected to Pune, the nearest major railhead.

• Surat to Pune by train:

  Several trains run daily between Surat and Pune, covering approximately 330 km in 6 to 8 hours. Ticket prices range from INR 300 for sleeper class to INR 1,200 for AC classes. Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure preferred seats.

• From Pune to Bhimashankar:

  Bhimashankar is about 110 km from Pune. Since there is no direct train, travelers must use road transport from Pune to reach the temple town.

• Train station details:

  Surat Railway Station (ST) is well-equipped with waiting rooms and food stalls. Pune Junction (PUNE) offers multiple taxi and bus options to Bhimashankar.

• Best travel times:

  Early morning trains from Surat to Pune help maximize your day. Avoid monsoon season trains if you are prone to delays due to weather.

• Challenges:

  Last-mile connectivity from Pune to Bhimashankar requires planning, as public transport options are limited and infrequent.

Bus

Bus travel is a budget-friendly and widely used mode for this route, especially for pilgrims and local tourists. However, there is no direct bus from Surat to Bhimashankar, so a combination of buses is necessary.

• Surat to Pune buses:

  MSRTC and private operators run frequent Volvo and non-AC buses between Surat and Pune, taking about 7 to 9 hours. Ticket prices range from INR 400 to INR 900 depending on the service.

• Pune to Bhimashankar buses:

  State transport buses from Pune’s Swargate bus station head towards Rajgurunagar or Khed, from where shared taxis or local buses can be hired to Bhimashankar.

• Bus station tips:

  Arrive early at Surat's Udhna bus depot for better seat availability. Pune’s Swargate is well connected but can be crowded; use prepaid taxi counters for onward travel.

• Seasonal advice:

  During festivals at Bhimashankar, buses can be crowded; booking in advance or traveling mid-week is advisable.

• Travel comfort:

  Volvo buses offer air-conditioned comfort, while local buses may be crowded and less comfortable.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Surat to Bhimashankar is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and want to explore scenic routes at their own pace. The journey covers around 440 km and takes approximately 9 to 10 hours.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 and NH60, passing through Valsad, Nashik, and Rajgurunagar. The roads are mostly in good condition with tolls on expressways.

• Rest stops:

  Key stops include Vapi, Igatpuri, and Nashik, where you can find clean dhabas and restaurants. Avoid night driving in ghats due to wildlife crossings and limited lighting.

• Car rental options:

  Surat has multiple car rental services offering self-drive and chauffeur-driven cars. Booking in advance through platforms like Zoomcar or local agencies is recommended.

• Traffic considerations:

  Expect congestion near Pune and Nashik during peak hours. Starting early morning helps avoid city traffic.

• Scenic highlights:

  The drive through the Western Ghats near Bhimashankar offers lush greenery and occasional waterfalls, especially during monsoon.

Flight

While Surat has an airport, flying directly to Bhimashankar is not possible. However, a combination of flight and road travel can save time.

• Nearest airports:

  Pune Airport (PNQ) is the closest airport to Bhimashankar, about 110 km away. Surat Airport (STV) offers flights to Mumbai and Delhi.

• Flight options:

  You can fly from Surat to Mumbai (around 1 hour) and then take a train or taxi to Pune, followed by road travel to Bhimashankar.

• Road from Pune Airport:

  From Pune Airport, taxis and rental cars are available to reach Bhimashankar in approximately 3 to 4 hours.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early to get better fares. Consider flight timings that allow comfortable road travel during daylight.

• Challenges:

  Multiple transfers may increase travel time and cost, so this option suits travelers prioritizing speed over budget.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Surat to Bhimashankar, combining train and road travel for convenience and comfort.

• Book your Surat to Pune train tickets:

  Use the IRCTC website or app to book tickets at least two weeks in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Arrive early at Surat station:

  Reach the station 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform easily.

• Travel from Pune to Bhimashankar:

  Upon arrival at Pune Junction, hire a prepaid taxi or use Ola/Uber to reach Bhimashankar. Shared taxis are available but less frequent.

• Carry essentials for the trek:

  Bhimashankar involves some walking; pack water, snacks, and comfortable shoes for the temple visit and nature trails.

• Plan return journey:

  Confirm your Pune to Surat train timings in advance and arrange transport from Bhimashankar to Pune accordingly.

• Stay updated on weather:

  Check local weather forecasts, especially during monsoon, to avoid travel disruptions.

Practical Travel Tips

• Book train tickets via IRCTC:

  Use the official IRCTC app to avoid scams and get real-time updates on train status and platform changes.

• Use prepaid taxis at Pune station:

  Always opt for prepaid counters or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging and ensure safe travel to Bhimashankar.

• Carry sufficient cash:

  Bhimashankar is a remote area with limited digital payment options; keep small denominations handy for local purchases.

• Stay hydrated and carry snacks:

  Food options near Bhimashankar are limited; carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if trekking.

• Check bus schedules in advance:

  MSRTC buses can be crowded; booking tickets a day before or early morning is advisable.

• Seasonal packing:

  Monsoon travelers should carry rain gear and waterproof bags; winters can be chilly, so pack warm clothes.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Surat to Bhimashankar is during the cooler months from October to February, avoiding the heavy monsoon rains that can make roads slippery and trekking difficult.

Planning your journey during weekdays or avoiding festival weekends helps in smoother travel with less crowding on trains and buses.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Pune, typically 8–10 AM and 5–8 PM, to save time on road travel.

• Monsoon season (June to September) brings lush greenery but also risks of landslides and roadblocks near Bhimashankar.

• Early morning departures from Surat help avoid city traffic and maximize daylight for the journey.

• Winter mornings can be foggy near the Western Ghats; plan extra travel time accordingly.

Arrival at Bhimashankar & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bhimashankar, travelers are greeted by a serene environment surrounded by dense forests and hills. The temple complex is well-maintained, and the area is known for its biodiversity.

Local transport options are limited; most visitors rely on private taxis or shared jeeps from Rajgurunagar or Khed. Accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to eco-resorts nearby. Popular nearby attractions include trekking trails and the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Bhimashankar from Surat is by taking a train to Pune followed by a taxi or bus ride to the temple town. This combination balances comfort, cost, and travel time effectively.

With proper planning and awareness of local transport options, travelers can enjoy a smooth journey to this spiritual and natural haven. Whether you seek a pilgrimage or a nature escape, this guide equips you to travel confidently from Surat to Bhimashankar.