Shirdi, located in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, is a renowned pilgrimage town famous for the Sai Baba temple. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is nestled in the Sahyadri hills of Pune district. This route is popular among devotees and nature lovers who combine spiritual visits with scenic hill treks.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Shirdi to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You will find detailed travel times, route tips, and advice to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Shirdi to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Main Options

By Train

Traveling by train is a convenient option for part of the journey, especially for those who prefer a relaxed pace. However, there is no direct train to Bhimashankar, so a combination of train and road transport is necessary.

• Shirdi to Pune by train:

  Shirdi has a well-connected railway station with direct trains to Pune, such as the Sainagar Shirdi–Pune Express. The journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 depending on class.

• From Pune to Bhimashankar:

  Bhimashankar is about 110 km from Pune and is not directly accessible by train. Travelers must take a bus or taxi from Pune to reach the temple.

• Train frequency and booking:

  Trains from Shirdi to Pune run multiple times daily. Booking via IRCTC in advance is recommended, especially during festival seasons when demand spikes.

• Station facilities:

  Shirdi station has basic amenities and prepaid taxi counters. Pune station is well-equipped with waiting rooms, eateries, and easy access to buses and taxis.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Trains can be crowded during weekends and religious festivals. Early morning trains are less crowded and offer a comfortable journey.

By Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical choice for this route, connecting Shirdi to Pune and onward to Bhimashankar. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates several buses on these routes.

• Shirdi to Pune buses:

  MSRTC runs regular buses from Shirdi to Pune, including ordinary and deluxe services. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours, with fares between ₹150 and ₹300.

• Pune to Bhimashankar buses:

  From Pune’s Swargate bus station, direct buses to Bhimashankar are available but limited. Alternatively, buses to Rajur or nearby towns can be taken, followed by local transport to the temple.

• Bus timings and frequency:

  Early morning buses from Shirdi to Pune are recommended to connect with onward buses to Bhimashankar. Booking tickets at MSRTC counters or online is advisable.

• Comfort and road conditions:

  The Pune-Bhimashankar route involves hilly terrain with winding roads. Deluxe buses offer better comfort, but travelers should prepare for a bumpy ride.

• Rest stops and refreshments:

  Several dhabas and eateries are available along NH60 and the Pune-Nashik highway, ideal for breaks during the journey.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shirdi to Bhimashankar offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views of the Western Ghats. The route covers approximately 160 km and takes around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via Shirdi–Rahata–Rahuri–Pune–Rajur–Bhimashankar, primarily using NH60 and state highways. The roads are generally well-maintained but narrow in hilly sections.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Expect around 4.5 hours of driving. There are a few toll plazas on NH60, so keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Scenic and rest stops:

  The drive passes through lush greenery near Rajur and the Sahyadri hills. Popular stops include local eateries in Rajur and small villages offering fresh Maharashtrian snacks.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving due to limited street lighting and winding roads. Monsoon season can make roads slippery, so drive cautiously.

• Parking at Bhimashankar:

  The temple area has designated parking lots, but they can fill up during weekends and festivals. Arriving early helps secure a spot.

By Taxi / Private Cab

Hiring a taxi or private cab is a comfortable and hassle-free way to reach Bhimashankar from Shirdi, especially for groups or families. It allows door-to-door service and flexible stops en route.

• Taxi booking options:

  Local taxi operators in Shirdi offer full-day packages to Bhimashankar. Apps like Ola and Uber have limited availability in rural areas, so pre-booking is recommended.

• Cost and duration:

  A round trip taxi can cost between ₹3,500 and ₹5,000 depending on vehicle type and negotiation. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours one way.

• Advantages:

  Taxis provide comfort, air conditioning, and the ability to stop for sightseeing or meals. Drivers are usually familiar with the best routes and local conditions.

• Booking tips:

  Confirm the fare and itinerary upfront. Request a driver experienced with hilly terrain for a safer ride.

• Availability during festivals:

  Demand for taxis spikes during Maha Shivratri and other festivals at Bhimashankar, so book well in advance.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Shirdi to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga efficiently, combining train and road travel.

• Book train tickets from Shirdi to Pune:

  Use IRCTC or authorized agents to secure seats, preferably in the morning trains to allow ample time for onward travel.

• Arrive early at Shirdi station:

  Reach at least 30 minutes before departure to handle luggage and find your platform comfortably.

• From Pune station, proceed to Swargate bus station:

  Take a local taxi or use Pune’s PMPML buses to reach Swargate, the main hub for buses to Bhimashankar.

• Catch a direct bus or taxi from Pune to Bhimashankar:

  Check the bus schedule in advance or pre-book a taxi for a hassle-free ride through the hills.

• Prepare for the temple visit:

  Wear comfortable footwear for the short trek from the parking area to the temple. Carry water and light snacks.

• Return planning:

  Arrange your return transport in advance, especially if traveling on weekends or during festivals to avoid last-minute rush.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on hilly roads:

  If driving or taking a taxi, ensure the vehicle is well-maintained with good brakes. Avoid night travel due to narrow, winding roads and limited lighting.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as options near Bhimashankar are limited. Try local Maharashtrian cuisine at highway dhabas for authentic flavors.

• Booking strategy:

  During peak pilgrimage seasons, book trains and taxis at least 2-3 weeks in advance to secure availability and better rates.

• Local commute at Bhimashankar:

  The temple is accessible by foot from parking areas. Auto-rickshaws are scarce, so be prepared to walk or hire a local guide if needed.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light as the final approach to the temple involves a trek. Use backpacks instead of bulky suitcases.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause landslides and slippery paths near Bhimashankar. Check weather forecasts and avoid travel during heavy rains.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bhimashankar from Shirdi is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant, and the Sahyadri hills are lush and green after the monsoon.

Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of April to June due to high temperatures and dry conditions. Monsoon travel requires caution due to slippery roads and occasional landslides.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Pune, especially mornings and evenings on weekdays, to reduce delays.

• Plan your journey outside major festivals like Maha Shivratri to avoid overcrowding and inflated transport costs.

• Early morning departures are ideal to enjoy daylight driving and secure parking at Bhimashankar.

• Check monsoon weather updates before traveling, as heavy rains can disrupt road connectivity.

Arrival at Bhimashankar & What to Expect

On arrival at Bhimashankar, travelers experience a serene environment surrounded by dense forests and the majestic Sahyadri hills. The temple complex is modest but spiritually significant, attracting devotees year-round.

Local transport options are limited; most visitors walk from parking areas to the temple. Nearby attractions include trekking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Accommodation options are basic, with some guesthouses and dharamshalas in the vicinity.

For onward local travel, prepaid taxis or shared jeeps can be arranged from Rajur or nearby towns. Staying overnight near Bhimashankar is recommended for those wanting to explore the natural beauty fully.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga from Shirdi is by combining a train journey to Pune followed by a taxi or bus ride to the temple. This option balances comfort, cost, and travel time effectively.

With proper planning and advance bookings, travelers can enjoy a smooth pilgrimage enriched by scenic drives and spiritual fulfillment. Whether you choose self-drive or public transport, this guide equips you to plan confidently and make the most of your journey.