A wildlife sanctuary is a natural habitat that is dedicated to the conservation of wild animals and different species which are on the brink of extinction. Bhimshankar wildlife sanctuary is rich in biodiversity due to the wide variety of habitats in the state. The state is like a treasure trove for travellers who not only enjoy temples and other architectural marvels but also dream of the perfect wildlife safari in some of the country’s most popular game reserves.
Here’s to learn about Bhimshankar wildlife sanctuary:
Table of Contents
About
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary has now become a major tourist attraction of Pune and Maharashtra on the whole. Formed entirely of basaltic rocks, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is dominated by Deciduous, Semi-evergreen and Evergreen types of forests. The sources of water in this reserve are the tributaries of river Krishna, namely Ghod and Bhima, as well as those of river Ulhas.
The densely forested area is spread over an area of 120 sq km on the Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Ranges. The place is mainly famous for being home to many endemic and pandemic animal and bird species including the Indian Giant Squirrel.
The state animal of Maharashtra. It is one of the three threatened Indo-Malayan squirrel species and the sanctuary authorities take major steps time and again to ensure its conservation and survival.
Flora & fauna
It is home to a host of flora and fauna and is one of the main biodiversity hotspots of the world. Among terrestrial animals, there are Leopards, Sambar, Striped Hyena, Golden Jackals, Barking Deer, Common Langur, Wild Boar, Mouse Deer, Indian Pangolin and various species of insects and reptiles as well.
The forests are especially a paradise for bird lovers with a population of avians as diverse as Quaker Babbler, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Green Pigeon, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Black Eagle, Grey Junglefowl and so on.
The forest sanctuary also hosts jungle safari. The forest is thick, green and moist and full of deciduous and evergreen trees common to Indian jungles. With a bit of luck and patience, you might be able to witness many common animals like barking deer, leopards, wild boar, sambar deer, hyena and langur as well as some not-so-common ones.
Things to Do at Bhimshankar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Bird Watching: A part of the forest has been declared an Important Bird Area under the WPA, 1972. The area provides a home to many endangered, threatened, critical and vulnerable species of birds like the Greater Spotted Eagle, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, vultures, Malabar Pied Hornbill and many more.
- Sacred Groves: The forest has around 14 sacred groves of trees, which are believed to be the origin place and genetic pools of many species of flora and fauna. Thus, they provide a great place to conduct some ecological and biological study and research – for educational purposes or simply to witness patches of land that have witnessed times older than 1000 years.
- Seek blessings at the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple: Located inside a lush meadow in the forest reserve, the temple typically plays host to a great number of devotees dancing outside the gates as if in a trance. Built in the Nagara style of architecture, Bhimashankar Temple displays ancient Vishwakarma sculptors built in the mid-18th century, as well as new structures built later. And this number increases monstrously on the day of Maha Shivratri when the temple itself turns into a riot of colours and festivities.
- Catch fireflies in Bhorgiri: Being the breeding ground of fireflies, the hamlet witnesses the number of these pretty little bugs multiply from thousands to millions! It’s truly a sight to behold! The phenomenon usually lasts just a single day, so make sure you keep a tab on when it’s going to happen in the coming year so that you don’t miss it!
- Picnicking Near Hanuman Lake: Cut off from the density of the forests, the banks of Hanuman Lake offer lush green rolling plains for peace-loving families to conduct a small picnic, surrounded by the serene view of the lake, nestled within the wooded Sahyadri all around.
- The mysterious Junnar Caves: Built somewhere between the 3rd century BC and the 3rd century AD, these caves belong to the Hinayana phase of Buddhism. Some of the popular among these 200 caves are Tulja Caves, Shivneri Caves, Amba Ambika Caves, Bhimashankar Caves, Bhutha Linga Caves, and Lenyadri Caves. These caves and hills are an absolute fascination for history lovers, hikers and adventure lovers who visit them for their uniqueness and pristine beauty.
- Go on a trekking tour: With medium to difficult levels trekking spots amid diverse trails for trekking like dense forests, steep hills, lofty peaks, rocky terrains, narrow pathways, deep rivers, and more, these treks present challenges at every turn and won’t let you get bored! The mountainous terrains and steep hills of Bhimashankar forest make it an ideal destination for trekkers and hikers and attract a great influx of trekking enthusiasts from across the country.
- Ahupe Waterfalls: Located inside the isolated and scenic village of Ahupe in the Pune District, the Ahupe Waterfall is an undiscovered paradise surrounded by verdant greenery of hills and jungles. Other than nature enthusiasts and couples, the waterfall is among the favourite spots for trekkers and hikers owing to the scenic nature trails that lead to it.
Best Time to Visit Bhimshankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Anyone is allowed at any time, but with permission of the authorities and certified guides, that too in certain places after sunset, for obvious reasons. Though it’s a year-round destination, the best time to visit Bhimashankar Wildlife Reserve is the winter from October to February when one can enjoy this place to the fullest.
Faq related to Bhim Shankar wildlife sanctuary:
What is Bhimashankar famous for?
Bhimashankar Temple
What is the giant squirrel in Bhimashankar?
Shekaru
Where is the highest number of tigers found in India?
Madhya Pradesh
What is special about Bhimashankar temple?
The linga is exactly at the centre of the floor, in the temple’s sanctum.
When should we visit Bhimashankar?
October to March
How long is Bhimashankar’s trek?
Bhimashankar Sidhi Ghat Trek is 3250 feet high and has a 4.5-hour trek.
How many steps are there in Bhimashankar?
There are approximately 230 steps.
What is the total distance between Pune to Bhimashankar?
70 km. The road distance is 103.5 km.
Which river is in Bhimashankar?
Bhima River
Conclusion
It seems Bhimshankar wildlife sanctuary has something for everyone. You can enjoy trekking through the well-marked and safe routes within the dense forests, taking in the sheer beauty of nature and experiencing it from close quarters.
see also: Top 10 Largest and Unexplored Wildlife Sanctuaries of India
