Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary was created in the year 1984 mainly to protect the Indian giant squirrel. Spread over huge 131 sq km in Ambegaon and Khed talukas (Pune District), this wildlife sanctuary is a part of Western Ghats and also comprises 9 tribal villages, which makes visiting this sanctuary more of an experience. Surrounded with hills, waterfalls and forests, this wildlife sanctuary is also home to an ancient temple where people visit in search of spirituality. Besides, the destination is also ideal for trekkers as owing to its rugged and mountainous terrains. And if you want some more surprises, look out for shekru (the giant flying squirrel).

Overview
Being a part of Western Ghats, this sanctuary is also among the 12 biodiversity hotspots of the world. A number of rare and endangered species of plants and animals can be found here. Barking deer, leopards, hyena and langur can be easily spotted in the region. The bird lovers can observe hornbill, pigeon, Malabar whistling thrush, black eagle, and several other bird species in the sanctuary. Shiva Temple
This wildlife sanctuary is visited mostly by locals and weekenders who come here in search of peace and tranquillity and also to spend some time with nature. Apart from exploring the jungle and its flora and fauna, you can also pay a visit to the olden Shiva temple in Bhimashankar, which is counted among the best Lord Shiva temple in the state. People say that the main or original Shiva temple was constructed way back in the 12th century but it was destroyed and since then a lot of changes have been made in the temple.

Trekking
The entire region of the sanctuary is a trekker’s delight as it is bounded with plethora of forts and ruins that are at difficult heights. Places like Padargad, Shivneri, Kothaligad and Siddhagad are perfect trekking points here.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is the months between October and May. Make sure you carry your camping gear along and mosquito repellents are must.

How to reach People often contemplate how to reach Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary but reaching here is not an issue at all. From Mumbai, the forest is around 213 km and from Pune its 110 km. So Pune railway station and Pune airport are the nearest serving this wildlife sanctuary. So, go ahead and explore this amazing wildlife sanctuary.