Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar & Grishneshwar Tour: 2-Day Pilgrimage Plan

Embark on a divine 2-day pilgrimage covering three sacred Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra — Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar, and Grishneshwar. These revered Shiva temples not only offer spiritual solace but also showcase Maharashtra’s cultural richness and natural beauty.

Quick Overview of the Jyotirlingas

• Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Nestled in the Sahyadri Hills, near Pune. Known for its serene forest setting.

• Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Located in Nashik, near the source of the sacred Godavari River.

• Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Situated near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves, Aurangabad.

Day 1 Itinerary – Bhimashankar & Trimbakeshwar

Morning: Start from Pune to Bhimashankar

• Distance: 110 km (~3–4 hours by road)

• Darshan Time: 1–1.5 hours

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful darshan and cooler weather

Explore:

• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

• Trekking trails and waterfalls (if time permits)

Afternoon: Bhimashankar to Trimbakeshwar

• Distance: 190 km (~5–6 hours drive)

• Arrival Time: Late evening

Stay Overnight:

• At Trimbak or Nashik (plenty of budget and mid-range hotels available)

Day 2 Itinerary – Trimbakeshwar & Grishneshwar

Early Morning: Trimbakeshwar Darshan

• Temple Timings: 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM

• Specialty: The linga has three faces representing Brahma, Vishnu & Mahesh

Post-Darshan: Drive to Grishneshwar

• Distance: ~210 km (~5–6 hours via Aurangabad)

• Lunch on the way

Evening: Grishneshwar Darshan

• Last of the 12 Jyotirlingas

• Close to Ellora Caves – combine a quick visit if time permits

Return Options:

• Stay in Aurangabad or

• Evening train/flight from Aurangabad to Mumbai/Pune

Travel Tips

• 🚗 Private cab or self-drive is the most efficient option due to rural routes.

• 🛏️ Pre-book accommodations in Trimbak/Nashik and Aurangabad.

• ⛽ Keep fuel and snacks ready – some stretches have limited facilities.

• 🙏 Carry traditional clothes for temple entry (mandatory in some temples).

Alternate Route Option

If starting from Mumbai:

1. Mumbai → Trimbakeshwar → Bhimashankar → Grishneshwar → Aurangabad

• Ellora Caves (UNESCO site) near Grishneshwar

• Anjaneri Hills near Trimbakeshwar (believed to be Lord Hanuman’s birthplace)

• Sahyadri Ghats & Bhorgiri Fort near Bhimashankar

• Comfortable walking shoes

• ID proofs and temple offerings

• Weather-appropriate clothing (July–Sep: rain gear)