Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary Travel Guide – Overview, Attractions & Visiting Timings

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a rich biodiversity hotspot located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, spread across parts of Pune and Raigad districts. The sanctuary is known for its dense evergreen forests, rolling hills, and misty landscapes, making it one of the most important protected areas in the region. It is the natural habitat of the endangered Indian giant squirrel, also known as Shekru, the state animal of Maharashtra. The sanctuary supports a wide range of wildlife, birds, reptiles, and plant species, attracting nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and trekkers. Close to the sacred Bhimashankar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, the sanctuary offers a unique blend of spirituality and nature, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism and peaceful exploration.