Bhimashankar

Taluka Ambegaon, District Pune.
Bhimashankar is an ancient pilgrim centre and houses one of the five holy Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra. the Shiva temple which was constructed by Maratha king Nana Phadnavis has excellent carvings and reliefs. The fair during the festival of Mahashivaratri that falls in the early part of the calendar year draws great crowds. The nearby bird and game sanctuary and the pleasant climate and natural scenery are among Bhimashankar's many attractions.

Getting there:
The nearest airport and railhead is Pune. Drive along the Pune-Nasik highway and turn off at the road leading to Bhimashankar. The mountain road is quite a steep climb. The distance is about 160 km from Pune. Accommodation at Bhimashankar mainly comprises two bungalows [with a capacity of 8 beds] and tents.

Post Khubi via Otur, District Pune.
Malshej Ghat especially attracts hikers, trekkers and adventure lovers. The hills around serve as a stopover for migrating flamingoes during a part of the monsoon months. Shivneri fort, the birthplace of Shivaji is close enough to be visited during a holiday at Malshej. It is about approximately 40 km from the hill station. The malshej hills are replete with Buddhist caves dating back to the 3rd century. There is also a fort nearby.

Getting there:
The nearest airport is Mumbai and the nearest railhead Kalyan, on the Mumbai-Pune route of the Central Railway. Maharashtra State Transport buses ply regularly from Kalyan to Malshej and onward to Shivneri. From Mumbai drive down on the Eastern Express Highway upto Thane and then take the road to Shahad up the Malshej ghat onward to Malshej. The distance is about 120 km. From Pune, take the Pune-Nasik Highway turn at Narayangaon or Alephata and take the Alephata-Kalyan Road. Pune-Malshej is about 130 km. Accommodation at Malshej comprises self contained rooms and dormitory Reservations can be done at the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation Offices in advance at Mumbai or Pune.