Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary, mainly to protect Indian Giant Flying Squirrels, the state animal of Maharashtra. It is situated in Pune District, Maharashtra state, India.

Bhimashankar forests where the wildlife sanctuary is situated are part of the Sahyadri hills. These hills are part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO world heritage site. This wildlife sanctuary is spread over an area of 131 square kilometers.

This wildlife sanctuary has 14 sacred groves or Devrais, known for their gene pools. There are hills, waterfalls, forests, etc, in the wildlife sanctuary.

There is also the famous Jyotirlinga temple here, believed to be initially built in the 12th century CE. This ancient temple is known as Bhimashankar temple. It is one among the 12 such Jyotirlinga temples in India.

Indian Giant Flying Squirrels, a threatened rodent Species at Bhimashankar Sanctuary

Indian giant flying squirrel is a Critically threatened or Vulnerable rodent Species. They are found in India, Sri Lanka, China, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand.

Chas Kaman Dam across the Bhima River is one of the picturesque dams in India. Backwaters around the dam are ideal for your monsoon retreat. There is a legend to the place name that is connected with the river Bhima. It is believed that the river Bhima evaporated when the heated war between Lord Shiva and demon Tripurasura took place.

Innumerable forts like Kothaligad, Shivneri, Siddhagad, Padargad, etc, lie around Bhimashankar Wildlife Park, which is ideal for trekking. Malshej Ghat is known for its scenic beauty. Junnar Caves is another historic place, worth visiting.

How Do I Go to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is at Bhorgiti village which is part of the Khed taluka. Khed taluka headquarters is around 50 kilometers away from Bhorgiti. Bhorgiti village is at a distance of 130 kilometers from Pune city.

The nearest railway station and International airport are at Pune.