Bhimashankar Trail Lonavala Entry Fee
- No entry fee
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Bhimashankar Trail Lonavala Address: Shidi Ghat Walkway, Ambherpada, Maharashtra, 410201, India
Trails, with their twists and turns, offer a thrilling escapade for those seeking to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. Lonavala sets the perfect backdrop for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Imagine embarking on a journey where every step unveils a new vista of breathtaking beauty.
Hidden within the lush landscapes of Lonavala lies the Bhimashankar Trail.
Considered one of the finest land treks in the Sahyadri ranges, this route traverses deep, wild rainforests, head-high bushes, and remote tribal villages.
The trail will take your breath away as you embark on this almost 50 km-long beautiful journey into nature.
All about the Bhimashankar Trail, Lonavala
Named after the revered Bhimashankar Temple, which lies at the trail's summit, this route is steeped in mythological significance and natural beauty.
The Bhimashankar Trail boasts a plethora of highlights that make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Along the way, you will be able to interact with local communities, learn about traditional lifestyles, and savour the simple joys of rural life. The route comprises varying difficulty levels, catering to trekkers of all skill levels.
The Bhimashankar trek route is a mix of trail and road. The Hamlet of Valvand acts as the base village for this trek, and it is situated at a road distance of 14 km from the Lonavala railway station.
The Bhima River, originating from Bhimashankar Hill, flows through the heart of the forest, attracting a plethora of wildlife due to its scarcity of water sources.
The highlight of the Bhimashankar Trail is undoubtedly the Bhimashankar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Perched atop a hill amidst these dense forests is the ancient temple, a sacred pilgrimage site and a symbol of spiritual significance. Trekkers often pilgrimage to seek blessings and pay homage to the deity, adding a spiritual dimension to their journey.
There are 3 segments for this trek:
- Segment number one is the Udhewadi gram panchayat office to the Kusur village, a beautiful 13 km trail section that mostly goes through forests and open shrubs.
- Section number two is a 16 km road from the village of Kusur to the village of Talpewadi, and therefore, one needs to plan and arrange a vehicle in advance for this road segment.
- Segment number three is a 20 km trail from Talpewadi to the Bhimashankar temple via the small hamlets of Patharwadi and Yelwadi.
You can spend the night in the village or the temple courtyard. You can coordinate with the villagers to arrange dinner and breakfast for the next morning.
You can end the hike at Bhimashankar temple. The temple is one of the jyotirlingas, making it quite a popular spot; you will easily get public and shared transport to return to any major city.
However, if you still wish to continue the hike, you can do various offshoots and side trails.
As you traverse the rugged terrain, you'll encounter dense forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna, cascading waterfalls, and wide viewpoints offering extensive views of the surrounding landscape.
The trail is also dotted with quaint villages and ancient temples, providing glimpses into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Entry fee and timings to trek the Bhimashankar Trail, Lonavala
The Bhimashankar Trail does not have a specified entry fee for its explorers, allowing free access to its natural beauty.
As for timings, trekkers typically embark on their journey during daylight hours, ensuring safe and enjoyable trekking conditions.
However, it's advisable to begin early in the morning to make the most of the day and to avoid hiking in the dark.
Best Time to Trek The Bhimashankar Trail, Lonavala
The best time to go on the Bhimashankar Trail is during the post-monsoon months of September to December and the pre-monsoon months of February to May.
During these periods, the weather is pleasant, the landscapes are lush and vibrant, and the trails are relatively less crowded, ensuring a memorable trekking experience.
How to Reach the Bhimashankar Trail, Lonavala?
The Bhimashankar Trail is easily accessible from Lonavala, which is well-connected by road and rail networks to major cities like Mumbai and Pune. You can either book a train journey and enjoy it from Pune or Mumbai. Also, a scenic drive from both these cities is worth enjoying.
Trekkers can drive or take public transportation to the trailhead, where they can begin their trekking adventure.
You can hire private vehicles to reach the Hamlet of Valvand (the starting point), 14 km from Lonavala Railway Station.
Further, you will have to walk another 2 km to reach the Udhewadi Gram Panchayat office, which acts as the roadhead for the starting point for this trek.
The Bhimashankar Trail in Lonavala offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance.
Whether you are an avid trekker seeking adventure or a nature enthusiast yearning to reconnect with the great outdoors, this trail promises an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring moments and soul-stirring experiences.
So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on the Bhimashankar Trail to discover the magic that awaits amidst the pristine landscapes of Lonavala. Book a Lonavala tour package with Lonavala Khandala Tourism to have a fun-filled vacation in the twin hill stations at pocket friendly prices. We offer these packages at best rates and you can also ask for customization to suit your preferences. To get in touch with us, please fill the Contact Us form.