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Pune is home to some of the unique spiritual and religious destinations, including the Bhuleshwar Temple, which is a popular Shiva temple in the city. Located on top of a hill, the temple’s location and spiritual significance is unmatched. With intricately designed architecture and an enriching history, Bhuleshwar Temple enables you to immerse yourself in its spiritual significance and even learn about the backstory and the historical associations with the temple. For a well-rounded trip across Pune and to explore an offbeat location in Yavat, Maharashtra, a visit down to the Bhuleshwar Temple is a must.
Quick Details
Bhuleshwar Temple Address: Bhuleshwar Road, Malshiras, Bhuleswar Nagar, Maharashtra 412104
Bhuleshwar Temple Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM
Dedicated To: Lord Shiva
Architectural Style: Hindu rock-cut architecture
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Photography: Allowed
Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pune Railway Station
Ideal Visit Duration: 2 to 3 hours
About Bhuleshwar Temple, Maharashtra
Photo: Amit Chippa / Wikimedia Commons
Bhuleshwar Temple is a lesser-known yet historically significant temple with roots tracing back to the Yadava Dynasty. Beyond the main inner shrine that’s dedicated to Lord Shiva, the most alluring part of this temple is its architecture, which includes ancient rock-cut structures and a towering shikhara. There are numerous folk tales and mythological tales associated with this temple including one where it is said that Goddess Parvati danced for Lord Shiva before they proceeded to Kailash Parbat for their wedding. Beyond the main shrine of Lord Shiva, there is a shrine inside the temple dedicated to the female version of Lord Ganesha named Ganeshwari or Lambodari or Ganeshyani.
How To Reach
Photo: Bikashrd / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is located around 10 km from the Pune Solapur highway and roughly 45 km from Pune, so accessibility won’t be much hassle, provided that you know where you are going.
By Air: Since the temple is closer to Pune, you want to book your flight to Pune International Airport. Once you land at the airport, there are taxis available outside the airport to get you to the temple.
By Rail: Pune Junction is the nearest railhead from the temple. You can hire taxis, autos or even public buses from outside the station for a comfortable journey.
By Road: Bhuleshwar Temple is situated about 45 km from Pune city, and the journey takes around an hour. The route from Pune to Bhuleshwar passes through scenic rural landscapes if you take a taxi or drive down yourself.
Things To Do At Bhuleshwar Temple
Since the temple is spread across a large area and has a lot of unique elements to its existence, you need to take your time to explore the temple and indulge in varying activities.
1. Admire The Temple’s Architecture And Carvings
Photo: Amit Chippa / Wikimedia Commons
The foremost activity at Bhuleshwar Temple is marvelling at the exceptional architecture, especially paying attention to the temple’s walls. Its rock-cut style, combined with the distinctive carvings of deities, animals, and floral motifs, will leave you mesmerised. The temple dates back to the 13th century and showcases the craftsmanship of ancient artisans. The attention to detail in the sculptures makes this place a visual delight. While you are inside the temple offering your prayers, take extra time to pay attention to the details that go into the temple’s construction.
2. Participate In The Rituals And Poojas
Photo: Rohan Kalbhor / Wikimedia Commons
Bhuleshwar Temple is of utmost religious significance. So, while you are there, you have to take your time to immerse yourself in the varying rituals and poojas that are conducted at the temple. The temple conducts daily aartis, especially during the morning and evening, which create a deeply spiritual and peaceful ambience. The most popular festival here is Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of devotees gather to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. However, if you are visiting during that period, prepare to experience large crowds.
3. Trek Up To Bhuleshwar Temple
Photo: Abhijeet Safai / Wikimedia Commons
Since Bhuleshwar Temple is located on top of a small hillock, it involves a bit of an ascent. So, if you are in the mood for some adventure, you can trek to the top. The trek is relatively easy, and as you ascend, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Getting to witness the lush greenery and the rocky hills along the way is truly a treat. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat, and carry enough water, especially during the summer months.
4. Experience Serenity And Meditation
Photo: Akash Mandleek / Wikimedia Commons
Bhuleshwar Temple is not just for tourists but also those looking for a quiet and serene space for meditation and reflection. With the remote location of the temple, especially being on top of a hillock, you truly get to immerse yourself in the slow-paced life that exists there. The spiritual energy of this place is truly a blessing.
Places To Visit Around Bhuleshwar Temple
Bhuleshwar Temple is located in the scenic region of Maharashtra, and its surrounding areas offer several unique and lesser-known places that are worth exploring.
1. Jejuri Temple
Photo: PKharote / Wikimedia Commons
Jejuri Temple is another important shrine in Maharashtra dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a local deity, who is considered to be a form of Lord Shiva. Jejuri is known as the “Khandoba’s Hill,” and the temple is also located on top of a hill, adding to the charm. The highlight of the Jejuri Temple is the grand celebration of the Bhandara Festival, during which devotees throw turmeric powder as a symbol of blessings. Getting to be part of this experience in real time is truly a treat.
Distance From Bhuleshwar Temple: 36.3 Km
Timings: 5 AM to 10 PM
2. Fort Jadhavgadh
Photo: Ayman dhū alghiná / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are into historical spots and also want to get a taste of royal luxury, plan a visit to Fort Jadhavgadh. This is an 18th-century fort, which has now been transformed into a heritage hotel. The fort offers a glimpse into Maratha history, complete with a museum showcasing royal artefacts, a beautifully preserved courtyard, and rooms decorated in traditional styles. You can indulge in guided tours of the fort and learn about the culture and heritage of the place.
Distance From Bhuleshwar Temple: 34.8 Km
Timings: 24*7 for hotel guests
3. Morgaon Ganpati Temple
Photo: Pdsaw / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Roughly 2 hours’ drive from Bhuleshwar Temple is the Morgaon Ganpati Temple, which is part of the Ashtavinayak circuit. It is one of the unique temples where the idol of Ganpati has his boot turned to the left. This temple is a hub for pilgrims, especially during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. Also, while you are there exploring the temple, ensure that you don’t miss out on exploring the temple’s architecture.
Distance From Bhuleshwar Temple: 25.8 Km
Timings: 5 AM to 10:30 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Siddanth Sawant / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are planning to spend a few days exploring the Bhuleshwar Temple and its surroundings, there are numerous hotels and resorts available around. Some of the highly-rated accommodations include Windchimes Farms, Homely Stays Resort, Varshavan Agro Hill Resort, Pawar Agro Resort and Sai Nature Resort.
Where To Eat
Photo: Aditya Mara / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Since Bhuleshwar Temple is a popular tourist destination, the temple is surrounded by numerous restaurants and local eateries. A few of the must-visit food joints include Kanchan Veg, Vitthal Kamats, Vintage Restaurant and Shree Leela World Cuisine Restaurant.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Rohan Kalbhor / Wikimedia Commons
When visiting Bhuleshwar Temple, you can keep the following pointers in mind for a well-rounded trip.
- Dress modestly when visiting the temple.
- Avoid taking photographs during the aarti.
- Be respectful of the temple’s customs and traditions.
- Carry cash, as not all shops and restaurants accept cards.
- Consider visiting during the off-peak season to avoid crowds.
Bhuleshwar Temple in Pune is one of the most offbeat and less explored Shiva temples in Maharashtra. If you don’t want to immerse yourself in the crowds, the key is to plan your visit to this temple to seek blessings from Lord Shiva, and soak in the spiritual ambience and the laid-back respite that you get inside the temple. You can plan your trip to Maharashtra with TripXL for planning the perfect trip.
Cover Photo: Rohan Kalbhor / Wikimedia Commons
