Bhimashankar Temple

Bhimashankar derives its name from the demon Bhima, son of Kumbhakarna (Ravana's brother). After severe penance, Bhima received powers from Brahma and began terrorizing the world, even defeating Indra and imprisoning gods.

The gods prayed to Shiva, who fought a fierce battle with Bhima. When Shiva finally destroyed the demon, the sweat from the battle formed a river that became the Bhima River, flowing down to join the Krishna. Shiva then took permanent residence here as Bhimashankar.

The temple architecture is in Nagara style with later Hemadpanthi additions. The sanctum is ancient, while the outer structure was built by Nana Phadnavis in the 18th century. The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary surrounding the temple is home to the endangered Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru) - Maharashtra's state animal.