"Encounter diverse wildlife in lush surroundings."
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. Established in 1984, the sanctuary covers an area of 131.78 square kilometers and is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. The sanctuary is named after the Bhimashankar Temple, which is situated within its boundaries.
The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, approximately 100 kilometers from the city of Pune. The sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 2100 feet to 3800 feet above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forests and scenic landscapes. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.
The entry fee for visiting the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreign tourists.
The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals. Some of the important wildlife species found in the sanctuary include Indian Giant Squirrel, Indian Pangolin, Indian Civet, and Indian Flying Fox. The sanctuary is also known for its rich birdlife, with over 250 species of birds recorded in the area.
Visitors to the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary can engage in a variety of activities such as nature walks, bird watching, and trekking. The sanctuary also offers guided tours and jeep safaris for a closer look at the wildlife and natural beauty of the area.
The charges for a jeep safari in the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary vary depending on the duration and route of the safari. On average, the cost of a jeep safari ranges from INR 1000 to INR 2000 per person.
For male visitors, the entry fee is INR 50, for female visitors it is INR 30, and for children below the age of 12, the entry fee is INR 20.
Senior citizens above the age of 60 are provided with a discount on the entry fee and special assistance is available for a comfortable visit to the sanctuary.
The best time to visit the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months of November to February when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to visit for lush greenery and waterfall views.
Some of the nearby attractions to visit while in the vicinity of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary include the Bhimashankar Temple, Hanuman Lake, and Gupt Bhimashankar Cave.
Visitors to the sanctuary can avail of the vehicle parking facility available near the entrance gate. Parking charges apply based on the type of vehicle.
Visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations while inside the sanctuary, including not littering, not feeding the animals, and maintaining silence to avoid disturbing the wildlife. Smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited within the sanctuary premises.
The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary can be reached by road from Pune, Mumbai, and other major cities in Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Pune Airport, approximately 120 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is Pune Railway Station, around 100 kilometers from the sanctuary. Accommodation options are available in the nearby town of Bhimashankar for visitors looking to stay overnight.
Overall, the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and wildlife in a peaceful and tranquil environment. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or wildlife photographer, a visit to this sanctuary is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
