Maharashtra is home to many ancient temples that beautifully blend history, spirituality, and architecture. One such gem is the Bhuleshwar Temple Pune, located near Pune. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a monument that reflects the grandeur of the Yadava dynasty’s architecture.
If you are planning a short spiritual getaway from Pune or Mumbai, Bhuleshwar Temple is one of the best choices. In this article, we will cover the history, timings, distance from Pune and Mumbai, how to reach, and visitor reviews to help you plan your trip.
History of Bhuleshwar Temple
- Ancient Significance: Bhuleshwar Temple is believed to be built in the 13th century during the reign of the Yadava dynasty.
- Unique Architecture: Unlike most temples in Maharashtra made of basalt, this temple is built in black basaltic rock with fort-like structure.
- Legend: It is said that Goddess Parvati performed her dance for Lord Shiva at this place before their marriage in Kailash. Because of this, the temple is also associated with divine love and devotion.
- Fortification: The temple was later fortified during the Mughal period and is also known as Daulatmangal Fort or Mangalgad.
This mix of mythology, history, and architecture makes Bhuleshwar Temple a must-visit for history lovers and devotees alike.
Bhuleshwar Temple Architecture
- The temple has a fortified look, resembling a small fort on a hilltop.
- The main shrine has exquisite carvings of gods, goddesses, and mythological figures.
- Some carvings even reflect influences from Islamic architecture, which makes it unique compared to other temples in Maharashtra.
- The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside – a perfect spot for photography.
Bhuleshwar Temple Timings
If you are planning a visit, here are the temple timings:
- Opening Time: 5:00 AM
- Closing Time: 8:00 PM
- The temple remains open on all days, and mornings are the best time to avoid rush and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
(Tip: Try to visit during Mahashivratri or Shravan month, as the temple witnesses grand celebrations.)
Distance of Bhuleshwar Temple
From Pune
- Distance: Around 52 km from Pune city
- Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours by road
- Route: Pune → Hadapsar → Solapur Highway (NH65) → Yavat → Bhuleshwar Temple
From Mumbai
- Distance: Around 230 km
- Travel Time: 4.5 to 5 hours by road
- Route: Mumbai → Pune Expressway → Pune → Solapur Highway (NH65) → Bhuleshwar Temple
How to Reach Bhuleshwar Temple
- By Road:
- From Pune, take the Solapur Highway (NH65) and drive towards Yavat. From there, follow signboards leading to Bhuleshwar Temple.
- The temple is located on a small hill, with a motorable road till the base and a short climb upwards.
- By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Pune Junction (52 km away). From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus.
- By Bus:
- Several state transport (MSRTC) buses run from Pune to Yavat. From Yavat, local transport like rickshaws or taxis can be used to reach the temple.
- By Air:
- The nearest airport is Pune International Airport (60 km away). From there, taxis are available.
Visitor Reviews of Bhuleshwar Temple
Visitors often describe Bhuleshwar Temple as:
- Peaceful & Spiritual: A serene environment with a divine vibe.
- Architectural Beauty: Stunning carvings and fort-like design.
- Scenic Spot: Located on a hill, offering panoramic views of the countryside.
- Less Crowded: Compared to other popular temples near Pune, Bhuleshwar is relatively less crowded, making it ideal for meditation and relaxation.
(Tip: Carry water and light snacks as there are limited facilities near the temple.)
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon (July – September): The surroundings turn lush green, making it scenic.
- Winter (November – February): Pleasant weather for a comfortable visit.
- Festivals: Especially Mahashivratri and Shravan month attract devotees in large numbers.
Travel Tips for Bhuleshwar Temple
- Wear comfortable footwear as some walking and climbing is required.
- Early morning visits are best to avoid crowds and heat.
- Carry a camera – the temple and views are perfect for photography lovers.
- Combine your trip with nearby attractions like Malhargad Fort and Jejuri Temple for a complete one-day trip from Pune.
Conclusion
The Bhuleshwar Temple Pune is not just a religious destination but also a historical monument that reflects India’s rich cultural heritage. With its fort-like architecture, divine atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings, the temple attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Whether you are traveling from Pune or Mumbai, this temple is worth adding to your travel list. From history, timings, distance, reviews, and how to reach, this guide has everything you need for a smooth trip.
So, if you are looking for a short spiritual and scenic getaway near Pune, Bhuleshwar Temple should definitely be on your bucket list.
