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| Bhimashankar Trek |
A popular trekking trail located in the northwest of Khed in the Western Ghats. This trek is encompassed with hidden waterfalls. This trek leads to Bhimashankar temple. Which is famous for the Jyotirlinga Shrine, Bhimashankar encounters a heavy footfall of devotees throughout the year. Besides the religious importance, this Sahyadri hills (Western Ghat) are also a host to great trekking expeditions. Walking through the luxuriant greenery and witnessing existing in the serene environment is a myriad of flora and fauna. This place has been turned into Bhimashankar wildlife sanctuary, which was primarily created to protect the habitat of The Giant Indian Squirrel.
Base: Khandas village which is 45 minutes from Neral Railway Station (25 km.)
Finish: Bhimshankar Temple
Best Time: During Monsoon (June – September)Duration: 5 to 6 hours (6 – 8 kms)
Level: Moderate Trek
Routes:
1. Ganesh Ghat Route
Distance : 8 Kms
Time: around 4 hours.
This route is scenic and ideal for moderate level trekkers.
2. Shidi Ghat Route
Distance: 5 kms.
Time: 3.5 Hours.
Shidi Ghat trek route passes via three mountains and a iron ladder route.
Shidi Ghat route is not for beginner trekkers.
Places to Visit:
- Bhimashankar Temple
- Hanuman Lake
- Shekru - rare animal
- Hemadpanthi Structure
- Nag Phani
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| Bhimashankar Trek |
Things to Carry:
- Trekking shoes
- Water
- Glucose/Gatorade
- Snacks
- Proper Backpack
- Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
- Torch with extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Identity proof
Tips:
- Trekking is a risky job. So trekking gear is essential.
- There's only a few local vendors selling refreshments that to where Shidi Ghat and Ganesh Ghat Routes meet. So one must carry enough water and snacks.
- Always carry a torch, full charged mobile and a power bank just in case.
- Wear comfortable clothing and trekking shoes. The forests are infamous for leeches, so choose your clothing accordingly or properly tuck them to avoid any injuries. Carry a raincoat if a trek is planned during the monsoons.
There are few resorts and hotels like Westend Hotel, Hotel Centre Point, Sparsh Chalet Resorts, Bhoj Resort, Radisson Blue Resort and Spa, Ratwa Resort, Natraj Holiday resorts, Sereniity Resorts, Blue Mormon Jungle Holiday Resort and Neelam Hills Resort, Piccadilly Country Club Resort, Discover Resorts, etc. These are located in various locations like Matheran, Naldhe, Alibaug, Karjat, etc.
