Bhimashankar combines two things riders love: a winding forest ghat and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas at the top. Roughly 110 km from Pune, it is a satisfying day ride that turns lush and green once the monsoon sets in.
Here is the route, what to expect on the road and the best time to go.
Why ride to Bhimashankar
The road climbs through the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, so the last stretch is dense forest, cool air and birdsong. At the top sits the ancient Bhimashankar temple, a major pilgrimage spot.
The route from Pune to Bhimashankar
The main road route runs via Chakan and Rajgurunagar to Manchar, then up the ghat. Plan for about 3 to 3.5 hours one way.
- Pune to Chakan to Rajgurunagar
- Rajgurunagar to Manchar
- Manchar to Ghodegaon and the Bhimashankar ghat
Road notes
The final ghat is steep, narrow and full of tight bends. It is fully tarred but demands a careful rider, especially in the wet.
The temple and the forest
Park below and walk up the steps to the temple. If you enjoy trekking, there are forest trails around the sanctuary, but stick to marked paths.
Best time to ride
The monsoon makes the forest spectacular but the ghat slippery. Winter mornings are crisp and clear. Avoid the steep section after dark.
Tips
- Fuel up at Manchar before the climb
- Carry water and light snacks
- Start early to get back down before evening
Rent a bike or scooty in Pune for this
You do not need to own a two-wheeler to enjoy any of this. Grab a bike on rent in Pune from Boongg by the hour, day or month, helmet included, and head out whenever you are ready.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is Bhimashankar from Pune by road?
Bhimashankar is about 110 km from Pune via Chakan, Rajgurunagar and Manchar, roughly a 3 to 3.5 hour ride one way.
Is the Bhimashankar ghat road safe on a two-wheeler?
It is fully tarred but steep and narrow with tight bends. Ride slowly, especially in the monsoon, and avoid the ghat after dark.
Can I rent a bike in Pune to visit Bhimashankar?
Yes. Boongg offers bikes and scooters on rent in Pune by the day with a helmet, ideal for a Bhimashankar day ride.
Practical Tips for Your Pune Two-Wheeler Experience
Getting the most out of your ride around Pune comes down to preparation. Always carry your Aadhar card or driving licence — Boongg's rental agreement serves as proof of insurance but traffic police may ask for ID. Download offline maps for your route before leaving, as some areas around Bhimashankar have spotty connectivity. A small backpack beats a carrier bag — keeps your hands free and weight centred. If you're riding for the first time in Pune, start with a morning slot on a weekday — traffic is lighter and you get a feel for the roads before tackling peak hours.
- Documents to carry: Driving licence, Aadhar, Boongg rental agreement
- Best riding hours: 7–9 AM and 6–8 PM on weekdays, anytime on weekend mornings
- Fuel/charging: Petrol pumps on most main roads; EV charging at malls and IT parks
Book Your Pune Rental with Boongg
Whether you're exploring bhimashankar trek or navigating daily life in Pune, Boongg makes two-wheeler rental straightforward. Browse available bikes and scooties online, select your plan — daily, weekly, or monthly — and pick up from a location near you. No long paperwork, no hidden charges, and insurance is included. Boongg currently operates pickup points across Pune's key neighbourhoods, with same-day availability on most vehicles. Head to boongg.com or download the app to check live inventory and book in under 2 minutes.
