Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Protected wildlife area in Maharashtra, India.
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area in the Western Ghats that shelters numerous plant species and endangered mammals. The zone spans dense woodlands in this mountainous region and safeguards delicate ecosystems from human disturbance.
The Maharashtra State Government officially designated this forest area as a protected sanctuary in 1984 to preserve native wildlife. This action came after habitats in the region faced growing threats from human activity.
The sacred Bhimashankar Temple at the sanctuary's edge is one of twelve Jyotirlinga shrines in India, drawing both nature lovers and pilgrims to the area. This religious site shapes how local people view the forest as a sacred space.
Access is through Ghodegaon village, about 110 kilometers from Pune, with guided tours available between October and February. The best time to visit is during the dry season, when trails are easier to walk and wildlife is more active.
The site serves as a conservation center for Indian Giant Squirrels, which live high in the forest canopy and are rarely spotted. These animals depend on the large trees found here and are considered an important indicator of forest health.
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