Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, in Ambegaon and Khed talukas of Pune district, in the state of Maharashtra in order mainly to protect the habitat of the Indian Giant Squirrel. Its area is 131 km2 (51 sq mi) and is a part of the Western Ghats (Sahyadri Ranges). Here the elevations range from 2100 to 3800 feet. This sanctuary was created in 1984 and includes 9 tribal villages. The area’s bio-diversity has been retained as it will be preserved as a cluster of sacred groves for generations. Bhimashankar is one of the best forests of Maharashtra and it is ranked amongst the top ten Global Biodiversity hotspots. There is a shrine in the forest which is considered to be one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples of Lord Shiva. Beyond the temple, there is a serene, dense forest which is a home for hundreds of species of woodland birds, small mammals, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians.
Closest Airport: Pune
Closest Railway Station: Pune
Report at Amanora Sports Arena at 6.00 a.m.
Proceed to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Breakfast enroute.
Reach Bhimashankar. Nature trail to Bhaka Devi- one of the highest places in the park.
Lunch.
Proceed to Kondwal waterfall. Explore the core area for Shekru- our state animal.
Evening snacks. Leave for Pune.
Reach Pune by 9.00 p.m.
