In a much-awaited development for millions of Shiva devotees, the sacred Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple in Maharashtra will reopen its doors from June 15, 2026, after remaining closed for nearly five months due to extensive renovation and infrastructure development. One of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Bhimashankar will welcome devotees with limited darshan in the initial phase to ensure safety and smooth crowd management.

Why Was Bhimashankar Temple Closed?

The temple was closed in early January 2026 for major redevelopment work — improving facilities, pathways and visitor infrastructure ahead of the upcoming Nashik Kumbh Mela in 2027. The roughly five-and-a-half-month closure was needed to upgrade the ancient shrine while preserving its sanctity. District officials confirmed that most of the work is complete and final preparations for public darshan are underway.

Reopening Details — June 15, 2026 Onwards

  • Reopening date: June 15, 2026
  • Online registration starts: June 5, 2026
  • Initial darshan timings: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM (first phase)
  • Daily devotee limit: only 1,000 devotees per day
  • Registration: mandatory online registration required
  • ID proof: a valid government-issued identity card is compulsory

In the first phase, darshan is allowed only during morning hours. Authorities have indicated that timings may be gradually extended in the coming weeks based on crowd management and safety arrangements.

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How to Register for Darshan at Bhimashankar Temple

  1. Visit the official Bhimashankar Temple website (shreebhimashankar.com or bhimashankar.in).
  2. Register from June 5, 2026 onwards.
  3. Select your preferred date and time slot.
  4. Carry the registration confirmation and a valid ID proof during your visit.

Note: Walk-in darshan will not be allowed in the initial phase. Advance registration is compulsory.

Spiritual Significance of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga

Bhimashankar is not just a temple — it is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas where Lord Shiva manifested as a column of divine light (Jyoti). According to legend, this is where Shiva slew the demon Bhima after intense penance by his devotees, and the sweat that poured from the Lord formed the Bhima river. Built in the Hemadpanthi style amid the scenic Sahyadri hills, the shrine radiates a deeply serene, divine atmosphere.

Devotees believe darshan here removes obstacles and sins, grants peace, prosperity and protection, fulfils sincere wishes, and bestows spiritual strength and inner peace.

What Devotees Can Expect After Reopening

  • Controlled darshan in the initial days to maintain sanctity and safety.
  • Following all guidelines issued by temple authorities.
  • Maintaining cleanliness and discipline inside the premises.
  • Avoiding prohibited items and cooperating with security and volunteers.

Special abhishekam and traditional rituals will resume gradually as per the temple schedule.

For NRIs and Devotees Living Abroad

  • Book your darshan slot as soon as registration opens on June 5, 2026.
  • Plan travel to Pune in advance (nearest airport: Pune International Airport).
  • Combine your pilgrimage with nearby Jyotirlingas such as Trimbakeshwar (Nashik) and Grishneshwar (near Ellora) — see our 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra 2026 guide.
  • Those unable to travel immediately can sponsor abhishekam or special pooja through the temple’s official portal.

Even from abroad, chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” and offering heartfelt prayers on June 15 connects you with the divine energy of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.

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Planning a Jyotirlinga Yatra? Also explore Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga near the Ellora Caves, Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga at the source of the Godavari in Nashik, and the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga at Ujjain. For the full circuit, read our complete guide to all 12 Jyotirlingas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will Bhimashankar Temple reopen in 2026?

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple will reopen for devotees from June 15, 2026 after nearly five months of renovation.

Is online registration mandatory for Bhimashankar darshan?

Yes. Online registration is compulsory in the first phase and opens from June 5, 2026. Walk-in darshan is not allowed initially.

How many devotees will be allowed daily?

In the first phase only 1,000 devotees per day will be permitted, during morning hours (7:00 AM – 11:00 AM).

What ID proof is required?

A valid government-issued photo ID such as Aadhaar, Passport, or Driving License is mandatory along with the registration confirmation.

Why was Bhimashankar Temple closed?

It was closed in early January 2026 for major redevelopment of facilities, pathways and visitor infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Nashik Kumbh Mela.

Jai Bholenath! Jai Bhimashankar Mahadev! Har Har Mahadev!