Pune: Bhimashankar Temple to Remain Closed for Devotees from April 9 to May 31 for Renovation Work

Pune, 7th April 2026: The district administration has decided to temporarily close the Bhimashankar Temple for devotees from April 9 to May 31, 2026, to expedite ongoing development works and ensure the safety of pilgrims, particularly in view of the anticipated rush during the upcoming 2027 Nashik Simhastha Kumbh Mela.

Pune District Collector and District Magistrate Jitendra Dudi announced that the decision was taken after considering several factors, including the expected surge in devotees, safety concerns, and the need to complete construction work before the onset of the monsoon in June.

Officials said that lessons from the 2025 Prayagraj Maha Kumbh have been taken into account while preparing for the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik. A large number of pilgrims visiting Trimbakeshwar during the Kumbh are also expected to travel to the revered Bhimashankar shrine, leading to significantly higher footfall.

To manage the anticipated crowds and improve facilities for devotees, several infrastructure projects are underway at the temple complex. Authorities noted that the existing sabhamandap (assembly hall) was inadequate to handle large gatherings during the Kumbh period. As a result, construction of a new and larger sabhamandap has been undertaken.

At present, the old sabhamandap has been completely dismantled and construction of the new structure is in progress. Around 75 percent of the work has been completed, while construction of the dome is currently underway. Work on the step pathway leading to the temple is also in progress, and the access route remains completely closed.

Large construction materials, including heavy stones and machinery, are currently present within the temple premises. Considering the nature of the ongoing work, the geographical terrain, and the expected number of visitors, officials said keeping the temple open during construction could pose safety risks to devotees.

Bhimashankar is located in a high-rainfall region that typically experiences heavy monsoon between June and September. With rainfall expected to begin in the first week of June, the administration aims to complete the remaining works on a priority basis before the monsoon arrives.

Collector Dudi has appealed to devotees and local residents to cooperate with the temple trust, district administration, police, and local authorities to ensure timely completion of the development works and smooth arrangements for future pilgrim inflow.