अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्न (FAQs)
Q1: What is the Shekru and why is it famous in Bhimashankar?
The Shekru is the Indian Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica elphinstonei), an arboreal squirrel measuring up to 3 feet in length with rich maroon and buff fur, celebrated as the official State Animal of Maharashtra.
Q2: What famous pilgrimage temple is located inside the sanctuary?
The sanctuary surrounds the ancient Bhimashankar Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India, built in Nagara architectural style at the source of the Bhima River.
Q3: What are the Devrais (Sacred Groves) of Bhimashankar?
Devrais are patches of ancient, virgin climax forest preserved for centuries by indigenous Mahadev Koli tribes as sacred abodes of forest deities, untouched by hunting or logging.
Q4: What is the bioluminescent forest phenomenon in Bhimashankar?
During peak monsoon months (July-August), decaying wood on the forest floor glows with an eerie green light caused by bioluminescent fungi (Mycena species), creating a magical night-time forest glow.
Q5: How far is Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary from Pune and Mumbai?
Bhimashankar is 110 km northwest of Pune (about 3 hours drive via Manchar) and 215 km southeast of Mumbai (about 5 hours drive via Pune Highway or via Kalyan and Malshej).