Bhimashankar Temple to Remain Open on Mahashivratri? Important Information for Devotees
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Pune, February 2026:
In a major update for devotees of Lord Shiva, the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, will remain closed to devotees during Mahashivratri 2026 due to ongoing development and infrastructure works under the Bhimashankar development master plan.
According to temple authorities and the local administration, the shrine will remain completely closed for public दर्शन from February 12 to February 18, 2026, including the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. As a result, the festival will be observed this year without public congregation of devotees at the temple premises.
Closure Due to Safety Concerns
Large-scale construction work is currently underway in the temple परिसर, including the development of a grand sabhamandap (assembly hall), stairway access routes, and beautification of the surrounding area. The premises currently house heavy construction materials, iron rods, and large machinery.
Considering the massive influx of devotees during Mahashivratri every year, authorities have expressed serious concerns over public safety risks. To prevent any untoward incidents, the administration has imposed a complete restriction on the entry of devotees during this period.
Earlier Decision Revised
Initially, when the temple was closed for three months due to development work, authorities had indicated that the temple would remain open for darshan during Mahashivratri. However, due to the scale of construction activities and the expected crowd, the administration has now revised its decision, prioritising safety and security over festival access.
Religious Rituals to Continue
While the temple will remain closed to the public, all religious rituals, daily पूजा, and special Mahashivratri ceremonies will continue as per tradition. These rituals will be performed by temple priests and authorised staff in a restricted setting.
The administration has appealed to devotees to cooperate with authorities, avoid gathering at the temple premises, and respect the safety guidelines during the closure period.
This decision marks a rare Mahashivratri where one of India’s most sacred Jyotirlinga shrines will remain inaccessible to the public, underlining the priority given to devotee safety and long-term development of the Bhimashankar pilgrimage site.
