to ascend stairs. Also, one can organize transportation that drops them off close to the Sri Rama Temple, which is adjacent to the Bhimashankar Temple. History Even though the Bhimashankaram shrine and the Bhimarathi river have been talked about in writings as far back as the 13th century, the current construction of the temple seems to be fairly new. The Nagara architectural style was used to build this temple, which was built in the 18th century. It is small and elegant. It is claimed that the old temple was built on a Swayambhu Lingam (that is, the self-emanating Shiva Lingam). Furthermore, it can be seen that the Lingam is located precisely in the center of the Garbagriham (Sanctum sanctorum) of the temple. The pillars and door frames of the temple are covered with intricate sculptures of holy beings and people. In these amazing carvings, scenes from mythology are depicted. A minor shrine dedicated to Lord Shani Mahatma can also be seen within the temple's grounds (also called Shanaeshwara). There is a statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva's vehicle, right inside the entrance to the temple. This temple is connected to the legend of how Shiva killed Tripurasura, the demon, with the unconquerable flying citadels known as "Tripuras." On the peak of the Sahyadri hills, Shiva is claimed to have assumed the form of "Bhima Shankara" at the behest of the Gods, and the sweat that spilled from His body after the battle is said to have formed the Bhimarathi river. The Gopura-shikhara of the temple was built by Nāna Phadnavis. It is said that the great Maratha king Shivaji gave gifts to this temple so that religious ceremonies could be done better. The "Shani Temple" is situated within the main complex of the Bhimashankar temple. Between the two pillars in front of the "Shani" shrine there is an enormous antique Portuguese bell. Behind the temple, there is a narrow walk that goes to the riverbanks. Outside the temple, there is a large area of forest that is sometimes broken up by forts on the mountains nearby. There are other temples and shrines, near the main temple. There is a shrine to Kamalaja near the Bhimashankar temple. Kamalaja is an incarnation of Parvathi, who aided Shiva in his battle against Tripuraasura. Kamalajaa was worshipped with offerings of lotus flowers by Brahma. There is a shrine for Siva Ganams, Shaakini and Daakini who