The short answer
Shidi Ghat Trek: what visitors should know first
Skip it unless you are an experienced trekker. It is shorter than Ganesh Ghat but steeper, and the rocky Shidi section needs scrambling. Go with a guide, in the cool season, and not in the monsoon.
Useful facts
Shidi Ghat Trek facts at a glance
- Start
- Shidi (Bahirwadi) village
- Distance and gain
- About 6 km; roughly 700 m climb
- Duration
- 2.5–4 hours up; 1.5–2.5 hours down
- Difficulty
- Moderate; steep rocky section
- Best season
- October to February
Why it matters
Why Shidi Ghat Trek is worth your time
Shidi Ghat is one of the traditional climbs up to Bhimashankar from the Deccan side. It is shorter than Ganesh Ghat but more technical, and it suits trekkers who want a steeper challenge in a single morning.
For most visitors it serves as a reminder that Bhimashankar is a mountain destination, not just a temple at the end of a road. The route shows how steep the escarpment is and why local people treat the ascent as part of the pilgrimage.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The Shidi scramble
A rocky 30 to 45 minute section with fixed ropes in places.
- 02
Short but steep
Roughly 700 m of climb in about 6 km.
- 03
Plateau arrival
You arrive at the plateau without using the road.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The trek starts at Shidi village, also called Bahirwadi, about 90 km from Pune via Rajgurunagar and Ambegaon according to one guide. The distance is about 6 km with roughly 700 m of gain, and a steep rocky section takes 30 to 45 minutes and needs hands and feet.
Wear proper trekking shoes, carry two litres of water, and use trekking poles on the descent. Leave early, so you finish the scramble before the afternoon heat and stay clear of the trail in heavy rain.
There are no reliable water or food points on the trail. Give wild animals space and do not walk alone.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go with an operator or guide
- Wear proper trekking shoes
- Carry two litres of water
- Avoid the monsoon months
- Use poles on the descent
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Shidi (Bahirwadi) village to Bhimashankar
- Time needed
- 2.5–4 hours uphill; 1.5–2.5 hours down
- Best time
- October to February
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- Not suitable for most older visitors: steep rock, fixed ropes in places and a scramble of 30 to 45 minutes. Seniors should drive to the temple instead.
- Tickets and access
- Forest entry rules apply; check with the Forest Department. Most people go with an operator, so ask about safety gear, ropes and group size.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Shidi Ghat Trek
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Not suitable for most older visitors: steep rock, fixed ropes in places and a scramble of 30 to 45 minutes. Seniors should drive to the temple instead.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How hard is Shidi Ghat?
A trek guide rates it moderate, with a steep rocky section that needs hands and feet.
Can beginners do it?
Only with a guide. Ganesh Ghat is longer but gentler.
When is it best?
October to February.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
