The 12 Jyotirlingas are revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
12 Jyotirlingas in India - Shiva Temples in India - Temple Tourism
October 7, 2023
The 12 Jyotirlingas are revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. These sacred temples are spread across different parts of India and hold immense significance for devotees. Each Jyotirlinga represents a manifestation of Lord Shiva in the form of a divine light or "linga." We will explore these 12 Jyotirlingas in greater detail, including their locations, top attractions, suggested itineraries, best time to visit, how to reach them, temple open timings, and their spiritual importance.
| Sr. No. | Jyotirlinga Name | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Somnath Jyotirlinga | Prabhas Patan, Gujarat | First among the 12 Jyotirlingas, symbolizes purity and eternal truth. |
| 2 | Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga | Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh | Associated with a tale of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. |
| 3 | Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga | Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh | Home to Lord Shiva in the form of Mahakaleshwar, the Lord of Time. |
| 4 | Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga | Mandhata Island, Madhya Pradesh | The island resembles the sacred symbol 'Om,' hence the name Omkareshwar. |
| 5 | Kedarnath Jyotirlinga | Kedarnath, Uttarakhand | Situated in the picturesque Himalayan region and one of the Char Dham temples. |
| 6 | Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga | Pune District, Maharashtra | Named after the demon Bhima who was vanquished by Lord Shiva. |
| 7 | Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | Located in the holiest city for Hindus, Varanasi, also known as Kashi. |
| 8 | Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga | Trimbak, Nashik, Maharashtra | Houses the sacred Godavari River and the origin of the Jyotirlinga. |
| 9 | Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga | Deoghar, Jharkhand | Also known as Vaijnath, associated with healing and Lord Shiva as the divine doctor. |
| 10 | Nageshwar Jyotirlinga | Dwarka, Gujarat | Located near the legendary city of Dwarka, this temple is believed to be ancient. |
| 11 | Rameshwar (Ramanathaswamy) Jyotirlinga | Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu | Situated on Rameswaram Island and holds great significance for pilgrims. |
| 12 | Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga | Ellora, Maharashtra | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ellora Caves. |
Somnath Jyotirlinga
Location: Prabhas Patan, Gujarat
Significance: This Jyotirlinga represents purity and eternal truth. The temple has a rich history and has been rebuilt several times.
Top Attractions: Visit Somnath Beach, Triveni Sangam, and enjoy the Somnath Aarti at the temple.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1: | Time | Arrival in Somnath |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from your home city. | |
| Late Morning | Arrive in Somnath. | |
| Afternoon | Check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Evening | Visit the Shree Somnath Jyotirling Temple | |
| Night | Witness the captivating Aarti at the Somnath Temple. | |
| Return to your hotel and relax. | ||
| Day 2: | Somnath Local Sightseeing | |
| Morning | Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. | |
| Late Morning | Explore the Prabhas Patan Museum to learn about the temple's history. | |
| Afternoon | Visit the serene Somnath Beach and spend your leisure time. | |
| Evening | Explore nearby attractions like Bhalka Tirtha associated with Lord Krishna. | |
| Optionally, revisit the Somnath Temple or enjoy a peaceful evening by the beach. | ||
| Night | Return to your hotel and prepare for departure. |
Best Time to Visit: October to March when the weather is pleasant.
How to Reach:
- By air - The nearest airport is Diu (85 km),
- By train - the nearest station is Veraval (6 km),
- By road - well-connected by road from major cities.
Temple Open Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga
Location: Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
Significance: It is closely associated with a legend of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, making it an important pilgrimage site.
Top Attractions: Visit the Bhramaramba Devi Temple, and Akka Mahadevi Caves, and take a boat ride in the Krishna River.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Srisailam |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location]. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Srisailam. | |
| Afternoon | Check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Evening | Visit the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy varla Devasthanam. | |
| Night | Explore the local market or relax at your hotel. | |
| Day 2 | Srisailam Sightseeing and Departure | |
| Morning | Begin your day with a visit to the Bhramaramba Devi ShaktiPeeth. | |
| Late Morning | Explore the nearby Sakshi Ganapathi Temple. | |
| Afternoon | Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Visit the Paladhara Panchadhara, a natural spring. | ||
| Evening | Explore Hatakeshwara Temple. | |
| Night | Return to your hotel, check out, and depart from Srisailam. |
Best Time to Visit: October to February to avoid extreme heat.
How to Reach:
- By air - The nearest airport is Hyderabad (200 km),
- By train - the nearest station is Markapur (85 km),
- By road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings (Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga): 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM
3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Location: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
Significance: Home to Lord Shiva as Mahakaleshwar, the deity of time, this temple is known for its unique rituals.
Top Attractions: Explore the historic city of Ujjain, visit Ram Ghat, and experience the Bhasma Aarti at the temple.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Ujjain |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location]. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Ujjain. | |
| Afternoon | Check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Evening | Visit the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga for the evening Bhasma Aarti. | |
| Night | Explore the local market or relax at your hotel. | |
| Day 2 | Ujjain Sightseeing and Departure | |
| Morning | Begin your day with a visit to the Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir. | |
| Explore the Kal Bhairav Temple nearby. | ||
| Late Morning | Visit the Harsiddhi Mata Temple. | |
| Afternoon | Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Explore the Sandipani Ashram and Vikram Kirti Mandir. | ||
| Evening | Return to the Mahakaleshwar Temple for the evening Bhasma Aarti. | |
| Night | Check out from your hotel and depart from Ujjain. |
Best Time to Visit: July to March, avoiding the monsoon season.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Indore (53 km), by train - Ujjain Junction, by road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings (Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga): 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
Location: Mandhata Island, Madhya Pradesh
Significance: The island's shape resembles the sacred symbol 'Om,' making it a spiritually significant site.
Top Attractions: Visit Omkareshwar Island, take a boat ride in the Narmada River, and explore nearby caves.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Omkareshwar |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location]. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Omkareshwar. | |
| Afternoon | Check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Evening | Visit the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple for an evening darshan. | |
| Night | Explore the local area or relax at your hotel. | |
| Day 2 | Omkareshwar Sightseeing and Mandhata Island | |
| Morning | Explore the Omkareshwar town, including local temples and markets. | |
| Take a boat ride to Mandhata Island to visit the Mandhata Temple. | ||
| Late Morning | Enjoy the serene atmosphere on Mandhata Island. | |
| Afternoon | Return to Omkareshwar for lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Visit the Siddhanath Temple and explore the scenic beauty of the island. | ||
| Evening | Head back to the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple for the evening aarti. | |
| Night | Check out from your hotel and depart from Omkareshwar with sacred memories. |
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Indore (77 km), by train - nearest station is Omkareshwar Road (12 km), by road - well-connected.
Temple Open Timings (Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga): 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
Significance: Situated in the picturesque Himalayan region and one of the Char Dham temples.
Top Attractions: Visit the Kedarnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, and trek to Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar).
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Kedarnath |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location]. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Gaurikund, the base camp for Kedarnath. | |
| Begin the trek to Kedarnath Temple. The trek is approximately 16 kilometers long. | ||
| Afternoon | En route, visit Gauri Kund, a natural hot water spring. | |
| Continue your trek, and admire the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas. | ||
| Evening | Arrive in Kedarnath and check in to your accommodation. | |
| In the evening, visit the Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Attend the evening aarti. | ||
| Night | Explore the serene surroundings and stay overnight in Kedarnath. | |
| Day 2 | Kedarnath Sightseeing and Return | |
| Morning | Attend the early morning aarti at the Kedarnath Temple. | |
| Explore the temple premises and witness the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. | ||
| Late Morning | Begin your trek back to Gaurikund. | |
| Afternoon | En route, visit Bhairavnath Temple, a significant shrine dedicated to Lord Bhairav. | |
| Continue your trek and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. | ||
| Evening | Arrive in Gaurikund, where you can relax and unwind. | |
| Night | Depart from Gaurikund and head back to your starting location with divine memories. |
Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October when the temple is accessible.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Dehradun (239 km), by train - nearest station is Rishikesh (216 km), by road - accessible via trek or road.
Temple Open Timings(Kedarnath Jyotirlinga): 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Location: Pune District, Maharashtra
Significance: Named after the demon Bhima, this temple symbolizes Lord Shiva's triumph over evil forces.
Top Attractions: Explore the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagphani Point, and trekking trails.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Bhimashankar |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location] to Bhimashankar in the Pune District. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Bhimashankar and check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Bhimashankar Temple: Begin your spiritual journey by visiting the renowned Bhimashankar Temple. | ||
| Afternoon | Explore the surrounding Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna. | |
| Evening | Attend the evening aarti at the Bhimashankar Temple and immerse yourself in the divine ambiance. | |
| Night | Enjoy a peaceful night's rest in Bhimashankar. | |
| Day 2 | Bhimashankar Sightseeing and Departure | |
| Morning | Visit the Gupt Bhimashankar Temple, an ancient and lesser-known temple nearby. | |
| Explore the natural beauty of the area, including the lush forests and pristine surroundings. | ||
| Late Morning | Enjoy a trek through the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary for a unique wildlife experience. | |
| Afternoon | Return to Bhimashankar town and savor a local lunch. | |
| Spend some leisure time exploring the local markets or relaxing. | ||
| Evening | Depending on your departure plans, you can attend another aarti at the Bhimashankar Temple. | |
| Night | Depart from Bhimashankar with divine blessings and cherished memories. |
Best Time to Visit: November to February for pleasant weather.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Pune (95 km), by train - nearest station is Pune Junction (95 km), by road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings(Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga): 4:30 AM to 9:30 PM
7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Significance: Situated in the holiest city for Hindus, Varanasi, also known as Kashi, this temple holds immense spiritual importance.
Top Attractions: Explore the ghats of Varanasi, take a boat ride on the Ganges, and visit Sarnath.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Varanasi and Kashi Vishwanath Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location] to Varanasi. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Varanasi and check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Freshen up and get ready to explore the spiritual heart of the city. | ||
| Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Begin your pilgrimage with a visit to the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered shrines in India. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Explore the nearby Gyanvapi Mosque and Aurangzeb's Mosque. | ||
| Evening | Attend the Ganga Aarti at the Dasaswamedh Ghat, a mesmerizing and spiritually enriching experience by the holy Ganges River. | |
| Night | Return to your hotel for dinner and a peaceful night's rest. | |
| Day 2 | Varanasi Exploration and Departure | |
| Morning | Wake up early to witness the serene morning rituals along the Ghats of Varanasi. | |
| Participate in a boat ride on the Ganges to experience the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi. | ||
| Late Morning | Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, and the Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its beautiful marble work. | |
| Explore the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Visit the Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, and explore the Dhamek Stupa and Sarnath Museum. | ||
| Evening | Spend your last evening in Varanasi by attending another mesmerizing Ganga Aarti or exploring local markets for souvenirs. | |
| Night | Depart from Varanasi with cherished memories and a sense of spiritual fulfillment. |
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and festivals.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Varanasi (21 km), by train - Varanasi Junction, by road - easily accessible within the city.
Temple Open Timings(Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga): 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM
8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga
Location: Trimbak, Nashik, Maharashtra
Significance: It houses the sacred Godavari river and is believed to be the origin of the Jyotirlinga.
Top Attractions: Visit the Kushavarta Kund, and Anjaneri Hills, and explore the vineyards in Nashik.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Trimbak and Trimbakeshwar Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location] to Trimbak, Nashik. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Trimbak and check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Freshen up and get ready to explore the sacred town of Trimbak. | ||
| Trimbakeshwar Temple: Begin your pilgrimage with a visit to the famous Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Explore the nearby Kushavarta Kund, a sacred bathing spot associated with rituals and spirituality. | ||
| Evening | Attend the evening aarti at the Trimbakeshwar Temple for a divine and spiritual experience. | |
| Night | Return to your hotel for dinner and a peaceful night's rest. | |
| Day 2 | Trimbak Exploration and Departure | |
| Morning | Wake up early and take a dip in the holy Kushavarta Kund to cleanse your soul. | |
| Visit the Bhramagiri Hill, a place of immense religious significance and natural beauty. | ||
| Late Morning | Explore the nearby Anjaneri Fort, known for its scenic views and trekking opportunities. | |
| You can also visit the Gangadwar and Brahmadev Temple if time permits. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy lunch at your hotel or a local restaurant. | |
| Spend some leisure time in Trimbak, exploring local markets for souvenirs or simply relaxing. | ||
| Evening | Attend the evening aarti at the Trimbakeshwar Temple once more to conclude your spiritual journey. | |
| Night | Depart from Trimbak with a sense of peace and spiritual fulfillment, carrying the blessings of Lord Shiva from Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga. |
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Nashik (40 km), by train - nearest station is Nashik Road (28 km), by road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings(Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga): 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM
9. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga
Location: Deoghar, Jharkhand
Significance: Also known as Vaijnath, this temple is associated with healing and Lord Shiva as the divine doctor.
Top Attractions: Explore Nandan Pahar, Basukinath Temple, and the vibrant local markets.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time of Day | Arrival in Deoghar and Vaidyanath Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location] to Deoghar, Jharkhand. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Deoghar and check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Freshen up and get ready to explore the sacred town of Deoghar. | ||
| Vaidyanath Temple (Baidyanath Dham): Begin your pilgrimage with a visit to the renowned Vaidyanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Explore the nearby Naulakha Mandir, a stunning temple with intricate architecture. | ||
| Evening | Attend the evening aarti at the Vaidyanath Temple for a divine and spiritual experience. | |
| Night | Return to your hotel for dinner and a peaceful night's rest. | |
| Day 2 | Deoghar Exploration and Departure | |
| Morning | Wake up early and take a dip in the holy Satsang Ashram Kund to cleanse your soul. | |
| Visit the Trikuta Parvata, a hill known for its religious significance and panoramic views of Deoghar. | ||
| Late Morning | Explore the nearby Trikut Pahar, known for its scenic beauty, and the ancient Shri Sitala Mandir. | |
| You can also visit the Basukinath Temple if time permits. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy lunch at your hotel or a local restaurant. | |
| Spend some leisure time in Deoghar, exploring local markets for souvenirs or simply relaxing. | ||
| Evening | Attend the evening aarti at the Vaidyanath Temple once more to conclude your spiritual journey. | |
| Night | Depart from Deoghar with a sense of peace and spiritual fulfillment, carrying the blessings of Lord Shiva from Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga. |
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Patna (243 km), by train - Baidyanathdham Deoghar Railway Station, by road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings(Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga): 4:00 AM to 3:30 PM (Break from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM) and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
Location: Dwarka, Gujarat
Significance: Located near the legendary city of Dwarka, this temple is believed to be ancient and holds historical importance
Top Attractions: Visit Dwarkadhish Temple, and Rukmini Temple, and take a dip in the Gomti Ghat.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Dwarka and Nageshwar Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location] to Dwarka, Gujarat. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Dwarka and check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Freshen up and get ready for your spiritual journey. | ||
| Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Begin your pilgrimage with a visit to the revered Nageshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Visit the nearby Gopi Talav, a historic pond with a sacred association with Lord Krishna. | ||
| Evening | Attend the evening aarti at the Nageshwar Temple for a divine and spiritual experience. | |
| Night | Return to your hotel for dinner and a peaceful night's rest. | |
| Day 2 | Dwarka Exploration and Departure | |
| Morning | Wake up early and take a dip in the sacred Gomti Ghat, believed to purify the soul. | |
| Explore the iconic Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, and immerse yourself in its spiritual aura. | ||
| Visit Rukmini Devi Temple, associated with the divine love story of Lord Krishna and Rukmini. | ||
| Late Morning | Explore the historic Bet Dwarka island by taking a boat ride. Visit the Dwarka Lighthouse for panoramic views. | |
| You can also visit Nageshwar Beach if time permits. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy lunch at your hotel or a local restaurant. | |
| Spend some leisure time exploring Dwarka's local markets for souvenirs or simply relaxing. | ||
| Evening | Attend the evening aarti at the Dwarkadhish Temple to conclude your spiritual journey in Dwarka. | |
| Night | Depart from Dwarka with a sense of peace and spiritual fulfillment, carrying the blessings of Lord Shiva from Nageshwar Jyotirlinga. |
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
How to Reach:
By air - The nearest airport is Jamnagar (45 km),
By train - Dwarka Railway Station,
By road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings (Nageshwar Jyotirlinga )
11. Rameshwar (Ramanathaswamy) Jyotirlinga
Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Significance: Situated on Rameswaram Island, this temple is a pilgrimage site for Hindus and is known for its intricate architecture.
Top Attractions: Visit Dhanushkodi Beach, Pamban Bridge, and the Ramanathaswamy Temple's 22 theerthams (holy baths).
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time of Day | Arrival in Rameswaram and Temple Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location] to Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Rameswaram and check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Freshen up and prepare for a spiritual journey. | ||
| Ramanathaswamy Temple: Begin your pilgrimage with a visit to the revered Ramanathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Explore Agni Theertham Beach, a sacred place for rituals and a serene beach for relaxation. | ||
| Evening | Head to Dhanushkodi Beach, known for its unique landscapes and remnants of a ghost town. | |
| Visit the legendary Ram Sethu Point, associated with the epic Ramayana. | ||
| Night | Return to your hotel for dinner and a peaceful night's rest. | |
| Day 2 | Rameswaram Sightseeing and Departure | |
| Morning | After breakfast, visit the Kothandaramaswamy Temple, an ancient temple with a fascinating history. | |
| Explore the Pamban Bridge, India's first sea bridge, offering breathtaking views of the sea. | ||
| Late Morning | Visit the Kothainda Ramar Temple, another significant temple in the region. | |
| Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. | ||
| Afternoon | Explore the remaining attractions, including Lakshmana Theertham, Sita Theertham, and Ramar Patham. | |
| Visit the Abdul Kalam House, the former residence of India's beloved President, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. | ||
| Evening | Spend a leisurely evening at the Beach, capturing the beautiful sunset. | |
| Night | Return to your hotel for dinner and a peaceful night's rest. |
Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant weather
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Madurai (163 km), by train - Rameswaram Railway Station, by road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings :(Ramanathaswamy Temple)
12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Location: Ellora, Maharashtra
Significance: This temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ellora Caves and is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas.
Top Attractions: Explore the Ellora Caves, Kailash Temple, and the historical town of Aurangabad.
Suggested Itinerary:
| Day 1 | Time | Arrival in Ellora and Temple Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Start your journey from [Your Starting Location] to Ellora, Maharashtra. | |
| Mid-morning | Arrive in Ellora and check in to your hotel or accommodation. | |
| Freshen up and prepare for a spiritual journey. | ||
| Grishneshwar Temple: Begin your pilgrimage with a visit to the sacred Grishneshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. | ||
| Afternoon | Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Explore the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring rock-cut temples and monasteries. | ||
| Spend time at the Ghrishneshwar Lake for a serene experience. | ||
| Evening | Return to your hotel, have dinner, and relax for the night. | |
| Day 2 | Explore Ellora Caves and Departure | |
| Morning | After breakfast, continue your exploration of the Ellora Caves, visiting the remaining rock-cut temples and cave complexes. | |
| Marvel at the exquisite architecture and ancient carvings that depict Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain influences. | ||
| Late Morning | Explore the Daulatabad Fort, a historic hilltop fortress known for its impressive architecture and panoramic views. | |
| Afternoon | Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. | |
| Visit the Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the "Mini Taj Mahal," a beautiful Mughal monument. | ||
| Evening | Depending on your departure time, you can explore more of Ellora or start your journey back to home city. |
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
How to Reach: By air - nearest airport is Aurangabad (30 km), by train - Aurangabad Railway Station, by road - well-connected by road.
Temple Open Timings:(Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga) 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Conclusion
Visiting the 12 Jyotirlingas in India is a profound spiritual journey that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of the country. These temples not only hold immense religious significance but also provide opportunities for introspection and spiritual awakening.
Plan your visit to these divine shrines, keeping in mind the top attractions and suggested two-day itineraries, to make the most of your pilgrimage experience while exploring the cultural and natural beauty surrounding these sacred sites.
Whether you seek spiritual solace or historical and architectural wonders, the Jyotirlingas have something unique to offer to every traveler.