Jyotirlingas symbolize the sacred abodes of Lord Shiva, where he manifests in various forms. The term itself carries profound significance. 'Jyoti' refers to light or radiance, while 'lingam' or 'linga' signifies a divine symbol or image. Therefore, Jyotirlinga translates to the 'Radiant signs of Lord Shiva.' Presently, India is graced with 12 primary Jyotirlingas, each with its unique creation and significance story. These Jyotirlingas are revered by devotees as powerful and spiritually charged places that connect them to the divine essence of Lord Shiva.
Situated near Veraval in the Kathiawad district of Gujarat, the Somnath Temple holds the esteemed position of being the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas. This sacred pilgrimage site in Gujarat is deeply revered by devotees across the country. The origin of this Jyotirlinga is accompanied by a fascinating legend. According to the Shiva Purana, the moon, also known as Chandra, was wedded to 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati.
Among them, his affection for Rohini was the strongest, which led to neglect towards his other wives. Observing this partiality, Daksha cursed Chandra, causing him to lose all his radiance and brilliance. Distraught by the curse, Chandra, along with Rohini, sought solace in the holy land of Somnath. There, they fervently worshipped the Sparsa Lingam, seeking Lord Shiva's blessings to restore Chandra's lost beauty and shine. Pleased with their devotion, Lord Shiva granted Chandra's request and took the name Somchandra, choosing to dwell there eternally. Over time, the revered site came to be known as Somnath, in honor of this divine manifestation.
● By air: The nearest airport to Somnath is The Diu Airport, 60 km away.
● By rail: Somnath has its railway station.
● By road: Somnath is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Somnath by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Somnath has various restaurants that serve local cuisine like,
fafda, gathiya, Khaman Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepala, Khakhra, Hahdwoh, etc.
Gujarati is widely spoken in Somnath but tourists can communicate
with locals in English and Hindi.
Somnath can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around November to March.
The Mallikarjuna Temple stands majestically on the Shri Shaila Mountain, nestled along the banks of the Krishna River in the southern part of Andhra Pradesh. Often referred to as the "Kailash of the South," it ranks among the most significant Shaivite shrines in India. The temple is devoted to the worship of Mallikarjuna, representing Lord Shiva, and Bhramaramba, symbolizing the Devi. As per the Shiva Purana, a captivating tale unfolds, recounting how Lord Ganesha's marriage took place before Kartikeya's, leaving him filled with anger. In his emotional turmoil, Kartikeya retreated to the Kraunch Mountain. Despite the collective efforts of all the Gods to console him, Kartikeya remained resolute in his seclusion.
Unable to bear their son's distress, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati embarked on a journey to reach Kartikeya. However, they were met with rejection as Kartikeya turned them away. Witnessing their son's anguish, Shiva and Parvati were deeply pained. In a profound gesture, Lord Shiva assumed the form of a Jyotirlinga and took residence on the mountain, taking on the name Mallikarjuna. The name is derived from "Mallika," representing Parvati, and "Arjuna," another name for Lord Shiva. It is believed among the faithful that even catching a glimpse of this sacred mountain's tip grants liberation from all sins, freeing one from the cycle of life and death. The Mallikarjuna Temple remains a site of great spiritual significance and devotion for countless devotees seeking solace and salvation.
● By air: The nearest airport to Srisaillam is The Hyderabad Airport, 195 km away.
● By rail: The nearest station to Srisaillam is the Cumbum STation, 60 km away
● By road: Srisaillam is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Srisaillam by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Srisaillam is a temple town, hence only vegetarian food can be found here. Visitors can still indulge in South Indian delicacies around the temple.
Hindi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate
with locals in English.
Srisaillam can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around November to March.
Located on the majestic Rudra Himalaya Range, approximately 12,000 feet above sea level, the Kedarnath Temple stands as one of India's most sacred pilgrimage destinations. Nestled on Kedar Mountain, it lies around 150 miles away from Hardwar. This revered temple houses the sacred Jyotirlinga, which is accessible to devotees for only six months each year.
A customary tradition observed by pilgrims heading to Kedarnath is to first visit Yamunotri and Gangotri, fetching holy water from these places to offer at Kedarnath as part of their devotion. The ancient legends narrate a tale wherein Lord Shiva was immensely pleased by the intense penance of Nara and Narayana, both incarnations of Lord Vishnu. In response to their devotion, Lord Shiva chose to take up eternal residence in Kedarnath, manifesting as the Jyotirlinga enshrined in the temple.
● By air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is The Dehradun Airport, 110 km away.
● By rail: The nearest station to Kedarnath is the Rishikesh Station, 216 km away
● By road: Kedarnath is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
Kedarnath is a temple town, hence only vegetarian food can be found here. Local cuisines such as Garhwali and Kumaino can be found here easily.
Hindi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate
with locals in English.
The best time to visit Kedarnath is between September to October and May to June when the snow has melted and there is no rainfall.
Situated on the serene banks of the Kshipra River, within the dense Mahakal forest in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, the Mahakaleshwar Temple holds great significance as one of the Jyotirlingas in Central India. This sacred pilgrimage site is steeped in numerous captivating legends that explain its divine origin. According to the ancient Puranas, a five-year-old boy named Shrikar was deeply inspired by the unwavering devotion of King Chandrasena of Ujjain towards Lord Shiva. Driven by an intense desire to emulate the king's reverence, Shrikar began worshipping a stone as Lord Shiva. Despite the attempts of many people to dissuade him, the boy's devotion only intensified with time.
Impressed by Shrikar's unyielding faith, Lord Shiva chose to reveal himself in the form of a Jyotirlinga and took up residence in the serene Mahakal forest. The Mahakaleshwar Temple holds another significant position among Hindus as one of the seven "Mukti-Sthal," sanctified places capable of granting liberation to humankind. Devotees flock to this sacred site seeking spiritual emancipation and divine blessings. The temple's peaceful ambiance and historical significance make it an integral part of Central India's spiritual heritage.
● By air: The nearest airport to Ujjain is The Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore, 55 km away.
● By rail: Ujjain has its railway station.
● By road: Ujjain is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Ujjain by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Ujjain restaurants primarily serve vegetarian food. Only a few places serve non-vegetarian cuisine.
Hindi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate
with locals in English.
Ujjain can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around November to March.
Situated on the island of Shivapuri in the Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh, the Omkareshwar Temple holds profound reverence as one of the revered Jyotirlingas. The name "Omkareshwar" signifies the "Lord of Omkara" or the Lord of the Om Sound.
According to ancient Hindu scriptures, a great war broke out between the Devas (Gods) and the Danavas (Demons), resulting in a victory for the Danavas. The defeat was a significant blow to the Devas, who then turned to fervent prayers to Lord Shiva for assistance. Responding to their earnest devotion, Lord Shiva manifested in the form of the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga and vanquished the Danavas, restoring victory to the Devas.
Due to this divine intervention and the triumph over adversity, this sacred site is profoundly esteemed by Hindus. Pilgrims from far and wide visit the Omkareshwar Temple to seek blessings, immerse in spirituality, and pay homage to the mighty Lord of the Om Sound.
● By air: The nearest airport to Shivpuri is The Gwalior Airport, 116 km away.
● By rail: The nearest railway station is the Jhansi Junction, 100 km away.
● By road: Shivpuri is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Shivpuri by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Shivpuri is famous for its delicacies like Kebabs, Kopra Pak, Malpua, and Bhutte ki Kees.
Hindi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate
with locals in English.
Shivpuri can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around November to March.
The Vaidyanath Temple, also referred to as Vaijnath or Baidyanath, graces the town of Deogarh in the Santal Parganas region of Jharkhand. This revered temple holds a significant place among the Jyotirlinga shrines, and devout worshippers believe that sincere prayers at this sacred site alleviate one from worries and miseries. The belief is that worshipping this Jyotirlinga leads to attaining moksha or salvation.
An ancient legend narrates the tale of the demon king Ravana, who fervently meditated and sought Lord Shiva's presence to make his kingdom, Sri Lanka, invincible. In his ambition, Ravana attempted to carry Mount Kailash, but Lord Shiva effortlessly crushed it. Pleading for penance, Ravana was granted one of the twelve Jyotirlingas on the condition that once placed on the ground, it would remain rooted there for eternity.
As Ravana endeavored to transport the Jyotirlinga to Sri Lanka, Lord Varuna entered his body, causing an urgent need for relief. In that moment, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of a lad and offered to hold the lingam temporarily. However, inadvertently, Vishnu placed the Jyotirlinga on the ground, and it instantly became rooted to the spot. As an act of penance, Ravana severed nine of his heads. Lord Shiva revived him and skillfully reattached the heads to his body, akin to a vaidya (physician), bestowing the name "Vaidyanath" upon this Jyotirlinga, signifying the Lord's role as the divine healer. This legend further enhances the sacredness and reverence accorded to the Vaidyanath Temple by its devotees.
● By air: The nearest airport to Deogarh is The Loknayak Jai Prakash Narayan International Airport 175 km away.
● By rail: The nearest railway station is the Baidyanath Dham,7 km away.
● By road: Deogarh is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Deogarh by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Deogarh is famous for its delicacies like Bamboo shoots, Rugra, Kanda, Mahua, Arsa Roti, Dubhni Roti and much more.
Hindi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate
with locals in English.
Deogarh can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around October to March.
The Bhimashankar Temple is nestled in the picturesque Sahyadri region of Pune, Maharashtra. Gracefully situated on the banks of the Bhima River, the temple is believed to be the very source of this sacred river. The legend behind the existence of this revered Jyotirlinga is intricately linked to the tale of Bhima, the son of Kumbhakarna. Upon learning of his lineage as the son of Kumbhakarna, who was vanquished by Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Lord Ram, Bhima vowed to avenge his father's demise. Engaging in deep penance, he sought to please Lord Brahma, who granted him immense power. With this newfound strength, Bhima unleashed chaos and destruction upon the world. He even defeated Kamrupeshwar, a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva, and imprisoned him.
The divine deities, witnessing the turmoil caused by Bhima, beseeched Lord Shiva to descend to Earth and put an end to his tyranny. A fierce battle ensued between Lord Shiva and Bhima, ultimately resulting in the demon's defeat and destruction. In response to the Gods' request, Lord Shiva chose to make that very place his divine abode, manifesting himself as the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. As a testament to the intense battle, it is believed that the sweat that poured from Lord Shiva's body after the encounter formed the Bhima River. This sacred temple, surrounded by natural beauty and steeped in ancient mythology, continues to be a cherished destination for devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
● By air: Pune has its airport.
● By rail: Pune has its railway station.
● By road: Pune is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Pune by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Pune is famous for its delicacies like Misal Paav, Bhel Puri, Pav Bhaji, Pithla Bhakri, Vada Paav, Poha, Dabeli and Puran Poli.
Marathi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate with locals in English and Hindi.
Pune can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around July to February.
The Rameshwar Temple, the southernmost of the 12 Jyotirlingas, stands proudly on the island of Rameshwaram, just off the Sethu coast in Tamil Nadu. Renowned for its awe-inspiring architecture, particularly the long ornate corridors, towering structures, and 36 sacred theerthams (holy water bodies), this temple has been a revered pilgrimage center, often compared to the sanctity of Banaras.
This Jyotirlinga holds a close association with the epic Ramayana, particularly with Lord Ram's triumphant return from Sri Lanka. According to the legend, while on his way to Sri Lanka, Lord Ram made a stop at Rameshwaram and went to the seashore to quench his thirst. At that moment, a celestial proclamation echoed: "You are drinking water without worshipping me." In response, Lord Ram crafted a linga out of sand, worshipping it and seeking its blessings to vanquish Ravana.
Upon this act of profound devotion, Lord Shiva, moved by Ram's reverence, appeared before him in the form of a Jyotirlinga, taking residence at that sacred spot for eternity. Since then, the Rameshwar Temple has remained a site of great significance, drawing devotees from far and wide to seek blessings and reflect on the divine connection between Lord Ram and Lord Shiva.
By air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, 149 km away.
By rail: Rameshwaram has its own railway station.
By road: Rameshwaram is well connected to the national highway. Tourists can charter a public or private bus to reach there with ease.
Local transport: You can commute internally in Rameshwaram by
chartering a taxi or rickshaw.
Rameshwaram Temple can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot
weather conditions tourists can visit around October- April.
Tamil is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate
with the locals in English and Hindi.
Filter Coffee, Rasam, Sambhar, Idli, Vada, Dosa, etc are all must-try delicacies in Rameshwaram. Soft spongy idli steaming hot straight from the stove is served with delicious chutney at various small shops here.
The Nageshwar Temple, also known as Nagnath Temple, is situated on the route between Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island, along the Saurashtra coast in Gujarat. This revered Jyotirlinga holds profound significance as it symbolizes protection from all forms of poison. Devotees believe that worshipping at this temple grants liberation from all poisons.
According to the sacred Shiva Purana, the tale unfolds with a devotee of Lord Shiva named Supriya, who was captured by the demon Daaruka. Along with many others, Supriya was held captive in Daaruka's capital known as Daarukavana. Despite their dire circumstances, Supriya offered counsel to her fellow prisoners, encouraging them to chant "Aum Namaha Shivaya." This act enraged Daaruka, who rushed to attack and kill Supriya.
In response to the intense devotion of Supriya and the plea for help, Lord Shiva manifested before the demon and put an end to his tyranny, ensuring the safety and freedom of the captives. It was through this divine intervention that the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga was established, becoming a beacon of protection and solace for devotees seeking refuge from poisons, both physical and metaphorical. The Nageshwar Temple stands as a sacred place of worship and reverence, inspiring devotion and spiritual upliftment among its visitors.
● By air: The nearest airport to Dwarka is The Jamnagar Airport, 137 km away.
● By rail: Dwarka has its railway station.
● By road: Dwarka is well connected to both state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Dwarka by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Dwarka has various restaurants that serve local cuisine like, fafda, gathiya, Khaman Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepala, Khakhra, Hahdwoh, etc.
Gujarati is widely spoken in Dwarka but tourists can communicate
with locals in English and Hindi.
Dwarka can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around November to March.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple holds its sacred abode in the heart of the most revered site in the world - Kashi, also known as Varanasi. Amidst the bustling lanes of this holy city, the temple stands as a spiritual beacon for countless devotees. While the Ghats and the flowing Ganges hold immense significance in Varanasi, it is the Shivalinga within the Kashi Vishwanath Temple that remains the central focus of devotion for pilgrims.
According to ancient beliefs, Varanasi is the hallowed ground where the first Jyotirlinga asserted its supremacy over other gods, piercing the earth's crust and ascending towards the heavens. The temple is regarded as the dearest to Lord Shiva, and the faithful believe that those who breathe their last in this divine city attain liberation. Many hold the conviction that Lord Shiva himself resides here, bestowing salvation and bliss upon devotees.
Throughout its history, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple has seen numerous reconstructions, yet it has consistently retained its utmost significance. Despite the passage of time, the temple stands as a timeless testament to unwavering devotion, drawing countless souls seeking solace, spiritual upliftment, and ultimate liberation.
● By air: Varanasi has its airport.
● By rail: Varanasi has its railway station.
● By road: Varanasi is well connected to both state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Varanasi by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Varanasi has various restaurants that serve local cuisine like Thandai, paan, bati chokha, tamatar chaat, etc.
Hindi is widely spoken in Varanasi but tourists can communicate
with locals in English.
Varanasi can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around November to February.
The Trimbakeshwar Temple is situated approximately 30 kilometers away from Nasik in Maharashtra, near the picturesque Brahmagiri mountain from where the holy river Godavari gracefully flows. This temple holds a unique significance as it is considered to be the source of the sacred Godavari River, known as "Gautami Ganga," one of the most revered rivers in South India.
As per the sacred Shiva Purana, it was the earnest plea of the River Godavari, along with Gautam Rishi and all the other celestial deities, that led Lord Shiva to choose this place as his divine abode, taking on the name Trimbakeshwar. Gautam Rishi had been blessed by Varuna with a pit from which he received an unending supply of grains and food. The other Gods grew envious of him and devised a plan to send a cow into his granary, causing the accidental death of the cow by Gautam Rishi. Seeking purification of the premises, Gautam Rishi beseeched Lord Shiva for help.
In response to the request, Lord Shiva directed the holy Ganga to flow through the land, purifying it. Praises were sung in honor of the Lord, who then manifested himself in the form of the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, residing beside the sacred Ganga. Hindus deeply believe that this Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra has the power to fulfill the desires of all who seek its divine blessings. The Trimbakeshwar Temple continues to be a cherished destination for devotees seeking fulfillment, spiritual solace, and the grace of Lord Shiva.
● By air: The nearest airport to Nasik is Mumbai's Chatrapati Shivaji International airport, 130 km away.
● By rail: Nasik has its railway station.
● By road: Nasik is well connected to state and national
highways. Individuals can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there.
● Local commute: Tourists can travel internally in Pune by chartering rickshaws or taxis as convenient.
Nasik is famous for its delicacies like Misal Paav, Bhel Puri, Pav Bhaji, Pithla Bhakri, Vada Paav, Poha, Dabeli, thukpa, etc.
Marathi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate with locals in English and Hindi.
Nasik can be visited throughout the year but to avoid hot weather
conditions tourists can visit around July to February.
The Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga finds its sacred abode in the village of Verul, located around 20 kilometers from Daulatabad, near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. In close proximity to this temple stands the renowned tourist attraction of Ajanta & Ellora caves. The temple was constructed by Ahilyabai Holkar, who also rebuilt the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. The Ghrishneshwar Temple is known by various other names like Kusumeswarar, Ghushmeswara, Grushmeswara, and Grishneswara.
According to the sacred Shiva Purana, the temple's legend is intertwined with the tale of Sudharm and Sudeha, a couple residing on the Devagiri Mountain. Struggling with childlessness, Sudeha, in her desperation, arranged for her sister Ghushma to marry Sudharm. Eventually, Ghushma bore a son, bringing immense joy to her, but also arousing jealousy in Sudeha's heart. Driven by envy, Sudeha heartlessly threw the child into a lake where Ghushma used to perform rituals and discharge 101 lingams.
In her anguish, Ghushma fervently prayed to Lord Shiva, seeking his divine intervention. Pleased by her devotion, Lord Shiva restored her son and revealed to her the truth about her sister's cruel actions. Upon Sudharm's request, Lord Shiva, in the form of the Jyotirlinga, manifested himself and took on the name Ghushmeshwar, granting solace and blessings to those who seek his divine presence.
Since then, the Ghrishneshwar Temple has remained a site of profound significance and devotion, drawing pilgrims from near and far to seek the grace and blessings of Lord Shiva in his sacred form of Ghushmeshwar Jyotirlinga.
● By Air: Aurangabad has its airport
● By rail: Aurangabad has its railway station
● By road: Aurangabad is well connected to the national
highway. Tourists can charter public or private vehicles to reach
there with ease.
● Local transport: You can commute internally by chartering a taxi or
rickshaw.
Visitors will find the flavors of North India and Hyderabadi cuisine like
kebabs, biryani, etc, very easily.
Marathi is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate with the locals in English as well.
June to March are the best months to visit Aurangabad to avoid
the hot weather.
How were the Jyotirlingas formed? Thousands of years ago, as narrated in the Shiv Purana, a remarkable incident unfolded when Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma engaged in a discussion to determine their supremacy. Lord Shiva intervened to settle their dispute as the debate escalated into an argument. He manifested an infinite pillar of radiant light that traversed through all three worlds. Lord Shiva proposed a challenge to both deities, stating that the one who could locate the end of the luminous pillar would be acknowledged as the supreme God. Eager to prove their dominance, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma embarked on separate journeys in opposite directions. However, despite their best efforts, neither could find the end of the ethereal pillar. Lord Vishnu gracefully admitted defeat, acknowledging the infinite nature of Lord Shiva's presence. On the other hand, Lord Brahma, driven by pride, falsely claimed to have reached the pinnacle of the pillar. Witnessing Lord Brahma's deception, Lord Shiva's wrath was kindled, and he cursed Lord Brahma that he would not be widely worshipped, despite being the creator of the entire universe. In his righteous fury, Lord Shiva's infinite pillar of light manifested on Earth in 64 locations, taking the form of Lingodbhava. Among these sacred sites, 12 hold particular significance and came to be known as the 12 main Jyotirlingas of India. In each Jyotirlinga, Lord Shiva resides in various divine forms, bestowing blessings upon all who seek his grace and solace. These Jyotirlingas continue to be revered and worshipped by devotees to this day.
