Before embarking on the divine journey to the 12 Jyotirlingas across India, you can explore the Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand 2025 for a deeper spiritual experience in the sacred lands of Uttarakhand. Both journeys offer a unique and enriching pilgrimage experience for every devotee.
India’s diverse cultural fabric is deeply intertwined with spirituality, and it serves as a heartland for some of the world’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimages. From the revered Chardham Yatra to the mystic Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and from ancient temples to the 12 holy Jyotirlingas, the country is a pilgrimage haven. Each site tells an ancient story, often traced back to the Mahabharata and other sacred texts, carrying profound historical and religious significance for Hindus.
Among these, the story of the 12 Jyotirlingas is both captivating and spiritually enriching, recorded in the ancient Siva Purana. According to legend, a debate once arose between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma over who among them was the supreme deity. Lord Vishnu, the God of Preservation, and Lord Brahma, the Creator, could not come to a consensus. As their discussion heated, Lord Shiva appeared to resolve the dispute. To demonstrate divine supremacy, he manifested as an endless pillar of radiant light that spanned the three worlds, challenging both Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma to find its end. He declared that whoever succeeded in this task would be recognized as the supreme being.
Lord Vishnu, acknowledging his limitations, admitted to Lord Shiva that he could not locate the end of the light. However, Lord Brahma claimed falsely that he had reached the end, angering Lord Shiva. In response, Shiva cursed Lord Brahma, decreeing that despite his role as the Creator, he would never be widely worshipped. This divine light is said to have split into 64 manifestations across the earth, with 12 sites designated as the most sacred Jyotirlingas.
Visiting these 12 Jyotirlingas is a journey of devotion and tranquility, each one offering an experience unlike any other. Each shrine has its own story, beauty, and unique rituals, providing a sense of peace and fulfillment to all who visit. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring architecture, serene locations, or the sacred atmosphere, these sites are indeed lifetime experiences for any pilgrim or traveler.
1.Somnath in Gujarat
Somnath in Gujarat is one of the most renowned among the 12 Jyotirlingas, revered as the first of the Adi Jyotirlingas. This temple is not only a significant pilgrimage site but also one of the most visited religious destinations in India. The architectural style of the Somnath Temple reflects the exquisite craftsmanship of the Chalukya era.
According to the Shiva Puranas, the Moon married the 27 daughters of Dakshin Prajapati but was cursed for favoring only Rohini. To free himself from this curse, the Moon worshipped Lord Shiva, who then blessed him and chose to reside in Somnath in the form of light.
Somnath is undoubtedly the most popular Jyotirlinga and a must-visit for travelers in Gujarat, drawing countless devotees each year.
- Opening Hours: 6 am to 9 pm
- Aarti Time: 12 noon to 7 pm
- Light and Sound Show: 8 pm to 9 pm
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2. Mallikarjuna in Andhra Pradesh
Situated on the banks of the Krishna River, Mallikarjuna Temple is revered as the Kailash of the South and is one of the prominent Jyotirlingas in India. Perched atop Shri Sailam Mountain, this temple boasts exquisite sculptures, intricate architecture, and beautifully decorated pillars that captivate visitors.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, and it holds a significant place among the 52 Shakti Peethas of Sati. As one of the greatest shrines of Lord Shiva in the country, Mallikarjun Temple attracts countless devotees seeking blessings.
- Opening Hours: 4:30 am to 10 pm
- Darshan Timing: 6:30 am to 1 pm, and 6:30 pm to 9 pm
3. Mahakaleshwar (Madhya Pradesh)
Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the prominent Jyotirlingas in India, is located in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, amidst the dense Mahakaleshwar forest. As one of Central India’s most sacred temples, it holds great religious importance. According to legend, the temple was established by a young boy of just five years, inspired by King Chandrasena of Ujjain.
Situated along the banks of the sacred Shira River, Mahakaleshwar is also known as a Mukti-sthal, meaning it is considered a place where one can attain liberation (moksha). Pilgrims flock to this holy site with the belief that worshipping here grants spiritual freedom and blessings from Lord Shiva.
- Opening Hours: 4 am to 11 pm
- Darshan Hours: 8 am to 10 am, 10:30 am to 5 pm, 6 pm to 7 pm, 8 pm to 11 pm
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4. Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh)
Omkareshwar, which translates to “Lord of the OM Sound,” is regarded as one of the most sacred places in India. This revered temple is situated on Shivpuri Island in the Narmada River and is steeped in immense mythological significance. According to legend, during a fierce battle between the Devas (gods) and the Danavas (demons), the Devas sought Lord Shiva’s help for victory. Pleased by their prayers, Lord Shiva manifested as Omkareshwar, assisting them in triumphing over their adversaries, thus establishing this site as one of the most celebrated Jyotirlingas in the country.
- Opening Hours: 5 am to 10 pm
- Darshan Timing: 5:30 am to 12:20 pm
5.Kedarnath (Uttarakhand)
Kedarnath is not just one of the Chota Chardham pilgrimage sites, alongside Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri; it is also one of the most revered Jyotirlingas in India. This iconic temple is nestled amidst stunning mountains, creating a breathtaking backdrop that captivates every visitor. Kedarnath’s popularity is so immense that it has even inspired films that showcase its beauty and spiritual significance.
To reach the temple, pilgrims must undertake a trek of approximately 17 kilometers one way. For those who prefer alternatives, pony rides or helicopter services are available to transport you to this holy site. Perched at an elevation of around 12,000 feet above sea level, the Kedarnath temple is accessible only for a few months each year, typically from May to June, as it remains closed during the harsher months.
Devotees flock to Kedarnath to seek purification from sins, misfortunes, and ill luck, hoping to find solace and blessings within this sacred space.
- Opening Hours: 4 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 9 pm
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6.Bhimashankar (Maharashtra)
Nestled on the banks of the River Bhima, Bhimashankar Temple in Pune is a stunning example of Nagara architectural style, crafted from magnificent black rock. This sacred site is surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary, which shares its name, adding to the temple’s serene and picturesque setting. According to legend, the temple was constructed by Bheema, the son of Kumbhkaran.
As one of the revered Jyotirlingas in India, Bhimashankar Temple attracts thousands of visitors year-round, particularly during the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, when devotees come to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
In addition to the main temple, visitors often take the opportunity to explore the nearby Kamalaja Temple, dedicated to an incarnation of Parvati, enriching their spiritual journey.
- Opening Hours: 4:30 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm
- Darshan Timing: 5:00 am to 9:30 pm
7.Vishwanath (Uttar Pradesh)
Popularly known as the Golden Temple of Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath is one of the most revered Jyotirlingas in India. This significant religious site holds immense importance for Hindus across the country. The temple was constructed in 1780 by the Maratha monarch Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar and is considered the first Jyotirlinga due to the captivating stories surrounding it. It is believed that Lord Shiva resides here, liberating souls and spreading joy to all. Additionally, it is said to be the first Jyotirlinga to demonstrate its divine power by breaking through the Earth’s surface to ascend towards heaven.
- Opening Hours: 2:30 am to 11 pm
- Mangala Aarti Timing: 3 am to 4 pm
- Sarva Darshan: 4 am to 11 am
- Bhog Aarti: 11:15 am to 12:20 pm
- Sandhya Aarti: 7 pm to 8:15 pm
- Shringara Aarti: 9 pm to 10:15 pm
- Shayana Aarti: 10:30 pm to 11 pm
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8.Trimbakeshwar (Maharashtra)
Nestled near the sacred Brahmagiri mountain, Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra is one of the most significant Shiva temples in India. This revered site is also the source of the holy Godavari River, known locally as the Gautami Ganga. According to the Shiva Purana, the rivers Godavari and Gautami implored Lord Shiva to reside here, and he manifested as Trimbakeshwar in response to their devotion.
What makes Trimbakeshwar unique is its distinctive sanctum: rather than a traditional shrine, it features a void encircled by three sacred pillars representing the holy trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahabaleshwar (another form of Shiva). This rare design symbolizes unity among the three most powerful deities in Hinduism.
- Opening Hours: 5:30 am to 9 pm
9.Baidyanath (Jharkhand)
Baidyanath, located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, is one of the most revered Jyotirlingas in India, renowned for its spiritual significance and distinct architecture. Built with an ancient architectural style, the temple is crafted from stunning black stone and holds a unique place among the 12 Jyotirlingas. According to legend, Lord Shiva assumed the role of a healer, or “Vaidya,” to save the demon king Ravana, hence the temple’s name “Baidyanath.”
The temple is surrounded by a serene, verdant landscape and is especially crowded during the holy month of Shravan, when thousands of devotees embark on the Kanwar Yatra, carrying holy water from the Ganges to pour over the sacred Jyotirlinga as an act of devotion.
Visitors to the Baidyanath temple often extend their pilgrimage to the nearby Basukinath Temple, which is also a significant religious site.
- Opening Hours: 4 am to 3:30 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm
- Darshan Timing: 4 am to 9 pm
10.Nageshwar (Gujarat)
Nageshwar Daarukavanam is one of the revered Jyotirlinga temples located along the picturesque coast of Saurashtra in Gujarat, nestled between Gomti Dwarka and Bait Dwarka. This sacred site attracts thousands of devotees each year, who come to seek the blessings of Nageshwar Mahadev in its unique underground sanctum.
One of the temple’s striking features is the impressive 25-meter tall statue of Lord Shiva, surrounded by a lush garden that offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Arabian Sea. This serene setting adds to the temple’s charm, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.
Regarded as the most powerful among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Nageshwar Daarukavanam is believed to offer protection against all forms of poison.
- Opening Hours: 5 am to 9 pm
- Darshan Timing: 6 am to 12:30 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm
11.Rameshwar (Tamil Nadu)
Rameshwaram Temple, one of the revered Jyotirlingas in India, holds a special place in Hindu mythology, as it is believed to have been worshipped by Lord Rama himself after defeating the demon king Ravana. The temple is beautifully situated, surrounded by the sea, and features stunning architecture with intricately decorated corridors and 36 Theerthams, making it a remarkable sight for visitors.
Known as the Southernmost Jyotirlinga in India, Rameshwaram is often referred to as the Varanasi of the South, attracting numerous pilgrims each year. The temple is not just a spiritual destination; it is also a significant cultural landmark.
Visitors to the temple often make their way to Dhanushkodi Beach, which is steeped in religious significance. It is believed to be the site where Lord Rama constructed the Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge) to rescue his wife, Sita, from Lanka. Additionally, Rameshwaram is part of the Bada Chardham pilgrimage circuit in India.
- Opening Hours: 5 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 9 pm
12.Grishneshwar Temple(Maharashtra)
Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of India, is located near the iconic Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. This ancient temple features a stunning five-story Shikhara architectural style, adorned with intricate carvings of various deities and mythological scenes. A large Nandi bull statue stands majestically in the temple’s court hall, adding to the grandeur.
The temple was built by the revered Ahilyabai Holkar and is also known by other names like Gru Someswara and Kusum Eswarar. The depiction of Vishnu’s Dashavatar, carved from red rock, is especially captivating and draws admiration from visitors who come to witness this beautiful craftsmanship.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the must-visit spiritual and historical sites in Aurangabad, offering a peaceful and sacred experience for all who visit.
- Opening Hours: 5:30 am to 9:30 pm
- Darshan Timing: 3 pm to 11 pm
