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Maharashtra is a state far more than Mumbai and is filled with rich history and natural beauty. It is also a land that’s steeped in culture and spirituality. Beyond the Hindu temples prevalent across the state, several Jyotirlinga temples in Maharashtra are worth adding to your itinerary. Jyotirlingas are sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, where the deity is worshipped in the form of a “Lingam of Light.” There are 12 Jyotirlingas in India, and Maharashtra proudly houses five. On your next trip to Maharashtra, you too can consider exploring the various Jyotirlinga temples and understand their religious significance.
5 Jyotirlinga Temples In Maharashtra
The Jyotirlinga temples are sacred shrines that are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are often associated with higher power and spirituality.
1. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Photo: Abhideo21 / Wikimedia Commons
The Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is in Maharashtra’s Nashik district and is considered to be one of the most significant Jyotirlingas in India. Inside the temple, the main highlight is the presence of three lingas, which represent Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. The temple is situated near the origin of the Godavari River, often referred to as the “Ganga of the South.” Historical evidence depicts that the temple was constructed by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao in the 18th century. You get to witness the stunning black stone structures with intricate carvings all around. Also, it is one of the four places where the Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years.
Location: Trimbak, Maharashtra 422212
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
2. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple
Photo: Hpsatapathy / Wikimedia Commons
The second most popular Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra is the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple, which is located in Pune. The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is considered to be the source of the Bhima River. One of the main attractions of this temple comes from its location, which is set around the lush greenery and dense forests, making this a place worth adding to your travel plans. The Nagara-style architecture of the temple, dating back to the 13th century, adds to its historical and cultural significance. Another one of the attractions of the temple is the surrounding Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which the devotees can explore after seeking blessings from the deity.
Location: Dimbhe Dam Colony, Via, Dist, Khed Taluka, Maharashtra 410509
Timings: 4:30 AM – 9:30 PM
3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Photo: Rashmi.parab / Wikimedia Commons
If you are planning a getaway to the Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the most famous Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra that you wouldn’t regret visiting. It is the last of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. This ancient temple is believed to have been built in the 18th century by Ahilyabai Holkar, the Maratha queen known for her contributions to temple restorations. Unlike the other Jyotirlingas in India, this one is quite small but holds a lot of spiritual significance. One of the main attractions is the architecture, which has intricate carvings of Lord Shiva’s life and episodes from Hindu mythology.
Location: Ghrushneshwar, Ghrishneshwar Temple Rd, Ellora, Maharashtra 431102
Timings: 05:30 AM to 09 PM
4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga Temple
Photo: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock
Located in the Hingoli district in Maharashtra, Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga Temple is another one of the best Jyotirlinga temples in Maharashtra. It is believed to be the first Jyotirlinga where Shiva is worshipped as Nagnath, the Lord of Serpents. According to the historical evidence, the temple dates back to 2000 years in the past and has a lot of historical and religious importance. The majestic Hemadpanti architecture, made from stone, showcases the craftsmanship of ancient times. Also, mythological evidence depicts that Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, built the temple during their exile.
Location: Nanded – Aundha Rd, Aundha Nagnath, Maharashtra 431705
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga Temple
Photo: Aditya Mahar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
More commonly known as Shri Vaijnath Jyotirling Temple, this is another one of the Maharashtra Jyotirlinga temples that you have to add to your travel itinerary. The temple is believed to have been built by the Chalukya dynasty and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. It is believed that a visit to this temple can cure devotees of all ailments, which is why the temple is also known as the “Vaidhya,” meaning doctor. Furthermore, the serene atmosphere of the temple adds to the spiritual experience of the devotees.
Location: Pathanpura, Peth Mohallah, Parli Vaijnath, Maharashtra 431515
Timings: 5 AM – 9:30 PM
The Jyotirlinga temples of Maharashtra hold a lot of religious importance and they also stand out for their architectural intricacies. As you are planning your next trip down to Maharashtra, you have to stop by and spend a few days exploring each of the Jyotirlingas that narrate the richness of Hinduism in India. You can plan your next vacation to Maharashtra with TripXL for the ultimate spiritual journey.
Cover Photo: Kiran-Sharma / Shutterstock
