If there is one journey in India that perfectly blends faith, devotion, and the beauty of travel, it is the pilgrimage to the 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra. For centuries, devotees of Lord Shiva have traveled across this sacred land to visit these divine shrines, each of which holds a unique spiritual story and architectural splendor.

This blog, brought to you by Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra, will take you on a virtual journey through these five sacred temples — Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar, Grishneshwar, Parli Vaijnath, and Aundha Nagnath — along with detailed travel tips, local insights, and reasons why every devotee should embark on this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Understanding the Significance of Jyotirlingas

In Hindu mythology, there are twelve Jyotirlingas scattered across India, each representing the infinite nature of Lord Shiva — the “Supreme Being.” The term Jyotirlinga means “radiant sign of Shiva,” symbolizing the formless divine energy manifested in light.

Out of these twelve, five Jyotirlingas are located in Maharashtra, making it one of the most important spiritual circuits in the country. Each temple is not just a place of worship but also a destination filled with legends, rituals, and divine vibrations that connect the soul to the supreme consciousness.

List of 5 Jyotirlinga Temples in Maharashtra

  1. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Pune District

  2. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Nashik District

  3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Aurangabad District

  4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – Hingoli District

  5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – Beed District

Let’s explore each one in detail.

1. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Where Nature Meets Divinity

Located deep in the Sahyadri hills near Pune, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva took the form of Bhima to destroy the demon Tripurasura. The temple stands amidst lush green forests, waterfalls, and hills — a perfect blend of devotion and nature’s serenity.

Mythological Significance:

According to legends, Lord Shiva manifested here after a fierce battle with the demon, and his sweat gave birth to the Bhima River.

Architectural Beauty:

The temple showcases a blend of ancient Nagara-style architecture and stone carvings that narrate mythological tales.

Travel Tips:

  • Location: 110 km from Pune, 220 km from Mumbai

  • Best Time to Visit: October to February (pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing)

  • Nearby Attractions: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Hanuman Lake, and the Ghoghe Point View

Why Visit:

If you are a nature lover and a spiritual seeker, Bhimashankar offers both — scenic beauty and divine peace.

2. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – The Source of the Holy Godavari

Located in the town of Trimbak, near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the most sacred places in India. It is here that the sacred Godavari River, also known as Ganga of the South, originates.

Mythological Significance:

The temple is said to have been created by Lord Shiva at the request of Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. It is also associated with the divine story of the descent of the Ganges in the form of River Godavari.

Architectural Beauty:

Built by the Peshwas in black basalt stone, the temple’s three-faced Shiva Lingam represents Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva) — a rare depiction in Hindu temples.

Travel Tips:

  • Location: 30 km from Nashik, 200 km from Mumbai

  • Best Time to Visit: July to March

  • Nearby Attractions: Kushavarta Kund, Anjaneri Hills (birthplace of Lord Hanuman), and Nashik Vineyards

Why Visit:

Trimbakeshwar is the only Jyotirlinga where the three main deities of Hinduism coexist, making it a symbol of unity in divinity.

3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – The Last Jyotirlinga

Located near Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is believed to be the last of the twelve Jyotirlingas. It is a must-visit for devotees as it is closely associated with the tales of devotion, love, and divine blessing.

Mythological Significance:

As per the legend, a devout woman named Kusuma worshipped Shiva daily by immersing the Shiva Linga in a water tank. When her son was killed by her husband’s first wife, Lord Shiva restored the boy’s life — blessing Kusuma with the manifestation of the Jyotirlinga.

Architectural Beauty:

The temple, built in red basalt stone, exhibits intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, with a five-tiered shikhara that beautifully adorns the skyline.

Travel Tips:

  • Location: 30 km from Aurangabad, 10 km from Ellora Caves

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March

  • Nearby Attractions: Ellora and Ajanta Caves, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi ka Maqbara

Why Visit:

The temple’s proximity to Ellora makes it a perfect combination of spirituality and historical exploration.

4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – The Oldest of All Jyotirlingas

Situated in Hingoli district, Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga is believed to be the first Jyotirlinga to have manifested on Earth. The temple holds immense significance among devotees and is often considered older than even the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Mythological Significance:

According to legend, Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, built this temple during their exile. It is also said that Lord Shiva resided here in the form of Nagnath to protect devotees from evil forces.

Architectural Beauty:

The temple’s architecture is Hemadpanti-style — a magnificent structure built using stones without any binding material. The intricate carvings and sculptures add to its timeless beauty.

Travel Tips:

  • Location: 64 km from Nanded, 25 km from Hingoli

  • Best Time to Visit: November to February

  • Nearby Attractions: Nanded’s Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, and the scenic Godavari River banks

Why Visit:

If you are interested in ancient Indian temple architecture and spiritual history, Aundha Nagnath offers both in abundance.

5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – The Temple of Healing Energy

Located in Beed district, Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva cured the demon King Ravana after he performed intense penance. This is why the temple is associated with healing and rejuvenation.

Mythological Significance:

Ravana performed severe penance to please Lord Shiva and was granted a Jyotirlinga. However, due to a divine trick, the Lingam was dropped at Parli, where it established itself permanently.

Architectural Beauty:

Built on a hill, the temple is surrounded by scenic views, with its main sanctum made of black stone. The temple complex also includes shrines of Goddess Parvati and Lord Kartikeya.

Travel Tips:

  • Location: 25 km from Parli town, 120 km from Nanded

  • Best Time to Visit: October to February

  • Nearby Attractions: Parli Hot Water Springs and Yogeshwari Temple in Ambejogai

Why Visit:

Parli Vaijnath is known as a temple of healing, and devotees often visit seeking relief from physical and emotional suffering.

Suggested Route for 5 Jyotirlinga Tour in Maharashtra

Here’s a convenient route to cover all five Jyotirlingas efficiently:

  1. Start from Pune → Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga

  2. Drive to Nashik → Visit Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga

  3. Proceed to Aurangabad → Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga

  4. Head to Hingoli → Visit Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga

  5. End at Parli (Beed) → Visit Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga

This route not only saves time but also allows you to explore Maharashtra’s cultural and natural beauty throughout the journey.

Best Time to Plan Your Jyotirlinga Tour

The ideal time to embark on this pilgrimage is between October and March when the weather is pleasant for travel and temple visits. Avoid the monsoon season, as some routes through the Western Ghats may become slippery and challenging.

How Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra Makes Your Journey Easier

Planning such a long and spiritually significant trip can be overwhelming, but that’s where Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra – your trusted travel companion – comes in.

We provide:

  • Customized 5 Jyotirlinga tour packages

  • Comfortable transport and accommodation options

  • Experienced guides and drivers familiar with temple rituals

  • Hassle-free darshan arrangements at each temple

  • Optional sightseeing and cultural add-ons

Whether you want a group pilgrimage, a private family trip, or a luxurious spiritual vacation, Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra curates packages tailored to your nee

Tips for Devotees and Travelers

  1. Dress modestly – temples follow strict dress codes in some places.

  2. Carry cash – as smaller temples or local eateries may not accept digital payments.

  3. Start early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially on Mondays and during Maha Shivaratri.

  4. Stay hydrated and pack light snacks for long drives.

  5. Respect local traditions and avoid photography where restricted.

A Journey of Faith and Discovery

The travel to 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra is not just a pilgrimage; it’s a profound experience that connects you to your roots, your faith, and the divine presence of Lord Shiva. Each temple has its unique aura, and visiting all five together completes the sacred circuit of devotion, history, and cultural richness.

As you stand before the Jyotirlinga and chant “Om Namah Shivaya,” you’ll feel a deep sense of peace and purpose — a reminder that the divine resides within and around you.

So, if you’ve been seeking a journey that transforms both heart and soul, it’s time to plan your 5 Jyotirlinga tour in Maharashtra with Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra — your trusted partner in divine travel.