Lord Shiva is worshipped in many temples across India, but the 12 Jyotirlingas have a special place among Shiva devotees.
These 12 temples are located in different parts of India. Some are near rivers, some are in the mountains, some are close to the sea, and some are in old temple towns. Every Jyotirlinga has its own story, history and local tradition.
For many devotees, visiting the 12 Jyotirlingas is a dream. Some people plan the complete Jyotirlinga Yatra, while others visit one or two temples whenever they get an opportunity.
If you are planning to visit the Jyotirlingas, this guide will help you understand the 12 Jyotirlinga names, locations, stories, importance, temple details and travel information in simple language.
What Are the 12 Jyotirlingas?
The traditional list of 12 Jyotirlingas is:
| No. | Jyotirlinga | Place | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Somnath | Prabhas Patan | Gujarat |
| 2 | Mallikarjuna | Srisailam | Andhra Pradesh |
| 3 | Mahakaleshwar | Ujjain | Madhya Pradesh |
| 4 | Omkareshwar | Khandwa | Madhya Pradesh |
| 5 | Kedarnath | Kedarnath | Uttarakhand |
| 6 | Bhimashankar | Bhimashankar | Maharashtra |
| 7 | Kashi Vishwanath | Varanasi | Uttar Pradesh |
| 8 | Trimbakeshwar | Trimbak, Nashik | Maharashtra |
| 9 | Vaidyanath | Deoghar / traditional Parli identification | Jharkhand / Maharashtra |
| 10 | Nageshwar | Dwarka region | Gujarat |
| 11 | Rameshwaram | Rameswaram | Tamil Nadu |
| 12 | Grishneshwar | Verul, near Ellora | Maharashtra |
The traditional Sanskrit verse preserved by the official Shri Kashi Vishwanath portal names these twelve Jyotirlingas in this order.
What Does Jyotirlinga Mean?
The word Jyotirlinga is made from two words:
- Jyoti means light.
- Linga refers to the sacred form in which Lord Shiva is worshipped.
According to the traditional story, Lord Shiva appeared as a huge pillar of light that had no beginning and no end.
Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu wanted to find the beginning and end of this light. Brahma went upward and Vishnu went downward, but neither could find its limit.
The story teaches that Lord Shiva is beyond the limits that humans can understand.
The 12 Jyotirlingas are believed to be sacred places where Lord Shiva is worshipped in this form.
For devotees, the main purpose is simple: to pray to Lord Shiva, have darshan and receive his blessings.
1. Somnath Jyotirlinga, Gujarat
Where Is Somnath Jyotirlinga?
Somnath Jyotirlinga is located at Prabhas Patan in Gir Somnath district of Gujarat.
It is traditionally considered the first Jyotirlinga.
The temple stands close to the Arabian Sea, and the sea view is one of the most beautiful parts of a visit to Somnath. The Government of India’s Incredible India tourism site also describes Somnath as the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas and highlights its location on the Arabian Sea.
Story of Somnath
The story of Somnath is connected with Chandra, the Moon God.
According to Hindu tradition, Chandra married the daughters of Daksha Prajapati. But he was especially fond of Rohini and did not treat his other wives equally.
Daksha became angry and cursed Chandra.
Because of the curse, Chandra started losing his brightness.
Chandra prayed to Lord Shiva at Prabhas and performed penance. Lord Shiva was pleased with his devotion and helped him.
This story is connected with the name Somnath, meaning Lord of Soma or the Moon.
Why Is Somnath Important?
Somnath is important for several reasons.
It is:
- One of the 12 Jyotirlingas
- Traditionally the first Jyotirlinga
- A major Shiva pilgrimage centre
- Located beside the Arabian Sea
- Known for its temple architecture and long history
The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times during history. The present temple is built in the traditional Chalukya style.
For many devotees, the history of Somnath is a reminder that faith and worship continued even through difficult times.
What Can You See Near Somnath?
If you are visiting Somnath, you can also plan to see:
- Somnath Beach
- Prabhas Patan
- Bhalka Tirth
- Triveni Sangam
- Nearby pilgrimage places
Somnath can also be combined with a Dwarka and Nageshwar pilgrimage.
2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, Srisailam
Where Is Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga?
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is located at Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh.
The temple stands in the Nallamala Hills and is one of the most important Shiva temples in South India.
The Andhra Pradesh government describes Srisailam as an ancient pilgrimage centre and identifies Mallikarjuna as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
Story of Mallikarjuna
One popular story is connected with Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Kartikeya became upset after a family matter and went away to the Krauncha mountain.
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati wanted to stay close to their son.
They came to Srisailam, and their presence here became associated with Mallikarjuna.
The name Mallikarjuna is traditionally connected with Shiva and Parvati.
Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba
Srisailam is especially important because it is associated with both Jyotirlinga and Shakti worship.
The temple complex is dedicated to Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba.
Because of this, many devotees consider Srisailam an especially important pilgrimage place for both Shiva and Devi worship.
What Makes Srisailam Special?
The temple is surrounded by hills and forests.
The Krishna River also adds to the beauty of the area.
Devotees visiting Srisailam can also visit places such as:
- Pathala Ganga
- Sikhareswaram
- Sakshi Ganapati Temple
- Hatakeswaram
- Pala Dhara and Pancha Dhara
If you are travelling from Andhra Pradesh or Telangana, Srisailam is one of the most convenient Jyotirlinga destinations to include in your pilgrimage.
3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Ujjain
Where Is Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga?
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
Ujjain is one of India’s old and important pilgrimage cities.
The official Mahakaleshwar temple website identifies it as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and says it is the only south-facing Jyotirlinga among the twelve.
Why Is Shiva Called Mahakal?
The word Mahakal means the great Lord of Time.
Time controls everything in the world. People are born, grow old and eventually die. Everything changes with time.
Lord Shiva as Mahakal represents the power that is beyond ordinary time.
This is why Mahakaleshwar is especially important to devotees who pray for protection, peace and spiritual strength.
The Story of Mahakaleshwar
According to the traditional story, a demon named Dushana troubled the people of Ujjain.
The people prayed to Lord Shiva for protection.
Shiva appeared and defeated the demon.
He then stayed at the place as Mahakaleshwar.
Bhasma Aarti
Mahakaleshwar is famous across India for its Bhasma Aarti.
It is an early-morning worship ceremony and is one of the most special experiences for devotees visiting Ujjain.
If you want to attend Bhasma Aarti, check the official temple website before your journey because booking rules and timings can change. The official temple currently provides online services for Bhasma Aarti and other pujas.
Other Places to Visit in Ujjain
A trip to Mahakaleshwar can also include:
- Mahakal Lok
- Kal Bhairav Temple
- Harsiddhi Temple
- Ram Ghat
- Mangalnath Temple
- Sandipani Ashram
4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, Madhya Pradesh
Where Is Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga?
Omkareshwar is located in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh.
The temple is on Mandhata Island in the Narmada River.
The island is traditionally said to look like the sacred symbol Om when seen from above.
The Government of India’s Utsav platform identifies Omkareshwar as the fourth of the twelve Jyotirlingas and highlights its connection with the sacred Om sound.
Story of Omkareshwar
One traditional story is connected with Vindhya mountain.
Vindhya is said to have performed strong penance to Lord Shiva.
Shiva was pleased with the devotion and appeared at the place.
The shrine became known as Omkareshwar.
Another tradition connects the area with King Mandhata, who is also said to have performed penance here.
Omkareshwar and the Narmada
The Narmada River is an important part of this pilgrimage.
The temple, river, ghats and surrounding hills make Omkareshwar a peaceful place for devotees.
Many pilgrims also perform Narmada Parikrama traditions in the wider region.
Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar
There are two important Shiva temples in the area:
- Omkareshwar
- Mamleshwar
Devotees commonly visit both temples during their pilgrimage.
What Can You See Near Omkareshwar?
You can also visit:
- Narmada Ghats
- Mamleshwar Temple
- Omkareshwar Parikrama route
- Siddhanath Temple
- Gauri Somnath Temple
Omkareshwar is a good choice if you want a Jyotirlinga visit combined with a peaceful river-side pilgrimage.
5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga, Uttarakhand
Where Is Kedarnath Jyotirlinga?
Kedarnath is located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, high in the Himalayas.
The temple is at an altitude of about 3,580 metres.
Uttarakhand Tourism identifies Kedarnath as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and also as part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.
Story of Kedarnath
Kedarnath is closely connected with the Pandavas of the Mahabharata.
After the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas wanted to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Shiva did not want to meet them easily.
According to the traditional story, Shiva took the form of a bull.
The Pandavas followed him.
When Bhima tried to catch the bull, Shiva disappeared into the ground.
The different parts of Shiva’s form are traditionally connected with different sacred places in the Himalayan region.
The hump is associated with Kedarnath.
Why Is Kedarnath So Special?
Kedarnath is different from many other Jyotirlingas because reaching the temple itself is part of the pilgrimage.
The journey involves mountain travel and, depending on the route and current arrangements, trekking.
The temple is surrounded by huge Himalayan peaks.
The official Uttarakhand Tourism website describes Kedarnath as a high Himalayan temple town and notes the large stone construction of the ancient temple.
When Can You Visit Kedarnath?
Kedarnath does not remain open to pilgrims throughout the year in the same way as many temples in lower parts of India.
The temple opens seasonally according to the traditional calendar and local conditions.
Before travelling, always check the current official opening date, registration requirements, weather and road conditions.
Important for Devotees
If you are planning Kedarnath, don’t treat it like a normal temple trip.
Plan for:
- Cold weather
- Mountain travel
- Walking
- Weather changes
- Accommodation
- Medical needs
- Official registration
- Transport arrangements
For many devotees, however, the difficulty of the journey is itself an important part of the Kedarnath Yatra.
6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra
Where Is Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga?
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is located in Maharashtra, in the Sahyadri mountain region.
It is also associated with the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Story of Bhimashankar
The traditional story tells of a powerful demon called Bhim or Bhimasura.
He became very powerful and started troubling people and devotees.
People prayed to Lord Shiva for help.
Shiva appeared and fought the demon.
After defeating him, Shiva remained at the place as Bhimashankar.
Temple and Nature
Bhimashankar is a good destination for devotees who also enjoy nature.
The temple is surrounded by hills and forest.
Maharashtra Tourism describes Bhimashankar as a Jyotirlinga temple in the Sahyadri region and highlights its traditional architecture and natural surroundings.
Why Visit Bhimashankar?
A visit to Bhimashankar gives you both:
Lord Shiva darshan + a peaceful hill and forest environment.
The area is especially attractive during and after the monsoon when the hills become green.
Nearby Places
Depending on your route, you can explore:
- Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sahyadri hills
- Nearby villages and forest areas
- Trekking routes
Visitors should follow forest rules and avoid disturbing animals or leaving plastic and waste behind.
7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, Varanasi
Where Is Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga?
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, near the banks of the Ganga.
The official Shri Kashi Vishwanath website identifies Vishwanath among the 12 Jyotirlingas.
What Does Vishwanath Mean?
Vishwanath means Lord of the Universe.
The name itself explains why the temple is so important to Shiva devotees.
For thousands of years, Kashi has been associated with Lord Shiva and spiritual life.
Why Is Kashi Important?
Kashi is not only famous for the temple.
The whole city is considered sacred.
Devotees visit:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Ganga Ghats
- Kal Bhairav Temple
- Annapurna Temple
- Sankat Mochan Temple
- Ganga Aarti
Many pilgrims take a bath in the Ganga before visiting the temple.
Kashi and Moksha
Hindu tradition gives Kashi a special place in the belief of moksha, or liberation.
Many devotees believe that dying in Kashi and receiving Lord Shiva’s grace has a special spiritual importance.
Because of this belief, Kashi has been a major pilgrimage destination for generations.
Kashi Vishwanath Darshan
Kashi Vishwanath is one of the busiest temples in India.
If you are planning a visit, check the official temple website for current darshan arrangements, entry rules and booking options before travelling.
The temple remains a living place of worship, with daily pujas and large numbers of devotees.
8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra
Where Is Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga?
Trimbakeshwar is located at Trimbak near Nashik in Maharashtra.
The temple is close to the Brahmagiri Hills and is strongly connected with the Godavari River.
Story of Trimbakeshwar
The main story is connected with Gautama Rishi.
Gautama was a respected sage and devotee.
According to the traditional story, he performed penance to Lord Shiva.
Shiva was pleased with his devotion.
The story is connected with the coming of the sacred Godavari River to this region.
Because of this, Trimbakeshwar is important not only as a Jyotirlinga but also as a sacred river-related pilgrimage.
Three Forms
The Jyotirlinga at Trimbakeshwar is traditionally associated with three divine forms:
- Brahma
- Vishnu
- Shiva
This makes the temple different from many other Shiva temples.
Temple Architecture
The temple is built mainly with dark stone and has detailed carvings.
Maharashtra Tourism notes the temple’s distinctive architecture and its connection with the Peshwa period.
Kushavarta Kund
Kushavarta Kund is an important place for pilgrims visiting Trimbakeshwar.
It is traditionally connected with the Godavari and has great religious importance.
Nearby Places
You can combine Trimbakeshwar with:
- Nashik
- Panchavati
- Sita Gufa
- Ram Kund
- Brahmagiri Hills
Trimbakeshwar is therefore a good option for a complete Nashik pilgrimage.
9. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga
Where Is Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga?
The Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga is commonly identified with Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar, Jharkhand.
However, there is an important traditional difference regarding its location.
The traditional Jyotirlinga verse mentions Parli Vaidyanath, and some sources identify Parli Vaijnath in Maharashtra with Vaidyanath. Government records and different pilgrimage traditions have used both identifications.
For general pilgrimage information, Baba Baidyanath Dham at Deoghar is one of the most widely recognised modern identifications.
Story of Vaidyanath
The most famous story is connected with Ravana, the king of Lanka.
Ravana was a great devotee of Lord Shiva.
He performed severe penance to please Shiva.
According to the traditional story, Ravana offered his heads to Shiva as part of his penance.
Shiva was pleased with his devotion and appeared before him.
Shiva restored Ravana and blessed him.
Because Shiva acted as a healer, the name Vaidyanath, meaning Lord as a divine healer, became associated with the shrine.
Why Is Baidyanath Dham Famous?
The temple becomes extremely busy during Shravan month.
Large numbers of Kanwariyas travel to Deoghar after collecting Ganga water from Sultanganj.
They carry the water and offer it to Lord Shiva.
This pilgrimage is one of the biggest Shiva pilgrimages in India.
Deoghar Yatra
If you visit Baidyanath Dham, you can also explore other temples and religious places in Deoghar.
The temple is an important centre of worship throughout the year, but Shravan is one of its busiest periods.
10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Gujarat
Where Is Nageshwar Jyotirlinga?
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is located in the Dwarka region of Gujarat.
It is usually included in a pilgrimage along with Dwarkadhish Temple and other important places around Dwarka.
Story of Nageshwar
The traditional story is connected with a devotee named Supriya.
According to the story, Supriya was imprisoned by a powerful demon.
Even while in trouble, he continued praying to Lord Shiva.
Shiva appeared and protected his devotee.
The temple became associated with Shiva as a protector.
Meaning of Nageshwar
The word Naga means serpent.
Serpents are closely connected with Lord Shiva. Shiva is commonly shown with a snake around his neck.
The serpent is an important symbol in Shiva worship.
Nageshwar and Dwarka
Nageshwar is a good temple to include in a Dwarka pilgrimage.
Devotees can combine:
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Rukmini Devi Temple
- Bet Dwarka
- Other local pilgrimage sites
This makes Gujarat one of the easier regions for visiting more than one important Shiva and Vishnu pilgrimage site in the same trip.
11. Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, Tamil Nadu
Where Is Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga?
Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga is located at the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
It is one of the most important Shiva temples in South India.
It is also the southernmost of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
Story of Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram has a strong connection with Lord Rama and the Ramayana.
According to Hindu tradition, Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva before travelling towards Lanka.
A Shiva linga was established and worshipped here.
Because of this connection, Rameshwaram has a special place in both Rama and Shiva traditions.
Ramanathaswamy Temple
The Ramanathaswamy Temple is famous for its huge corridors and beautifully carved pillars.
The temple complex is one of the most impressive examples of South Indian temple architecture.
The Rameswaram municipality highlights the temple’s long corridors, carved pillars and large gopuram.
Sacred Wells
The temple is also famous for its many theerthams or sacred wells.
Pilgrims traditionally take water from these sacred places as part of the temple pilgrimage.
The ritual experience is one of the main reasons devotees visit Rameshwaram.
Places to Visit in Rameswaram
A Rameshwaram pilgrimage can also include:
- Agni Theertham
- Pamban Bridge
- Dhanushkodi
- Kothandaramaswamy Temple
- Abdul Kalam Memorial
Rameshwaram is therefore both a major religious destination and an interesting place for travellers.
12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra
Where Is Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga?
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is located at Verul near Ellora in Maharashtra.
It is traditionally regarded as the 12th Jyotirlinga.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Grishneshwar is that the famous Ellora Caves are very close to the temple.
Story of Grishneshwar
The traditional story is connected with a woman named Ghushma.
She was a great devotee of Lord Shiva.
She regularly worshipped Shiva with great faith.
According to the story, she faced a terrible personal tragedy but did not lose faith in Lord Shiva.
Her devotion pleased Shiva.
He appeared before her and blessed her.
The place became associated with the Jyotirlinga now known as Grishneshwar.
Temple Architecture
Grishneshwar is known for its beautiful stone architecture and detailed carvings.
The temple has a traditional design with a tall shikhara and carved pillars.
Ellora Caves
The nearby Ellora Caves make this Jyotirlinga especially attractive for visitors.
After darshan at Grishneshwar, devotees and travellers can visit the famous rock-cut caves.
Ellora is one of the best places in India to see ancient Indian art and temple architecture.
Why Visit Grishneshwar?
If you are planning a Maharashtra pilgrimage, you can combine:
- Grishneshwar
- Ellora Caves
- Ajanta Caves
- Aurangabad/Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
- Other nearby temples
This makes Grishneshwar an excellent final stop for a Jyotirlinga journey.
12 Jyotirlingas State-Wise
If you want to understand the locations easily, here is the state-wise list.
Gujarat
- Somnath
- Nageshwar
Andhra Pradesh
- Mallikarjuna
Madhya Pradesh
- Mahakaleshwar
- Omkareshwar
Uttarakhand
- Kedarnath
Maharashtra
- Bhimashankar
- Trimbakeshwar
- Grishneshwar
Uttar Pradesh
- Kashi Vishwanath
Jharkhand
- Vaidyanath — Deoghar tradition
Tamil Nadu
- Rameshwaram
The Government of India has also promoted the Dwadasha Jyotirlinga circuit as a group of twelve sacred Shiva destinations.
Which Jyotirlingas Are Easiest to Visit Together?
You do not need to visit all 12 in one trip.
If you want to visit them in groups, some combinations are more practical.
Gujarat Jyotirlinga Yatra
Somnath + Nageshwar
You can also include Dwarka.
Madhya Pradesh Jyotirlinga Yatra
Mahakaleshwar + Omkareshwar
These two can be combined in one Madhya Pradesh trip.
Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Yatra
Bhimashankar + Trimbakeshwar + Grishneshwar
These three can be included in a longer Maharashtra pilgrimage.
South India Yatra
Mallikarjuna + Rameshwaram
Both are major South Indian Shiva pilgrimage destinations, although they are far apart.
North India
Kedarnath + Kashi Vishwanath
These two are both extremely important, but the travel planning is completely different because Kedarnath is in the Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit the 12 Jyotirlingas
There is no single best month for all 12 Jyotirlingas because they are spread across different parts of India.
For most temples, October to March is comfortable for travel.
However, the situation is different for Kedarnath because it is located high in the Himalayas and follows a seasonal pilgrimage schedule.
During Shravan
Shravan is a very important month for Shiva devotees.
Many temples become extremely crowded during this period.
Baidyanath Dham is especially famous for the large number of Kanwariyas visiting during Shravan.
During Mahashivratri
All major Shiva temples see large crowds during Mahashivratri.
If you want to experience the festival atmosphere, this can be a wonderful time to visit.
But if you prefer peaceful darshan, choose a normal day outside the major festival periods.
How to Plan a 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra
Visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas requires proper planning because they are spread across India.
Don’t try to book everything at the last minute.
First divide the temples into regions.
For example:
Gujarat: Somnath + Nageshwar
Madhya Pradesh: Mahakaleshwar + Omkareshwar
Maharashtra: Bhimashankar + Trimbakeshwar + Grishneshwar
North India: Kedarnath + Kashi Vishwanath
South India: Mallikarjuna + Rameshwaram
East India: Vaidyanath
Then decide whether you want to complete the Yatra in one long journey or over several years.
For many families, visiting two or three Jyotirlingas whenever they travel to that region is easier.
Things to Check Before Going to a Jyotirlinga Temple
Temple rules are different at every place.
Before leaving home, check the latest information about:
- Darshan timings
- Aarti timings
- Online booking
- Special darshan
- Puja booking
- Dress rules
- Mobile phone restrictions
- Photography rules
- Festival crowds
- Parking
- Local transport
- Accommodation
Do not depend on an old YouTube video or an old blog for current timings.
Temple timings and booking systems can change.
For example, the official Mahakaleshwar website currently provides online booking options for Bhasma Aarti, darshan and other services.
Do You Need to Visit All 12 Jyotirlingas?
No.
There is no need to worry that you are less devoted if you cannot visit all 12.
If you have the opportunity, visiting all 12 can be a wonderful pilgrimage.
But even visiting one Jyotirlinga with sincere devotion is meaningful for a devotee.
Many people visit the Jyotirlinga nearest to their home first.
Others visit a temple because of a family tradition.
Some devotees may spend many years completing the 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra.
The important thing is faith and devotion, not simply the number of temples you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Jyotirlingas are there?
There are traditionally 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Which is the first Jyotirlinga?
Somnath Jyotirlinga in Gujarat is traditionally considered the first Jyotirlinga.
Which is the last Jyotirlinga?
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra is traditionally listed as the 12th.
Which Jyotirlinga is in Andhra Pradesh?
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga at Srisailam.
Which Jyotirlingas are in Maharashtra?
The commonly used list includes:
- Bhimashankar
- Trimbakeshwar
- Grishneshwar
There is also a traditional identification of Vaidyanath with Parli Vaijnath, which is why you may see different lists online.
Which Jyotirlingas are in Madhya Pradesh?
There are two:
- Mahakaleshwar
- Omkareshwar
Which Jyotirlingas are in Gujarat?
There are two:
- Somnath
- Nageshwar
Which Jyotirlinga is famous for Bhasma Aarti?
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain is famous for its Bhasma Aarti.
Which Jyotirlinga is located in the Himalayas?
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga in Uttarakhand.
Which Jyotirlinga is associated with Lord Rama?
Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga is traditionally associated with Lord Rama’s worship of Lord Shiva.
Which Jyotirlinga is near the Ganga?
Kashi Vishwanath is located in Varanasi near the Ganga.
Which Jyotirlinga is associated with the Narmada River?
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is located on an island in the Narmada River.
Which Jyotirlinga is associated with the Godavari River?
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga near Nashik is traditionally associated with the origin of the Godavari.
Can I visit all 12 Jyotirlingas in one trip?
Yes, it is possible, but it needs careful planning because the temples are spread across different states and regions.
A regional plan is usually easier.
Final Words
The 12 Jyotirlingas are among the most important Shiva pilgrimage places in India.
Every temple has a different story.
Somnath stands beside the Arabian Sea.
Mallikarjuna is in the hills of Srisailam.
Mahakaleshwar is in the ancient city of Ujjain.
Omkareshwar is surrounded by the Narmada.
Kedarnath is in the Himalayas.
Bhimashankar is surrounded by the Sahyadri hills.
Kashi Vishwanath stands in the holy city of Varanasi.
Trimbakeshwar is connected with the Godavari.
Vaidyanath is a major Shiva pilgrimage in eastern India.
Nageshwar is near Dwarka.
Rameshwaram is at the southern end of India.
Grishneshwar is near the famous Ellora Caves.
For a devotee, a Jyotirlinga Yatra is not only about travelling from one place to another. It is about taking time to pray, visiting ancient temples, seeing different parts of India and remembering Lord Shiva.
You may visit one Jyotirlinga.
You may visit three.
Or you may complete all twelve over several years.
There is no need to hurry.
Go with devotion, follow the temple rules, respect the local traditions and enjoy the journey.
Om Namah Shivaya.