Maharashtra is an important destination for devotees of Lord Shiva. The 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra are Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath and Parli Vaijnath. These temples are located in different parts of the state, but you can visit all five in one well-planned trip. Each temple has its own religious importance, history and traditions. This guide covers their locations, darshan timings, travel routes and useful tips to help you plan your Jyotirlinga journey with ease.
What Is a Jyotirlinga?
A Jyotirlinga is a sacred form of Lord Shiva worshipped by Hindu devotees. The word comes from two Sanskrit terms: Jyoti, meaning light, and Linga, representing Lord Shiva. According to Hindu tradition, Lord Shiva once appeared as an endless pillar of light to show his infinite power. There are 12 sacred Jyotirlingas across India, each linked to a different story and place. Devotees visit these temples to offer prayers, seek blessings and feel a deeper spiritual connection with Lord Shiva.
What Are the Names of the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra?
Maharashtra has five temples that are traditionally included in its Jyotirlinga pilgrimage circuit. Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar and Grishneshwar are widely recognised as Jyotirlingas. Aundha Nagnath and Parli Vaijnath are also considered sacred Jyotirlinga sites in Maharashtra, although some Hindu traditions identify these Jyotirlingas with temples in other states.
Here are the names and locations of the five temples:
|
Jyotirlinga Temple |
District |
|
Trimbakeshwar |
Nashik |
|
Bhimashankar |
Pune |
|
Grishneshwar |
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar |
|
Aundha Nagnath |
Hingoli |
|
Parli Vaijnath |
Beed |
Each temple has its own history, religious importance and traditions.
5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra: Temple Details, History and Darshan Timings
1. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Nashik
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Trimbak town, around 28 km from Nashik. The temple stands near the Brahmagiri Hills, which are closely connected with the origin of the Godavari River.
According to Hindu tradition, Sage Gautama prayed to Lord Shiva to bring the sacred Ganga to this region. Lord Shiva answered his prayers, and the river came to be known as the Godavari.
The temple is known for its unique three-faced Jyotirlinga, representing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Its beautiful stone architecture also makes it an important religious site in Maharashtra.
Darshan Timings: The temple is generally open from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Timings may change during festivals and special occasions.
How to Reach: Visitors can travel to Nashik by road or train. From Nashik, local buses and taxis are available to reach Trimbakeshwar.
Travel Tip: Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid long queues. Wear comfortable, modest clothing and check the temple's dress rules if you plan to take part in special prayers.
2. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Pune
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is located in the Sahyadri Hills of Pune district, around 125 km from Pune and 223 km from Mumbai. The temple is surrounded by green forests and hills, making it a beautiful place for devotees and nature lovers.
According to Hindu tradition, a demon named Bhimasur troubled people and challenged Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva defeated him and appeared here as Bhimashankar.
The temple is known for its traditional Nagara-style architecture and detailed stone carvings. It is also located near the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Darshan Timings: Due to ongoing construction work, darshan is currently limited to 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Visitors should confirm the latest timings before travelling.
How to Reach: Travellers can take a state transport bus or hire a taxi from Pune. The journey usually takes around 3–4 hours, depending on road conditions.
Travel Tip: The hill roads have sharp turns and can become slippery during heavy rain. Check the weather before leaving and avoid travelling through the hills during severe rainfall.
3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Verul village, around 30 km from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The temple is close to the famous Ellora Caves and is traditionally regarded as the twelfth Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva.
According to Hindu tradition, a woman named Ghushma worshipped Lord Shiva with great faith. When her son was killed, she continued her prayers. Pleased with her devotion, Lord Shiva brought her son back to life and appeared here as Grishneshwar.
The temple was rebuilt under the patronage of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century. Its red stone walls, carved pillars and traditional architecture attract many visitors.
Darshan Timings: The temple generally opens at 5:30 AM and closes at 9:30 PM. Timings may change during religious festivals.
How to Reach: Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar to Verul.
Travel Tip: Men entering the inner sanctum are generally required to remove their upper garments. Visitors should follow the temple's dress rules and avoid taking photographs in restricted areas.
4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga, Hingoli
Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga is situated in Hingoli district, around 24 km from Hingoli town. It is an important Shiva temple in Maharashtra and is considered a Jyotirlinga in regional religious traditions.
According to local belief, Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, built the original temple during their exile. The temple is known for its Hemadpanti architecture, stone carvings and ancient religious importance.
One interesting feature is its underground sanctum, where devotees descend a few steps to worship Lord Shiva. The temple also has several smaller shrines within its complex.
Darshan Timings: The temple generally opens at 5:30 AM and closes at 10:00 PM. Timings may change on weekends and festival days.
How to Reach: Hingoli and Parbhani are useful railway connections. Travellers can take local buses or hire taxis to reach the temple.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable footwear for the journey and allow extra time during Maha Shivratri and Shravan, when the temple receives more visitors.
5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga, Beed
Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga is located in Parli Vaijnath town in the Beed district of Maharashtra. The temple is traditionally associated with Vaidyanath, a form of Lord Shiva worshipped as the divine healer.
According to Hindu mythology, Ravana performed prayers to please Lord Shiva and received a sacred Jyotirlinga. During his journey towards Lanka, the Jyotirlinga was placed on the ground and became established there. This story is also associated with other Vaidyanath traditions.
The temple stands on a raised stone platform and has a grand entrance, carved pillars and a spacious courtyard. It was renovated during the reign of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar.
Darshan Timings: The temple generally opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM. Special pujas and festivals may affect darshan arrangements.
How to Reach: Parli Vaijnath has its own railway station. State transport buses and taxis are also available from nearby towns.
Travel Tip: Visit early for a more comfortable darshan. Confirm puja arrangements in advance and allow extra time during Shravan and Maha Shivratri.
Darshan Timings of the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra
Before visiting the temples, check their opening hours to plan your darshan without unnecessary delays.
|
Temple |
Opening Time |
Closing Time |
Important Notes |
|
Trimbakeshwar |
5:30 AM |
9:00 PM |
Special puja timings may differ |
|
Bhimashankar |
7:00 AM |
11:00 AM |
Temporary darshan hours during construction |
|
Grishneshwar |
5:30 AM |
9:30 PM |
Ritual breaks may apply |
|
Aundha Nagnath |
5:30 AM |
10:00 PM |
Weekend and festival hours may differ |
|
Parli Vaijnath |
5:00 AM |
10:00 PM |
Special puja arrangements may affect access |
Mondays, Shravan and Maha Shivratri usually bring larger crowds. Temple schedules can also change, so confirm the latest darshan timings and booking requirements before travelling.
Best Route to Cover the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra
The best route depends on where you begin your journey. Since the temples are spread across different districts, planning their order can help reduce unnecessary travel.
5 Jyotirlinga Route from Mumbai
Mumbai is a convenient starting point for pilgrims arriving by flight or train. You can begin with Trimbakeshwar near Nashik and continue towards the remaining temples.
Suggested Route: Mumbai → Trimbakeshwar → Bhimashankar → Grishneshwar → Aundha Nagnath → Parli Vaijnath.
This route covers all five temples, although it involves long drives between some locations. Plan around five to six days for the journey, depending on darshan queues and overnight stops. Allow additional time if you need to return to Mumbai.
5 Jyotirlinga Route from Pune
If you are starting from Pune, Bhimashankar is a convenient first stop, located around 110 km from the city. From there, you can travel to Trimbakeshwar, followed by Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath and Parli Vaijnath.
Suggested Route: Pune → Bhimashankar → Trimbakeshwar → Grishneshwar → Aundha Nagnath → Parli Vaijnath.
The table below shows the approximate road distances between the main stops.
|
Route |
Approximate Distance |
|
Pune to Bhimashankar |
110 km |
|
Bhimashankar to Trimbakeshwar |
230–250 km |
|
Trimbakeshwar to Grishneshwar |
190–215 km |
|
Grishneshwar to Aundha Nagnath |
200–230 km |
|
Aundha Nagnath to Parli Vaijnath |
115–120 km |
These distances may vary depending on the roads you take. The best temple order also depends on your pickup and final drop-off location. If you plan to return to Pune, include the return journey when deciding how many days you need.
5 Jyotirlinga Maharashtra Itinerary for 5 Days
You can plan a five-day trip to visit all five Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra. The following itinerary starts from Mumbai and covers the temples in a practical order.
Day 1 – Mumbai to Trimbakeshwar
Start your journey from Mumbai and travel towards Nashik. After reaching Trimbak, visit Trimbakeshwar Temple for darshan. You can also explore the nearby Kushavarta Kund if time allows. Stay overnight in Nashik.
Day 2 – Trimbakeshwar to Bhimashankar
Leave Nashik early and travel towards Bhimashankar through the Sahyadri Hills. Complete your darshan if the temple is open when you arrive. Otherwise, plan your visit according to the latest temple schedule. Stay overnight near Bhimashankar.
Day 3 – Bhimashankar to Grishneshwar
Travel towards Grishneshwar Temple near Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Visit the temple for darshan if you arrive before closing time. Stay overnight in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
Day 4 – Grishneshwar to Aundha Nagnath
Leave after breakfast and drive towards Aundha Nagnath in Hingoli district. Visit the temple, offer prayers and continue your journey. Stay overnight in Hingoli or a nearby town.
Day 5 – Aundha Nagnath to Parli Vaijnath
Start early and travel to Parli Vaijnath Temple in Beed district. Complete your darshan and spend some time exploring the temple complex before ending your pilgrimage.
Travel Note: This is a suggested five-day itinerary. Actual travel time depends on road conditions, temple timings and darshan queues. Returning to Mumbai or Pune may require additional travel time or another day.
How to Reach the Jyotirlinga Temples in Maharashtra
The five Jyotirlinga temples are located in different parts of Maharashtra. You can reach them by road, train or air, depending on your starting location and travel plans.
By Road
Private taxis and state transport buses connect major towns near the temples. Hiring a private vehicle is convenient if you plan to visit all five Jyotirlingas in one trip.
By Train
Nashik Road is a useful railway station for Trimbakeshwar, while Parli Vaijnath has its own station. Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar also offer rail connections.
By Air
Mumbai, Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar have airports with domestic flight connections. Choose your arrival city based on your planned temple route. From the airport, you can continue by taxi or bus.
Best Time to Visit the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra
The best time to visit the five Jyotirlingas depends on the weather and your travel preferences. Each season offers a different experience.
October to March
These months are generally comfortable for temple visits and long road journeys. The cooler weather makes travelling easier.
April to June
Summer can be hot, especially in the afternoon. Plan your temple visits early in the morning and carry enough water.
July to September
Monsoon brings green landscapes, but heavy rain can make hill roads slippery and cause travel delays.
Shravan and Maha Shivratri attract large crowds. Choose your travel dates based on your comfort and religious preferences.
Estimated Cost of a 5 Jyotirlinga Trip in Maharashtra
The cost of visiting the five Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra depends on your transport, accommodation and travel duration.
Buses and trains are generally budget-friendly, while private taxis offer more comfort and flexibility. Hotel prices vary by location, room type and season. You should also include meals, local transport and personal expenses in your budget.
General darshan is usually free, but special pujas and other temple services may have separate charges.
A five to six-day trip may cost more during festivals due to higher demand for transport and hotels. Travelling in a group can help reduce shared vehicle and accommodation expenses.
Darshan Rules and Important Travel Tips
Before visiting the Jyotirlinga temples, check their entry rules and worship arrangements. These may differ from one temple to another.
- Dress Code: Wear modest clothes. Some temples require traditional clothing for entry into the inner sanctum.
- Photography: Mobile phones and cameras may be restricted in certain temple areas.
- Puja Arrangements: General darshan is usually free, while special pujas may require advance booking and payment.
- Safe Booking: Use official temple channels or authorised counters for paid services.
- Crowds: Expect longer queues on Mondays, during Shravan and on Maha Shivratri.
- Essentials: Carry drinking water, a valid photo ID and necessary medicines.
Always confirm the latest temple rules before your visit.
Where to Stay and Eat During the Jyotirlinga Yatra
Nashik, Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are convenient places for overnight stays during the Jyotirlinga journey. You can find hotels and budget guesthouses in these cities, along with basic accommodation near some temples.
Vegetarian meals are available at local restaurants and eateries along the route. Staying close to the temples can also make early morning darshan easier.
During Shravan, Maha Shivratri and other busy periods, book your accommodation in advance to avoid last-minute problems.
Places to Visit Near the Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Temples
Apart from temple visits, you can explore several nearby attractions during your Maharashtra pilgrimage.
- Kushavarta Kund: A sacred bathing place near Trimbakeshwar Temple.
- Brahmagiri Hills: Known for their religious importance and scenic surroundings.
- Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: A forest area with green hills and local wildlife.
- Ellora Caves: Famous for ancient rock-cut temples near Grishneshwar.
- Shirdi: A popular pilgrimage destination that can be added to your route.
Visiting these places may require extra travel time, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
Travel Tips for Senior Citizens and Families
Visiting all five Jyotirlingas involves long road journeys, so families and senior citizens should plan a comfortable schedule with enough rest.
Choose hotels with easy access and vehicles with comfortable seating. Before visiting, check temple stairs, walking distances and waiting times. Carry regular medicines, drinking water and light snacks.
Some temples may have limited accessibility facilities. Confirm wheelchair access or other assistance in advance. Avoid rushing between temples, especially when travelling with elderly family members.
Frequently Asked Questions About 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra
What are the names of the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra?
The five temples are Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath and Parli Vaijnath. They are located across different districts of Maharashtra.
How many days are needed to visit all 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra?
You can plan to visit all five temples in five to seven days. The duration depends on your starting point, travel arrangements and darshan queues.
What is the best route to cover the 5 Jyotirlingas?
A practical route from Mumbai is Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath and Parli Vaijnath. The order may change depending on your travel plans.
Can I visit all 5 Jyotirlingas from Mumbai?
Yes, you can start your pilgrimage from Mumbai. A private vehicle offers flexibility, while trains and buses can be used for different parts of the journey.
What is the approximate distance between the 5 Jyotirlingas?
The distances vary between temples. For example, Aundha Nagnath and Parli Vaijnath are around 115–120 km apart by road, depending on the route.
Is there an entry fee for the Jyotirlinga temples?
General darshan is usually free at these temples. However, special pujas and certain worship services may have separate charges.
Which month is best for the Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Yatra?
November to February generally offers pleasant weather for temple visits and road travel. Devotees can also visit during Shravan, although crowds are usually larger.
Can senior citizens visit all five Jyotirlingas?
Yes, senior citizens can visit these temples with proper planning. Comfortable transport, regular breaks and checking temple accessibility in advance can make the journey easier.
Plan Your Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Yatra
Visiting the five Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra can be a meaningful religious journey. Choosing a suitable route, comfortable accommodation and the right travel dates can make your trip easier. Before leaving, check the latest temple timings and allow enough time for darshan and travel. A well-planned schedule helps you enjoy the pilgrimage without unnecessary rushing.