The Five Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra

​Maharashtra is a profoundly sacred state in Hinduism, renowned for being home to five of the twelve most important Jyotirlingas (Pillars of Light) dedicated to Lord Shiva. These five shrines are collectively known as the Pancha Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra, and each one holds unique spiritual, historical, and architectural significance.

The Five Jyotirlingas (Pancha Jyotirlingas)

Name

Location (District)

Key Significance & Origin Story

Architectural/Unique Feature

1. Trimbakeshwar

Nashik

Located at the origin of the sacred Godavari River. It is believed to grant salvation.

The Shiva Lingam has three faces (Mukhas), representing the Hindu Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva (Mahesh).

2. Bhimashankar

Pune (Sahyadri Hills)

Situated in the dense Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. Associated with Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura (Bhima), from whose sweat the Bhima River is said to originate.

Ancient Nagara-style architecture. A perfect blend of spirituality and ecotourism due to its forest location.

3. Grishneshwar

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad)

Traditionally considered the last of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the pilgrimage circuit. The name means ‘Lord of Compassion’.

Located near the famous Ellora Caves. The current structure was largely rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century, featuring red rock and intricate carvings. It is considered the smallest Jyotirlinga temple in India.

4. Aundha Nagnath

Hingoli

Some traditions consider this the first Jyotirlinga to manifest on Earth. Devoted to Lord Shiva as the Lord of Serpents (Nageshwar).

Ancient temple architecture, believed to have been built by the eldest Pandava, Yudhishthira, during his exile.

5. Parli Vaijnath

Beed

Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Vaidyanath, the Lord of Medicine/Healing. The location among medicinal plants reinforces the belief in its healing properties.

Devotees are often permitted to touch the Shiva Lingam during worship, which is rare in Jyotirlinga temples. It is a clean and peaceful complex situated on a small hill.

Spiritual & Mythological Context

​The term ‘Jyotirlinga’ translates to ‘Pillar of Light’ (Jyotis means radiance/light, and Linga means sign). According to the Shiva Purana, the Jyotirlingas are sites where Lord Shiva appeared as an infinite column of light to settle a dispute between Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the preserver) over supremacy.

  • ​Trimbakeshwar: Its unique triple-face form embodies the entire cosmic function—creation, preservation, and destruction—making it an exceptionally significant site for the worship of the complete Trinity. It is a major center for specific rituals like the Kalsarpa Shanti Puja.
  • ​Bhimashankar: The temple is a symbol of the victory of good over evil, tied to the myth of Lord Shiva defeating the mighty demon. Its secluded location in the dense forest emphasizes the ascetic and wild nature of Shiva.
  • ​Grishneshwar: The proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Ellora Caves highlights its deep cultural and historical connection to the region’s ancient heritage. A visit here is often seen as a completion of the entire Jyotirlinga pilgrimage.
  • ​Aundha Nagnath: The association with the Pandavas (from the Mahabharata) roots its history deeply in epic mythology. Its primary significance is in offering protection and overcoming fears.
  • ​Parli Vaijnath: The belief in Lord Shiva as Vaidyanath (Healer) attracts countless devotees seeking physical and spiritual well-being and relief from ailments.

​Unique Features and Architecture

  • ​Trimbakeshwar: The temple’s structure was built in the 18th century by Peshwa Balaji Bajirao in the Nagara style. The absence of a separate Nandi idol within the main temple complex is a distinctive feature.
  • ​Grishneshwar: Reconstructed by the legendary Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, it stands as a testament to Maratha-era temple restoration and patronage, built entirely of striking red rock.

​These five sites not only serve as centers of profound religious devotion but also stand as monumental examples of Maratha-era and ancient Indian architecture, often situated in areas of remarkable natural beauty like the Sahyadri hills and near sacred rivers.

Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, which is arguably the most unique among the five for its connection to the holy Trinity and the sacred River Godavari.

Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga: The Lord of the Three Faces

​Location: Trimbak, Nashik District, Maharashtra.

Significance: It is the only Jyotirlinga where the Shiva Lingam features three faces, representing the Hindu Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva (Mahesh). It is also the source of the sacred Godavari River, the second-longest river in India, often called the ‘Ganga of the South’ (Dakshin Ganga).

​1.  Mythology and Origin Story

​The story of Trimbakeshwar is inextricably linked to the origin of the Godavari River, as detailed in the Shiva Purana and Skanda Purana:

  • ​Gautama Rishi’s Penance: The revered Sage Gautama lived with his wife, Ahalya, in the Brahmagiri Hills (where the temple stands). Due to a severe drought, Gautama performed rigorous penance to please Lord Varuna (the God of Rain), who blessed the region.
  • ​The Cow Incident: Other jealous sages tried to defame Gautama. They created a magical cow which was accidentally killed by the Rishi while trying to chase it away.
  • ​A River for Cleansing: To cleanse himself of the sin of Gau-Hatya (cow slaughter), Gautama again performed intense penance to Lord Shiva.
  • ​Shiva’s Manifestation: Pleased with the sage’s devotion, Lord Shiva appeared and granted the boon: He brought the holy Ganga (Ganges) to Earth, which manifested as the Godavari River. As a testament to this profound event, Lord Shiva remained at this spot, manifesting as the unique Three-Faced Jyotirlinga to signify that the entire Trinity was present to witness the sacred event.

​2.  Architectural Uniqueness and Features

  • ​The Three-Faced Lingam: Unlike other Jyotirlingas which feature a single, monolithic pillar, the sanctum sanctorum here holds a low-lying cavity with three miniature Lingams, representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra (Shiva).
    • ​Due to centuries of continuous Abhishekam (ritual pouring of water and milk), the original lingams have eroded. They are now protected and represented by a jeweled gold mask/crown placed over the structure.
  • ​Peshwa Architecture: The current magnificent temple structure was constructed by the third Peshwa, Balaji Baji Rao (Nanasaheb Peshwa), in the mid-18th century (around 1740-1760). It is built entirely of black stone in the classic Nagara-style (North Indian) architecture, known for its towering spire and intricate carvings.
  • ​Kushavarta Kund: Near the temple is a sacred tank, the Kushavarta Kund, which is considered the symbolic origin point where the Godavari River first emerged. Devotees take a holy dip here to cleanse sins.

​3.  Key Rituals and Special Pujas

​Trimbakeshwar is renowned globally as the primary location for performing specific, powerful Hindu rituals to address ancestral and planetary afflictions:

  • ​Kaal Sarp Dosh Puja (Kalsarpa Shanti): This is the most famous ritual performed here, believed to nullify the malefic effects of the Kaal Sarp Dosh (an alignment of planets in a person’s horoscope that causes obstacles and misfortune).
  • ​Narayan Nagbali Puja: A specific set of rituals performed for the peace and liberation of the souls of ancestors (Pitru Dosh Nivaran). It is a complex ritual that must be performed by the local, authorized priests (Tamrapatradhari Guruji).
  • ​Kumbh Mela: Trimbakeshwar is one of the four sites in India where the massive Kumbh Mela (held once every 12 years) takes place. Millions of pilgrims gather for a holy dip in the Kushavarta Kund during this time.

​Trimbakeshwar stands as a central pillar of spirituality in Hinduism, not only as a Jyotirlinga but also as the origin of one of India’s most important rivers and a hub for complex Vedic rituals.

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, which is often cited as the last or twelfth Jyotirlinga. This temple offers a unique blend of spiritual significance and historical proximity to one of India’s greatest architectural marvels.

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga: The Last and the Resilient

​Location: Verul village (Ellora), Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district (formerly Aurangabad), Maharashtra.

Significance: It is the twelfth and final Jyotirlinga in the revered list. It is perhaps most famous for its location, situated less than a kilometer from the world-renowned Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

​1. Mythology and Legend of Ghushma

​The temple’s origin story, found in the Shiva Purana, is a powerful testament to unwavering devotion:

  • ​The Devout Wife: A pious Brahmin named Sudharma lived near the Devagiri hills with his first wife, Sudeha, and her younger sister, Ghushma. Sudeha, being childless, insisted that Sudharma marry Ghushma, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.
  • ​Daily Worship: Ghushma would make and worship 101 clay Shiva Lingams every day before immersing them in a nearby lake. By Lord Shiva’s grace, Ghushma gave birth to a beautiful son.
  • ​Jealousy and Murder: Out of deep jealousy, Sudeha murdered Ghushma’s young son and threw his body into the same lake where Ghushma immersed her clay Lingams.
  • ​Unwavering Faith: Despite the tragedy and the immense grief, Ghushma did not stop her daily worship ritual.
  • ​Shiva’s Mercy: Moved by her steadfast devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before her and miraculously restored her son to life. When Shiva offered to punish Sudeha, Ghushma, demonstrating supreme compassion, requested that her sister be forgiven.
  • ​The Manifestation: Ghushma then requested a final boon: that Lord Shiva reside there eternally for the benefit of all devotees. Shiva agreed, manifesting as the Jyotirlinga at that spot. The deity became known as Ghushmeshwar or Grishneshwar—meaning the “Lord of Compassion” or “Lord of Ghushma.”

​2. Architectural Features and History

​The temple’s history is one of resilience, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to invasions:

  • ​Rebuilders of the Temple: The site was first restored in the 16th century by Maloji Bhosale (grandfather of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj). The current magnificent structure was famously rebuilt and renovated in the 18th century by the devout Maratha Queen, Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, who was a patron of several major Hindu temples across India.
  • ​Construction Style: The temple is constructed of striking red basalt stone and exhibits the Hemadpanthi architectural style.
  • ​Intricate Carvings: The temple features a five-tiered shikhara (spire) and a spacious assembly hall (Sabha Mandap) supported by 24 pillars. These pillars are intricately carved with horizontal panels depicting various legends and scenes from the Shiva Purana.
  • ​Unique Carvings: The outer walls are adorned with sculptures, including the Dashavatars (ten avatars of Vishnu), and detailed depictions of gods and goddesses.

​3. Spiritual Significance and Rituals

  • ​Connecting the Spiritual and Cultural: The temple’s location, just a stone’s throw from the Ellora Caves (which features Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain rock-cut temples, including the monolithic Kailasa Temple dedicated to Shiva), makes it a unique pilgrimage spot that ties together spirituality, history, and unparalleled ancient art.
  • ​The Smallest Jyotirlinga: Grishneshwar is considered the smallest Jyotirlinga shrine in India, but its spiritual glory is immense.
  • ​Ritual of Touch (Sparsha Darshan): One of the most significant and unique aspects of Grishneshwar is the rare opportunity for devotees to perform the Sparsha Darshan—they are allowed to physically touch the Shiva Lingam with their own hands inside the inner sanctum. (Note: Male devotees are traditionally required to enter the inner Garbhagriha bare-chested).

​A visit to Grishneshwar is often seen as the completion of a pilgrimage to all twelve Jyotirlingas, symbolizing the attainment of liberation (moksha) through profound devotion and divine compassion.

the third of the five Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra: Bhimashankar.

​Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga: The Abode in the Western Ghats

​Location: Bhorgiri village, Pune district, Maharashtra, deep within the Sahyadri Hills (Western Ghats).

Significance: This Jyotirlinga is uniquely situated inside the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a destination of spiritual pilgrimage and ecological importance. It is also the source of the Bhima River, which is known as Chandrabhaga at Pandharpur.

​1. Mythology and Legend of Bhima

​The most popular legend ties the temple’s origin to Lord Shiva’s battle against a powerful demon:

  • ​The Demon Bhima: According to the Shiva Purana, after Lord Rama killed the demon Kumbhakarna (Ravana’s brother), Kumbhakarna’s son, Bhima, was raised by his mother Karkati in the Sahyadri mountains. Upon learning of his father’s death, Bhima vowed revenge against Lord Vishnu.
  • ​The Reign of Terror: Bhima eventually gained immense power from a boon by Brahma, which he then used to terrorize the world. He imprisoned a devout Shiva follower, King Sudakshina of Kamarupa, and demanded that the King worship him instead of Shiva.
  • ​Shiva’s Manifestation: When Bhima tried to destroy the Shiva Lingam the King had created in prison, Lord Shiva appeared at the site. A fierce battle ensued, in which Shiva defeated and reduced the demon Bhima to ashes.
  • ​The Jyotirlinga: Following the battle, all the gods requested Shiva to reside there permanently to protect the region. Lord Shiva granted their wish and manifested as the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. The sweat that poured from Shiva’s body during the battle is said to have formed the Bhima River.

​2.  Architecture and Historical Contributions

​The temple is an exemplary blend of architectural styles, deeply tied to Maratha history:

  • ​Architectural Style: The temple is a mix of old and new structures, primarily built in the Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture, with some influence from the local Hemadpanthi style.
  • ​Swayambhu Linga: It is believed that the ancient shrine was built around a Swayambhu (self-manifested) Lingam. The Lingam itself is unique, with a narrow groove dividing the top, signifying the Ardhanarishwara form (half Shiva, half Parvati).
  • ​Historical Patronage:
    • ​The original structure dates back to the 13th century.
    • ​The Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is known to have made endowments to the temple.
    • ​The impressive Sabhamandapa (assembly hall) and the Shikhara (spire) were added in the 18th century by the influential Maratha statesman, Nana Phadnavis of the Peshwa administration.
  • ​The Sanctum: The Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is constructed at a lower level than the ground, where the sacred Jyotirlinga is housed.

​3.  Ecological Significance

​Bhimashankar is unique among the Jyotirlingas for its designation as a protected natural area:

  • ​Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: The temple is nestled within this dense forest, which is part of the environmentally sensitive Western Ghats.
  • ​Biodiversity: The sanctuary is a treasure trove of flora and fauna and is particularly famous as the habitat of the Malabar Giant Squirrel (locally called Shekaru), which is the state animal of Maharashtra.
  • ​The Bhima River Source: Behind the temple is the Mokshakund Tirtha and the origin point of the Bhima River.

3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra Tour Package

Trimabakeshwar, Bhimashankar and Grishneshwar are the 3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra. you can easily cover three jyotirlingas with Citycabz 3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra Tour Package from starting Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Shirdi, Chatrapati Shambhaji Nagar

​The remaining two Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra are:

  1. ​Aundha Nagnath (in Hingoli district)
  2. ​Vaijnath (in Beed district)

This Makes Maharashtra a Home to 5 Jyotirlinga’s Shrine.

Aundha Nagnath is the fourth Jyotirlinga in our series, deeply rooted in the history of the Mahabharata and the Varkari saint tradition.

​Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga: The Lord of Serpents

​Location: Aundha Nagnath, Hingoli District, Maharashtra (Marathwada region).

Significance: It is often considered the eighth of the twelve Jyotirlingas, and sometimes also referred to as the ‘Adhya’ (First) Jyotirlinga. The deity is known as Nagnath (Lord of the Serpents), believed to offer protection from fear, especially of venom.

​1.  Mythology and Spiritual Legends

​Aundha Nagnath is a place where mythology, saint tradition, and divine miracles intertwine:

  • ​Pandava Origin: According to popular legend, the temple was originally built by the eldest of the Pandava brothers, Yudhishthira (Dharmaraj), during their 12-year exile (vanavasa) from Hastinapur. This places its origin in the epic era of the Mahabharata.
  • ​The Legend of Namdev: A famous and powerful story involves the revered 13th-century Varkari poet-saint, Sant Namdev.
    • ​Once, while performing Kirtan (devotional singing) outside the main temple, the orthodox priests objected to his location, citing his caste and asking him to move to the back of the temple.
    • ​In deep devotion and sorrow, Namdev prayed to Lord Shiva. In a divine miracle that affirmed the inclusivity of devotion, the entire temple structure is said to have miraculously revolved to face Sant Namdev at the back, allowing the Lord to hear his hymns.
    • ​This miracle is historically cited as the reason why the Nandi idol in the temple faces away from the main entrance, standing at the back of the structure (where the original back entrance would have been).
  • ​Shiva Purana Legend (Darukavana): The Shiva Purana links the Jyotirlinga to the Darukavana (Deodar Forest) and the victory of Lord Shiva over the demoness Daruka, who was vanquished after tormenting a devout follower named Supriya.

​2. Architectural Style and History

​The temple is a magnificent example of resilient architecture, having survived numerous attempts at destruction:

  • ​Hemadpanthi Style: The temple showcases the ancient Hemadpanthi style of architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings, built without the use of cement or mortar. The original structure is believed to have been seven stories high.
  • ​Historical Timeline:
    • ​Ancient Period: Mythically linked to the Pandavas.
    • ​13th Century: The temple was reconstructed and heavily patronized by the Yadava dynasty of Devagiri.
    • ​Mughal Era: The temple faced repeated destruction attempts by invaders like Aurangzeb, who successfully demolished the upper portions, reducing it from a seven-storey structure.
    • ​18th Century Restoration: Like many other major temples in the region, the current standing structure was significantly restored and repaired by the devout Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
  • ​Temple Layout: The shrine is spread over a large area (approximately 60,000 sq. ft.) and houses a low-ceiling garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), where the Shiva Lingam is housed. Devotees must climb down a few steps to reach the sacred Lingam.

​3.  Unique Traditions and Significance

  • ​Association with Sikhism: Due to its close connection with Sant Namdev (a spiritual figure whose hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib), the temple is also revered by followers of Sikhism, and the founder, Guru Nanak, is believed to have visited this site.
  • ​South-facing Lingam: The Lingam is said to be oval-shaped and made of a stone called Dwaraka Shila.

Now that we have covered Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar, and Aundha Nagnath, we only have one left!

Final Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra: Parli Vaijnath (The Lord of Healing)?

The Pancha Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra! Here is the detailed profile for the final shrine: Parli Vaijnath.

Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga: The Lord of Healing

​Location: Parli Vaijnath town, Beed District, Maharashtra (Marathwada region).

Significance: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Vaidyanath (or Vaijnath), which translates to the “Lord of Physicians” or “Lord of Healing.” It is revered for its purported medicinal and spiritual powers, and is considered the fifth Jyotirlinga in the Maharashtra circuit.

​1. Mythology and the Nectar of Immortality

​Parli Vaijnath’s legends connect it deeply to the health and well-being of the universe, linking Shiva and Vishnu:

  • ​The Samudra Manthan Connection: The most prominent legend links this site to the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean by the gods and demons). During the churning, 14 valuable things emerged, including the poison Halahala (consumed by Shiva) and Dhanwantari (the celestial physician) carrying the Amrit (Nectar of Immortality).
    • ​When the demons rushed to seize the Amrit, Lord Vishnu intervened. It is believed that Lord Vishnu secured the Amrit and Dhanwantari inside the Shiva Lingam at this location.
    • ​When the demons tried to touch the Lingam, it shone with such intense light that they fled. Thus, the spot became sacred and the Lingam acquired the name Vaijnath/Vaidyanath, symbolizing its association with the Lord of Healing and the Nectar of Life.
  • ​Ravana’s Penance (Alternate Legend): Another popular tradition links Parli to the demon king Ravana. It is said that Ravana performed intense penance here to receive the Shiva Lingam (Jyotirlinga) from Lord Shiva to take back to Lanka. However, due to divine trickery by the other gods, Ravana was compelled to place the Lingam on the ground at this very spot, establishing it permanently as a Jyotirlinga.

​2. Architectural Features and History

​The temple is known for its imposing height, secure layout, and unique material:

  • ​Architecture: The temple is constructed of stone on a small hill and is surrounded by a strong wall on all sides, resembling a fortress. It is approximately 75-80 feet high. The overall architecture reflects the Hemadpanthi style.
  • ​Historical Restoration: The temple’s history traces back to the Yadava dynasty (12th-13th century AD). The current, imposing structure was significantly renovated and rebuilt in 1706 by the great Maratha Queen, Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
  • ​The Black Stone Lingam: The sacred Jyotirlinga inside the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is made of black stone (often described as Shaligram or Vajra stone) and has a smooth surface.

​3. Unique Rituals and Spiritual Synthesis

​Parli Vaijnath is particularly notable for its open access to the deity and a rare synthesis of different Hindu traditions:

  • ​Sparsha Darshan (Touching the Lingam): Like Grishneshwar, this temple offers the rare privilege of Sparsha Darshan. Devotees are generally allowed to enter the inner sanctum and physically touch the Shiva Lingam to perform Abhisheka (ritual bathing of the deity) themselves. (Male devotees are usually required to remove clothes above the waist to enter the sanctum).
  • ​Harihar Kshetra (Unity of Shiva and Vishnu): The temple is celebrated as a Harihar Kshetra, signifying the unity of Lord Shiva (Hari) and Lord Vishnu (Hara).
    • ​This synthesis is ritually demonstrated by the unique custom of offering Tulsi leaves (normally reserved for Vishnu) to Lord Shiva, and Bilva leaves (normally reserved for Shiva) to Lord Vishnu.
  • ​Medicinal Significance: Due to its name and the surrounding environment—which is rich in medicinal herbs—worshipping at Parli Vaijnath is believed to bring about cures for physical ailments and general good health, aligning the spiritual grace of Shiva with the healing properties of nature.

This are the five sacred Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra: Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath, and Parli Vaijnath.

Comparative Summary: The Pancha Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra

Central Significance

Unique Feature / Architecture

Access to Lingam (Darshan)

Nearby Attraction

1. Trimbakeshwar

Nashik

Source of Godavari River; Worship of the Holy Trinity (Trimurti).

Three-Faced Lingam (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva); Built in black stone by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao.

Limited/Restricted, often visible only as the gold mask.

Brahmagiri Hills, Kushavarta Kund.

2. Bhimashankar

Pune (Sahyadri)

Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Bhima; Source of the Bhima River.

Situated within a Wildlife Sanctuary; Continuous water flow from the Lingam (Ardhanarishwara form).

Restricted to the inner sanctum access.

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Konkan Kada (Cliff).

3. Grishneshwar

Chh. Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad)

Symbolizes compassion and unwavering devotion (Ghushma); The 12th Jyotirlinga.

Rebuilt in striking red basalt stone by Ahilyabai Holkar; Considered the smallest Jyotirlinga shrine.

Sparsha Darshan (allowed to touch the Lingam, usually for male devotees).

Ellora Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Site).

4. Aundha Nagnath

Hingoli

Protection from all evils and fears; Linked to Sant Namdev and the Pandavas.

Ancient Hemadpanthi style; Unique Nandi idol faces away from the main entrance; Lingam is housed in an underground sanctum.

Devotees descend into the sanctum for close Darshan.

Naganath Fort (ruins).

5. Parli Vaijnath

Beed

Vaidyanath (Lord of Healing); Synthesis of Shiva and Vishnu (Harihar Kshetra).

Built on a small hill, fortress-like structure; Allows Tulsi offering to Shiva and Bilva to Vishnu.

Sparsha Darshan (allowed to touch the Lingam).

Parli Thermal Power Station (local landmark).

Suggested Pilgrimage Route and Itinerary

​Visiting all five Jyotirlingas requires a planned road trip, as they are spread across Maharashtra’s western, central, and eastern regions. A typical dedicated trip takes 4 to 6 days.

​The most efficient route generally starts from a major hub like Pune or Mumbai.

​Recommended 5-Day Itinerary (Starting and Ending in Pune/Mumbai)

Day

From

To

Distance

Temple Visit(s)

Key Sight/Stopover

Day 1

Mumbai/Pune

Bhimashankar (Return to Pune for stay)

~200 km (one way)

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga

Sahyadri Hill Drive, Bhima River Origin.

Day 2

Pune

Trimbakeshwar (Stay in Nashik)

~250 km

Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga

Godavari River Origin, Kushavarta Kund, Panchvati (Nashik).

Day 3

Nashik

Grishneshwar (Stay in Sambhajinagar/Aurangabad)

~210 km

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga

Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort.

Day 4

Chh. Sambhajinagar

Aundha Nagnath (Stay in Parli Vaijnath)

~200 km

Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga

Drive through the Marathwada plains.

Day 5

Parli Vaijnath

Parli Vaijnath (Then return journey)

Varies

Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga

Final Darshan, start long return journey to Pune/Mumbai/Hyderabad.

Logistics and Travel Tips

  • ​Transportation: The most flexible and practical way to complete this circuit is by hiring a private taxi/car or driving your own vehicle. Public transport (buses) is available but slow and time-consuming. So why wait Book Citycabz Best Taxi & Car Rental Service for Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Darshan Tour at affordable prices.
  • ​Best Time to Visit: October to March offers the most pleasant weather. Avoid the peak monsoon (July-September) for safety in the Bhimashankar hills and the peak summer (April-June) heat in the Marathwada region.
  • ​Rituals: If you plan on performing special pujas like Kaal Sarp Dosh Shanti (at Trimbakeshwar), plan to spend an extra day there and book a certified priest (Guruji) in advance.

 

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