3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra – A Spiritual Journey You Must Take

Maharashtra is not only about Mumbai’s fast life or Pune’s charm—it’s also home to some of the most powerful temples of Lord Shiva. Among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, three are right here in Maharashtra: Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar, and Grishneshwar.

Each temple has its own story, its own vibe, and a unique experience for devotees. At Trimbakeshwar, you find yourself near the source of the holy Godavari river. In Bhimashankar, the peaceful forest surroundings make the darshan feel even more divine. And at Grishneshwar, the beautifully carved temple walls remind you of the rich history and devotion that has lived on for centuries.

Visiting all three together isn’t just a religious trip—it feels like a soulful journey where you connect with nature, culture, and spirituality at the same time.

What are Jyotirlingas?

In Hindu mythology, there’s a story where Lord Shiva appeared as an endless pillar of light—without beginning or end. This divine light is called “Jyoti”, and when it took the form of a Linga, it came to be known as a Jyotirlinga. That’s why these shrines are believed to carry Lord Shiva’s purest energy.

There are 12 Jyotirlingas across India, each with its own legend and spiritual power. Devotees believe that visiting a Jyotirlinga is not just about offering prayers, but about experiencing Lord Shiva’s presence in the most powerful form. For many, even a single darshan brings peace of mind and a deep sense of spiritual recharge.

The 3 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is truly blessed—it is home to three out of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Each temple is not just a place of worship, but also a blend of history, legends, architecture, and natural beauty. Visiting them feels like walking through stories that have been alive for thousands of years. Let’s explore each one:

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1. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga (Nashik)

Nestled at the foothills of Brahmagiri Hills near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar is one of the most unique Jyotirlingas. It is believed to be the birthplace of the holy river Godavari, often called the “Ganga of the South.”

What makes this temple so special is that the Jyotirlinga here is not just dedicated to Lord Shiva—it also represents Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. This rare trinity makes it a deeply significant site for Hindus.

• Location: About 28 km from Nashik city.
  
• Highlight: Famous for special rituals like Narayan Nagbali Puja, performed for removing ancestral curses and attaining peace for departed souls.
  
• Travel Tip: After darshan, explore Nashik’s vineyards and wine tours, as the region is known as the Wine Capital of India.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Nashik (30 km) or Mumbai (200 km).
  
• By Train: Nearest railway station is Nashik Road (about 28 km). Autos, taxis, and buses are easily available.
  
• By Road: From Nashik, regular buses and taxis go to Trimbak. Roads are well connected.
  

Fairs & Festivals:

• Maha Shivratri is celebrated with grand processions and lakhs of devotees.
  
• Kumbh Mela (every 12 years) is world-famous, and Trimbakeshwar is one of its main centers.
  

2. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (Pune District)

If you love temples set in nature, Bhimashankar is an absolute delight. Situated in the lush Sahyadri hills, the temple is surrounded by thick forests, waterfalls, and trekking trails. It’s not just a shrine—it’s also part of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the rare Giant Squirrel.

According to legend, Lord Shiva appeared here after slaying the demon Bhim, which gave the temple its name. The peaceful vibe of the place makes it perfect for both devotees and nature lovers.

• Location: Around 110 km from Pune.
  
• Highlight: Offers the perfect mix of spirituality and adventure—ideal for those who love trekking or exploring forests.
  
• Travel Tip: Plan a trek to the temple during monsoons or winters for breathtaking greenery and waterfalls.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Pune Airport (120 km) is the nearest. From there, you can hire a taxi.
  
• By Train: Pune Railway Station is the closest major stop. From Pune, state buses and private cabs run to Bhimashankar.
  
• By Road: Well connected by road; buses, cabs, and private vehicles can easily reach. The last stretch is a ghat road.
  

Fairs & Festivals:

• Maha Shivratri is the biggest event here with all-night prayers and cultural programs.
  
• Local fairs during monsoons also attract devotees.
  

3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga (Aurangabad District)

Grishneshwar, meaning “Lord of Compassion,” is not only a spiritual gem but also an architectural wonder. Built in red basalt stone, the temple showcases beautiful carvings that reflect ancient Indian craftsmanship.

According to mythology, a devoted woman named Kusuma worshipped Lord Shiva here with unwavering faith. Pleased by her devotion, Shiva manifested as a Jyotirlinga, making this temple a symbol of faith and divine love.

Another big attraction is that it is located just 1 km from Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So in one trip, you can witness both divine power and historic art.

• Location: Near Ellora Caves, about 30 km from Aurangabad city.
  
• Highlight: Known as the last of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
  
• 🧳 Travel Tip: Don’t miss exploring the Ellora Caves, especially the majestic Kailasa Temple carved from a single rock.
  

How to Reach:

• By Air: Aurangabad Airport (35 km) is the nearest.
  
• By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station is well connected. From there, buses and taxis are available.
  
• By Road: Regular buses and taxis from Aurangabad city directly to Ellora/Grishneshwar.
  

Fairs & Festivals:

• Mahashivratri is celebrated with grandeur and special darshan.
  
• Shravan month (July–August) sees huge crowds of devotees.

Spiritual Significance of Visiting All 3 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra

Visiting one Jyotirlinga is considered auspicious, but completing all three in Maharashtra is believed to multiply the blessings. Devotees say that doing so:

• Brings inner peace and mental clarity.
  
• Helps remove obstacles from life.
  
• Strengthens family bonds through joint prayers.
  
• Creates a deep sense of connection with Lord Shiva.
  

Many devotees plan this journey as a mini spiritual pilgrimage within Maharashtra.

Travel Itinerary Suggestion

If you’re planning to cover all three Jyotirlingas in one trip, here’s a simple route you can follow:

• Day 1: Start at Nashik → Visit Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga. Stay overnight in Nashik.
  
• Day 2: Drive to Pune → Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. Overnight stay in Pune.
  
• Day 3: Head towards Aurangabad → Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga and explore Ellora Caves.
  

This circuit can be done in 4–5 days comfortably, depending on your pace.

Best Time to Visit Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra

• Monsoon (June–September): Bhimashankar looks magical with waterfalls, but roads can get tricky.
  
• Winter (October–February): The most comfortable weather for darshan and sightseeing.
  
• Maha Shivratri Festival: The temples are beautifully decorated, but expect huge crowds.
  

Tips for Devotees

• Wear simple, comfortable clothes suitable for temple visits.
  
• Avoid carrying leather items inside temple premises.
  
• Early mornings are the best for peaceful darshan.
  
• Carry some cash, as small shops around temples may not accept cards/UPI.
  
• If you’re traveling with family, keep some snacks and water handy.
  

Also Read: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Statue – A Complete Travel Guider Complete Travel Guide

Conclusion

The journey to the 3 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra is more than just temple-hopping—it’s a soulful mix of devotion, history, and travel. Each temple has its own story and vibe, and together, they create a spiritual experience that stays with you long after you return home.

So whether you’re a devotee of Lord Shiva or just someone who loves exploring places with deep cultural roots, this is one journey you won’t regret.

FAQs About 3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra