Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is the twelfth and last Jyotirlinga in the revered list of twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located near Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, this sacred shrine is a symbol of divine compassion, love, and devotion. Its name, ‘Grishneshwar’, translates to ‘Lord of Compassion’, and the temple is celebrated for its ancient roots, intricate architecture, and strong mythological significance.
Grishneshwar Temple Jyotirlinga Features
Explore this list for the features of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Deoghar:
One of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Situated close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves.
Built in traditional South Indian temple architecture with red stones.
Intricately carved pillars and sculptures depicting stories from Shiva Purana.
The temple houses a swayambhu (self-manifested) Shivling.
Known for its calm and spiritually vibrant surroundings.
Devotees believe that visiting Grishneshwar offers relief from past sins and family problems.
Women are allowed to perform Abhishek directly to the Shivling, unlike many other Jyotirlingas.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Location
The Grishneshwar Temple is located in Verul village, approximately 30 km from Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (approx. 35 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station
By Road: Well connected by road from Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Shirdi
Grishneshwar Temple History
The legend behind Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is rooted in deep devotion and divine grace. According to the Shiva Purana, a pious woman named Kusuma was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. She worshipped a Shiva Linga every day by immersing it in a water tank. Jealous of her devotion, her husband’s first wife killed her son. Undeterred, Kusuma continued her prayers. Lord Shiva, moved by her devotion, resurrected her son and manifested himself as a Jyotirlinga at the site. Hence, this Linga came to be known as Grishneshwar.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Nearby Attractions
Check out some nearby attractions of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Aurangabad:
Ellora Caves – World-famous rock-cut caves, including the Kailasa Temple, just walking distance from the temple.
Daulatabad Fort – A historical fort with panoramic views and rich Maratha history
Aurangabad Caves – Buddhist caves known for intricate carvings and scenic views.
Bibi Ka Maqbara – Often called the ‘Taj of the Deccan’, a Mughal-era monument.
Panchakki – A 17th-century water mill showcasing medieval engineering.
Khuldabad – A spiritual town where the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb is located.
Ajanta Caves – Though farther (about 100 km), these ancient Buddhist caves are worth visiting.
Other Nearby Attractions of Aurangabad Jyotirlinga Grishneshwar Temple
Grishneshwar Temple
Grishneshwar Temple is the 12th and last Jyotirlinga shrine of Lord Shiva, located near Ellora in Maharashtra. It is an important pilgrimage site for devotees seeking spiritual peace and divine blessings.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Timings: 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM.
Entry Fees: No entry fee.
Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves (Walking Distance) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its rock-cut architecture and the awe-inspiring Kailasa Temple. These caves house Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments carved out of a single rock.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays).
Entry Fees: ₹40 (Indian nationals), ₹600 (foreign nationals).
Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad Fort (14 km) – A majestic hilltop fort known for its strategic defenses, steep climbs, and breathtaking panoramic views. Rich in Maratha and Mughal history.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹10 (Indian nationals), ₹100 (foreign nationals).
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi Ka Maqbara (30 km) – Known as the ‘Taj of the Deccan’, this Mughal-era tomb was built by Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his mother. It is admired for its architectural beauty and tranquil gardens.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹25 (Indian nationals), ₹300 (foreign nationals).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance of Grishneshwar temple from Aurangabad?
Grishneshwar Temple is about 30 km from Aurangabad and takes around 45 minutes to reach by road.
Which city is closest to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga?
Aurangabad is the closest city, just 30 km from Grishneshwar Temple Aurangabad.
What is special about Grishneshwar Mandir Aurangabad?
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is the 12th and last Jyotirlinga, built in beautiful red stone, and known for its Maratha-style architecture and historical significance.
What are the 3 Jyotirlinga darshan in Maharashtra?
The three Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra are Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga (Nashik), Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (Pune), and Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga (Aurangabad).
Which Jyotirlinga is most powerful?
All 12 Jyotirlingas are equally sacred, but Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath are often considered highly significant spiritually.
Other Jyotirlinga to Explore near Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Located in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, the Bhimashankar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is surrounded by dense forests and is a haven for nature lovers and trekkers.
Located on Mandhata Island in the Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh, the Omkareshwar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The island’s shape resembles the sacred ‘Om’ symbol, adding to its spiritual significance.
Located near Dwarka in Gujarat, the Nageshwar Temple is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas. It is considered a protector of devotees from all types of poisons and negative energies.