If you are someone who loves exploring India’s spiritual heritage, then a journey to the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra is one of the most profound and fulfilling pilgrimages you can undertake. Maharashtra, known for its cultural richness and spiritual energy, houses five of Lord Shiva’s twelve sacred Jyotirlingas — Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar, Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath, and Parli Vaijnath.

In this blog, brought to you by 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra, we’ll take you through a detailed travel guide covering the mythological significance, how to reach each temple, the best time to visit, and practical travel tips — everything you need to plan your perfect spiritual tour.

Understanding the Significance of Jyotirlingas

In Hindu mythology, the Jyotirlingas are considered the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. The word “Jyotirlinga” means “the radiant sign of Lord Shiva,” symbolizing his infinite nature. It is believed that those who visit and worship all twelve Jyotirlingas achieve moksha (liberation).

Maharashtra is truly blessed to host five of these twelve — more than any other state. Each temple is unique in its architecture, legends, and energy, offering a deeply personal and spiritual experience to devotees.

List of 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra

1. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Pune District
   
   

2. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Nashik District
   
   

3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Aurangabad District
   
   

4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – Hingoli District
   
   

5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – Beed District

1. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – The Source of the Bhima River

📍 Location:

Bhimashankar Temple is located in the Sahyadri Hills, about 110 km from Pune and 220 km from Mumbai.

Mythological Significance:

According to legend, Lord Shiva took the form of Bhimashankar to defeat the demon Tripurasura who was causing destruction. After the victory, Shiva manifested as a Jyotirlinga here. The temple is also believed to be the source of the Bhima River, which flows into the Krishna River.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Pune Airport (105 km away)
  
  

• By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Junction.
  
  

• By Road: Regular buses and private taxis are available from Pune and Mumbai.
  
  

Best Time to Visit:

October to March is ideal for pleasant weather. Monsoon (June–September) brings lush greenery, making it perfect for nature lovers.

Nearby Attractions:

• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
  
  

• Hanuman Lake
  
  

• Nagphani Point (also called Duke’s Nose)

2. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – The Holy Origin of the Godavari

 Location:

Located near Nashik, about 28 km from the city center, in the small town of Trimbak.

Mythological Significance:

Trimbakeshwar is believed to be the birthplace of the sacred Godavari River, also known as Ganga of the South. The temple represents the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva in a single Jyotirlinga, making it truly unique.

The temple was built by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao (Nana Saheb) in the 18th century and is known for its beautiful black stone structure and intricate carvings.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Nashik Airport (50 km) or Mumbai Airport (180 km)
  
  

• By Train: Nashik Road Railway Station (36 km)
  
  

• By Road: Well-connected by state transport buses and taxis.
  
  

Best Time to Visit:

October to March for comfortable weather and clear temple surroundings.

Nearby Attractions:

• Anjaneri Hills (believed to be Lord Hanuman’s birthplace)
  
  

• Brahmagiri Hill
  
  

• Kushavarta Kund (a sacred bathing ghat)

3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – The Last of the Twelve Jyotirlingas

Location:

Situated in Ellora, about 30 km from Aurangabad city, near the world-famous Ellora Caves.

Mythological Significance:

Grishneshwar Temple is associated with a heart-touching story of devotion. It is believed that a pious woman named Kusuma worshipped Lord Shiva here daily. Despite personal tragedies, her unwavering faith led to Shiva manifesting as a Jyotirlinga, granting her eternal blessings.

The temple, built in red volcanic stone, showcases Maratha-style architecture and intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities and mythological stories.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Aurangabad Airport (35 km)
  
  

• By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station
  
  

• By Road: Easily accessible via local buses and taxis from Aurangabad.
  
  

Best Time to Visit:

October to February for cool, comfortable sightseeing.

Nearby Attractions:

• Ellora Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  
  

• Daulatabad Fort
  
  

• Bibi Ka Maqbara (the “Mini Taj Mahal”)

4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – The First Jyotirlinga on Earth

 Location:

Located in Hingoli District of Maharashtra, around 25 km from Nanded.

Mythological Significance:

According to the Shiva Purana, Aundha Nagnath is believed to be the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Lord Shiva is said to have manifested here to protect his devotee Maharshi Yudhishthira during his exile. The temple is also associated with Nagesh, the serpent form, symbolizing infinite cosmic energy.

The ancient temple’s architecture is remarkable, with beautifully carved stone pillars, intricate sculptures, and a sacred atmosphere.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Nanded Airport (60 km)
  
  

• By Train: Hingoli Deccan Railway Station (25 km)
  
  

• By Road: State buses and private cabs operate from Nanded, Parbhani, and Aurangabad.
  
  

Best Time to Visit:

November to February for a pleasant and comfortable journey.

Nearby Attractions:

• Nanded Sahib Gurudwara (Hazur Sahib)
  
  

• Mallinath Jain Temple
  
  

• Siddheshwar Dam
  
  

5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – The Healing Abode of Lord Shiva

Location:

Situated in Beed District, about 26 km from Ambejogai.

 Mythological Significance:

Parli Vaijnath is said to be the place where Lord Vishnu himself worshipped Shiva to retrieve the Amrit (nectar of immortality). The word “Vaijnath” is derived from “Vaidya” (doctor), symbolizing Shiva as the divine healer.

Devotees believe that prayers here bring relief from physical and emotional ailments. The temple architecture beautifully blends Hemadpanthi and modern styles, creating a serene and spiritual environment.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Nanded Airport (110 km) or Aurangabad Airport (190 km)
  
  

• By Train: Parli Vaijnath Railway Station
  
  

• By Road: Connected via state transport buses from major cities in Maharashtra.
  
  

Best Time to Visit:

October to February for cool, dry weather.

 Nearby Attractions:

• Yogeshwari Temple (Ambejogai)
  
  

• Kankaleshwar Temple
  
  

• Parli Hot Water Springs

Suggested 5 Jyotirlinga Tour Itinerary

Here’s a suggested itinerary by Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra to cover all five temples comfortably:

Day 1: Arrive in Pune → Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga → Overnight stay in Pune
Day 2: Drive to Nashik → Visit Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga → Overnight in Nashik
Day 3: Travel to Aurangabad → Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga → Explore Ellora Caves → Stay in Aurangabad
Day 4: Drive to Hingoli → Visit Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga → Stay in Nanded
Day 5: Travel to Beed → Visit Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga → Return Journey

This 5-day route ensures a smooth, comfortable trip while giving you time to explore nearby attractions and experience Maharashtra’s rich culture and cuisine.

 How to Plan Your 5 Jyotirlinga Tour

At Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra, we specialize in organizing comfortable and spiritual journeys across the state’s holy destinations. Here’s how you can plan your trip:

• Best Duration: 5 to 7 days
  
  

• Mode of Transport: Private cab, tempo traveller, or customized bus packages
  
  

• Accommodation: Budget to luxury hotels available near all major temples
  
  

• Meals: Most tour packages offer vegetarian meals suitable for pilgrims
  
  

• Ideal Time: October to March for a pleasant pilgrimage experience

 Festivals & Events to Experience

If you wish to witness the temples in their most vibrant form, plan your trip around these festivals:

• Maha Shivaratri: Celebrated with great devotion across all temples in February or March.
  
  

• Shravan Month (July–August): A month dedicated to Lord Shiva; devotees throng temples every Monday.
  
  

• Tripura Poornima: Especially grand at Bhimashankar Temple.

Spiritual and Cultural Experiences

Apart from temple visits, this journey offers:

• Chanting of Rudra Abhishek and Maha Aarti rituals
  
  

• Witnessing traditional Marathi culture and local markets
  
  

• Exploring UNESCO sites like Ellora and Ajanta caves
  
  

• Enjoying Maharashtrian cuisine — Puran Poli, Misal Pav, Bhakri, and Modak
  
  

Travel Tips for the 5 Jyotirlinga Yatra

1. Dress Modestly: Traditional or simple attire is preferred at temples.
   
   

2. Carry Essentials: ID proof, water bottles, comfortable shoes, and rain gear (during monsoon).
   
   

3. Avoid Crowds: Visit early morning or late evening for peaceful darshan.
   
   

4. Respect Local Customs: Photography may be restricted in sanctum areas.
   
   

5. Book Early: During festivals like Shravan and Maha Shivaratri, advance booking is essential.
   
   

 Why Choose Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra for Your Tour

Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra offers well-planned tour packages covering all five Jyotirlingas with convenience, comfort, and devotion at the heart of every trip. Our packages include:

• Comfortable AC transport
  
  

• Professional drivers and guides
  
  

• Accommodation near temples
  
  

• Darshan assistance
  
  

• Personalized itineraries for families and senior citizens
  
  

Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, we ensure your pilgrimage is serene, safe, and soul-enriching.

Conclusion: A Journey Beyond Faith

Traveling to the 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra isn’t just a pilgrimage — it’s a journey that connects your soul to the divine essence of Lord Shiva. Each temple radiates unique spiritual energy, teaching us humility, devotion, and inner peace.

From the lush hills of Bhimashankar to the historic caves of Ellora and the sacred waters of Trimbakeshwar, this yatra blends faith, culture, and nature beautifully.

So, pack your bags, open your heart, and embark on this sacred journey with Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra  — where faith meets travel, and every mile leads to divinity.