The 12 Jyotirlingas are a set of sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, each holding a significant place in Hindu mythology and devotion. These shrines are spread all over India, attracting many devotees from all over the country. The first name of 12 Jyotirlinga is the Somnath, located in Gujarat. It is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna ended his earthly incarnation. The name of this Jyotirlinga, Somnath, means ‘Protector of the Moon God,’ and it is famous for its ancient history and mythological importance.
Next in the 12 Jyotirlinga name and place list is the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga in Andhra Pradesh. It’s situated in the picturesque hills of Srisailam where devotees believe that visiting this place cleanses one’s sins. Following the list, next is Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Famously known for its Bhasma Aarti. Mahakaleshwar holds a special place among the 12 Jyotirlingas names for its powerful spiritual significance. The Omakreashwar Jyotirlinga is also situated in Madhya Pradesh on an island shaped like the holy symbol ‘Om’ in the Narmada River. The temple is deeply revered and devotees can visit the temple by crossing the Narmada River either by boat or by bridge.
The Kedarnath Jyotirlinga in Uttarakhand is one of the most challenging to reach in the 12 Jyotirlinga name list due to its high altitude location in the Himalayas. It is one of the important pilgrimage sites significantly included in the Char Dhaam Yatra as well. Moving towards Maharashtra, we find the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. It is believed that here Lord Shiva took the form of Bhima to defeat the Tripurasura demon. Also in Maharashtra is the Trimbakeshar Jyotirlinga near Nashik, known for its association with the sacred Godavari River. The other name of 12 Jyotirlinga, which is situated in Maharashtra, is the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga near Ellora.
The Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga in Kashi, Uttar Pradesh is one of the famous among the 12 Jyotirlinga names with places list. It is believed that a visit to Kashi Vishwanath ensures liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Another prominent Jyotirlinga is the Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga in Deoghar, Jharkhand. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, located near Dwarka, is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva rescuing his devotee from a demon. The Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga in Tamil Nadu is connected to the epic Ramayana, where Lord Ram built a Shiva Lingam to seek blessings before his journey to Lanka. This completed the 12 Jyotirlinga names with place. Read on to know more about these 12 Jyotirlingas in detail.
Table of Contents
S. No | 12 Jyotirlinga Place Name | States | Places to visit |
1 | Somnath Temple | Gujarat | Chorwad Beach, Prabhas Patan Museum, Veneshwar Mahadev Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Shree Parshuram Temple, Sana Caves, Dehotsarg Teerth, Bhalka Tirth, Bhidbhanjan Mahadev Temple |
2 | Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga | Andhra Pradesh | Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, Bhramaramba Devi Temple, Akka Mahadevi Caves, Mallela Theertham, Srisailam Wildlife Sanctuary, Shikaresvara Temple, Kadalivanam Caves, Chenchu Lakshmi Tribal Museum, Srisailam Dam, Hemareddy Mallamma Temple |
3 | Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga | Madhya pradesh | Kal Bhairav Temple, Harsiddhi Temple, Kaliadeh Palace, Pir Matsyendranath, Kalidasa Academy, Ved Shala, Chintaman Ganesh Temple, Ram Ghat, Gopal Mandir, Bhartrihari Caves, Chaubis Khamba Temple, Mangalnath Temple, Sandipani Ashram, ISKCON Ujjain, Gadkalika Temple, Ram Janardhan Mandir, Gomti Kund, Birla Mandir |
4 | Omkareshwar | Madhya pradesh | Kedareshwar Temple, Peshwar Ghat, Mamleshwar Temple, Fanase Ghat, Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Siddhanath Temple , Omkar Mandhata Temple, Gauri Somnath Temple, Kajal Rani Cave |
5 | Kedarnath Jyotirlinga | Uttrakhand | Bhairavnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, Sonprayag, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Chandrashila, Gaurikund, Triyuginarayan Temple, Guptakashi ,Chorabari Tal, Tungnath Temple, Tungnath Temple, |
6 | Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga | Maharastra | Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimashankar Temple, Bhimashankar Trek, Hanuman Lake, Ahupe Waterfalls |
7 | Vishwanath Temple | Uttar Pradesh | Dasaswamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Chunar Fort, Tulsi Manas Temple, Ramnagar Fort & Museum, Alamgir Mosque, Godowlia Market, Man Mandir Observatory, Shivala Ghat |
8 | Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga | Jharkhand | Nandan Pahar, Tapovan Caves and Hills, Naulakha Mandir, Basukinath |
9 | Nageshwar Jyotirlinga | Gujarat | Dwarkadheesh Temple, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Beyt Dwarka, Rukshmani Devi Temple, Gomti Ghat, Sudama Setu, Swami Narayan Temple |
10 | Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga | Tamil Nadu | Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, Jada Tirtham, Agniteertham, Five Faced Hanuman Temple, Gandhamadhana Parvatham, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge Pamban Bridge |
11 | Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga | Maharastra | Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Daulatabad Fort, Bhadra Maruti Temple, Ellora Caves, Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Lonar Crater Lake, Ajanta Caves, Shani Shingnapur |
12 | Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga | Maharastra | Shirdi, Alibag , Satara, Murud Janjira, Mahabaleshwar , Kashid , Shrivardhan , Dapoli |
The Somnath Temple, located in the coastal city of Veraval in Gujarat, is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva in India, according to the list of 12 Jyotirlinga. it is considered the first of the 12 Jyotirlinga names lists and is significant in Hindu mythology. The temple has a rich history from ancient times and has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. The current temple structure is said to have been built in the Chalukya architectural style in the 1950s.
The temple complex covers an area of 20 acres and includes various structures such as Garbhagriha, Nandi Mandapa, Sabha Mandapa, and Nritya Mandapa. The Garbhagriha, which houses the lingam, is the temple’s central shrine and the holiest in the complex. The temple also has a giant statue of Lord Shiva in the form of a jyotirlinga decorated with diamonds, emeralds, and other precious stones.
The Somnath Temple is religiously significant and a famous tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. The temple’s beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and serene surroundings feast on the senses. The temple also hosts a sound and light show documenting its history and mythology, making it a must-see for history buffs and enthusiasts.
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, found within the sacred town of Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh, is second of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Ruler Shiva in India, as per the 12 Jyotirlinga name list. The sanctuary is arranged on the banks of the Krishna Waterway and is considered one of the nation’s only sacred, hallowed places. The temple’s history dates back to the 2nd century and has been modified a few times.
The temple’s design may blend distinctive styles, counting the Dravidian, Chalukya, and Vijayanagara styles. The sanctuary complex comprises a few structures, measuring the most sanctum, the Kalyana Mandapam, and the Sahasra Linga. Most shrine houses the lingam, and it is said that Master Shiva himself set up the holy place.
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga isn’t, as it were, a put of devout importance but too a well-known traveler goal. The temple’s complicated carvings, colorful wall paintings, and lovely environment are a treat for the eyes. Moreover, the sanctuary has different celebrations throughout the year, drawing in enthusiasts from all over the nation.
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is the third of the 12 Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva in India by the name of 12 Jyotirlinga with the place. It is located in the ancient city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, central India. The temple is situated on the banks of the Kshipra River and is considered one of the holiest temples in the country. The temple has a rich history dating back to the 4th century BC, and it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times.
The temple’s architecture combines various styles, including Marathi, Mughal, and Dravidian. The temple complex has several structures, including the main temple, Sabha Mandapam, and Bhasm Aarti Kund. The main temple contains the lingam, which is said to have been founded by Lord Shiva himself.
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is a place of religious significance and a famous tourist destination. The temple’s beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful setting attract millions of visitors annually. The temple also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated enthusiastically.
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Omkareshwar city in Madhya Pradesh and is the fourth of the 12 Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva in India by 12 Jyotirlinga names. The temple is situated on an island called Mandhata in the Narmada River and is considered one of the holiest places in India. The temple’s history dates back to ancient times and has been rebuilt many times.
The Omkareshwar temple complex is a beautiful blend of different architectural styles, including Nagara and Dravidian. The complex includes several structures, including Garbhagriha, Sabha Mandapa, and Annapurna Mandir. The temple’s central shrine contains the lingam, which is said to manifest itself.
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is a place of religious significance and a famous tourist destination. The intricate carvings, stunning architecture, and serene surroundings surrounding the temple are a feast for the eyes. The temple hosts various festivals annually, including the enthusiastically celebrated Omkareshwar Mahotsav.
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is located in the city of Uttarakhand and is the fifth of the 12 Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva in India after the 12 Jyotirlinga of the same place. It is considered one of the holiest temples in India and holds great significance in Hindu mythology. The temple’s history dates back to ancient times, and it has undergone many renovations and additions over the years.
Kedarnath temple is 3,583 meters high in the Himalayas and surrounded by snow-capped peaks and breathtaking natural beauty. The temple complex has several structures, including Garbhagriha, Sabha Mandapa, and Kedarnath Mandir. The temple’s central shrine contains the lingam, considered one of the most potent and sacred symbols of Lord Shiva.
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is a place of religious significance and a famous tourist destination. The temple’s stunning location, serene surroundings, and rich history make it a must-visit for anyone exploring India’s spiritual heritage. You can also walk to the temple; the trip is considered a mental and physical challenge for devotees.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is located in the city of Bhimashankar in Pune, Maharashtra, and is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva in India, according to the 12 Jyotirlinga names and places. The temple is located among the Sahyadri mountains, surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking natural beauty. The temple’s history dates back to ancient times and has undergone numerous renovations and additions.
The Bhimashankar temple complex has several structures, including Garbhagriha, Sabha Mandapa, and Nandi Mandapa. The temple’s central shrine contains the lingam, considered one of the most potent and sacred symbols of Lord Shiva. The temple is also the abode of several other deities, including God Vishnu and Brahma.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is a place of religious significance and a famous tourist destination. The temple’s stunning location, serene surroundings, and rich history make it a must-visit for anyone exploring India’s spiritual heritage. The temple is also accessible by road and about 110 kilometers from Pune.
Vishwanath Temple is a famous Hindu temple in the ancient city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. He is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and is popularly known as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This temple is one of the 12 Jyothirlinga temples considered the most sacred abode of Lord Shiva.
The 12 jyotirlingas are believed to be self-manifesting lingams or pillars of light representing Lord Shiva in his top form. Each of these jyotirlingas is associated with its own story and holds great significance in Hindu mythology. Devotees from all over the world visit these temples to seek blessings and achieve spiritual enlightenment.
The Kasi Vishwanath Temple believed to have been built in the 18th century, is a fine example of Hindu architecture. The temple complex comprises several smaller shrines, such as Vishnu Kund, Annapurna Devi Temple, and Kalu Bhairah Temple. The temple’s main hall enshrines Shiva’s Jyotirlinga and is considered the holiest site in Varanasi.
Baba Baidyanath Dham, also known as Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga, is a famous Hindu temple in Deoghar, Jharkhand, India. Considered the holiest abode of Lord Shiva, he is one of the twelve Jyothirlinga temples. Located on the banks of the Narmada River, the temple is surrounded by lush forests, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
The legend behind Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga states that the demon king Ravana worshiped Lord Shiva at this very place to achieve immortality. Lord Shiva gave him a Jyotirlinga to bring back to Lanka. However, on his way, Lord Vishnu tricked him into having the lingam placed in Deogarh, which he still keeps.
The Vaidyanath temple complex is a central shrine housing Jyotirlinga, surrounded by several smaller shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities. The temple’s architecture blends Hindu and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings and designs adorning the walls and pillars.
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Tryambakeshwar Jyotirlinga, may be found in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, in Trimbakeshwar. Thousands upon thousands of devout Hindus visit annually because of its status as a holy pilgrimage place.
Lord Shiva is worshipped there, and the holy Godavari River is said to begin its journey near the temple. The Jyotirlinga, decked in gold and silver, resides in the temple’s most sacred holies. The temple’s remarkable architecture was built during the Peshwa period and boasted elaborate carvings and sculptures.
Legend has it that the sage Gautama once performed a severe penance at this site to please Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva, pleased with his worship, manifested as a Jyotirlinga before him. Many other stories and legends from Hindu mythology feature the temple, giving it even greater religious significance.
Trimbakeshwar is in beautiful natural surroundings, with verdant forests and rolling hills. The town is even more stunning because the Godavari River winds through it. In addition to the town’s main temple, there are several other significant religious buildings.
Located in Dwarka city, Gujarat, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, the temple is surrounded by tranquil surroundings and stunning natural beauty. The temple’s history dates back to ancient times and has undergone several renovations and additions.
The Nageshwar Temple Complex includes several structures, such as Garbhagriha, Subha Mandapa, and Nandi Mandapa. The temple’s central sanctuary houses the lingam, believed to be one of Lord Shiva’s most potent and sacred symbols of him. The temple also enshrines several other deities, such as Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesh.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is a place of religious importance and a popular tourist destination. The temple’s stunning location, tranquil surroundings, and rich history make it a must-see for anyone wishing to explore India’s spiritual heritage. The temple is also accessible by road and about 25 km from Dwarka.
Located on the island of Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, the Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, the temple is surrounded by tranquil surroundings and stunning natural beauty. The temple’s history dates back to ancient times and has undergone several renovations and additions.
The Rameshwaram temple complex has structures such as Garbhagriha, Sabha Mandapa, and Nandi Mandapa. The temple’s central sanctuary houses the lingam, believed to be one of Lord Shiva’s most potent and sacred symbols of him. The temple also enshrines several other deities, such as Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesh.
Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga is a place of religious importance and a popular tourist destination. The temple’s stunning location, tranquil surroundings, and rich history make it a must-see for anyone wishing to explore India’s spiritual heritage. The temple is also accessible by road and about 170 km from Madurai.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, located in Verur, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. The temple is near the famous Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple’s history dates back to ancient times and has undergone several renovations and additions.
The Grishneshwar temple complex includes Garbhagriha, Subha Mandapa, and Nandi Mandapa. The temple’s central sanctuary houses the lingam, believed to be one of Lord Shiva’s most potent and sacred symbols of him. The temple also enshrines several other deities, such as Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesh.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is a place of religious significance and a popular tourist destination. The temple’s stunning location, tranquil surroundings, and rich history make it a must-see for anyone wishing to explore India’s spiritual heritage. The temple is also accessible by road and about 30 kilometers from Aurangabad.
If there is one experience that should be on every traveller’s bucket list when visiting…
If you are planning to visit Varanasi, also known as Kashi, there is one thing…
If you have never been to Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata, you are missing out…
Hyderabad has numerous spectacular temples, each contemplating the city's wealthy artistic and spiritual legacy. Among…
Delhi, which is known for its history and monuments for more than 15 centuries, is…
Beauty is a universal concept, and every country has its unique charm regarding the beauty…