12 Jyotirlingas of India: Complete List, Map & Mahakaleshwar's Place Among Them
12 Jyotirlingas of India: Complete List, Map & Mahakaleshwar’s Place Among Them
The Jyotirlingas are the twelve most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. Each Jyotirlinga represents a spot where Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light — a divine self-manifestation that no human could fully comprehend. Visiting all twelve Jyotirlingas is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimages a Hindu devotee can undertake.
At the heart of this pilgrimage is Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain — the only south-facing Jyotirlinga, home of the legendary Bhasma Aarti, and one of the most spiritually powerful temples in India.
This post lists all 12 Jyotirlingas with their locations, unique features, and a suggested circuit for devotees who want to complete the full pilgrimage — starting from Ujjain.
What Are Jyotirlingas?
A Jyotirlinga is not just a Shiva temple — it is a place where Lord Shiva manifested himself as a pillar of light (jyoti) that stretched beyond the heavens and below the earth. The Shiva Purana describes how Brahma and Vishnu debated who was supreme, and Shiva appeared as an endless column of light to humble them both. The twelve places where this light touched the earth became the Jyotirlingas.
Each Jyotirlinga carries the name of the presiding deity and has its own distinct legend, ritual traditions, and spiritual energy. Together they form a complete map of Shiva’s presence across India — from the Himalayan peaks of Kedarnath to the coastal sands of Rameshwaram.
Why Mahakaleshwar Is Special Among the 12
Before diving into the full list, it is worth understanding what makes Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain unique:
- Only south-facing Jyotirlinga: All other Jyotirlingas face east or west. Mahakaleshwar faces south — the direction associated with Yama, the god of death, and with ancestors. This reflects Mahakal’s role as the lord of time and death.
- Bhasma Aarti: The morning ritual of bathing the lingam with sacred ash from homa fires is unique to Mahakaleshwar. No other Jyotirlinga performs this ritual in the same form.
- Located in Ujjain (Avantika): One of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities and a major center of learning and astronomy for over 2,000 years. The city’s energy itself is considered sacred.
- Swayambhu (self-manifested): The Mahakaleshwar lingam is believed to have appeared naturally, not installed by human hands.
For a detailed guide to visiting Mahakaleshwar, see our Mahakaleshwar Darshan Guide.
The Complete List of 12 Jyotirlingas
The twelve Jyotirlingas are spread across India, from the Himalayas in the north to Rameshwaram in the south. Each one has a unique name, location, and significance.
| # | Jyotirlinga Name | Location | State | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Somnath | Saurashtra | Gujarat | First Jyotirlinga, rebuilt 16 times |
| 2 | Mallikarjuna | Srisailam | Andhra Pradesh | Lord Shiva + Goddess Parvati together |
| 3 | Mahakaleshwar | Ujjain | Madhya Pradesh | Only south-facing, Bhasma Aarti |
| 4 | Omkareshwar | Mandhata Island | Madhya Pradesh | Island in Narmada River |
| 5 | Kedarnath | Kedarnath | Uttarakhand | Himalayan peak, open only 6 months |
| 6 | Bhimashankar | Pune District | Maharashtra | Near Pune, in Sahyadri hills |
| 7 | Kashi Vishwanath | Varanasi | Uttar Pradesh | Most visited, on Ganga ghats |
| 8 | Trimbakeshwar | Nashik | Maharashtra | Origin of Godavari River |
| 9 | Vaidyanath | Deoghar | Jharkhand | Lord of physicians, Vaidyanath |
| 10 | Nageshwar | Dwarka | Gujarat | Near Dwarka, on the west coast |
| 11 | Rameshwaram | Rameshwaram | Tamil Nadu | Southernmost, Rama’s bridge |
| 12 | Grishneshwar | Ellora | Maharashtra | Near Ajanta-Ellora caves |
Detailed Guide to Each Jyotirlinga
1. Somnath — The First and the Eternal
Location: Prabhas Patan, Saurashtra, Gujarat Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Special Feature: Reconstruction by Vallabhbhai Patel after demolition
Somnath is the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas, located on the western coast of India where the Arabian Sea meets the land. Its history is one of the most dramatic in Indian temple history — it was demolished and rebuilt at least 16 times by invaders and devotees alike. The current structure was rebuilt by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel after India’s independence.
The temple faces the sea, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore during evening aarti is an experience unlike any other. The temple complex includes a museum, a light-and-sound show, and the famous Somnath beach.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Rajkot (about 235 km). Somnath has its own railway station connected to Ahmedabad and Rajkot. Buses run regularly from Ahmedabad (about 400 km).
2. Mallikarjuna — The Divine Couple
Location: Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh Timings: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM Special Feature: Combined shrine of Shiva and Parvati
Mallikarjuna at Srisailam is unique among Jyotirlingas because it enshrines both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati together. It is considered both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha. The temple sits on the banks of the Krishna River and is surrounded by the Nallamala hills.
The name “Mallikarjuna” means “Lord of the Jasmine” — a reference to the divine flower offered to Shiva here. The temple is also associated with the story of Shiva and Parvati appearing together to bless their son Kartikeya (Murugan).
How to reach: Nearest major railway station is Kurnool (about 180 km). The temple has its own helipad. Buses run from Hyderabad (about 230 km).
3. Mahakaleshwar — Lord of Time
Location: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh Timings: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Special Feature: Only south-facing Jyotirlinga; Bhasma Aarti at 4 AM
Mahakaleshwar is one of the most powerful and revered Jyotirlingas in India. Located in the ancient city of Ujjain (Avantika), this temple is dedicated to Mahakal — the lord of time and death. The temple is open from 4 AM to 11 PM, and the five daily aartis draw thousands of devotees every day.
The Bhasma Aarti at 4 AM is the most unique ritual — priests bathe the Jyotirlinga with sacred ash collected from homa fires, accompanied by powerful Vedic mantras. This aarti requires advance booking and limited passes are available.
For practical information about visiting, see our guide to Mahakaleshwar darshan.
4. Omkareshwar — The Om-Shaped Island
Location: Mandhata Island, Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM Special Feature: Temple on an om-shaped river island
Omkareshwar is located on a beautiful island in the Narmada River that is shaped like the sacred symbol “Om”. There are actually two temples here — the Omkareshwar temple (dedicated to Shiva) and the Mamleshwar temple (also Shiva). Together they form one of the most peaceful Jyotirlinga experiences in India.
The island is accessible by boat, and the walk around it (about 7 km) is considered spiritually significant. The surrounding Narmada River is considered one of India’s holiest rivers, and taking a dip here during festivals is deeply purifying.
How to reach: Nearest railway station is Khandwa (about 70 km). Omkareshwar has a small railway station of its own with connections to Indore and Khandwa. Buses run from Indore (about 77 km).
5. Kedarnath — The Himalayan Jewel
Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM (April – November) Special Feature: At 3,583 meters, the highest Jyotirlinga
Kedarnath is the most challenging Jyotirlinga to reach but also one of the most rewarding. Located at 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple is open only from April/May to October/November due to heavy snow. The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is about 16 km, though helicopter services are now available.
The temple was built by the Pandavas according to legend, and Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have attained samadhi near here. The snow-clad peaks surrounding the temple create an atmosphere of profound peace and spiritual intensity.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (about 240 km). Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (about 220 km). The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is 16 km.
6. Bhimashankar — In the Sahyadri Hills
Location: Pune District, Maharashtra Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM Special Feature: Set in the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhimashankar is located in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, within a wildlife sanctuary that is home to the Indian giant squirrel and many rare species. The temple is built in the traditional Nagara style of architecture and is surrounded by dense forest.
The Jyotirlinga here is associated with the story of Shiva destroying the demon Bhima, and the name reflects that legend. The area around the temple offers good trekking routes and a peaceful, less-crowded experience compared to some other Jyotirlingas.
How to reach: Nearest railway station is Pune (about 125 km). Buses run from Pune to Bhimashankar regularly.
7. Kashi Vishwanath — The Most Visited
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Timings: 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM Special Feature: On the ghats of the Ganga, most visited Jyotirlinga
Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi is arguably the most famous Jyotirlinga in India. Located in one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, the temple sits just steps from the Ganga River. The temple was rebuilt in its current form in the 18th century by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore — the same queen who renovated Mahakaleshwar.
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, completed recently, has dramatically improved the darshan experience. The evening Ganga aarti at nearby Dashashwamedh Ghat combined with a temple visit is the classic Varanasi experience.
How to reach: Varanasi has an international airport and a major railway station. The temple is in the old city area.
8. Trimbakeshwar — Source of the Godavari
Location: Nashik, Maharashtra Timings: 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM Special Feature: Origin of the Godavari River
Trimbakeshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and also the source of the Godavari River, one of India’s most sacred rivers. The temple is located at the foothills of the Brahmagiri mountain, about 30 km from Nashik city.
The Jyotirlinga here is unique because it has three faces, representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — a rare feature among the twelve. The Godavari River emerges from the Trimbak hills and flows eastward across the Deccan.
How to reach: Nearest railway station is Nashik Road (about 30 km). Nashik has an airport with flights from Mumbai. Buses run frequently from Nashik city.
9. Vaidyanath — Lord of Physicians
Location: Deoghar, Jharkhand Timings: 4:00 AM – 9:00 PM Special Feature: Dedicated to Shiva as the lord of medicine
Vaidyanath, meaning “lord of physicians,” is located in Deoghar, Jharkhand. The temple is associated with the story of Ravana, who worshipped Shiva here and was granted great powers. The Jyotirlinga is believed to have healing properties, and many devotees visit seeking relief from serious illnesses.
The temple is also a Shakti Peetha, associated with the story of Sati’s heart falling here. The combination of Jyotirlinga and Shakti Peetha makes it doubly sacred.
How to reach: Deoghar has a railway station connected to major cities. The nearest airport is Ranchi (about 250 km).
10. Nageshwar — The Dwarka Guardian
Location: Near Dwarka, Gujarat Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM Special Feature: Near the legendary city of Krishna
Nageshwar is located near Dwarka, the legendary city of Lord Krishna on the western coast of Gujarat. The temple is associated with the story of Shiva protecting his devotee Supriya from the demon Durg. The Jyotirlinga here is also known as Nagnath.
The current temple is a modern structure, but the site has been sacred for millennia. Visitors often combine Nageshwar with a visit to Dwarka and the Bet Dwarka island.
How to reach: Nearest railway station is Dwarka itself. The temple is about 16 km from Dwarka city. Ahmedabad is about 440 km away.
11. Rameshwaram — Where Rama Built a Bridge
Location: Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu Timings: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM Special Feature: Southernmost Jyotirlinga, Rama’s bridge to Lanka
Rameshwaram is the southernmost Jyotirlinga and one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites. It is here that Lord Rama is believed to have built a bridge (Rama Setu) to Lanka with the help of the vanara army, and where he worshipped Shiva after his victory over Ravana.
The Ramanathaswamy Temple has the longest temple corridor in India — about 1,200 meters with 4,000 pillars. Taking a dip in the 22 holy wells (theerthams) before entering the temple is the traditional sequence.
How to reach: Rameshwaram has a railway station and an airport. It is connected by the Pamban Bridge to the mainland.
12. Grishneshwar — Near the Ellora Caves
Location: Ellora, Maharashtra Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM Special Feature: Near the UNESCO Ellora Caves
Grishneshwar is the smallest and least crowded of the twelve Jyotirlingas, located just 30 km from Aurangabad and adjacent to the UNESCO World Heritage Ellora Caves. Despite its size, it is deeply revered and is the last Jyotirlinga in the traditional list.
The temple is associated with the story of a devotee named Sudeha and her sister Ghushma, who worshipped Shiva with 101 lingams made of sand every day. When Sudeha killed Ghushma’s son out of jealousy, Shiva revived the boy and appeared as a Jyotirlinga.
How to reach: Nearest railway station is Aurangabad (about 30 km). Aurangabad has an airport with flights from major cities. The Ellora Caves are a must-visit alongside this temple.
Suggested Jyotirlinga Circuit Starting from Ujjain
If you want to visit multiple Jyotirlingas and want to plan efficiently, starting from Ujjain gives you access to both Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar (both in Madhya Pradesh) without much extra travel. From there, you can branch out.
Phase 1: The Madhya Pradesh Pair
Stop 1: Mahakaleshwar, Ujjain Stay 1–2 days. Experience the Bhasma Aarti at 4 AM and the five daily aartis. Explore the city’s other temples and the Shipra Ghats.
Stop 2: Omkareshwar About 135 km from Ujjain (3–4 hours by road). Take the boat to the island temple and experience the peaceful energy of the om-shaped island. Stay overnight if possible for the evening aarti.
Phase 2: The Western Circuit
Stop 3: Somnath, Gujarat From Omkareshwar, drive or take a train to Somnath (about 500 km). The coastal temple with its dramatic history is a must-visit.
Stop 4: Nageshwar near Dwarka About 16 km from Dwarka city. Combine with a visit to Dwarka and the Krishna temples.
Phase 3: The Maharashtra Cluster
Stop 5: Trimbakeshwar, Nashik From Somnath to Nashik is about 750 km. Trimbakeshwar is near the source of the Godavari and is a key stop for the Kumbh Mela.
Stop 6: Bhimashankar About 200 km from Nashik. The Sahyadri hills and wildlife sanctuary make this a unique Jyotirlinga experience.
Stop 7: Grishneshwar, Ellora About 250 km from Bhimashankar. Combine with a visit to the Ellora Caves and Aurangabad.
Phase 4: The Northern and Southern Poles
Stop 8: Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi From Ellora to Varanasi is about 1,000 km by train. The spiritual capital of India and one of the most visited temples in the world.
Stop 9: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand About 350 km from Varanasi by road/train to reach the trek base. Open only from April to November. The Himalayan setting is unmatched.
Stop 10: Mallikarjuna, Srisailam From Varanasi to Srisailam is about 1,100 km. The Andhra Pradesh temple with both Shiva and Parvati.
Stop 11: Vaidyanath, Deoghar From Srisailam to Deoghar is about 600 km. The Jharkhand Jyotirlinga associated with healing.
Stop 12: Rameshwaram From Deoghar to Rameshwaram is about 1,700 km. The southernmost Jyotirlinga completes the circuit.
Practical Tips for a Jyotirlinga Circuit
- Duration: A full circuit takes 3–4 weeks minimum. Most devotees break it into multiple trips.
- Best time: October to March is ideal for all Jyotirlingas. Avoid monsoon season for Himalayan temples.
- Budget: Expect ₹50,000–₹1,00,000 per person for the full circuit including accommodation, transport, and offerings.
- Documents: Carry a photo ID everywhere — temple security checks are common.
- Booking: Use our WhatsApp booking guide for accommodations near temples.
Booking Your Stay Near Mahakaleshwar
Starting your Jyotirlinga circuit from Ujjain? Our dharamshala on Gopal Mandir Road is about 200 m from the Mahakaleshwar gate — the perfect base for your first stop. We offer rooms from ₹1,250 per night with pure veg food, hot water, WiFi, and parking. The early-morning location means you can reach the Bhasma Aarti queue without stress. Check our rooms and message us on WhatsApp to book directly — no OTA markup, no agent commission.
Timings and distances as of 2026. Verify current timings with temples before planning your circuit.
