India is known as the land of spirituality, and among its many sacred symbols, the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva hold an unparalleled place. These shrines represent the eternal and infinite form of Lord Shiva, who manifests as a pillar of light — a “Jyotirlinga.” Each of these temples is believed to radiate divine energy and carries a unique legend tied to the power of creation, preservation, and destruction.

For devotees, visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimages — a journey that leads to spiritual liberation (moksha).

What Are Jyotirlingas?

The term “Jyotirlinga” is derived from Sanskrit — “Jyoti” meaning light and “Linga” meaning symbol of Shiva. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva appeared as a column of light (Jyoti) to prove his supreme power to Brahma and Vishnu. These 12 sites are where this divine light manifested, symbolising the presence of Shiva across India.

List of 12 Jyotirlingas in India

Below is the list of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, their locations, and their spiritual significance:

1. Somnath Jyotirlinga – Gujarat

• Location: Prabhas Patan near Veraval, Saurashtra

• Significance: Believed to be the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, Somnath represents the power of restoration and faith. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, symbolising resilience.

• Legend: The moon god (Chandra) worshipped Shiva here to regain his lost luster.

2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga – Andhra Pradesh

• Location: Srisailam, Kurnool District

• Significance: Known as the “Kailash of the South,” this temple represents Shiva and Parvati’s eternal union.

• Legend: Shiva and Parvati stayed here to console their son Kartikeya.

3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga – Madhya Pradesh

• Location: Ujjain

• Significance: Lord Shiva here is worshipped as Mahakal, the destroyer of time and evil.

• Legend: It is believed that devotees visiting Mahakaleshwar are freed from the fear of death and rebirth.

4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga – Madhya Pradesh

• Location: Mandhata Island on the Narmada River

• Significance: The island itself is shaped like the sacred symbol ‘Om’.

• Legend: The temple signifies the cosmic vibration of “Om,” representing Shiva’s universal presence.

5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga – Uttarakhand

• Location: Himalayas near the Mandakini River

• Significance: One of the most remote Jyotirlingas, accessible only through trekking.

• Legend: Pandavas built this temple to seek forgiveness after the Kurukshetra war.

6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra

• Location: Pune District

• Significance: It represents Shiva as the source of the river Bhima.

• Legend: Lord Shiva took the form of Bhimashankar to defeat the demon Tripurasura.

7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga – Uttar Pradesh

• Location: Varanasi

• Significance: One of the most sacred temples in India, symbolising eternal peace and enlightenment.

• Legend: It is said that those who die in Kashi attain Moksha with Shiva’s blessing.

8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra

• Location: Nashik

• Significance: The origin of the holy river Godavari, symbolising purity and life.

• Legend: Lord Shiva resides here in the form of Trimbakeshwar to bless Rishi Gautam.

9. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga – Jharkhand

• Location: Deoghar

• Significance: Also known as Baidyanath Dham, it represents Lord Shiva as the divine healer.

• Legend: Ravana offered his ten heads here to please Lord Shiva.

10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – Gujarat

• Location: Near Dwarka

• Significance: Known as the protector from all poisons and evil energies.

• Legend: Lord Shiva appeared as Nageshwar to protect his devotee Supriya from a demon.

11. Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga – Tamil Nadu

• Location: Rameshwaram Island

• Significance: It’s where Lord Rama worshipped Shiva before crossing to Lanka.

• Legend: The Lingam here was made by Sita from sand, symbolising devotion and purity.

12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra

• Location: Near Ellora Caves, Aurangabad

• Significance: The last of the 12 Jyotirlingas, representing compassion and devotion.

• Legend: Devotee Kusuma’s faith brought Lord Shiva to life in this holy place.

Spiritual Importance of Visiting All 12 Jyotirlingas

Pilgrims believe that visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas helps cleanse one’s soul and brings spiritual enlightenment. Each shrine represents a different energy of Lord Shiva, and collectively, they depict his complete cosmic form — creator, preserver, and destroyer.

Undertaking this pilgrimage is not just about visiting temples; it’s about connecting deeply with faith, devotion, and the inner self.

Best Time to Visit Jyotirlingas

• Winter (October to February): Ideal for northern and central India temples like Kedarnath, Mahakaleshwar, and Omkareshwar.

• Monsoon (July to September): Suitable for lush green destinations like Bhimashankar and Trimbakeshwar.

• Summer (March to June): Visit southern shrines like Rameshwaram and Srisailam during this time.

Travel Tips for Devotees

• Plan your travel in advance and check temple timings.

• Dress modestly and carry traditional offerings.

• Keep essentials like water, snacks, and comfortable footwear.

• Combine Jyotirlinga visits with other nearby spiritual sites for a complete experience.