In India, the 12 Jyotirlinga temples are significant pilgrimage centers in India. In that case, visiting these 12 Jyotirlinga temples will offer you a profound and enlightening experience. These 12 jyotirlinga temples, each with its name and location, will enrich your spiritual and travel journey.
These 12 Jyotirlinga temples are places of great holiness, known for their serene surroundings and beautiful architecture. While you can visit these temples at any time of the year, they come to life during festivals, especially Maha-Shivaratri, making the experience sensational.
This post is a compilation of 12 jyotirlinga images with name and place. Click on the link below to get the details of the architecture style, Legend of the Jyotirlinga, When and how was it constructed, route map etc.
List of 12 Jyotirlinga images with name and place
| Name of the Jyotirlinga | Place of the jyotirlinga | |
| 1 | Somnath Jyotirlinga | Veraval, Gujrat |
| 2 | Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga | Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh |
| 3 | Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga | Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh |
| 4 | Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga | Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh |
| 5 | Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga | Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand |
| 6 | Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga | Sahyadri Range, Maharashtra |
| 7 | Rameshwar Jyotirlinga | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh |
| 8 | Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga | Nashik, Maharashtra |
| 9 | Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga | Deoghar, Jharkhand |
| 10 | Nageshwar Jyotirlinga | Dwarka coast, Gujarat |
| 11 | Kedarnath Jyotirlinga | Rameswaram Island, Tamil Nadu |
| 12 | Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga | Ellora Caves, Maharashtra |
What is a Jyotirlinga?
Jyotirlingas, a term derived from two words – “Jyoti,” meaning light, and “Linga,” symbolising Lord Shiva, are believed to be self-manifested, powerful representations of Lord Shiva’s divine form. They are revered as the focal points of Shiva worship. Devotees believe that by visiting and worshipping these shrines, they can attain spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings.
Here is the list of 12 jyotirlinga images with name and places
सौराष्ट्रे सोमनाथं च
1. Somnath Jyotirlinga : ( 1/12 )
Located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra, Gujarat, Somnath Jyotirlinga is the first among the 12 jyotirlingas. This sacred site is known for its historical and religious significance, with legends dating back to ancient times. It is believed to be where Lord Krishna’s arrow struck, leading to its destruction and reconstruction. Many believe that Chandra first constructed this temple in gold in Kruta yuga, and then it was reconstructed by Ravana with silver (treta yuga). In Dwapara Yuga, Lord Krishna rebuilt it in Sandalwood. Finally, it was built with stone by Bhimadeva in Kali Yuga. However, it is believed to have been constructed and destroyed repeatedly. This is the first of 12 jyotirlinga images with name and place.
Location: Prabhas Patan near Veraval, Saurashtra, Gujarat
Nearby Attractions: Somnath Temple is situated on the coast, providing breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. The serene beach, known as Somnath Beach, is perfect for a peaceful stroll and meditation.
Temple Architecture: The Somnath Temple boasts impressive Chalukyan-style architecture. It features intricate carvings, ornate domes, and a towering shikhara (spire). This architectural marvel is a testament to the skills of the artisans who designed it.
Built By: The current version of the temple was built by Bhimadeva in 11th century.
READ MORE ABOUT SOMNATH JYOTIRLINGA
श्रीशैले मल्लिकार्जुनम् ।
2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga : ( 2/12 )
Situated in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is the second on our sacred journey. This shrine is unique as it combines the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The pristine natural surroundings and the majestic Nallamala forests add to the spiritual ambience. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga stands as a testament to the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Worshipped together, it symbolizes balance and harmony in relationships and life, making it a sacred site for couples and seekers of inner balance. It is believed that this temple came into existence when Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati went on to meet their son Karthikeya who was residing in the mountains. And thus came the jyotirlinga into existance.
Location: Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
Nearby Attractions: Srisailam is nestled in the Nallamala Forest, offering a lush and pristine environment. The nearby Krishna River is ideal for boat rides and picnics.
Temple Architecture: Mallikarjuna Temple is a remarkable example of Dravidian architecture, with intricately carved pillars and a majestic gopuram (entrance tower).
Built By: It is believed that the Shiva Linga came into existence when Lord Shiva and Parvati went on to meet their son Karthikeya
KNOW MORE ABOUT SRISAILAM MALLIKARJUNA TEMPLE
उज्जयिन्यां महाकालम्
3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga : ( 3/12 )
In the city of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, you will find the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. It is renowned for its ancient heritage and a fascinating connection with the city’s unique traditions. Devotees throng to witness the sacred “Bhasma Aarti” performed here. Mahakaleshwara is the only temple in Dakshina Mukhi (south-faced) out of the 12 jyotirlingas. It is also one of the Mukti sthal. A local legend describes that the temple was formed by King Chandrasena of Avantika Nagar (present day Ujjain) when Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Mahakal and destroyed their enemies’ armies—from then on Lord Shiva started residing there.
Location: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
Nearby Attractions: The temple is located on the picturesque banks of the Shipra River. The city of Ujjain is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant markets.
Temple Architecture: Mahakaleshwar Temple follows the Nagara style of architecture, characterized by its lofty spire and intricate detailing. The temple’s majestic Bhasma Aarti is a sight to behold.
Built By: King Chandrasena was believed to have constructed it. However, Iltutmish destroyed the temple completely and stole the Jaladhari ( a supported structure of the Linga ). The present-day temple was reconstructed by the Maratha Empire.
READ ABOUT THE LEGEND AND BEAUTIFUL BHASMA ARTI OF MAHAKALESHWAR TEMPLE
ओंकारममलेश्वरम्
4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga : ( 4/12 )
Our journey takes us to the fourth Jyotirlinga, Omkareshwar, nestled on an island in the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh. It’s not just a pilgrimage site but also a haven for nature lovers due to its scenic beauty and serene surroundings. It got its name from Lord Shiva who is the god of OM. It has two temples. Omkareshwara temple is on an island called Mandhata in Khandwa city of Madhya Pradesh and Mamaleshwara temple is on the mainland. Both of them are considered equally powerful by the devotees. It is believed that Vindhya Mountain once meditated with Lord Shiva to atone for all the sins.
Location: Omkareshwar Island, Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh
Nearby Attractions: The island is a natural beauty, surrounded by the Narmada River. The serene environment makes it an excellent spot for meditation and self-reflection. It is in Mandhata island which is in the shape of OM (in Devanagari)
Temple Architecture: Omkareshwar Temple is a fine example of the Mandhata architectural style. It features a blend of North Indian and South Indian architectural elements, with intricate carvings and a towering shikhara. The temple is huge three storied architecture with granite carvings.
Built By: King Mandhata of the Ikshvaku clan (Lord Rama’s ancestor) was also believed to worship Lord Shiva and constructed the temple. Some legends also talk about his sons Ambarisha and Muchikunda who performed penance to Lord Shiva.
READ ABOUT THE OM SHAPE ISLAND & OMKARESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA
परल्यां वैद्यनाथं च
5. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga : ( 5/12 )
Our fifth destination is Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga, situated in Deoghar, Jharkhand. This temple is believed to have immense healing powers and is visited by devotees seeking relief from ailments and illnesses. Vaidya means doctor, hence this temple is much known for treating all ailments. It is believed that Lord Ganesha took the form of a shepherd and tricked Ravana to put down the Shiva Linga which he wanted to put in his Lanka. However, Since it was kept on the ground he couldn’t lift it any more. Some people also believe that the Vaijnath Mandir at Parli Maharashtra is the true Jyotirlinga.
Location: Deoghar, Jharkhand
Nearby Attractions: Deoghar is surrounded by the serene Parasnath Hills and lush forests. It is a peaceful place for spiritual seekers and nature lovers.
Temple Architecture: Vaidyanath Temple displays Nagara-style architecture with intricate carvings. The temple is known for its healing powers.
Built By: This temple came into existence when Ravana put down the Shiva Linga.
READ MORE ABOUT VAIJNATH TEMPLE
डाकिन्यां भीमाशंकरम् ।
6. Bhimashankara Jyotirlinga : ( 6/12 )
The sixth Jyotirlinga, Bhimashankar, is nestled in the Sahyadri Range of Maharashtra. It is not only a sacred pilgrimage site but also a biodiversity hotspot, known for its lush greenery and wildlife. Once an Asura called Tripura did a penance to Lord Brahma and took control over the three Lokas. He was also given the ability to travel anywhere in the universe. Soon he vanquished the Devas only to anger Lord Shiva who took the form of Bhima Shankara and annihilated Tripura. Also, some people believe the Asura was Kumbha Karna’s son. From the sweat of Lord Shiva formed the river Bhima.
Location: Sahyadri Range, Maharashtra
Nearby Attractions: Bhimashankar is surrounded by lush forests, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna. Located on the banks of the Bhima river in the Shayadri range.
Temple Architecture: The temple showcases Nagara style architecture with intricate carvings and a towering spire. The surrounding forests provide a tranquil ambiance.
Built By: The Devas requested Lord Shiva to stay in the form of Bhima Shankara after he killed the Tripura demon. The temple’s history is steeped in mythology, and it is associated with the Bhima River. It has undergone renovations over the years.
READ MORE: BHIMASHANKAR JYOTIRLINGA HISTORY AND LEGEND
सेतुबंधे तु रामेशं
7. Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga : ( 7/12 )
Rameshwar Jyotirlinga, located on Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu, is our seventh destination. This pristine island temple is famous for its unique architectural marvels and the “Setu” bridge associated with Lord Rama. It is believed that Lord Rama after building the setu along with the mighty Vanaras, made a Shiva Linga in the sand on the banks of the Indian Ocean to take his blessings to come out victorious in the fight against Ravana. According to Valmiki Ramayana, after the victory over Lanka, Lord Rama ordered hanuman to bring the Shiva Linga from Varanasi, Since Bharata would walk in the fire if it would be late, Sita built the Shiva Linga with sand and clay.
However, it is believed that this Jyotirlinga has the power of both Lord Shiva and Lord Rama.
Location: Rameswaram Island, Tamil Nadu
Nearby Attractions: Rameswaram Island is known for its serene beaches and the famous Pamban Bridge, a marvel of engineering. The island is perfect for those who love both natural beauty and history.
Temple Architecture: Rameshwar Temple exhibits Dravidian architecture with ornate pillars and a grand gopuram. The temple is known for its unique corridor.
Built By: The temple’s history is linked to the mythological tale of Lord Rama, with various dynasties contributing to its construction.
READ WHY LORD RAMA BUILT RAMESHWARAM JYOTIRLINGA
नागेशं दारुकावने
8. Nageshwara Jyotirlinga : ( 8/12 )
Located on the Dwarka coast in Gujarat, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is the eighth on our spiritual journey. It is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and is closely associated with several mythological tales. This temple came into existence when a demoness named Darukaa ( wife of Daruk demon ) prayed to Devi Parvati and attained many blessings filled with the pride of her power Daruk started killing innocent people including the sages and rishis. This is when Lord Shiva in the form of Nageshwara came and destroyed Daruk.
Location: Dwarka coast, Gujarat
Nearby Attractions: The temple is situated on the beautiful Dwarka coast, offering scenic views of the Arabian Sea. Dwarka itself is a city steeped in mythology. This temple is present on the Saurashtra coast between Gomati Dwaraka and Bet Dwaraka
Temple Architecture: Nageshwar Temple showcases traditional Nagara style architecture, with intricate carvings and a tranquil ambiance.
Built By: The temple’s history is connected to the legend of Lord Shiva and has undergone several renovations. The first was built by Pandavas during their vanavas.
READ MORE: NAGESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA
वाराणस्यां तु विश्वेशं
9. Kashi Vishweshwara Jyotirlinga : ( 9/12 )
Located in the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is the ninth on our journey. This city is considered the spiritual capital of India, and the temple is visited by countless devotees seeking blessings and salvation. The most holy and oldest place on this earth is Kashi. this was where Lord Shiva came in the form of an infinite pillar of light to challenge Brahma and Vishnu. It is believed that Kashi is the place where the entire earth’s knowledge is stored and the infinite pillar of Kashi Vishveshwara Shiva Linga comes into existence protecting all the knowledge when pralay ( destruction ) comes and yugaparivartan happens.
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Nearby Attractions: Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, and the Ganges River, known as the Ganga, flows through it. The ghats of Varanasi are a sight to behold.
Temple Architecture: Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a prime example of North Indian Nagara style architecture, with its golden spire. The temple complex is an intricate maze of shrines and courtyards.
Built By: The original temple is believed to have been built by Lord Shiva himself, with subsequent renovations and rebuilding by various rulers.
KNOW MORE ABOUT WHY KASHI IS THE OLDEST CITY AND KASHI VISHVESHWARA JYOTIRLINGA
त्र्यंबकं गौतमीतटे
10. Triyambakeshwara Jyotirlinga : ( 10/12 )
In the town of Trimbak, Nashik district, Maharashtra, lies the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, the tenth in our exploration. It is famous for its unique three-faced lingam representing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Maheshwar. It is present on the banks of the Gautami River ( Godavari River). This is the place where Godavari River starts.
It was believed that Rishi Gautam had the boon to always have water and never go into famine. This brought jealousy into other rishis and they framed him as the murderer of cows. To falsify the claims, Rishi Gautam prayed to Lord Shiva to bring the river Ganga into his ashram and clear all his sins. To which Lord Shiva agreed and from then on Lord Shiva also started residing there. Thus Godavari River is also called as Gautami River.
Location: Trimbak, Nashik district, Maharashtra
Nearby Attractions: Trimbak is situated in the Sahyadri Range, surrounded by lush greenery. The Trimbak Temple area offers picturesque views. It is in the banks of River Godavari, which is the river’s starting poisition.
Temple Architecture: Trimbakeshwar Temple is an excellent example of Nagara-style architecture. Its unique feature is the three-faced lingam representing the holy trinity.
Built By: Rishi Gautama was said to have built this Temple
READ ABOUT GODAVARI RIVER AND TRIMBAKESHWAR TEMPLE
हिमालये तु केदारम्
11. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga : ( 11/12 )
Kedarnath, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is the eleventh Jyotirlinga on our list. It is a site of immense religious significance, set amidst the picturesque Himalayas. The Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a prominent attraction. This temple was said to have been built by the Pandavas and Draupadi when they left their Kingdom to Parikshit and went on to walk to heaven.
However, they were not able to succeed in their quest to reach heaven as they still had human attractions and pride in their power. To get rid of this they decided to give up their weapons. Hence they built the Shiva linga with snow, submitted their divine weapons to Lord Shiva and went on.
Location: Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand
Nearby Attractions: Kedarnath is surrounded by the majestic Garhwal Himalayan range near near the Mandakini River in Uttarakhand, offering opportunities for trekking and exploring the breathtaking landscapes.
Temple Architecture: The Kedarnath Temple features traditional stone and wood architecture. Its scenic location amidst the Himalayas adds to its charm.
Builder: The temple is believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
घुश्मेशं च शिवालये
12. Grishneshwara Jyotirlinga : ( 12/12 )
Our final destination is Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, nestled near Ellora Caves in Maharashtra. This shrine holds a special place in the hearts of devotees due to its historical significance and stunning architecture. Grishnesham means the Lord of Compassion. It is believed that a woman’s son was killed by throwing in a pond. And Lord Shiva out of Compassion to his devotee helped by bringing the kid back alive. And from then on Lord Shiva resided there in the water pond.
Location: Near Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
Nearby Attractions: Grishneshwar is situated near the famous Ellora Caves, known for its rock-cut architecture. Exploring these caves is an enlightening experience.
Temple Architecture: The temple has 5 storied Shikhara-style construction, the mountain peak style of architecture.
Built By: The temple’s history is steeped in legends and has undergone various renovations over time.
READ MORE: HISTORY AND LEGEND OF GRISHNESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA
Conclusion
एतानि ज्योतिर्लिङ्गानि सायं प्रातः पठेन्नरः ।
Adi Shankaracharya
सप्तजन्मकृतं पापं स्मरणेन विनश्यति
These are the 12 Jyotirlingas, When this jyotirlinga Stotram is read in the early morning or in the evening, one can get atoned for the sins of the previous 7 lives. Adi Shankaracharya revived Hinduism and mentioned the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva in India in his Dwadasa Jyotirlinga Stotram in different locations across India. These are the 12 Jyotirlinga images with names and places.
Route Map
https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1lIZ4mE85NqUTsJS3K0e-ANI-hNr9C08&ehbc=2E312F
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the 12 Jyotirlingas?
A: The 12 Jyotirlingas are considered the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva and are believed to have immense spiritual power. Devotees visit these shrines to seek blessings, purification, and salvation.
Q: Can anyone visit the Jyotirlingas, or is it exclusive to Hindus?
A: The Jyotirlingas are open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Anyone seeking a spiritual experience and a connection with the divine is welcome to visit these sacred shrines.
Q: Are there any rituals or customs associated with visiting the Jyotirlingas?
A: Each Jyotirlinga has its own set of customs and rituals. It’s advisable to consult local priests or guides to understand the specific rituals and traditions of each shrine.
Q: What is the best time to visit the 12 Jyotirlingas?
A: The best time to visit the Jyotirlingas is during the auspicious months and festivals associated with Lord Shiva. However, these shrines are open throughout the year, and you can plan your visit at your convenience.
Q: Are there any nearby attractions or places to visit around the Jyotirlingas?
A: Many of the Jyotirlingas are located in picturesque regions with natural beauty and historical significance. You can explore nearby attractions and make your pilgrimage a wholesome experience.
Q: What should one carry when visiting the Jyotirlingas?
A: It’s advisable to carry comfortable clothing, personal identification, and essentials like water, first-aid, and a small offering for the deity. Do check the specific requirements for each shrine.
