Newsletter Let’s keep in touch
Sign up for our weekly email marketing newsletter and Tours Packages updates.
Maharashtra
is a historic state, a house of all pilgrims, and it has rich spiritual energy.
The Jyotirlinga tour organised by Lord Shiva devotees is always a holy journey
when they initiate their tour from Aurangabad. This yatra presents the devotees
with a chance to glimpse some of the most striking forms of Lord Shiva through
the five Jyotirlingas in the state of Karnataka.
Here,
you can acquaint yourself with the details of the temple, its construction and
history, the travels to reach the temple, the available transport facilities to
reach the temple, and the places of interest nearby the Maharastra Jyotirlinga.
A
Jyotirlinga is a self-created form of Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve forms
of Jyotirlinga. India has twelve such divine shrines scattered throughout the
country, and five exist in Maharashtra itself.
Each of these temples has unique historical
significance, architectural beauty, and deep-rooted spiritual energy.
1. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – The
Last Jyotirlinga
?
Location:
Near Ellora Caves, Aurangabad
?
Historical
Importance: The temple was built in the 18th century by Ahilyabai Holkar, the Queen of Indore.
?
Mythological
Story: It is believed that a woman named Kusuma worshiped Lord Shiva daily, and due to her devotion, the
Jyotirlinga appeared before her.
?
Ellora Caves
(UNESCO World Heritage Site) – Just a few kilometers from the temple, these
caves feature Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples.
?
Daulatabad Fort
– A historic fort offering panoramic views.
2. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – The
Origin of the Godavari River
?
Location:
Nashik, Maharashtra
?
Significance:
This temple is one of the only Jyotirlingas with three lingams, representing
Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.
?
Mythological
Story: According to legends, Sage Gautama prayed to Lord Shiva to bring the
sacred Godavari River to earth.
?
Panchavati –
A sacred place associated with Lord Rama’s exile.
?
Sita Gufa (Cave)
– The place where Goddess Sita stayed during her exile.
3. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Amidst
the Sahyadri Hills
?
Location:
Pune District, Maharashtra
?
Significance:
The temple is surrounded by the Bhimashankar
Wildlife Sanctuary, making it one of the most picturesque Jyotirlingas.
?
Mythological
Story: Lord Shiva defeated the demon Bhim
here, earning the name Bhimashankar.
?
Hanuman Lake
– A scenic spot for nature lovers.
?
Bhimashankar
Wildlife Sanctuary – Home to rare species like the Malabar Giant Squirrel.
4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – The
First Jyotirlinga
?
Location:
Hingoli District, Maharashtra
?
Significance:
Believed to be the first Jyotirlinga
and is associated with the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.
?
Mythological
Story: Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, built this temple during his
exile.
?
Nanded Gurudwara
(Takht Sri Hazur Sahib) – A revered Sikh pilgrimage site.
?
Sant Janabai
Temple – Dedicated to a famous saint-poetess.
5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – The
Healer Temple
?
Location:
Beed District, Maharashtra
?
Significance:
The temple is believed to have healing
powers, granting relief from diseases and suffering.
?
Mythological
Story: Ravana worshiped this Jyotirlinga to attain divine powers.
?
Kankaleshwar
Temple – A lesser-known but equally divine Shiva temple.
?
Ambajogai Temple
– Dedicated to Goddess Yogeshwari.
Tour Itinerary for Maharashtra
Jyotirlinga Tour from Aurangabad
The
tour starts early in the morning from Aurangabad and allows sufficient leisure
time for visiting temples and other tourist attractions. Among the twelve
Jyotirlingas found in India, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is a popular site located
near Ellora Caves, 30 kilometres from Aurangabad.
The
temple was constructed using red basalt stone and encompasses looks like a
valid reflection of Maratha temple structure. The temple is regarded as one of
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the walls leading to the temple are
artistically carved. It is said that the temple was lost its existence for
certain time, however, with the help of religious ruler Ahilyabai Holkar, the
temple was rebuilt. It is said that if one prays at this Jyotirlinga, he will
be blessed with peace, knowledge as well as blessings.
As the
temple is opposite Ellora Caves World Heritage site, you can visit an
exhibition of Barabar and rock-cut temples and sculptures. Kailasa Temple is
one of the famous sites to visit, and it is carved out of a single piece of
rock.
In the
later part of the day, visit Daulatabad Fort, an impressive fort built in the
13th century with tough fortifications, hidden passages, and an excellent
vantage point out over the area.
After an enriching day of spiritual and historical
exploration, check in to a comfortable hotel in Aurangabad and rest for the
night.
Day 2: Aurangabad –
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga (Nashik)
After
breakfast proceed to Nashik, which is a city associated with Hindu mythology
and an abode of Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga. It provides a picture of the change
in the geographical terrains of Maharashtra from mountainous regions to wine
yards.
This
religious site can be found to be located at the lower ranges of the Brahmagiri
Hills and it is special because the Shiva Linga in this temple is of the forms
of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. Practitioners also consider that performing
Kaal Sarp Dosh Nivarana pooja at Trimbakeshwar can free one from the sins of
ancestors and bless with fortune.
The
Panchavati is also an important place of tourist interest. It is regarded as
one of the most frequented places for sightseeing, as it is said that Lord
Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana visited this place during their exile phase. The
availability of the holy river Godavari adds to the spiritual environment.
Other must-visit spots include:
?
Kalaram Temple
– A temple dedicated to Lord Rama, built entirely from black stone.
?
Sita Gufa –
A small cave believed to be the place where Ravana abducted Goddess Sita.
Conclude the day with a peaceful stay in Nashik,
allowing time for reflection and preparation for the next leg of the journey.
Day 3: Nashik –
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
To
experience the magnificient Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga situated in the Sahayadri
ranges of the Western Ghats start early in the morning. The drive is scenic
descending from the mountains and is characterized by lots of foliage.
The
relevance of this temple is stated in the connection between the god Shiva and
his triumph over the Bhima demon. This architectural marvel with the
magnificent stone carving art and the traditional Enigma adds to the sermon of
the temple giving it an other-worldly feel.
Nature
lovers will be able to do a short trip to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary which
is dominated by various kinds of plants and animals, and the Indian Giant
Squirrel.
After seeking blessings at Bhimashankar, continue to Pune, where you can check into a hotel
for a restful night.
Day 4: Pune – Aundha
Nagnath Jyotirlinga (Hingoli)
Aundha
Nagnath Jyotirlinga is situated in the Hingoli district and the drive to this
place is long but very much worth it if you leave early in the morning. This
temple is originally considered the foremost of the twelfth Jyotirlingas which
is said to be constructed by Yudhishthira, the eldest of Pandavas during their
vanavasa.
The
temple architecture is of Hemadpanthi style which along with the spiritual
environment makes the temple very sacred. It is thought that worshipping at
this temple clears one’s aura of negative energy, brings luck and enhances
one’s faith.
After the darshan, visit the famous Hazur Sahib Gurudwara in Nanded, one of
the holiest Sikh pilgrimage sites associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
After a long yet spiritually enriching day, settle in
for an overnight stay in either Hingoli or Nanded, depending on convenience.
Day 5: Aundha Nagnath –
Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – Aurangabad
The
last Jyotirlinga that requires visit is the Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga which is
situated in Beed district. The drive leads through rural parts of Maharashtra
but along the tracks and scenery is full of terrains and hills.
This
temple is dedicated to the god of health and is therefore associated with
healing. Most devotees believe that visiting this temple is believed to cure
diseases and deliver a sound mind. In addition to these awesome features, the
temple boasts gold-plated doors and a water tank, which is also regarded as
sacred.
After the darshan, begin your journey back to Aurangabad, marking the completion of
this spiritually uplifting pilgrimage.
Vehicle Options and Seating Capacity
Depending on your group size and comfort, you can
choose from:
?
Sedan (4-seater)
– Ideal for small families.
?
SUV (6-seater)
– Comfortable for groups of 4-6 people.
?
Tempo Traveller
(12-17 seater) – Best for large families.
?
Luxury Bus
(30-40 seater) – Suitable for pilgrim groups.
Best Time to Visit
Maharashtra Jyotirlingas
Choosing the right time for your Jyotirlinga pilgrimage in Maharashtra is crucial to ensure a
comfortable and spiritually enriching experience. The region experiences three main seasons: winter, monsoon, and
summer, each offering different travel conditions.
Ensuring a well-planned trip can make your pilgrimage
stress-free and spiritually fulfilling. Here are some essential travel tips:
?
Start early: Most temples attract large crowds;
arriving early ensures a peaceful darshan.
?
Carry ID proofs: Some temples have security checks
requiring identity verification.
?
Wear comfortable clothing: Opt for cotton clothes and
walking shoes for ease of movement.
?
Stay hydrated: Maharashtra’s climate can be hot, so
carry water bottles to avoid dehydration.
?
Follow temple rules: Avoid non-vegetarian food and
alcohol, as most religious places have strict guidelines.
?
Book accommodations in advance: Hotels near temples
fill up quickly, especially during festivals.
By following these tips, you can ensure a seamless and
spiritually enriching Jyotirlinga pilgrimage across Maharashtra.
Book Your Maharashtra Jyotirlinga
Tour from Aurangabad
For a comfortable and divine pilgrimage, book your Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Tour with Ajanta Ellora Caves Taxi.
Contact: +91
7875707314
Website: www.ajantaelloracavestaxi.com
Experience a spiritual
journey like never before and seek Lord Shiva’s blessings!