12 Jyotirlingas of India: The Sacred Shrines of Lord Shiva

The 12 Jyotirlingas are Lord Shiva’s most sacred abodes and hold a profound place in Hindu spirituality. These temples in India are spread across the country, and each shrine represents a unique aspect of Lord Shiva. These Jyotirlingas signify Lord Shiva’s omnipresent energy, and devotees worldwide visit these shrines to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. 

This blog by Temple Dekho will take you through various Jyotirlingas worldwide. 

The Legend of Jyotirlinga: Shiva’s Infinite Light

According to the Shiv Mahapuran, once Brahma, the God of Creation, and Vishnu, the God of Preservation, argued over their supremacy. To test them, Shiva manifested as a massive, endless pillar of light—the Jyotirlinga—piercing through the three worlds.

Vishnu and Brahma set out to find their beginning and end. Vishnu humbly accepted defeat, while Brahma falsely claimed he had seen the top. Angered by his deceit, Shiva reappeared as another pillar of light, cursing Brahma that he would never be worshipped in ceremonies, whereas Vishnu would be revered for eternity.

The Jyotirlinga represents Shiva’s supreme, formless reality, from which he partially emerges. While ancient texts mention 64 Jyotirlingas, 12 are considered the holiest. Each Hindu temple is named after its presiding deity, embodying a unique manifestation of Shiva. At every site, the lingam symbolizes Shiva’s infinite nature—an unending, beginningless Stambha pillar, representing his cosmic presence beyond time and space.

The 12 Jyotirlingas: 12 Sacred Abodes, One Supreme Shiva

Somnath Jyotirlinga, Gujarat: The First Light of Shiva’s Eternal Glory!

Somnath Jyotirlinga is located in the vibrant state of Gujarat. The famous temple in India has been a pilgrimage site for centuries and is known for its architectural beauty. Known as the first Jyotirlinga, it represents Lord Shiva’s eternal and indestructible nature. It has been built multiple times after invasions, reflecting faith and resilience. 

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga -Gujarat: The Serpent-Lord’s Divine Presence!

Located on the coast of Gujarat, Nageshwar is also one of the most popular Jyotirlingas in India. This Jyotirlinga symbolizes protection from negativity and evil forces. The temple has a giant statue of Lord Shiva. According to legend, this is where Lord Shiva killed the demon Daruka, symbolized by the name Nageshwar or Lord of Snakes. 

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga -Pune, Maharashtra: Where Shiva’s Thunderous Power Echoes

On the banks of the River Bhima lies the Bhimashankar Indian mandir. It is believed that Bheema, Kumbhakaran’s son, built the Jyotirlinga. A vast number of pilgrims visit this shrine during Mahashivaratri. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and represents Lord Shiva as the destroyer of evil. 

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga- Andhra Pradesh: Where Shiva and Shakti Reside as One!

Mallikarjuna temple in India is located at the top of Shri Saila Mountain on the banks of the River Krishna. With its beautiful architecture and sculptures, the hall houses the deities of Shiva and Parvati. It is listed as one of the 52 Shakti Peeths of Sati. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is one of the most significant shrines of Lord Shiva. This temple signifies the union of Lord Shiva and Parvati. 

Mahakaleshwar -Ujjain: The Timeless Guardian of Ujjain!

Famous for Bhasma Arti, this Jyotirlinga represents Shiva as the lord of time and death, providing moksha or liberation. The famous Hindu temple is assumed to be the city’s savior from all ills. The shrine at Mahakaleshwar is believed to have been set up by a five-year-old boy, Srikar, who was inspired by the devotion of King Chandrasena of Ujjain. Located by the banks of the Kshipra River, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is also among the seven mukti-sthan in India, the place that can liberate a human being to eternity.

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga -Madhya Pradesh: The Sacred Sound of ‘Om’ in Stone

Omkareshwar, which translates to Lord of the Om Sound, is one of the most sacred Indian temples. It is situated on the island of Shivpuri on the Narmada River and has immense mythological significance. According to the legend, once there was a fight between Devas and Danavas, the Devas prayed to Lord Shiva for victory. Satisfied with the prayers, Lord Shiva appeared at Omkareshwar and helped the Devas achieve victory over the Danavas. Shaped like the sacred “ OM,” this Jyotirlinga symbolizes universal consciousness. 

Kedarnath -Uttarakhand: Shiva’s Abode Amidst the Himalayan Majesty

Kedarnath Jyotirlinga stands high amidst the Himalayas and is one of India’s most remote and awe-inspiring Jyotirlingas. Pilgrims have to take a 16-km trek from Gaurikund to reach the temple, which is quite a spiritual advantage. The Jyotirlinga signifies salvation and devotion. 

Baidyanath Jyotirlinga -Jharkhand: The Healer of Souls, The Supreme Physician!

A highly revered jyotirlinga among the 12, Baidyanath is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas. The Jyotirlinga is said to have healing powers, and millions of devotees visit it every year to seek relief from physical and spiritual ailments. According to stories, Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva here in this Hindu temple to gain his divine powers. Do not forget to attend the Sharavan Mela here when you visit. 

Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga: Sacred Shores, Where Rama’s Devotion Met Shiva’s Grace.

Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga is located on Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu. It is deeply related to the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva before starting his journey to Sri Lanka. The temple is an architectural masterpiece and a vital stop for pilgrims completing the Char Dham Yatra. 

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra: The Smallest Yet the Most Divine, A Testament to Faith.

It is situated near Ellora Caves, a UNESCO heritage site. It is known for its beautiful architecture, which includes intricate wall carvings and a massive Nandi Bull. The Hindu Temple symbolizes faith and simplicity. 

Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra: Source of the Holy Godavari, Blessed by Mahadev.

Located near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar is a holy shrine and the source of the sacred Godavari River. It has unique architecture, and the Jyotirlinga here represents Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The temple in India resonates with profound spirituality and offers solace to pilgrims and visitors alike. With legends intertwined in the tapestry of Indian mythology, Trimbakeshwar is a confluence of divine energy and natural beauty.

Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi: The City of Light, Where Shiva Reigns Forever.

It is one of India’s 12 most popular Jyotirlingas and is situated in the holy city of Varanasi. The temple, which means “ Lord of Light,” is located on the western bank of the River Ganga. Legend has it that Shiva gave this city as a gift to Goddess Parvati and promised to reside there eternally. The Kashi Vishwanath temple offers liberation and blessings in both life and death. 

Experience Divine Blessings with Temple Dekho

The 12 Jyotirlingas represent Lord Shiva’s infinite and omnipresent energy, offering devotees a spiritual connection beyond time and space. Whether seeking salvation, healing, or divine grace, visiting these sacred shrines fills one’s soul with immense devotion and peace.

With Temple Dekho, the leading temple website in India, you can now bring the sacred experience of these Jyotirlingas into your home. Book online puja services, special abhishekams, and personalized rituals experienced priests perform at these holy sites. Let your devotion reach Lord Shiva, no matter where you are.

Embrace the divine—book your online puja today with Temple Dekho and receive Lord Shiva’s blessings!