The 12 Jyotirlingas in India hold immense spiritual significance and are revered by millions of devotees. These sacred shrines, considered embodiments of Lord Shiva, are spread across different regions of the country. Each Jyotirlinga has a unique historical background, location, and deep spiritual relevance, attracting pilgrims from far and wide on their quest for divine blessings and enlightenment.
In today’s post, I will talk about all these 12 Jyotirlinga names and places. You will also get to know about the tradition, rituals, spiritual significance, divinity, and cultural heritage linked with these Jyotirlingas.
12 Jyotirlinga Shiva Temples in India:
So, without further ado, let’s start the discussion.
1. Somnath Jyotirlinga in Gir, Gujarat:
This is the biggest Jyotirlinga in India. This Jyotirlinga is steeped in history dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have been originally built by the moon god, Chandra, and later reconstructed by various rulers. This holy abode of Lord Shiva stands as a symbol of resilience, having been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Pilgrims flock here to seek blessings. They have faith to find solace in the profound spiritual aura that surrounds this sacred temple.
2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh:
This Jyotirlinga is nestled in the picturesque hills of Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga holds a significant place in Hindu mythology. According to legends, it is believed that after a fierce disagreement, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati reunited at this very spot. Devotees visit this ancient shrine to seek marital bliss, and spiritual upliftment, making it a prominent destination for those seeking divine harmony.
3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh:
The Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is situated in the holy city of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. It boasts a rich historical heritage. Ujjain, an ancient center of learning and devotion, houses this revered shrine of Lord Shiva. The ancient temple’s unique feature lies in its consecration of five different forms of the deity. This sacred site attracts devotees who wish to witness divine energy and attain spiritual enlightenment.
4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh:
Nestled on the serene island of Mandhata in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga holds profound spiritual significance. This island’s shape resembles the sacred symbol of “Om,” making it a truly divine abode of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims visit this revered site to seek blessings for peace, knowledge, and a deeper connection with the divine.
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5. Vaidhyanath (Baidyanath Dham) Jyotirlinga:
The Vaidhyanath Jyotirlinga, also known as Baidyanath Dham, is located in Deoghar, Jharkhand. It holds an ancient legend where Lord Vishnu is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva to seek remedy for a curse. The spiritual significance of this Jyotirlinga lies in its association with healing and well-being. Devotees throng this holy site to seek relief from ailments and attain physical and mental wellness.
6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra:
The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Sahyadri Mountains. It holds a special place in Hindu mythology. This revered shrine is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva vanquished the demon Bhima. Devotees visit this holy abode seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva for strength, courage, and protection against evil forces.
7. Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu:
This Jyotirlinga is situated on the sacred island of Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu. This place is steeped in ancient mythology and epic tales. It is believed that Lord Rama established this shrine and sought blessings here before embarking on his quest to rescue Goddess Sita. Devotees visit this sacred site to seek purification of their sins and attain spiritual enlightenment.
8. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga in Dwarka, Gujarat:
Located in the coastal town of Dwarka, Gujarat, the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is a significant pilgrimage destination. According to legends, it is believed to be the first Jyotirlinga and holds a unique significance in the mythology of Lord Shiva. Devotees visit this holy shrine to seek protection and liberation from all forms of negativity and attain spiritual liberation.
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9. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
The Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is renowned as one of the holiest sites in Hinduism. This revered shrine is believed to be the center of the universe, where Lord Shiva is present in his full glory. Devotees flock here to seek spiritual awakening, salvation, and blessings from the presiding deity.
10. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga in Nasik, Maharashtra:
Located in the picturesque town of Nasik, Maharashtra, the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga holds great spiritual significance. The unique aspect of this Jyotirlinga is that it represents Lord Shiva in his three-eyed form. Devotees visit this sacred site to seek absolution from their sins and fulfill their desires through sincere worship and devotion.
11. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand:
Perched amidst the breathtaking Himalayan peaks in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is considered one of the holiest shrines in India. Legends associate this sacred site with the Pandavas, who sought Lord Shiva’s blessings here after the Mahabharata war. Devotees undertake arduous journeys to this divine abode seeking blessings and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga in Aurangabad, Maharashtra:
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is situated near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. This Jyotirlinga is closely associated with the devotion and miracles of a devoted woman named Grusha. Pilgrims visit this sacred shrine seeking fulfillment of their wishes and spiritual enlightenment.
Map of 12 Jyotirlinga:
The following map of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India serves as a valuable guide for pilgrims, offering a clear overview of their locations across the country. With the help of 12 Jyotirlinga maps, devotees can efficiently organize their tour to the holy places, ensuring they arrive at each holy site and feel the intense spiritual energy that comes from these famous locations.
List of Names and Places of 12 Jyotirlingas in India:
The following list includes revered places like Somnath, Kashi, and Dwarka, each holding profound spiritual significance. Explore their names and locations from North India to South India for an enriching pilgrimage experience.
| S.No. | Name of Jyotirlinga | State | Location |
| 1 | Kedarnath Jyotirlinga | Uttarakhand | Kedarnath |
| 2 | Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga | Uttar Pradesh | Varanasi |
| 3 | Vaidhyanath Jyotirlinga | Jharkhand | Deoghar |
| 4 | Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga | Madhya Pradesh | Ujjain |
| 5 | Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga | Madhya Pradesh | Omkareshwar |
| 6 | Nageshwar Jyotirlinga | Gujarat | Dwarka |
| 7 | Somnath Jyotirlinga | Gujarat | Prabhas Patan, Saurashtra |
| 8 | Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga | Maharashtra | Aurangabad |
| 9 | Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga | Maharashtra | Nashik |
| 10 | Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga | Maharashtra | Bhimashankar |
| 11 | Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga | Andhra Pradesh | Srisailam |
| 12 | Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga | Tamil Nadu | Rameswaram |
12 Jyotirlinga in India at a Glance:
The bottom line,
The 12 Jyotirlingas in India encompass a sacred journey of spiritual significance and devotion. These ancient temples scattered across the country offer a unique experience of divinity and history. Embarking on a pilgrimage to these revered sites will undoubtedly lead one to a profound spiritual awakening, a deeper connection with the divine, and blessings from Lord Shiva.
FAQs:
A Jyotirlinga is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The term “Jyotirlinga” translates to “linga of light.” It symbolizes a radiant column of light, signifying the limitless and formless nature of Lord Shiva’s divine energy.
There are twelve Jyotirlingas in India, each believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva in a specific location with unique spiritual significance.
The Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is the biggest Jyotirlinga in India.
There are 2 Jyotirlingas in Gujarat. They are Somnath Jyotirlinga located in Saurashtra region and Nageshwar Jyotirlinga situated in Dwarka, on the coast of Saurashtra.