The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Verul village of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) district, Maharashtra, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Revered as a site of immense spiritual significance, it attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims throughout the year. Situated just 1.5 kilometers from the Ellora Caves and about 30 kilometers northwest of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) city, the temple stands as a remarkable example of ancient Indian architecture and devotion. It lies approximately 300 kilometers east-northeast of Mumbai and is recognized as a nationally protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The temple holds deep mythological importance and is mentioned in revered Hindu scriptures such as the Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, Ramayana, and Mahabharata. According to legend, it marks the site where Lord Shiva manifested as a Jyotirlinga, a divine pillar of light, to bless His devotees and uphold righteousness.
The Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Aundha village of Hingoli district, Maharashtra, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Revered as the first (Adya) Jyotirlinga, it holds immense spiritual importance and is believed to have been originally built by Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, during their exile.
The temple’s architecture is a magnificent example of Hemadpanthi style, featuring beautifully carved stone pillars, intricate motifs, and a grand shikhara (spire) that reflects the artistry of ancient times. The sacred Shivlinga, worshipped here as Nagnath, symbolizes Lord Shiva as the Lord of Serpents (Nagas) and protector of devotees from evil forces.
According to legend, it was at Aundha Nagnath that Lord Shiva appeared to Saint Namdev and blessed him with divine realization. The temple is also closely associated with the Warkari tradition and holds great importance in Bhakti movement history.
Located about 64 km from Nanded, 50 km from Parbhani, and around 230 km from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), the temple attracts pilgrims, saints, and travelers from all parts of India.
The Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located in the town of Trimbak near Nashik, Maharashtra, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nestled at the foothills of the Brahmagiri Mountains, this ancient shrine holds immense spiritual and mythological significance, attracting devotees from across India throughout the year.
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva manifested here as Trimbakeshwar, at the request of Gautama Rishi and Goddess Ganga, to bless the origin of the Godavari River—considered one of India’s most sacred rivers. The temple’s unique Jyotirlinga represents Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva, symbolizing the holy trinity.
Built in black basalt stone, the temple showcases the brilliance of Nagara-style architecture, with intricate carvings and a majestic shikhara (spire). The Kusavarta Kund, a sacred pond within the temple complex, is regarded as the source of the Godavari River and a key spot for performing holy rituals.
Located about 28 km from Nashik, 200 km from Mumbai, and around 310 km from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), Trimbakeshwar is not only a major pilgrimage site but also a destination rich in spiritual energy and ancient heritage.
The temple is also a renowned center for Vedic rituals like Narayan Nagbali, Kalsarp Dosh Nivaran, and Pitru Dosh Shanti, performed by learned priests to bring peace and prosperity.
The Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Aundha village of Hingoli district, Maharashtra, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Revered as the first (Adya) Jyotirlinga, it holds immense spiritual importance and is believed to have been originally built by Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, during their exile.
The temple’s architecture is a magnificent example of Hemadpanthi style, featuring beautifully carved stone pillars, intricate motifs, and a grand shikhara (spire) that reflects the artistry of ancient times. The sacred Shivlinga, worshipped here as Nagnath, symbolizes Lord Shiva as the Lord of Serpents (Nagas) and protector of devotees from evil forces.
According to legend, it was at Aundha Nagnath that Lord Shiva appeared to Saint Namdev and blessed him with divine realization. The temple is also closely associated with the Warkari tradition and holds great importance in Bhakti movement history.
Located about 64 km from Nanded, 50 km from Parbhani, and around 230 km from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), the temple attracts pilgrims, saints, and travelers from all parts of India.
The Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Parli town of Beed district, Maharashtra, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Vaidhyanath — the Divine Healer. This sacred shrine is believed to possess immense healing powers, granting relief from physical ailments and spiritual distress to all who visit with faith.
According to Hindu mythology, when Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, performed intense penance to please Lord Shiva, he received the Atmalinga (soul of Shiva) as a boon. On his journey back to Lanka, due to divine intervention, the Atmalinga was placed at Parli, where it became established as the Vaijnath Jyotirlinga. Thus, the site is revered as a powerful symbol of devotion, sacrifice, and divine grace.
The temple’s architectural style follows the Hemadpanthi tradition, featuring grand stone carvings, detailed sculptures, and a serene sanctum that radiates divine energy. Inside, the sacred Shivlinga is worshipped with rituals and prayers believed to bring health, peace, and prosperity.
Situated about 26 km from Ambejogai, 118 km from Nanded, 190 km from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), and 300 km from Pune, the temple is a prominent pilgrimage destination in the Marathwada region.