The 12 Jyotirlingas are sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, scattered across India. Each temple carries its own divine energy and unique history.
Jyotirlingas are highly revered, and devotees believe that visiting them purifies the soul and brings spiritual growth. Each temple is associated with a unique legend, which highlights Lord Shiva's presence in different forms across the land.
These holy sites are believed to be self-manifested lingams of light, representing the infinite nature of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims from all over the world embark on the Char Dham Yatra or the 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra to seek blessings and attain moksha.
The legends associated with each Jyotirlinga are derived from ancient Puranas, and each site has its own significance in Hindu mythology. For example, the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is known for its association with time and death, while the Kedarnath temple is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas.
From the sun-drenched coast of Gujarat to the serene Himalayas, the Jyotirlingas span the length and breadth of India, offering devotees a journey filled with faith, devotion, and breathtaking architecture.
The pilgrimage to all 12 Jyotirlingas is considered highly auspicious and is believed to wash away all sins. Many devotees undertake this journey over several months or years, visiting one or more temples at a time.
In modern times, organized tours and improved transportation have made it easier for pilgrims to complete the entire circuit. However, the spiritual essence and the devotion required remain unchanged, making it a transformative experience for all who undertake it.
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
Mahakaleshwar
Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh
Omkareshwar
Veraval, Gujarat
Somnath
Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
Kedarnath
Pune, Maharashtra
Bhimashankar
Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Rameshwar
Nashik, Maharashtra
Trimbakeshwar
Deoghar, Jharkhand
Vaidyanath
Dwarka, Gujarat
Nageshwar
Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Grishneshwar
Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
Mallikarjuna
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Kashi Vishwanath