My Sacred Journey to the 12 Jyotirlingas

The 12 Jyotirlingas are the most sacred Shiva shrines in India, representing Lord Shiva as the infinite pillar of divine light. Spread across the length and breadth of the country, these self-manifested Jyotirlinga temples are believed to be powerful centres of spiritual liberation, karma cleansing, and inner awakening. A Jyotirlinga Yatra is not just a pilgrimage — it is a transformational spiritual journey through India’s most sacred landscapes, from the Himalayas to the oceans.

In this article, I share my personal journey of visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas, along with important travel information, spiritual significance, and practical guidance on how to plan your Jyotirlinga pilgrimage.

1. Somnath Jyotirlinga – Gujarat (Picture)

Significance:

Somnath is believed to be the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Destroyed and rebuilt almost 16 times in history, it stands as a symbol of resilience and divine protection. It is named after Chandradeva(Soma, also known as Moon), who worshipped Lord Shiva to become free from the curse he was subjected to. It is believed that worshipping here helps regain lost glory, bestows health and beauty, and removes the fear of death, offering immense peace and tranquility. The temple sits along the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking spiritual ambience. Often crowded and must walk 200-250 meters from the main security check gate. Evening darshans are recommended- peaceful and view sunset from the corridor.

My recent visit: October, 2024

Weather: Pleasant

Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (DIU) – 85 km, Rajkot Airport – 190 km

Nearest Railway Station: Veraval Junction (VRL) – 7 km

2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga – Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh

Significance:

Located on the sacred hill of Srisailam, this Jyotirlinga represents the divine union of Shiva and Parvati. Known as the “Kailash of the South,” it holds immense significance for seekers seeking liberation. It is believed that visiting this sacred jyotirlinga cleanse sins, remove obstacles, and foster family harmony, happiness, and material prosperity. Approx. 4 hours drive from Hyderabad, less stay/food options. Very high energy place.

My recent visit: April, 2024

Weather: Hot

Nearest Airport: Hyderabad Airport (HYD) – 195 km

Nearest Railway Station: Markapur Road (MRK) – 85 km, Kurnool Railway Station – 180 km

3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga – Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

Significance:

The only Jyotirlinga where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Mahakal – the Lord of Time & Death. The famous Bhasma Aarti at dawn is one of the most powerful spiritual rituals in India. You can do the pre-booking online few months before. It is believed that praying here eliminate the fear of untimely death and grant salvation, liberating one from the endless cycle of rebirth. Just 1.5/2 hours drive from Indore but you may experience heavy rush of devotees.

My recent visit: January, 2025

Weather: Cold and Pleasant

Nearest Airport: Indore Airport (IDR) – 55 km

Nearest Railway Station: Ujjain Junction (UJN) – 2 km

4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga – Madhya Pradesh

Significance:

Located on an island shaped like the sacred “ॐ”, Omkareshwar embodies the cosmic sound of creation. The serene Narmada River amplifies the temple’s meditative energy. It is believed that worshipping here brings mental peace, activates higher consciousness, and helps fulfil desires, leading to spiritual advancement. One needs to walk approx. 300 meters with few stairs to visit the jyotirlinga. Beautiful Narmada River Ghat and must experience boating if weather allows.

My recent visit: March, 2025

Weather: Pleasant

Nearest Airport: Indore Airport (IDR) – 80 km

Nearest Railway Station: Omkareshwar Road (OM) – 12 km

5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga – Uttarakhand

Significance:

Situated at 11,755 ft in the Himalayas, Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is associated with the Pandavas and represents spiritual ascension. One of the most challenging yet profoundly rewarding pilgrimages. It is believed that visiting Kedarnath Dham purifies karma, strengthens the will, and is believed to grant salvation and success in one's spiritual journey. The Bheem Shila which protected the mandir premises during 2013 Uttarakhand Floods is magical wonder I experienced and it is highly recommended to spend some time meditating near the Shila. If possible, make stay arrangements in advance and absorb divine energies.

My Visit: October, 2025

Weather: Cold

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED) – 238 km to Sonprayag

Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Railway Station (RKSH) – 241 km

6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra

Significance:

Nestled in the Sahyadri forests, this Jyotirlinga symbolizes Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura. The lush landscape and monsoon ambience make it one of the most serene experiences. It is said that worshipping here is thought to destroy inner demons, remove obstacles, boost self-confidence, and provide inner strength. Often, the authorities park private vehicles, 4 kms before the temple premises to avoid crowded parking. Jeeps are available but you may need to wait for the next one. Also devotee needs to walk 100-150 steps to reach the main temple. Must visit Bhima River which is a beautiful experience to take a short break. Very few stay and food options.

My recent visit: December, 2023

Weather: Pleasant

Nearest Airport: Pune Airport (PNQ) – 110 km

Nearest Railway Station: Pune Junction (PUNE) – 105 km

7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Significance:

The spiritual capital of India, Kashi is where Shiva whispers liberation to the soul. The Jyotirlinga here represents moksha — freedom from the cycle of rebirth. Hence, it is believed that a visit here, especially at the time of death in Kashi, grants immediate liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. Often crowded but you can get sparsh darshan during early morning. Must visit few other famous temples Annapurna Devi Temple, Kal Bhairava Temple, and Sankat Mochan. Also, do not forget to try Local food of Kashi. Divine place and one must stay for atleast 3-4 days to feel Kashi.

My recent visit: July, 2025

Weather: Hot during the day and evenings are pleasant

Nearest Airport: Varanasi Airport (VNS) – 25 kms

Nearest Railway Station: Vranasi Junction (BSB) – 4 kms

8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Nashik, Maharashtra

Significance:

Known for its unique three-faced lingam symbolizing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. The origin point of the holy Godavari River adds to its divine aura. It is said that worshipping here is highly effective for removing planetary obstacles and Pitra Dosh, bringing blessings for family well-being and longevity. Due to good approachability, you may often see heavy rush of devotees, but the divine environment of the devotion of all the visitors, seems like a celebration and even hours of wait do not seem like trouble. Very good air conditioned waiting halls with live telecast of the main temple.

My recent visit: February, 2024

Weather: Pleasant

Nearest Airport: Nashik Airport (ISK) – 55 km, Mumbai Airport (BOM) – 170 km

Nearest Railway Station: Nashik Road (NK) – 36 km

9. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – Dwarka, Gujarat

Significance:

This Jyotirlinga is the protector from all forms of poison and negativity. Situated between Gomti and Dwarka, the temple radiates calm coastal energy. It is believed that worshipping Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, shields devotees from troubles and evil influences, bringing prosperity and inner strength. Minimum walk and very well managed premises by the local authority. Just an hour drive from Dwarka, the most sacred place of Lord Krishna. One can join these 2 sacred places in the same trip along with Somnath Jyotirlinga.

My recent visit: October, 2024

Weather: Hot during the day and evenings are pleasant

Nearest Airport: Jamnagar Airport (JGA) – 137 km

Nearest Railway Station: Dwarka Railway Station (DWK) – 16 km

10. Baidyanath Jyotirlinga (Deoghar) – Jharkhand

Significance:

Considered the place where Ravana offered his ten heads to Shiva in devotion, Baidyanath is known for healing energies and wish-fulfillment. Devotees with chronic ailments visit, believing that prayers here can heal physical, mental, and emotional diseases and fulfill wishes. I had most exciting darshan amongst all the jyotirlingas, since I visited during Savan month and there was huge rush due to kaavar yatra(Shiva Devotees, who come to offer Ganga Jal to the holy shivling during this month). It took 6-7 hours that time but the high energy of the devotees and the continuous mantra chanting did not let tiredness empower even for a moment. Generally, VIP passes can be booked in advance to have easy darshan. Also, one must visit Basukinath Temple, which is just one and half hour drive from Sri Baidyanath Dham.

My recent visit: July, 2025

Weather: Pleasant

Nearest Airport: Deoghar Airport (DGH) – 15 km

Nearest Railway Station: Jasidih Junction (JSME) – 7 km, Deoghar Railway Station (DGHR) – 3 km

11. Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga – Tamil Nadu

Significance:

Rameshwaram connects Shiva with Lord Rama’s journey. The temple corridors, sacred theerthams, and the proximity to the ocean make it deeply cleansing and spiritual. It is said that bathing in the 22 sacred wells and worshipping the jyotirlinga purify the soul of all sins and lead to spiritual growth. Long corridor but beautifully designed, it can take 1-1.5 hours in darshan and heavy crowd is expected. Must visit Dhanushkodi, famous for the meeting point of Bay of Bengal and the Indian ocean, its mythological significance as the start of Ram Setu (Adam's Bridge), and the ruins of a town destroyed by a 1964 cyclone.

My recent visit: April, 2025

Weather: Hot during the day.

Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (IXM) – 175 km

Nearest Railway Station: Rameswaram Railway Station (RMM) – 1.5 km

12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra

Significance:

Located near the Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar is the smallest Jyotirlinga, just by the structure and size but holds immense devotion. The temple carvings reflect ancient architectural brilliance. It is believed that worshipping in Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga resolve conflicts, restore broken bonds, bring harmony, and grant satisfaction and prosperity in life. The temple is located just an hour drive from Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) and very close to famous Ellora Caves. Must take out time to visit Kailasa Temple in Ellora caves premises which is UNESCO heritage site.

My recent visit: December, 2023

Weather: Pleasant during the day and cold in the night

Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (IXU) – 35 km

Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) – 30 km

Today, I feel deeply blessed to have completed the sacred journey of all twelve Jyotirlingas — not as a rushed checklist, but as a slow, mindful spiritual pilgrimage. At each shrine, I spent time in silence, meditation, and reflection, absorbing the powerful energies that have drawn seekers for thousands of years.

For me, the Jyotirlinga Yatra became a journey of inner cleansing, emotional grounding, spiritual awakening, cultural immersion, and deep gratitude. It was also a beautiful opportunity to experience India’s diverse traditions, temple cultures, and local cuisines across different states.

If you feel called by the divine energy of Lord Shiva and wish to experience the sacred power of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Sādhak Journeys offers thoughtfully curated Jyotirlinga pilgrimage tours designed with care, comfort, safety, and spiritual depth.

Because Shiva is not a destination.

Shiva is a journey within.

May Mahadev bless your path.

Har Har Mahadev