Last updated on July 20th, 2023 at 01:52 pm
12 Jyotirlingas to Visit in India in 2023: Explore the Spiritual Side of the Country
The 12 Jyotirlingas are famous Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s most important deities. Each of these Jyotirlingas represents a manifestation of Lord Shiva’s heavenly light and is said to be extremely spiritually significant. Devotees travel to these sacred spots to seek blessings and perform religious rites.
The Jyotirlinga are thought to be Lord Shiva’s 12 radiant signals, and as such, they hold a major place in the Hindu region. It’s natural for you to wish to take spiritual road excursions to the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. However, you should be aware that these twelve sacred sites are spread throughout eight Indian states. And the journey to these locations takes several days. So, if you are planning an auspicious vacation to these 12 sites, it is best to leave in a good condition car that can withstand the trials of the road for several days.
- Somnath – Gujarat, India
- Nageshwar – Gujarat, India
- Bhima Shankar – Maharashtra, India
- Trimbakeshwar – Maharashtra, India
- Grishneshwar – Maharashtra, India.
- Vaidya Nath – Jharkhand, India
- Mahakaleshwar – Madhya Pradesh, India
- Omkareshwar – Madhya Pradesh, India
- Kashi Vishwanath –Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Kedarnath – Uttarakhand, India
- Rameswaram – Tamil Nadu, India
- Mallikarjun –Andhra Pradesh, India
1.Somnath – Gujarat, India
Somnath Jyotirlinga is a highly revered Hindu pilgrimage place in Gujarat, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is thought to be one of the country’s 12 sacred Jyotirlingas (self-manifest lings of light). The temple has a long history and has been demolished and rebuilt numerous times over the years. It is famous for its architectural splendor and spiritual aura, which draws worshippers from all over the world. The temple’s location by the Arabian Sea adds to its visual appeal and provides a tranquil setting for prayers and worship. Somnath Jyotirlinga is a popular spiritual and religious tourist destination due to its holiness and cultural significance.
Story of Somnath Jyotirlinga
The story of Somnath Jyotirlinga, according to Hindu mythology, extends back to ancient times. Lord Soma (Moon God) is claimed to have built the initial temple at the request of Lord Brahma. The temple was demolished and rebuilt multiple times over the years, with the legendary ruler Ravana being credited with its renovation. The temple is thought to have been restored in the 11th century by Lord Krishna’s grandson, King Bhimdeva of Anhilwara. Foreign powers repeatedly invaded and destroyed the shrine, notably the historic sack by Mahmud of Ghazni. Throughout its violent history, the temple has always risen from the ashes to represent the victory of faith and dedication. For millions of worshippers, it is now a symbol of perseverance and spiritual meaning.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport, which is approximately 90 kilometers away from Somnath. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Vera Val Railway Station, located just 7 kilometers away from Somnath. Regular trains connect Vera Val to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Road: Somnath is well-connected by roads. You can reach Somnath by bus or by hiring a taxi from nearby cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, or Junagadh. National Highway 8D and National Highway 51 are the main routes to reach Somnath by road.
Famous Temples near Somnath Temple
Bhalka Tirtha: Located in the nearby town of Veraval, Bhalka Tirtha is thought to be the site where Lord Krishna was accidentally struck by an arrow, causing him to leave the mortal world. The temple here is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a popular pilgrimage destination.
Triveni Sangam: A sacred site in Somnath, Triveni Sangam is located at the confluence of three holy rivers: Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati. Devotees come to this location to bathe in the holy waters and pray.
Junagadh Gate Temple : this temple is located near the entrance to the Somnath temple complex. It is a prominent place of worship for devotees and is dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
2. Nageshwar – Gujarat, India
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, also known as Nagnath Temple, is a major Hindu pilgrimage site in Gujarat, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which represent Lord Shiva’s perpetual light. The temple honors Lord Nageshwar, the Lord of Snakes. Worshipping Lord Nageshwar at this sacred spot is thought to offer blessings, protection, and relief from snake phobia. The temple is well-known for its spiritual atmosphere, attracting followers from all over the world.
Story of Nageshwar Temple
The demon Daruka was defeated by Lord Nageshwar, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, in the narrative of Nageshwar Jyotirling. After a bloody struggle, Lord Nageshwar triumphed and brought peace to the land. Worshipping at Nageshwar Jyotirling is thought to dispel fear, protect worshippers from snakes, and grant divine blessings.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Nageshwar is Jamnagar Airport, which is roughly 137 kilometers away. You can take a cab or a bus from the airport to the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Nageshwar is Dwarka Railway Station, which is around 13 km away. Regular trains connect Dwarka to major Indian cities. To get to the temple, use a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus from the railway station.
By Road: Nageshwar has good road access. You may get to Nageshwar by bus or cab from adjacent cities like as Dwarka, Jamnagar, or Ahmedabad. The primary roads to Nageshwar are State Highway 6 and State Highway 25.
Famous Temple near Nageshwar temple
Dwarkadhish Temple is a well-known temple near Nageshwar Jyotirling. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is located in Dwarka, Gujarat. The temple is significant religiously because it is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations and one of the 108 Divya Desams, or sacred abodes of Lord Vishnu. Devotees from all over the world come to this temple to seek blessings and to be immersed in Lord Krishna’s heavenly aura.
3. Bhimashankar – Maharashtra, India
Bhimashankar is a well-known Hindu temple in Maharashtra’s Sahyadri mountain region. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (Lord Shiva’s abode). The temple is set among lush green trees and gorgeous surroundings, providing worshippers with a calm and spiritual ambiance. Bhimashankar is known for its distinct architectural style, which includes elaborate carvings and sculptures. It is regarded as a sacred pilgrimage place, drawing both religious and nature-loving tourists from all over the world.
Story of Bhimashankar Temple
Bhimashankar is linked to a story from the epic Mahabharata. According to legend, following the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas felt sorry for killing their own kin and sought Lord Shiva’s forgiveness. Lord Shiva appeared to them in the form of a jyotirlinga at the present-day Bhimashankar temple. The ling is said to have emerged under a Bhima tree (thus the name Bhimashankar) and bestowed blessings on the Pandavas. For worshippers, the temple serves as a hallowed sanctuary, representing divine forgiveness and spiritual awakening.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport, which is approximately 110 kilometers away from Bhimashankar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Railway Station, located around 110 kilometers away from Bhimashankar. Regular trains connect Pune to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can take a taxi, hire a private vehicle, or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Road: You can reach this temple by bus or by hiring a taxi from nearby cities like Pune or Mumbai. The journey to the temple is scenic, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Sahyadri mountains.
Famous temple near Bhiashankar Temple
The Kamalaja Devi Temple, also known as Kamalaja Mata Mandir, is a well-known temple near Bhimashankar. It is located in the village of Kamalaj, about 8 kilometers from Bhimashankar in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The Kamalaja Devi Temple honours Goddess Kamalaja, who is thought to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is popular with worshippers, especially during festivals and momentous occasions.
4. Trimbakeshwar – Maharashtra, India
Trimbakeshwar Mandir is a well-known Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Trimbak, Maharashtra. It is one among the t12 Jyotirlingas and is very religiously significant. The architectural splendor of the temple, with its elaborate carvings and sculptures, draws both worshippers and tourists. The temple is famous for its sacred Trimbakeshwar Linga, which represents Lord Shiva, and the presence of the holy Godavari River, which is said to have originated in the nearby Brahmagiri hills.
Story of Trimbakeshwer Temple
he Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga has an intriguing story, according to Hindu mythology. Lord Shiva is said to have materialized as a fire pillar, known as the Tryambaka Jyotirlinga, to settle a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. The pillar extended in both directions indefinitely, reaching the heavens and the netherworlds. The land was then blessed by Lord Shiva in his complete form as Tryambakeshwar, the lord of the three worlds. The temple was built exactly where the miraculous pillar of light appeared, and it is still a revered pilgrimage site for devotees seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport is the Mumbai International Airport, located approximately 180 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Trimbakeshwar.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Nashik Road Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Trimbakeshwar, located around 28 kilometers away.
By Road: It is situated about 30 kilometers from Nashik city. Regular buses and taxis are available from Nashik to Trimbakeshwar. You can also drive by car or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Mumbai or Pune.
Famous temple neat Trimbakeshwar Temple
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is a well-known temple near Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga. It is a well-known pilgrimage place devoted to the famed saint Sai Baba in Shirdi, Maharashtra. Devotees from all over the world visit the temple to seek blessings and to experience the spiritual atmosphere connected with Sai Baba’s teachings. Shirdi is located about 88 kilometres from Trimbakeshwar and is easily accessible by road.
5. Grishneshwar – Maharashtra, India
Grishneshwar is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Grushneshwar Jyotirlinga. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, depicting the highest form of Lord Shiva, and is located near Verul, Maharashtra, India. Because of its architectural significance and religious significance, the temple is a famous pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings and spiritual fulfilment.
Story of Grishneshwar Temple
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga’s narrative centres around a devoted woman named Kusum. Sudharma, her spouse, was once murdered by a jealous sage. Kusum, overcome with sadness, engaged in intense penance and constructed a beautiful temple for Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva arrived as Grishneshwar and awarded her a blessing, reviving Sudharma and making the location holy. As a result, the temple became known as Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, and Lord Shiva is worshipped as the bestowed of favors and the fulfiller of desires.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, which is around 30 kilometers away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Aurangabad, which is connected to various important cities in India. You can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, which is around 30 kilometers distant.
By Road: Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is about 11 km from the world-famous Ellora Caves. It is well-connected by road and may be reached by cab or bus from Aurangabad or neighboring cities.
Famous Temple near Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
The Ellora Caves are a well-known shrine near Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga. The Ellora Caves, located in the same region of Maharashtra, India, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a spectacular example of ancient rock-cut construction. Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples are housed in the caves, displaying a complex blend of religious and artistic significance. The Ellora Caves, located around 11 km from Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, are a famous tourist destination due to their historical and cultural significance.
6. Vaidyanath – Jharkhand, India
Baba Baidyanath Dham, also known as Vaidyanath in 12 Jyotirlingas, is a prominent Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva. It is in the Indian state of Jharkhand. The temple complex is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and has significant religious importance. Worshipping at Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga is thought to offer healing and alleviation from diseases, making it a popular pilgrimage site for devotees seeking heavenly blessings for bodily and spiritual well-being.
Story of Vaidyanath jyotirlings
The demon king Ravana is essential to the narrative of Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga. Ravana, known for his deep devotion to Lord Shiva, desired to bring the Jyotirlinga from Kailash to Lanka in order to achieve immortality. Lord Shiva, on the other hand, duped Ravana by making the Jyotirlinga immobile, resulting in the building of Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga in Deoghar. The temple is thought to have been built on the site where the Jyotirlinga revealed itself.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Deoghar is Bhagalpur Airport, which is roughly 95 kilometers away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga.
By Train: The Deoghar Railway Station is well-connected to major Indian towns. There are several trains that run to and from Deoghar, making it an easy form of transportation. To go to Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga, take a taxi or a local bus from the railway station.
By Road: Road networks link Deoghar effectively. Buses go frequently from adjacent cities and towns to Deoghar. You can alternatively drive or take a taxi to Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga.
Famous temple near Vaidyanath jyotirling
The Basukinath Temple is a well-known temple near Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Dumka, Jharkhand. Devotees consider it to be extremely auspicious. The temple has significant religious significance and is thought to have healing properties. The Basukinath Temple draws a huge number of devotees, especially during the month of Shravana, who come to seek blessings and pray.
7. Mahakaleshwar – Madhya Pradesh, India
Mahakaleshwar Temple is a well-known Hindu temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple attracts a huge number of devotees seeking blessings and spiritual experiences due to its great spiritual energy and old architecture.
Story of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga’s in 12 jyotirlingas legend dates back to ancient times. A terrible demon named Dushana is reported to have terrorised the land where Ujjain presently stands. Lord Shiva arrived as Mahakaleshwar to defend the people and destroyed the monster. This event prompted the construction of the temple. Worshipping Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, according to folklore, provides believers escape from the cycle of birth and death. The temple at Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is a major pilgrimage site, attracting people from all over the world
How to Reach
By Air: The Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore is the closest airport and is well-connected to major Indian cities. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain, which is around 55 km away.
By Train: Ujjain Junction Railway Station connects to major Indian cities. There are several trains that run to and from Ujjain, making it an easy form of transit. To get to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, take a taxi or a local bus from the railway station.
By Road: Ujjain has excellent road connectivity. Buses go frequently from adjacent cities and towns to Ujjain. You can also drive or take a taxi to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.
Kal Bhairav Temple: located near Mahakaleshwar Temple, is devoted to Lord Bhairav, a furious manifestation of Lord Shiva. It is thought that visiting Mahakaleshwar Temple without paying reverence to Kal Bhairav is inadequate.
Harsiddhi Temple: The Harsiddhi Temple, located near the Mahakaleshwar Temple, is devoted to Goddess Harsiddhi, an avatar of Goddess Shakti. The temple is well-known for its architectural splendor and is regarded as a powerful place of prayer.
Chintaman Ganesh Temple: The Chintaman Ganesh Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is located near Ram Ghat in Ujjain. It is claimed that praying at this temple helps to relieve stress and fulfil desires.
8. Omkareshwar – Madhya Pradesh, India
Omkareshwar is a sacred island in Madhya Pradesh, India, located in the Narmada River. It houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, which represents Lord Shiva. The island is designed like the revered Hindu symbol “Om” and is dotted with historic temples such as the Omkareshwar Temple. Pilgrims come to Omkareshwar to seek blessings and to soak in the spiritual environment created by the heavenly Jyotirlinga.
Story of Omkareshwar jyotirlinga
Vindhya, a demon, tortured the sages and ruined their ceremonies. Seeking assistance, the sages sought Lord Shiva, who manifested as Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga. Lord Shiva subdued the evil and settled on the sacred island, giving peace to the region. The island, shaped like the sacred “Om” sign, became known as Omkareshwar, and the temple was built to honour this event.
Famous temples near Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
Mamleshwar Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is located on the opposite bank of the Narmada River. It is regarded as equally important as Omkareshwar Temple and is frequented by worshippers seeking blessings.
Siddha Nath Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is located near Omkareshwar Temple. It is said to be the location where Lord Shiva taught his follower Siddha Nath. The temple is well-known for its spiritual atmosphere, which draws followers seeking heavenly understanding.
Kajal Rani Cave: Located near Omkareshwar, this cave shrine is devoted to Goddess Kajal Rani, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. It is claimed that applying Kajal (eyeliner) from the cave bestows protection and good fortune on worshippers.
How to Reach
By Air: The Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore is the closest airport and is well-connected to major Indian cities. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, which is around 80 kilometres distant.
By Train: The closest railway station is Omkareshwar Road Railway Station, which connects to major Madhya Pradesh cities. To go to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, take a taxi or a local bus from the railway station.
By Road: Road networks link Omkareshwar effectively. Regular buses run to Omkareshwar from adjacent cities and towns. You can also drive or take a taxi to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga.
9. Kashi Vishwanath –Uttar Pradesh, India.
Kashi Vishwanath is one of the holiest Hindu temples devoted to Lord Shiva and is located in Uttar Pradesh, India. It has enormous religious significance and is venerated as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, depicting Lord Shiva in his brilliant form. Devotees travel from all over the world to seek blessings and spiritual peace at the temple.
Story of Kashi Vishwanath jyotirlinga
Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga has an amazing story. Lord Shiva is claimed to have chosen to live in Kashi (Varanasi) in order to bestow divine benefits on his worshippers. Over the ages, the temple has witnessed countless historical events and modifications. The current structure dates from the 18th century, after it was restored multiple times. Despite being attacked and destroyed, the people’s unwavering commitment resulted in the rebuilding and preservation of this hallowed shrine, making it a symbol of perseverance and devotion throughout its long history.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. To get to the temple, take a taxi or a bus from the airport.
By Train: The main railway station in the city is Varanasi Junction, commonly known as Varanasi Cantt. It has excellent connections to major cities around India. To go to Kashi Vishwanath, take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw from the railway station.
By Road: Varanasi is well-connected by road networks, and there are regular bus connections from adjacent cities. Private taxis and cab services are also available for comfortable city transport.
Famous temples near Kashi Vishwanath jyotirlinga
Annapurna Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the divinity of nutrition, and is located near Kashi Vishwanath. Devotees come to seek blessings and to pray for prosperity and well-being.
Kal Bhairav Temple: This ancient temple is devoted to Lord Kal Bhairav, a ferocious incarnation of Lord Shiva, and is located near the Vishwanath Temple. It is regarded as one of the most powerful temples in Varanasi, attracting pilgrims seeking protection and bravery.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: This temple is devoted to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, and is located not far from Kashi Vishwanath. Devotees come here to find strength, courage, and respite from trials and tribulations.
10. Kedarnath – Uttarakhand, India
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas and is revered in Hindu mythology. It is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters among the snow-capped Himalayan peaks in Uttarakhand, India. The Pandavas are said to have erected the temple, which draws people from all over the world seeking spiritual blessings and a connection with the almighty.
Story of Kedarnath jyotirlinga
Following the great Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas desired to seek Lord Shiva’s pardon for the bloodshed. Lord Shiva, however, did not wish to see them and disguised himself as a bull and hid in the Himalayas. The Pandavas pursued the bull until they arrived at Kedarnath, where they sought Lord Shiva’s blessings and salvation in the form of a Jyotirlinga. This occurrence resulted in the construction of the hallowed Kedarnath in 12 Jyotirlingas, which is still a respected pilgrimage place today.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is roughly 239 kilometers away. You can take a taxi or a shared transport from the airport to Sonprayag, the starting location for the journey to Kedarnath.
By Train: The nearest train station is Rishikesh, which is well-connected to major Indian towns. You may reach Sonprayag by taxi or shared transport from Rishikesh.
By Road: The journey to Kedarnath begins in Sonprayag. It has good road access to Rishikesh and other major cities in Uttarakhand. Regular buses and shared cabs go from these sites to Sonprayag. To reach Kedarnath, you must hike around 16 kilometers from Sonprayag.
Famous temples near Kedarnath jyotirlinga
Badrinath Temple: Badrinath Temple is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage locations, located roughly 223 km from Kedarnath. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is noted for its spectacular position in the Himalayas.
Triyuginarayan Temple: Triyuginarayan Temple, around 26 km from Kedarnath, is recognized for being the sacred spot where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati married. The temple provides a peaceful and attractive backdrop.
Rudranath Temple: Rudra Nath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located approximately 87 kilometers from Kedarnath. It is one of the Panch Kedar temples and is noted for its spiritual significance and serene environs.
11. Rameswaram – Tamil Nadu, India
Rameswaram Jyotirlinga is one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas, located in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India. It is a sacred pilgrimage location with enormous religious significance in Hindu mythology. Devotees come to seek blessings, perform rituals, and achieve spiritual enlightenment at the Rameswaram Jyotirlinga.
Story of Rameswaram Jyotirlinga
Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga is one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas, located in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, India. It is a sacred pilgrimage location with enormous religious significance in Hindu mythology. Devotees come to seek blessings, perform rituals, and achieve spiritual enlightenment at the Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga.
How to reach
By Air: The closest airport is Madurai Airport, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Rameshwaram, which is roughly 174 kilometres distant.
By Train: Rameshwaram has its own railway station that connects to major cities around India. Trains run on a regular basis to and from Rameshwaram, making it a convenient form of transportation for pilgrims. To go to Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, take a taxi or a local bus from the railway station.
By Road: Rameshwaram has excellent road connectivity. Buses run frequently from adjacent cities and towns to Rameshwaram. You can also drive or take a taxi to Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga.
Famous temples near Rameshwaram jyotirlinga
Ramanathaswamy Temple: Ramanathaswamy Temple, located near Rameshwaram, is a popular Hindu pilgrimage destination and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. It is devoted to Lord Shiva and is recognised for its exquisite architecture as well as the notion that visiting the temple aids in the attainment of moksha (freedom).
Agnitheertham is a sacred beach near Ramanathaswamy Temple where visitors perform rituals and take holy dips in the Bay of Bengal waters. It is thought to be a key location for atonement and seeking blessings.
Lakshmana Tirtham Temple: This temple is devoted to Lord Lakshmana, Lord Rama’s brother. It is located near Rameshwaram. The temple is well-known for its tranquil surroundings and is regarded as an auspicious location for rituals and prayers.
Dhanushkodi Temple: Located in the ghost town of Dhanushkodi, this temple is thought to be where Lord Rama’s soldiers constructed a bridge to Lanka. The temple is historically and mythologically significant, and it attracts worshippers looking for blessings and spiritual peace.
12. Mallikarjuna – Andhra Pradesh, India
Mallikarjuna also known as Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Temple, is one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple honours Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Bhramaramba. It is a well-known pilgrimage place noted for its spiritual significance as well as its architectural beauty.
Story of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati assumed the forms of Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba to test their worshippers’ devotion. They disguised themselves as a tribal couple and tested the authenticity of a woodcutter named Mallika and his wife, Arjuna, in the Srisailam jungle. Lord Shiva, moved by their devotion, revealed his actual form as Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga and bestowed endless pleasure and prosperity on them.
How To Reach
By Air: The closest airport to Srisailam is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, which is roughly 220 km away. You can take a cab or a bus from the airport to Srisailam.
By Train: Markapur Road train Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India, is the nearest train station. To get to Srisailam, you can take a cab or a local bus from the railway station.
By Road: Road networks connect Srisailam effectively. Buses go frequently from adjacent cities and towns to Srisailam. You can alternatively drive or take a taxi to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga.
Famous temples near Mallikarjuna
Bhramaramba Devi Temple: This temple is devoted to Goddess Bhramaramba, Lord Mallikarjuna’s consort, and is located within the same complex as Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. It is one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas and is of great religious importance.
Akka Mahadevi caves: These ancient caverns, located on the banks of the Krishna River near Srisailam, are associated with the legendary 12th-century poetess and saint, Akka Mahadevi. The caves are thought to be Akka Mahadevi’s meditation site and draw followers seeking spiritual enlightenment.
Hathakesvara Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located within the Srisailam Wildlife Sanctuary. It is well-known for its tranquil surroundings as well as the antique carvings on the temple walls.
