The holy month of Sawan holds deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is a time of heightened devotion, sacred rituals, and pilgrimages to places associated with Shiva’s divine presence. Among these, the 12 Jyotirlingas—the most revered shrines where Lord Shiva is believed to have appeared as a radiant pillar of light—form a sacred pilgrimage route for millions.
In Part 1 of this blog series, we explored the first six Jyotirlingas and their legends. Now, in Part 2, we continue the spiritual journey with the remaining six Jyotirlingas:
Bhimashankar (Maharashtra),
Kashi Vishwanath (Uttar Pradesh),
Trimbakeshwar (Maharashtra),
Vaidyanath (Jharkhand),
Nageshwar (Gujarat), and
Grishneshwar (Maharashtra).
Each of these shrines carries a powerful story of faith, miracles, and divine grace. Visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas—especially during the month of Sawan—is said to purify the soul, remove karmic burdens, and open the path to moksha (liberation).
Join us as we explore the legends, significance, and spiritual power of these divine abodes of Lord Shiva.
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State: Maharashtra
Jyotirlinga Number: 6th among the 12 Jyotirlingas
Mythological Legend: Shiva's Battle with Tripurasura
According to ancient Hindu mythology, Bhimashankar is the site where Lord Shiva took the fierce form of Bhairava to defeat the demon Tripurasura, who had gained immense power and was terrorizing the three worlds. The battle between the divine and the demonic is said to have been so intense that Lord Shiva’s sweat flowed down the mountains, forming the Bhima River, from which the temple derives its name.
This epic legend is recounted in various Puranas and texts like the Shiva Purana, which describe Bhimashankar as a place of divine intervention and cosmic balance.
The Bhima River, a major tributary of the Krishna River, originates from the dense forests of Bhimashankar. The river plays a crucial role in irrigation and water supply for several regions in Maharashtra, especially the Deccan Plateau. Its spiritual significance is amplified by the belief that its source is sanctified by Shiva’s divine presence.
The Bhimashankar Temple is an exquisite blend of Nagara-style architecture and modern stonework. Built during the 13th century and later restored by Maratha ruler Nana Phadnavis, the temple is known for its ancient carvings, detailed sculptures, and serene spiritual aura. The Jyotirlinga resides in the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), and devotees believe that worshipping here cleanses the soul and fulfills desires.
The temple is uniquely situated in the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species, including the Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru)—Maharashtra’s state animal.
This convergence of spiritual significance and ecological preservation makes Bhimashankar a symbol of eco-spiritual balance, where faith meets forest conservation. Pilgrims are encouraged to engage in eco-tourism, understand the value of nature, and reflect spiritually amidst the wilderness.
Also Read: Explore the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiv Mahadev: Part 1
Thousands of devotees trek or drive through scenic forests and valleys to reach Bhimashankar, especially during Mahashivratri and the Shravan month. The peaceful chants, sacred rituals, and natural serenity offer a deep meditative experience. Many spiritual seekers come here not just for ritualistic worship, but for inner awakening and mind-body-soul detox in the lap of nature.
By Road: 110 km from Pune, 220 km from Mumbai. Regular buses and taxis are available.
Nearest Railway Station: Pune Junction (about 100 km away)
Trekking Route: For adventure seekers, a scenic trek from Karjat via Bhorgiri or Khandas village is popular.
Jyotirlinga Number: 7th among the 12 Jyotirlingas
Position: On the western bank of the sacred Ganga River
According to ancient scriptures and the Skanda Purana, Lord Shiva himself resides in Kashi (also known as Varanasi or Banaras). It is said that at the time of death, Shiva whispers the Tarak Mantra ("Ram naam satya hai") into the ears of those dying in Kashi, thereby granting them moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).
This sacred promise makes Kashi Vishwanath one of the most spiritually potent sites in Hinduism, known as the “Mahashamshan”—a place where even death is celebrated as the beginning of eternal freedom.
The very name "Kashi" means “the luminous city”, a place of enlightenment and awakening. It is believed that even a single darshan (sighting) of the Vishwanath Jyotirlinga purifies lifetimes of karma and spiritual ignorance.
Devotees and sages across centuries have believed that Kashi is not just a place—it is a state of consciousness, a sacred energy field where the divine presence is always active. Pilgrims from across India and the world visit the temple daily, making it one of the most visited religious sites globally.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has been built and rebuilt several times over the centuries due to invasions and destruction. The current structure was commissioned in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar, the Queen of Indore. The temple features gold-plated domes, intricate carvings, and a spiritually charged inner sanctum housing the revered Shiva Lingam, known as Vishweshwara or “Lord of the Universe.”
It is also said that Rani Lakshmibai, Swami Vivekananda, Adi Shankaracharya, and even Gautama Buddha have visited this sacred site in different eras, marking its cultural continuity.
Located near the famous Manikarnika Ghat, the temple stands in close proximity to one of the holiest cremation grounds in Hinduism. The Ganga River, flowing with spiritual grace, enhances the mystical power of the Jyotirlinga. Bathing in the Ganga here before temple darshan is considered highly auspicious.
In recent years, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project has revolutionized the pilgrimage experience. Launched in 2019 and inaugurated in 2021, the project has:
Created a clean, spacious corridor directly linking the temple to the ghats of the Ganga.
Made the temple complex more accessible to elderly and differently-abled devotees.
Preserved and integrated ancient temples and heritage structures that were previously hidden or neglected.
Added modern amenities, interpretation centers, and widened pathways for easier darshan.
This massive transformation has made the spiritual journey more immersive and seamless, while still preserving the temple's age-old sanctity.
Rudrabhishek, Maha Aarti, and Chanting of Rudram are daily rituals at the temple.
Major festivals celebrated include Mahashivratri, Shravan Maas, and Dev Diwali, when the ghats are lit with thousands of lamps.
The temple sees lakhs of pilgrims daily during Shravan Somvar and Kartik Purnima.
Jyotirlinga Number: 8th among the 12 Jyotirlingas
River Association: Source of the Godavari River
Trimbakeshwar is deeply connected to the origin of the Godavari River, also known as the Ganga of the South. According to legend, sage Gautama Rishi performed intense penance at Brahmagiri Hill to bring the Ganga down to earth to cleanse a sin inadvertently committed. Moved by his devotion, Lord Shiva released the Ganga in the form of the Godavari River, which first emerged from a kund (water tank) called Kushavarta in Trimbak.
Because of this, the region is regarded as a sacred hydrological and spiritual point in Indian pilgrimage tradition.
Unlike other Jyotirlingas that represent Lord Shiva alone, the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is exceptional because the linga has three distinct faces, symbolizing the Trimurti:
Brahma – The Creator
Vishnu – The Preserver
Shiva – The Destroyer
These three deities represented in one linga make Trimbakeshwar a cosmic symbol of creation, preservation, and destruction, encapsulating the entire cycle of existence.
The temple is a fine example of classic Hemadpanthi architecture, built in black stone during the reign of the Maratha ruler Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao in the 18th century. The intricate carvings, sculpted shikharas (spires), and elegant courtyards exude a mystical charm.
Inside the sanctum, the linga is embedded deep within a small pit, continuously bathed by water from a sacred stream flowing from Brahmagiri Hills.
Trimbakeshwar is one of India’s most prominent sites for the performance of Kaal Sarp Dosh Nivaran Puja—a remedial ritual done to neutralize astrological imbalances caused by the alignment of Rahu and Ketu. Thousands of devotees perform:
Narayan Nagbali
Pitra Dosh Shanti
Kaal Sarp Yog Puja
These Vedic rituals are conducted by trained priests in accordance with ancient scriptures, often believed to bring relief from ancestral curses, negative karma, and misfortunes.
The Brahmagiri Hills, from which the Godavari originates, form a picturesque backdrop and a popular trekking destination for pilgrims and nature lovers.
The Kushavarta Kund is a sacred bathing tank where devotees purify themselves before entering the temple. It is believed that bathing here washes away sins and facilitates spiritual cleansing.
Mahashivratri: Witnesses large gatherings, Vedic chants, and midnight Shiv Abhishekam.
Godavari Pushkaram (occurs once every 12 years): A grand religious event attracting millions.
Shravan Maas: Devotees visit during this holy month to perform special pujas and offerings.
By Road: Around 28 km from Nashik, 180 km from Mumbai
Nearest Airport: Nashik Airport (30 km), Mumbai Airport (180 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Nashik Road Railway Station (39 km)
Location of Vaidyanath: Deoghar, Jharkhand
Jyotirlinga Number: 9th among the 12 Jyotirlingas
Alternate Name: Baidyanath Dham (also spelled Baba Dham or Baidyanath Jyotirlinga)
According to Hindu mythology, Ravana, the demon king of Lanka and a fierce devotee of Lord Shiva, performed intense penance to please the deity. Pleased by his devotion, Shiva granted him a boon and allowed Ravana to carry his linga to Lanka—but under one condition: the linga must not be placed on the ground during the journey, or it would be permanently rooted to that spot.
On his way back, Ravana stopped in Deoghar, where he felt compelled to relieve himself and handed the linga temporarily to a disguised Vishnu (as a Brahmin boy). Vishnu placed the linga on the ground, anchoring it there forever. Ravana tried with all his might to move it, but failed. The place where the linga was fixed became known as Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga.
The name “Vaidyanath” comes from the belief that Shiva acted as a divine healer or “Vaidya” when he healed Ravana’s wounds after his penance.
Vaidyanath is known as the “Temple of Healing.” Devotees believe that prayers and rituals performed here can cure chronic ailments, mental distress, and karmic suffering. The divine energy of the Jyotirlinga is said to work on a holistic level—body, mind, and soul.
Special rituals and offerings are done for:
Healing terminal and chronic illnesses
Seeking blessings for fertility, mental clarity, and emotional balance
Performing Rudrabhishek, known to bring peace and well-being
Many devotees consider visiting the temple part of a spiritual therapy, especially during the sacred month of Shravan (July–August).
Every year, millions of Kanwariyas (devotees) undertake a sacred barefoot journey, carrying water from the Ganges at Sultanganj and walking nearly 100+ km to Deoghar to offer the holy water to Lord Shiva.
This month-long spiritual event, known as the Shravan Mela, is one of the largest annual religious gatherings in India. The sight of saffron-clad pilgrims chanting "Bol Bam" and walking in devotion creates a powerful spiritual atmosphere in Deoghar.
The main shrine is constructed in Nagara-style architecture, with a towering 72-feet high spire, and the temple complex includes 22 other smaller shrines, including those of Parvati, Ganesha, Brahma, Kal Bhairav, and more.
The Jyotirlinga is placed in a simple and ancient sanctum, and pilgrims pour water, milk, and bilva leaves directly over the linga, invoking Shiva’s healing grace.
The town of Deoghar itself means “abode of the gods.” The place has a deeply devotional ambiance and is dotted with ashrams, dharamshalas, and healing centers.
Nearby attractions include:
Tapovan Caves and Hills
Nandan Pahar
Naulakha Mandir
The entire region is known for its serenity, Ayurvedic healing, and spiritual retreats.
By Road: Well connected to major cities like Ranchi, Patna, and Kolkata.
By Train: Deoghar Junction or Jasidih Junction (7 km away)
Location of Nageshwar: Nageshwar, between Gomti Dwarka and Bait Dwarka, Gujarat
Jyotirlinga Number: 10th among the 12 Jyotirlingas
Alternate Name: Nagnath Temple
Mythological Legend: Shiva’s Protection of His Devotee
According to the Shiva Purana, a devoted worshipper named Supriya, a poor and pious man, was imprisoned by the demon couple Daruka and Daruki, who ruled over the area and were hostile toward those who worshipped gods other than them. Supriya kept chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” even in captivity.
Moved by his unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva appeared in his fierce form, vanquished the demon Daruka, and blessed the devotee with his divine protection. From that point onward, Shiva resided there as Nageshwar, the lord of Nagas (serpents) and protector of the oppressed.
The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga symbolizes Shiva as the guardian of dharma and protector of devotees regardless of their social status. The temple is renowned for promoting spiritual equality, where all devotees—rich or poor, of any caste—are welcomed with equal reverence.
The linga at Nageshwar is said to be self-manifested (Swayambhu) and is unique in its Darukavana (forest of deodars) association, referencing an ancient forest mentioned in Vedic texts.
The main sanctum houses a silver-plated Jyotirlinga facing south with a large silver serpent hood.
The temple follows a modern architectural design while preserving its ancient spiritual essence.
The massive 25-meter-tall statue of Lord Shiva at the temple entrance is one of the major attractions. Seated in a meditative posture, it exudes peace and power, serving as an inspiring symbol of divine presence and protection.
Nageshwar is often visited by those:
Seeking relief from fear, oppression, or mental distress
Wishing for spiritual protection, strength, and clarity
Wanting to perform abhishekams with milk, water, bilva leaves, and ghee for peace and prosperity
Special prayers during Mondays, Shravan month, and Mahashivratri hold immense spiritual merit here.
Located just 17 km from Dwarka, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, Nageshwar is part of the spiritual triangle along with Dwarkadhish Temple and Bait Dwarka. Many pilgrims include all three sites in one yatra (pilgrimage), creating a holistic experience combining devotion to both Vishnu and Shiva.
By Road: 17 km from Dwarka, accessible by taxi or local bus.
By Train: Dwarka Railway Station (approx. 18 km)
By Air: Closest airport is Jamnagar Airport (137 km)
Location of Rameshwaram: Rameshwaram, Pamban Island, Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu
Jyotirlinga Number: 11th among the 12 Jyotirlingas
Access: Connected to mainland India via the iconic Pamban Bridge
According to the epic Ramayana, after rescuing Sita and before returning to Ayodhya, Lord Rama stopped at this very site to worship Lord Shiva. He wished to absolve the sin of killing Ravana (a Brahmin by birth), and so he built a Shiva Linga out of sand, known as Ramalinga, and prayed to Lord Shiva for forgiveness and success.
The temple is thus a symbol of humility and devotion, showcasing how even a god bows before another deity in reverence. This act established Rameshwaram as a sacred confluence of Shaivism (devotion to Shiva) and Vaishnavism (devotion to Vishnu).
Rameshwaram is one of the few places in India where Vaishnavites and Shaivites worship side by side, promoting religious unity, mutual respect, and spiritual integration. Devotees believe that worship at Rameshwaram after visiting Kashi Vishwanath completes the Jyotirlinga pilgrimage circuit, signifying a full spiritual journey from birth (Kashi) to moksha (Rameshwaram).
It is also one of the Char Dham (four sacred pilgrimage sites) of Hinduism, making it doubly significant.
The Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram is not only spiritually powerful but also architecturally breathtaking. Key highlights include:
World’s longest corridor in a temple complex: 1,200 meters of beautifully carved pillared hallways
Gopurams (tower gateways) soaring over 35 meters high
Intricate stone carvings, grand sculptures, and majestic halls that reflect the Dravidian style of architecture
The Ramalinga and Viswanatha Linga (brought from Kashi by Hanuman) are both worshipped, emphasizing dual devotion
The temple houses 22 theerthams (holy wells) within its complex. Devotees first bathe in the Agni Theertham (sea near the temple) and then sequentially in all 22 wells, each believed to hold unique medicinal and spiritual properties that cleanse one’s sins and purify the soul.
This ritual of “Theertha Snanam” is an essential part of the pilgrimage.
Mahashivratri is celebrated with grandeur and night-long abhishekam rituals
Aadi Amavasai, Thai Amavasai, and Navratri draw thousands of devotees
Daily Shiv Abhishekam and special pujas are performed in strict Vedic tradition
By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis to Madurai, Chennai, and other cities
By Train: Rameshwaram Railway Station is linked to major Indian cities
By Air: Nearest airport is Madurai Airport (174 km), with connections to major metros
By Bridge: The scenic Pamban Bridge connects Rameshwaram to mainland India by rail and road
The temple’s origin is tied to a moving tale of unwavering devotion. A pious woman named Kusuma, who had tragically lost her son, continued her daily ritual of worshipping a Shiva Linga and offering it water from a nearby well. Her faith and devotion touched Lord Shiva so deeply that he manifested before her, restored her son to life, and blessed the site with his divine presence. The Jyotirlinga came to be known as Grishneshwar, meaning the "Lord of Compassion."
Spiritual Significance of Grishneshwar:
This Jyotirlinga is considered the twelfth and final Jyotirlinga in the sacred Shiva Mahapurana list.
It symbolizes Shiva's boundless mercy, especially toward devoted hearts, even in the face of great personal suffering.
Devotees believe that visiting Grishneshwar with true faith grants peace, healing, and resolution of long-standing problems.
Architectural Highlights of Grishneshwar:
The temple is constructed from reddish volcanic rock, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Its five-tier shikhara (temple tower), intricately carved pillars, and sculptures of deities, dancers, and mythological scenes reflect the brilliance of Maratha-era temple architecture.
The temple was rebuilt in the 18th century by Ahilyabai Holkar, the queen of Indore, who also restored several other Jyotirlingas including Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath.
Cultural and Heritage Importance of Grishneshwar:
The temple’s proximity to the Ellora Caves—a marvel of rock-cut Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments—makes it a vital stop for pilgrims and history lovers alike.
It forms a bridge between devotional faith and artistic legacy, attracting not just pilgrims but also students of Indian art and culture.
Rituals and Worship of Grishneshwar:
Daily pujas and abhishekas are performed in traditional Vedic style.
Special crowds gather during Maha Shivratri, Shravan Maas, and other Shiva-related festivals.
Travel Tips of Grishneshwar:
Nearest city: Aurangabad (30 km), which is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
Ideal time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather and festival season.
Conclusion:
Completing the journey through all 12 Jyotirlingas is more than just a pilgrimage—it is a transformative spiritual experience. The six Jyotirlingas we explored in this second part—Bhimashankar, Kashi Vishwanath, Trimbakeshwar, Vaidyanath, Nageshwar, and Grishneshwar—each carry divine energy, centuries-old legends, and the promise of inner peace.
For devotees, especially during the sacred month of Sawan, visiting these temples is a way to connect deeply with Lord Shiva, seek his blessings, and experience the profound power of devotion. Whether you visit physically or offer prayers from afar, remembering these Jyotirlingas with faith can invoke divine protection, healing, and spiritual elevation.
May Lord Shiva bless you with strength, wisdom, and liberation as you walk the path of devotion.
Om Namah Shivaya.