India is a land of deep spiritual roots, and among its most sacred pilgrimages is the journey to the Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Jyotirlingas are considered the most powerful manifestations of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the infinite divine light. Out of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, five are located in Maharashtra, making the state one of the most significant destinations for Shaivite devotees.
This detailed guide will help you understand the religious importance, history, locations, travel routes, best time to visit, and tour planning for the 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra. Whether you are planning independently or opting for a 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour package from Pune, this article will serve as a complete reference.
What Are Jyotirlingas?
The word Jyotirlinga comes from two Sanskrit words:
- Jyoti meaning light
- Linga meaning symbol of Lord Shiva
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva manifested himself as an infinite pillar of light to settle a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Places where this divine light touched the earth became known as Jyotirlingas. Worshipping Jyotirlingas is believed to destroy sins, fulfill wishes, and lead devotees toward liberation (moksha).
Overview of the 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra
Maharashtra is blessed with the following five Jyotirlingas:
- Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Nashik
- Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Near Pune
- Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Aurangabad (Ellora)
- Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – Hingoli
- Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – Beed
These temples are spread across different regions of Maharashtra and are often covered together through a Pilgrimage tour package from Pune, which is one of the most convenient starting points.
1. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Nashik
Location
Trimbakeshwar is located about 30 km from Nashik, at the foothills of the Brahmagiri mountains.
Religious Significance
Trimbakeshwar is unique because the Jyotirlinga here represents the Trinity – Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva). It is also the origin of the sacred Godavari River, often called the Ganga of the South.
Temple Highlights
- Black stone architecture in Nagara style
- One of the most important sites for Pitru Dosh and Narayan Nagbali puja
- Kumbh Mela is held here every 12 years
Best Time to Visit
October to March is ideal. Shravan month (July–August) is especially auspicious.
Connectivity
- Well connected by road and rail from Nashik
- Included in most 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour package from Pune
2. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Near Pune
Location
Bhimashankar is located about 125 km from Pune, nestled in the Sahyadri ranges.
Religious Significance
According to legend, Lord Shiva took the form of Bhimashankar to destroy the demon Tripurasura. The temple is also the source of the Bhima River.
Temple Highlights
- Ancient Nagara-style architecture
- Surrounded by dense forests and wildlife sanctuary
- One of the most scenic Jyotirlingas in India
Best Time to Visit
September to February. Monsoon visits are beautiful but roads can be slippery.
Connectivity
- Easily reachable by road from Pune
- A must-visit temple in any Pilgrimage tour package from Pune
3. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Aurangabad
Location
Grishneshwar is located near Ellora Caves, about 30 km from Aurangabad.
Religious Significance
This is considered the 12th and last Jyotirlinga mentioned in ancient texts. The temple represents devotion and compassion, as per the legend of a woman devotee named Kusuma.
Temple Highlights
- Red stone temple rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar
- Close proximity to Ellora and Ajanta Caves
- Simple yet spiritually powerful atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
October to March is best for comfortable travel.
Connectivity
- Aurangabad is well connected by rail and road
- Commonly paired with Parli Vaijnath in tour itineraries
4. Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga – Hingoli
Location
Situated in Hingoli district, Aundha Nagnath is believed to be one of the oldest Jyotirlingas.
Religious Significance
Some traditions believe this temple existed even before the time of the Pandavas. It is closely associated with Yudhishthira, who is said to have built the temple.
Temple Highlights
- Hemadpanthi architectural style
- Deeply spiritual but less crowded than other Jyotirlingas
- Strong connection with Nath Sampradaya
Best Time to Visit
October to February is ideal.
Connectivity
- Accessible via Parbhani or Nanded
- Included in extended 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour package from Pune
5. Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga – Beed
Location
Parli Vaijnath is located in Beed district, in central Maharashtra.
Religious Significance
This temple is associated with the legend of Ravana and Mount Kailash. It is believed that Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva here to gain immortality.
Temple Highlights
- Hilltop temple with peaceful surroundings
- Important pilgrimage for devotees seeking health and healing
Best Time to Visit
Winter months are most comfortable.
Connectivity
- Accessible via Latur or Beed
- Often combined with Aundha Nagnath in pilgrimage routes
Best Time to Visit the 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra
- October to March: Ideal weather for long-distance travel
- Shravan Month: Highly auspicious but crowded
- Avoid peak summer due to high temperatures
Why Start the Jyotirlinga Tour from Pune?
Pune is one of the best starting points for a Pilgrimage tour package from Pune because:
- Excellent road, rail, and air connectivity
- Close proximity to Bhimashankar
- Well-developed tour operator network
- Comfortable overnight travel options
Most devotees prefer booking a 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour package from Pune as it offers a structured itinerary, accommodation, and darshan planning.
Suggested Itinerary for 5 Jyotirlinga Tour from Pune
Day 1: Pune – Bhimashankar – Nashik (Trimbakeshwar)
Day 2: Trimbakeshwar Darshan – Aurangabad
Day 3: Grishneshwar Darshan – Parli Vaijnath
Day 4: Parli – Aundha Nagnath – Return Journey
This itinerary may vary depending on travel mode and package type.
Benefits of Booking a 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra Tour Package from Pune
- Hassle-free travel planning
- Confirmed hotel stays near temples
- Experienced drivers and guides
- Time-efficient darshan planning
- Ideal for families and senior citizens
A guided Pilgrimage tour package from Pune ensures spiritual focus without logistical stress.
Tips for Jyotirlinga Yatra
- Wear modest and traditional clothing
- Carry valid ID for temple entry
- Avoid peak darshan hours if possible
- Follow temple rules strictly
- Keep personal belongings minimal
Conclusion
Visiting the 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra is not just a journey across sacred temples, but a transformative spiritual experience. Each Jyotirlinga carries its own divine energy, history, and legend, offering devotees peace, faith, and inner strength.
Choosing a 5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour package from Pune or a customized Pilgrimage tour package from Pune is the most convenient and spiritually fulfilling way to complete this sacred yatra. With proper planning, devotion, and guidance, this pilgrimage becomes a lifetime memory filled with divine blessings of Lord Shiva.
