Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple – Maharashtra

Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, and holds immense spiritual, historical, and cultural importance. Nestled near the famous Ellora Caves, this temple attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year for its divine aura, ancient architecture, and mythological significance. Whether you're a devotee, a history lover, or a traveler, this temple offers a deeply enriching experience.

About the Temple:

Ghrishneshwar Temple is the 12th and last Jyotirlinga in the sacred Shiva Jyotirlinga circuit. It stands as a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva and holds deep mythological relevance.

Temple Description:

Constructed from red basalt rock, the temple is a fine example of ancient Hemadpanthi architecture.

It has a five-tiered shikhara, beautifully carved pillars, and intricate stone work.

The sanctum houses the east-facing Swayambhu Shiva Linga.

Temple Specialty:

Only Jyotirlinga temple where devotees are allowed to touch and perform abhishekam directly to the Shiva Linga.

Located just beside the world-famous Ellora Caves, making it a dual religious and heritage destination.

The temple was reconstructed by Ahilyabai Holkar, a famous Maratha queen and temple patron.

Temple Address:

Ghrishneshwar Temple, Verul Village, Ellora, Aurangabad District, Maharashtra - 431102, India

Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude):

19.8763° N, 75.1794° E

Temple Timings:

Daily: 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM

Special poojas and celebrations during Mahashivratri and Shravan Month

Temple Sevas:

Rudrabhishek

Laghu Rudra

Jalabhishek

Parthiv Shiva Pooja

Daily Aartis and special Mahapuja

Travel & Hospitality Guide

Traveling Facilities:

Local transport: taxis, buses, shared jeeps

Well-connected roads and parking available

Food Facilities:

Local eateries and restaurants nearby serve vegetarian meals

Larger dining options available in Aurangabad

Stay Facilities:

Budget lodges near the temple and in Verul

Premium hotels available in Aurangabad city

Nearby Travel Hubs

Nearby Railway Station:

Aurangabad Railway Station – approx. 30 km

Nearby Airport:

Aurangabad Airport (Chikalthana) – approx. 35 km

Nearby Bus Station:

Ellora Bus Stop

Aurangabad Central Bus Stand

Travel Routes

Bus Routes to Temple:

MSRTC and private buses from Pune, Nashik, Mumbai, and Aurangabad

Train Routes to Temple:

Trains to Aurangabad Station from:

Mumbai

Pune

Hyderabad

Secunderabad

Nagpur

Air Routes to Temple:

Domestic flights to Aurangabad Airport from:

Mumbai

Delhi

Hyderabad

Bengaluru

Additional Information

Nearby Cities to Temple:

Aurangabad – 30 km

Nashik – 180 km

Pune – 240 km

Mumbai – 340 km

Nearby Visiting Places & Temples:

Ellora Caves

Ajanta Caves – 100 km

Daulatabad Fort

Bibi Ka Maqbara

Shani Shingnapur

Jyotiba Temple

Preferable Visiting Season:

October to March – Best weather conditions

Mahashivratri and Shravan month for spiritual festivals

Shopping Famous For:

Paithani sarees

Aurangabad silk

Bidriware, brass and metal crafts Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is a divine confluence of faith, history, and heritage. As one of the most spiritually powerful and architecturally majestic Shiva temples in India, it offers not just blessings, but a deep connection to India’s sacred traditions. Its location near the Ellora Caves makes it a must-visit for pilgrims and travelers alike. Plan your visit during the cooler months to fully experience the serenity and grandeur of this revered site.