Discovering Divine Radiance: The 12 Jyotirlingas of India

What is a Jyotirlinga?

The word is a Sanskrit compound of jyotis and linga. Jyoti means light and linga means mark. So, jyotirlinga implies the Radiant mark or emblem of Lord Shiva.

Somnath, Gujarat:

The Protector of the Moon, Somnath is revered as the first Jyotirlinga. Its ancient temple stands as a symbol of resilience and spirituality.

Mallikarjuna, Andhra Pradesh

Nestled in the scenic Nallamala hills, Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga represents the aspect of Lord Shiva as a benevolent destroyer of sins.

Mahakaleshwar, Madhya Pradesh

Situated on the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is associated with time and the eternal nature of Lord Shiva.

Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh

On the island of Mandhata in the Narmada River, Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga symbolizes the oneness of all existence and the omnipresence of Lord Shiva.

Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Nestled in the Himalayas, Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is a symbol of divine power and spiritual elevation, drawing pilgrims seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Bhimashankar, Maharashtra

Surrounded by lush greenery in the Sahyadri range, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva defeating the demon Bhima.

Kashi Vishwanath, Uttar Pradesh

Situated in the holy city of Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga holds immense spiritual significance, attracting devotees from around the world.

Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra

Nestled in the Brahmagiri hills near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga represents the three faces of Lord Shiva—Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara.

Baidyanath (Baijnath), Jharkhand

Located in Deoghar, Baidyanath Jyotirlinga is associated with healing and is believed to have the power to cure ailments and diseases.

Nageshwar (Aundha), Gujarat

Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is a revered pilgrimage site, embodying the divine presence of Lord Shiva as the Lord of the Nagas.

Rameshwar (Ramanathaswamy), Tamil Nadu

Located on Rameswaram Island, Rameshwar Jyotirlinga holds significance in Hindu mythology and is associated with the legend of Lord Rama.

Grishneshwar, Maharashtra

Near Ellora, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is a sacred site known for its historical and architectural significance, reflecting the devotion to Lord Shiva.