The 12 Jyotirlingas are significant shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, representing his infinite power and supreme consciousness. These temples are scattered across India, and visiting each of them is considered an auspicious and spiritual journey. According to ancient texts, these Jyotirlingas are not just physical structures but divine manifestations of Lord Shiva himself. The name “Jyotirlinga” means a “column of light,” symbolizing the infinite and formless nature of Lord Shiva.

Here’s a guide to the 12 Jyotirlingas:

1. Somnath (Gujarat)

Located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra, Somnath is the first and one of the most prominent Jyotirlingas. It is said to be the first among the 12, known for its breathtaking beachside view and historical significance. Somnath is famously associated with Lord Soma (the Moon God), and it is believed that Lord Shiva cured the moon god from a curse at this place.

 

2. Mallikarjuna (Andhra Pradesh)

Situated on the Shri Shaila mountain range in Andhra Pradesh, Mallikarjuna is revered by devotees of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is said to be the place where Lord Shiva, in the form of a Jyotirlinga, resides with his consort Parvati.

3. Mahakaleshwar (Madhya Pradesh)

Located in Ujjain, Mahakaleshwar is a majestic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The unique feature of this Jyotirlinga is that it is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested) and faces south, unlike most other temples that face north. Ujjain is also one of the four places where the Kumbh Mela is held.

4. Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh)

This Jyotirlinga is situated on an island called Mandhata in the Narmada River. The island is shaped like the Om symbol, which gives this temple its name. Omkareshwar is famous for its tranquil surroundings and is a significant pilgrimage site in India.

5. Kedarnath (Uttarakhand)

Kedarnath is one of the holiest places in India and is located in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is known for its breathtaking location amid snow-capped mountains. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

6. Bhimashankar (Maharashtra)

Bhimashankar is situated in the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra. It is believed that Lord Shiva killed the demon Bhima here. The temple is also known for its scenic beauty and is an important site for pilgrims visiting the Western Ghats.

7. Kashi Vishwanath (Uttar Pradesh)

Located in Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, Kashi Vishwanath is one of the most revered Jyotirlingas. Devotees from across the world visit Varanasi to take a holy dip in the Ganges and worship Lord Shiva at this sacred temple.

8. Trimbakeshwar (Maharashtra)

Situated near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar is the source of the Godavari River, one of India’s holiest rivers. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is unique because it has a three-faced Shiva Linga representing the three aspects of Shiva: Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra.

9. Vaijnath (Jharkhand)

Located in Parli, Vaijnath is an ancient temple that is a prominent Jyotirlinga. It is known for its spiritual atmosphere, and it is said that worshiping here fulfills all wishes and brings peace and prosperity.

10. Nageshwar (Gujarat)

Nageshwar is situated near Dwarka in Gujarat and is renowned for its association with the serpent king, Vasuki. This Jyotirlinga is considered to be a protector against snake bites, and the temple is an important pilgrimage site in the state.

11. Ramanathaswamy (Tamil Nadu)

Located on Rameswaram Island, Ramanathaswamy is famous for its long corridors and sacred waters. It is believed that Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here to seek forgiveness after killing Ravana. The temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra.

12. Grishneshwar (Maharashtra)

Located near Ellora caves in Maharashtra, Grishneshwar is the last of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is one of the lesser-known Jyotirlingas but is highly revered by devotees. The temple is noted for its beautiful carvings and scenic surroundings.