Grishneshwar Temple
One of the sacred 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, nestled in Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Visiting Hours
| Occasion | Visiting Hours |
|---|---|
| Every Day | 5:00 AM - 9:00 AM |
| All Mondays of Shrawan Month | Sunday 12:00 AM - Tuesday 1:00 AM |
| Vaikunth Chaturdashi | 5:00 AM - 3:00 AM (next day) |
| Mahashivratri | From previous day 12:00 AM - All Day |
Location
Grishneshwar Temple 12th, Verul, Aurangabad District
Maharashtra, India - 431102
Kinds of Puja in Grishneshwar Temple
| Particulars of Puja | |
|---|---|
| Panchamrut Pujan | Puja Abhishek |
| Rudra Abhishek | Mahapuja |
| Laghu Rudra (with 11 Brahman Bhojan) | Maharudra (with 11 Brahman Bhojan) |
| Mahamrutyunjay Jap (1,25,000 Times Mantra Jap) | Savvalaksh Bilva Patra Arpan (1,25,000 Times Mantra Jap) |
| Annadan | |
Rich History & Heritage
The Last Jyotirlinga
Grishneshwar Temple, also known as Grushneshwar or Ghushmeshwar, is revered as the 12th and final Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva mentioned in the Shiva Purana. Located in the village of Verul near Daulatabad in Aurangabad district, this ancient temple holds immense religious significance for devotees of Lord Shiva.
The temple was reconstructed by Ahilyabai Holkar, the queen of Indore, in the 18th century after it was destroyed during the Mughal era. The architectural style reflects the Bhoomija design, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the temple walls.
According to legend, a devout woman named Kusuma, who was married to a merchant, installed the lingam here. The temple's name is derived from "Ghushma," which was another name of Kusuma, making it "Ghushmeshwar" or "Grishneshwar."
Architectural Marvel
The temple stands as a testament to ancient Indian architecture, built from red rocks with a five-tier shikhara (spire). The temple walls feature intricate carvings depicting various deities and scenes from Hindu mythology.
Religious Significance
As the 12th Jyotirlinga, Grishneshwar holds special importance in Hindu tradition. It is believed that worshipping here brings prosperity and fulfills wishes. The temple is especially crowded during Maha Shivaratri.
Cultural Heritage
Beyond its religious significance, the temple serves as a cultural center where traditional rituals, music, and art forms are preserved and celebrated, especially during festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Temple Gallery
Explore the divine beauty and architectural grandeur of Grishneshwar Temple through our curated collection of images.
Majestic front view of the temple
Sacred interior sanctum
Intricate stone carvings on temple walls
Celebration during Maha Shivaratri
Golden hour view of the temple
Architectural details of the shikhara
How to Reach
Plan your journey to Grishneshwar Temple with these helpful directions and transportation options.
By Road
Grishneshwar Temple is located approximately 30 km from Aurangabad city and 2 km from the famous Ellora Caves.
- From Aurangabad: Take the Aurangabad-Ellora Road (NH 211) and follow signs to Ellora/Verul.
- From Mumbai: Approximately 335 km via NH 160 and NH 211 (7-8 hours drive).
- From Pune: Approximately 260 km via NH 60 (5-6 hours drive).
By Train
The nearest railway station is Aurangabad Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad.
- From Aurangabad Railway Station: Hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple (approximately 30 km).
- Regular trains operate from Mumbai, Pune, and other major cities to Aurangabad.
By Air
The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (Chikalthana Airport), which has regular flights from Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad.
- From Aurangabad Airport: Hire a taxi to reach the temple (approximately 35 km).
- Pre-paid taxi services are available at the airport.
Location Map
Grishneshwar Temple 12th Jyotirlinga, Verul, Aurangabad District, Maharashtra, India - 431102
Contact Information
Get in touch with the temple administration for inquiries about visits, special pujas, or any other information.
Temple Contact Details
Phone Numbers
Temple Office: +91-9422714413
Visitor Information: +91-9422714413
akshayvaidya5004@gmail.com
Address
Grishneshwar Temple 12th Jyotirlinga,
Verul, Ellora,
Aurangabad District,
Maharashtra, India - 431102
Important Information
- For special puja arrangements, please contact the temple office at least 3 days in advance.
- Photography is restricted in certain areas of the temple.
- Dress modestly when visiting the temple as a mark of respect.
- The temple gets crowded during weekends and festivals, so plan accordingly.