The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Verul village near Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is the 12th and last Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. This ancient temple, also known as Ghushmeshwar, holds immense spiritual significance and is closely associated with the Ellora Caves (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

You can read : Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple

Built in the 18th century by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, the temple showcases beautiful Hemadpanthi architecture with intricate carvings and a five-tiered shikhara (spire). The sanctum houses a self-manifested (Swayambhu) lingam, believed to be where Lord Shiva appeared to bless his devotee Ghushma.

The temple is especially crowded during Maha Shivaratri, Shravan month (July-August), and Kartik Purnima. Its proximity to the Ellora Caves makes it a perfect blend of spiritual and historical exploration.

How to Reach Grishneshwar Temple

• By Air: Nearest airport – Aurangabad (30 km, 45-minute drive).

• By Train: Nearest railway station – Aurangabad (35 km, 1-hour drive).

• By Road:

  • From Aurangabad: Regular buses and taxis (1-hour journey).

  • From Mumbai/Pune: Drive via Mumbai-Aurangabad Highway (5-6 hours).

Rituals & Aarti Timings

• Morning Aarti: 5:30 AM

• Abhishekam: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM (with milk, honey, and bilva leaves).

• Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM

Major Festivals:

• Maha Shivaratri (Feb-Mar) – Grand celebrations with night-long prayers.

• Shravan Month (Jul-Aug) – Special Rudrabhishek and fasting rituals.

Things to Do

1. Perform Abhishekam to the Jyotirlinga.

2. Visit the nearby Ellora Caves (1 km away).

3. Explore the temple’s intricate carvings and architecture.

4. Attend the evening aarti for a divine experience.

5. Meditate in the serene temple surroundings.

Nearest Tourist Places

1. Ellora Caves – UNESCO World Heritage Site (1 km).

2. Ajanta Caves – Ancient Buddhist caves (100 km).

3. Daulatabad Fort – Historic fort (15 km).

4. Bibi Ka Maqbara – "Mini Taj Mahal" (30 km).

5. Aurangabad City – Explore local markets and cuisine.

FAQs

Q1. What is the best time to visit Grishneshwar?

• Winter (Oct-Feb) for pleasant weather, avoid peak summer (Apr-Jun).

Q2. Are there accommodation options near the temple?

• Yes, budget lodges, dharamshalas, and hotels in Aurangabad.

Q3. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

• No, photography is restricted in the sanctum.

Q4. Why is Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga significant?

• It is the 12th and last Jyotirlinga, with a rich legend tied to devotion.

Q5. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

• Yes, but only Hindus are allowed near the main deity.

🚩 Travel Tip: Combine your visit with Ellora Caves for a perfect spiritual-historical tour! 🙏