Ever visited a temple that's neighbours with the world-famous Ellora Caves? That's Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 most sacred Shiva temples and the last Jyotirlinga on the spiritual circuit. Let me take you through everything you need to know about this ancient divine place.
What Is Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga?
Grishneshwar (also called Ghushmeshwar or Ghrishneshwar) is the twelfth and last among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located near the historic Ellora Caves in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, it's just 11 km from Daulatabad and 30 km from Aurangabad city. What makes it truly special? It's the smallest yet most beautifully carved Jyotirlinga temple, standing as a masterpiece of ancient Indian architecture.
The name "Grishneshwar" means "Lord of Compassion". Some believe it comes from "Ghushma" (a devoted woman's name) and "Ishwar" (Lord). A Jyotirlinga represents a "pillar of light" where Shiva manifests in his purest form.
According to the Shiva Purana, this sacred temple witnessed one of the most touching stories of devotion, patience, and divine grace, making it a powerful place for devotees seeking Shiva's blessings.
Story and History of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
The Legend of Ghushmeshwar
The most beautiful story behind Grishneshwar revolves around a devoted woman named Ghushma. In ancient times, a pious Brahmin named Sudharm lived in a village called Devagiri (present-day Daulatabad) with his wife, Sudeha. They were childless, which caused Sudeha great sorrow.
Understanding her pain, Sudeha suggested that Sudharm marry her younger sister Ghushma, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. Ghushma agreed and continued her daily ritual of making 101 clay Shivalingas, worshipping them with complete devotion, and then immersing them in the nearby lake.
Lord Shiva was pleased with Ghushma's pure devotion and blessed her with a beautiful son. However, this made Sudeha intensely jealous. In a fit of rage, she killed Ghushma's son and threw his body into the same lake where Ghushma immersed the lingas daily.
Next morning, when Ghushma went to the lake after her puja, she was shocked to find her son playing near the water, alive and smiling! Lord Shiva, moved by her devotion and forgiveness, appeared before her and offered a boon.
Ghushma asked that Shiva reside in that place forever so that all devotees could receive his blessings. Pleased with her selflessness, Lord Shiva manifested as the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, and the lake became sacred forever.
This story teaches us the power of unwavering devotion, forgiveness, and selfless love - all qualities dear to Lord Shiva.
Historical Timeline
The original temple is believed to be over 2,000 years old, mentioned in the Shiva Purana. The temple was destroyed during various invasions but was rebuilt multiple times. The current red stone temple structure was rebuilt by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in 1754, the same queen who rebuilt Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
The temple's proximity to Ellora Caves (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) creates a unique blend of spiritual and historical tourism.
Spiritual Significance of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
As one of only 12 Jyotirlingas, Grishneshwar is where Shiva appeared as an infinite pillar of light. Despite being the smallest Jyotirlinga temple in physical size, it's considered equally powerful.
Devotees believe:
✦ Forgiveness & Peace: Since Ghushma forgave her sister completely, prayers here help release anger and grudges
✦ Family Harmony: The story involves family relationships, making it powerful for resolving family conflicts.
✦ Child Blessings: Following Ghushma's story, childless couples pray here for children
✦ Devotion Rewards: Pure devotion is rewarded regardless of circumstances
What makes Grishneshwar special is its teaching - that devotion combined with forgiveness creates the most powerful spiritual energy. The temple radiates peace and compassion. Many spiritual seekers who wear sacred items like authentic Rudraksha malas and silver Shiva jewellery visit Grishneshwar to deepen their practice of forgiveness and compassion.
Grishneshwar Temple Location and Architecture
How to Reach
By Air: Aurangabad Airport (30 km) well connected to Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad.
By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station (30 km) good connectivity across Maharashtra.
By Road: Regular buses from Aurangabad (30 km), Pune (240 km), Mumbai (340 km)
The temple is located in the village of Verul, which also houses the famous Ellora Caves. Most visitors combine both visits in one trip!
Temple Architecture
The current temple, built by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, is a stunning example of South Indian architecture with Maratha influence. The five-tier tower made of beautiful red stone features intricate carvings. The main sanctum houses the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, an eastward-facing black stone lingam.
The temple complex includes a magnificent brass Nandi facing the sanctum, intricately carved pillars depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, a beautiful courtyard with a sacred water tank, and shrines of Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha. The red stone used gives the temple a warm, welcoming glow, especially at sunset. Every pillar tells a story through its carvings.
The sacred lake where Ghushma performed her daily rituals still exists near the temple. Devotees consider it very auspicious.
Darshan Timings and Aarti Schedule
Temple Timings
The temple is open from 5:30 AM - 9:30 PM daily.
Daily Aarti Schedule
Kakad Aarti (5:30-6:00 AM): Morning awakening ritual, the most peaceful time
Abhishekam (6:00-7:00 AM): Sacred bathing ritual with milk, honey, and holy water
Madhyana Aarti (12:00-12:30 PM): Midday worship with food offerings
Sandhya Aarti (6:30-7:30 PM): Grand evening aarti with lamps and bells the temple glows with divine energy.
Shej Aarti (9:00-9:30 PM): Final ritual preparing Lord Grishneshwar for rest
The evening Sandhya Aarti is particularly beautiful the red stone temple illuminated with oil lamps, the sound of bells echoing, and devotees chanting "Om Namah Shivaya" create a truly divine atmosphere!
How to Do Darshan at Grishneshwar Temple
Darshan Options
Free Darshan: Queue time is usually 30 minutes to 1 hour much shorter than most Jyotirlingas. The temple is well-managed and peaceful.
Special Entry (₹50-₹100): Faster entry available during peak times
Puja Booking: For specific rituals with priority darshan (₹500-₹5,000)
Best Time to Visit
Early Morning (5:30-7:00 AM): Least crowded, cool weather
Evening (6:00-8:00 PM): Beautiful sunset views, evening aarti
Avoid: Maha Shivaratri, Shravan Mondays (crowded but manageable)
Best Weather: October to March - perfect for visiting Ellora Caves too
Important Tips
Most people visit Ellora Caves (2 km away) and Grishneshwar Temple together – plan for a full day. Modest, traditional clothing appreciated. Photography not allowed inside main sanctum. Stay in Aurangabad city (30 km) which has hotels for all budgets. Simple vegetarian meals available near the temple.
Rituals and Pujas at Grishneshwar Temple
Popular Rituals
Abhishekam: Sacred bathing with panchamrita - powerful for removing negativity and bringing peace (₹300-₹500)
Rudrabhishekam: Vedic ceremony for removing obstacles and family problems (₹1,100-₹2,100)
Maha Rudrabhishekam: Grand ritual for major life events and marriage wishes (₹5,100-₹11,000)
Mahamrityunjaya Jaap: Powerful health and longevity mantras (₹2,100-₹5,100)
Special Offerings
Offering 101 Bilva (Bel) leaves to Shiva is considered very auspicious. Milk Abhishekam is especially powerful on Mondays. Inspired by Ghushma's story, many devotees make small clay Shivalingas, worship them at the temple, and immerse them in the sacred lake continuing the ancient tradition.
Beliefs and Miracles of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
✦ Forgiveness Power: Devotees find it easier to let go of anger and resentment
✦ Lost Children Return: Many parents pray here for lost or troubled children
✦ Family Reconciliation: Broken family relationships mysteriously heal
✦ Childless Couples: Many report conceiving after devoted worship
Countless devotees report long-standing family feuds resolving, estranged children calling parents unexpectedly, relief from guilt about past mistakes, and feeling unusual warmth and peace during darshan. The temple's energy is notably gentle yet powerful – devotees describe feeling embraced by divine compassion.
Grishneshwar and Moksha
Grishneshwar holds special significance for moksha (liberation) through the path of compassion and forgiveness. According to scriptures, harbouring anger and grudges is one of the biggest obstacles to spiritual liberation. This Jyotirlinga specifically helps devotees release these negative emotions.
Ghushma's story teaches that even in the face of tragedy, maintaining devotion and forgiveness attracts divine intervention. This is the unique spiritual lesson of Grishneshwar - moksha through compassion.
Rudraksha and Lord Shiva
When you visit Grishneshwar, you'll notice devotees wearing Rudraksha beads. According to the Shiva Purana, Rudraksha beads were born from Lord Shiva's tears. After meditating for humanity's welfare, when Mahadev opened his eyes, tears of compassion fell to earth, creating Rudraksha trees.
These sacred beads carry Shiva's divine energy and blessings. Worn close to the skin, they create a protective shield, help in meditation, bring mental clarity, and directly connect the wearer with Shiva's consciousness. For devotees visiting sacred places like Grishneshwar, authentic Rudraksha maintains that spiritual connection even after returning home. At Prinjal, we understand this sacred bond deeply and offer genuine Rudraksha beads, handcrafted silver Shiva malas, and traditional spiritual jewellery that honours this ancient tradition. Each piece goes through careful authentication - no imitations, only authentic, energised Rudraksha and silver designs featuring Trishul, Damru, and Om symbols that keep you connected to Lord Shiva's divine energy in your daily spiritual practice.
The compassionate energy of Grishneshwar charges Rudraksha beads with gentle healing vibrations. When you combine visiting Grishneshwar with daily practice of wearing authentic Rudraksha, you create a complete circle of devotion, keeping divine compassion active in everyday life.
Festivals at Grishneshwar
Maha Shivaratri (February/March): The biggest festival with thousands of devotees and all-night celebrations.
Shravan Month (July/August): Every Monday sees special celebrations with devotees offering water and milk.
Kartik Purnima (November): Beautiful celebrations with lamps and special evening aarti.
Nearby Attractions
Ellora Caves (2 km): UNESCO World Heritage Site with 34 magnificent rock-cut temples. Daulatabad Fort (11 km): Historic fort with amazing architecture.
Bibi Ka Maqbara (35 km): The "Taj of Deccan" in Aurangabad.
Most pilgrims combine Grishneshwar darshan with Ellora Caves visit - a perfect blend of spirituality and history.
Har Har Mahadev 🙏
