Embarking on a spiritual journey across India, “A Month with Shiva: 30-Day Itinerary and Stories of the 12 Jyotirlingas” offers an unparalleled exploration of the most revered Jyotirlinga shrines. Jyotirlingam, which means “pillar of light” in Sanskrit, symbolizes the places where Lord Shiva manifested himself. Out of the 64 original Jyotirlingas, these twelve hold immense significance and power, attracting countless devotees from around the world.
This guide not only provides a detailed 30-day itinerary to visit these sacred sites but also delves into the captivating stories and legends associated with each Jyotirlinga. From the grandeur of Somnath in Gujarat to the serenity of Rameshwar in Tamil Nadu, every shrine has a unique tale that enriches the spiritual experience. Join us as we traverse the country, uncovering the divine mysteries and historical richness of these holy places.
Table of Contents
Order of the 12 Jyotirlingas in Hindu Mythology
Here is the order of all the 12 Jyotirlingas:
- Somnath Jyotirlinga – Prabhas Patan, Gujarat
- Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga – Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
- Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga – Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
- Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga – Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh
- Kedarnath Jyotirlinga – Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
- Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Bhimashankar, Maharashtra
- Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Trimbak, Maharashtra
- Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga – Deoghar, Jharkhand
- Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – Dwarka, Gujarat
- Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga – Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
- Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Ellora, Maharashtra
These sacred sites hold immense significance in Hindu mythology and are revered by millions of devotees seeking blessings from Lord Shiva.
Stories of the 12 Jyotirlingas
- Somnath (Gujarat): The first Jyotirlinga, Somnath, is located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra, Gujarat. It was destroyed and rebuilt about sixteen times due to its immense wealth and significance. The story goes that Chandra (the moon) married all 27 daughters of Daksha, but favored Rohini. Angered, Daksha cursed Chandra to lose his light. Following the gods’ pleas, Daksha agreed to lift the curse if Chandra worshipped Lord Shiva. Chandra’s devotion led to Lord Shiva manifesting as Somnath and restoring his light.
- Mallikarjuna (Andhra Pradesh): Situated on the Shri Shaila Mountain on the Krishna River banks, the story of Mallikarjuna revolves around Shiva and Parvati’s sons, Kartik and Ganesh. Unable to decide who should marry first, they were told to circumnavigate the world. Ganesh won by circling his parents, symbolizing the world. Kartik, embarrassed, retreated to Mount Kravunja, and Shiva and Parvati visited him, leading to the establishment of the Mallikarjuna shrine.
- Mahakaleshwar (Madhya Pradesh): Located in Ujjain, Mahakaleshwar’s story involves King Chandrasena, a devout follower of Shiva. When the kingdom was attacked by King Ripudamana and the demon Dushan, the citizens prayed to Shiva, who appeared and protected them. The people requested Shiva to stay in Ujjain, and he agreed, manifesting as the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.
- Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh): On Mandhata Island in the Narmada River, the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga has several legends. One story tells of Shiva defeating the danavas on the gods’ request, while another speaks of Mount Vindya’s request to Shiva, who blessed the mountain with might. Another tale mentions King Mandhata’s devotion that pleased Shiva, leading him to reside here.
- Kedarnath (Uttarakhand): Nestled in the Rudra Himalayas, near the source of the Mandakini River, Kedarnath is accessible mainly in summer due to harsh winters. The Pandavas, seeking to atone for their sins, found Shiva here. Pleased with their devotion, Shiva manifested as a triangular Jyotirlinga, promising to stay and bless devotees.
- Bhimashankar (Maharashtra): Near Pune, Bhimashankar’s legend features the demon Bhima, son of Kumbhakarna, who sought revenge against Vishnu. Bhima’s atrocities led Shiva to intervene and protect his devotee, Kamarupeshwar. Shiva defeated Bhima, and the gods requested Shiva to stay, resulting in the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.
- Kashi Vishwanath (Uttar Pradesh): Located in Varanasi, this Jyotirlinga symbolizes Shiva as the ruler of the universe. The ancient city is believed to be indestructible and grants moksha. Legends say Shiva created the city, and it remains a place where sins are washed away, making it a sacred pilgrimage site.
- Trimbakeshwar (Maharashtra): Near Nasik, at the Godavari River’s source, Trimbakeshwar features three lingas representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. The story involves Gautam Rishi, blessed by Shiva with a bottomless pit of grain. Other jealous rishis sent a cow to disrupt him, leading Gautam to seek Ganges’s flow to cleanse his sins. Shiva granted this wish and stayed as Trimbakeshwar.
- Vaidyanath (Jharkhand): Also known as Baidyanath, this Jyotirlinga’s story features Ravana, who wanted to make Lanka invincible. Shiva gave him a lingam, warning it would affix to the ground if placed before reaching Lanka. Ganesh, disguised as a shepherd boy, placed it in Jharkhand, leading to its establishment there.
- Nageshwar (Gujarat): Near Dwarka, Nageshwar’s legend involves a Shiva devotee, Supriya, captured by the demon Daaruka. Shiva appeared, defeated Daaruka, and manifested as the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga to protect his devotees.
- Rameshwar (Tamil Nadu): On Pamban Island, Rameshwar is one of the Char Dhams. It features two lingams, one brought by Hanuman from Kailash and the other by Sita. Worship of the Vishwalingam, brought by Hanuman, occurs first. Lord Rama worshipped Shiva here after defeating Ravana, leading to the temple’s sacred status and unique architecture.
- Grishneshwar (Maharashtra): Near the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Grishneshwar’s story involves Kusuma, a devout woman whose son was killed out of jealousy. Shiva revived her son and manifested as the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, honoring Kusuma’s devotion.
A Month with Shiva: 30-Day Itinerary to Visit all 12 Jyotirlingas
Day 00 – Tuesday Midnight
Begin your spiritual journey by boarding Train no 12401 (Kota DDN AC Exp) from New Delhi (Hazrat Nizzamuddin) station at 11:50 PM. This train will take you to Haridwar, arriving the next day at 4 AM.
Day 01 – Wednesday: Arrival in Haridwar
Upon arrival at Haridwar Station, proceed towards the Haridwar Bus stand, conveniently located within walking distance from the railway station. Here, you’ll board a bus heading to Sonprayag, a journey of approximately 240 KM which takes about 8-9 hours. The bus fare is around 500 INR per person, subject to seasonal variations. Make sure to register online for Kedarnath darshan at touristcare.uk.gov.in.
Stay overnight at Sonprayag.
Day 02 – Thursday: Trek to Kedarnath
Wake up early at 3:30 AM to embark on your journey to Gauri Kund, situated 6 KM from Sonprayag. You can opt for a shared taxi to reach Gauri Kund, which typically costs around 50 INR per person. After reaching Gauri Kund, take a bath and commence your trek towards Kedarnath for darshan.
During your trek, ensure you carry essential items such as a Poncho, Winter Cap, Gloves, Jacket, Power bank, Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Water bottle, Travel adapter, Electrolytes, and Energy bars or dry fruits for sustenance during the journey. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking water sip by sip.
Link to find all the things required for your Journey
Upon reaching Kedarnath, find accommodation for the night. Visit the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga for darshan, which is relatively easy and commences at 8 PM onwards until closing time. Don’t miss experiencing Retas Kund, where the water bubbles when you chant the name of Bholenath.
Stay overnight at Kedarnath.
Day 03 – Friday: Kedarnath Darshan and Bairavnath Visit
Begin your day with an early morning darshan at Kedarnath. After darshan, visit Bairavnath, located approximately 500 meters away. Later, depart for Gauri Kund and then onwards to Gupt Kashi.
Stay overnight at Gupt Kashi.
Day 04 – Saturday: Return to Haridwar
Embark on the journey from Gupt Kashi back to Haridwar. Upon arrival, check-in at a hotel and enjoy the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evening. Take ample rest to prepare for the exploration of the remaining 11 Jyotirlingas.
Day 05 – Sunday: Haridwar to Dwarka
Board Train no 19556 (Uttaranchal Exp) from Haridwar at 7:45 AM for Dwarka. This train journey will take you to Dwarka, reaching the destination the following day at 12:21 PM. Note that this train operates only on Sundays.
Day 06 – Monday: Dwarka Exploration
Upon arrival in Dwarka around 12:30 PM, proceed to check into your hotel. Dwarka offers a range of accommodation options, typically costing between 800-1200 INR per night.
Begin your exploration of Dwarka by visiting the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga. Since it’s Monday, devote some extra time to this visit.
Next, head to the Dwarkadheesh Temple, known for its strict no-mobile-phone policy. The temple is open from 6:30 AM to 1 PM and then from 5 PM to 9:30 PM.
Take a memorable boat ride on the Gomti River, visiting the Panch Nand Teerath. The boat ride usually costs around 100 INR.
Continue your tour by visiting the Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Mandir and the Rukmani Devi Mandir.
Day 07 – Tuesday: Exploration Continues and Journey to Veraval
Check out from your hotel and drop your luggage at the cloakroom. Book an auto or scooter and head towards Gopi Talav and Beyt Dwarka.
Visit the Dwarkadheesh Temple, where Krishna and Sudama are said to have met.
Explore Sone ki Dwarka and the Hanuman Mandir before returning to Dwarka.
After dinner, prepare to depart for Veraval, which is approximately 440 KM from Dwarka.
Board Train no 19252 (Okha Somnath Exp) from Dwarka at 8:54 PM. This train runs daily and reaches Veraval at 5:15 AM, offering a convenient nine-hour journey.
Day 08 – Wednesday: Somnath Temple Visit and Journey to Ujjain
Since you won’t be booking any hotel for the night, deposit your luggage at the cloakroom.
Begin your day with a visit to the Somnath Temple, followed by a visit to the Purana Somnath Temple, built by Ahilya Bai.
Explore the local attractions by booking an auto, visiting places like Bang Ganga, where you can find five Swambhu Shivlings.
Visit the Bhalka Teerath Mandir, Shri Ram Mandir, Golak Dhaam Teerath, Surya Mandir, Panch Pandav Gufa, and the Triveni Sangam, where the Hiranya, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers meet.
Later, depart for Ujjain.
Board Train no 19319 (VRL INDB Mahamana) from Veraval at 10:20 PM. This train reaches Ujjain at 2:50 PM the next day.
Day 09 – Thursday: Ujjain Exploration
Arrive in Ujjain around 3 PM and check into your hotel.
Begin your exploration by visiting the Mahakaal Temple for darshan. VIP darshan options are available for a fee of 250 INR.
Explore Mahakal Lok, preferably in the late evening, and visit the Mata Harshiddhi Mandir for the deeparti, a Shakti Peeth where Mata Sati’s elbow is said to have fallen.
Day 10 – Friday: Ujjain Sightseeing and Journey to Omkareshwar
Start your day with a darshan at the Mahakaal Temple.
Visit Ram Ghat, Vikramaditya Tila, Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Mata Gadhkalika Mandir, Mangalnath Mandir, Chintamani Ganesh Mandir, and the Sandipani Ashram, where Krishna is believed to have learned his 64 arts.
After lunch, depart for Omkareshwar, approximately 140 KM away, a journey of about 4 hours by bus (around 250 INR) or shared taxi (300-400 INR).
Stay overnight at Omkareshwar to continue your pilgrimage journey.
Day 11 – Saturday: Omkareshwar to Trimbakeshwar
Begin your day with an early morning bath in the sacred waters of the Narmada River, followed by a visit to the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga. For those seeking a VIP Darshan experience, it’s available for a fee of 300 INR.
After completing your darshan, head to the bank of the river and take a shared boat to cross over or reach the other end of the river for darshan at the Mamleshwar Jyotirlinga. You can easily cover both places before lunch.
Post lunch, depart for Kandwa via bus or shared taxi, which is approximately 70 KM away and takes about 2 hours to reach.
In the evening, catch Train number 12618 (Mangla Lakshdeep Exp) from Kandwa, departing at 9 PM. This train heads to Nasik Road Railway Station, covering a distance of approximately 400 KM in about 5-6 hours. Ensure to book your tickets in advance.
Day 12 – Sunday: Trimbakeshwar Exploration
Upon arrival at Nasik Road Railway Station, check into your hotel as you will return after the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga darshan.
Near Nasik Road Railway Station, you can find buses for Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, located in Trimbak village, approximately 40 KM away, which takes about 1 hour to reach.
Alternatively, you can stay at Gajanan Ashram near Trimbakeshwar, where a dormitory costs approximately 60 INR and a room for a family costs 475 INR. They also offer unlimited meals at 40 INR.
Explore the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, where worship is dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. VIP darshan is available for 200 INR.
Visit Kushavarat Teerath, where Gautam Rishi tied the Godavari River. Optionally, you can visit Bharhgiri Parvat, a 1-2 hour trek, with auto hire available for 100 INR.
Perform the Kall Sarp Yog Puja at Trimbakeshwar, which takes approximately 2-3 hours.
Return to Nasik and stay overnight.
Day 13 – Monday: Journey to Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Wake up early and embark on a journey to Aurangabad for the Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga darshan, approximately 170 KM away and taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach.
Check into your hotel upon arrival and visit the Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple.
Explore the Ellora Caves, making sure to visit Gufa no 16. Note that the caves are closed on Tuesdays, and exploring them typically takes about 2 hours.
Stay overnight at Ghrishneshwar.
Day 14 – Tuesday: Ghrishneshwar and Departure for Pune
Start your day early with a bath in the Velganga River, followed by a visit to the Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple. Men should remove all clothes from the upper body before visiting.
Visit the Shivalya Teerath Kund, located approximately 300 meters from the main temple, where you can learn about the story of Ghushma Devi and the existence of the Jyotirlinga.
Depart for Pune from Aurangabad Railway Station on Train number 17630 (NED Pune Exp), departing at 8:25 PM and arriving at Pune Junction the next day at 5:15 AM.
Day 15 – Wednesday: Exploring Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
Upon reaching Pune Junction at 5:30 AM, head towards Shivaji Nagar bus stand by auto, costing around 80-100 INR, approximately 5 KM away.
From Shivaji Nagar bus stand, take a bus for Bhimashankar, approximately 120 KM away, which takes 3-4 hours to reach.
Visit the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga and Gorakhnath, with an optional visit to Gupt Bhimashankar, which involves a 2 KM trek and offers insights into the origin of the Bhima River.
Return to Pune, making sure to reach the bus stand at least an hour before 6 PM, as there are no buses after this time. Check the timings upon reaching Bhimashankar in the morning.
Head to the railway station for your onward journey.
Day 16 – Thursday: Pune to Madurai
Catch Train number 16339 (Nagarcoil Exp) departing from Pune at 12:20 AM, bound for Madurai, where it arrives the next day at 4:25 AM.
Day 17 – Friday: Madurai to Rameshwaram
Upon arrival in Madurai at 4:30 AM, take a bus heading to Rameshwaram, approximately 150 KM away.
Check into your hotel upon arrival in Rameshwaram.
Head to Agniteertham in front of Purvi Gate for a bath, followed by a ritualistic bath in the 22 kundas (holy water tanks). Change into dry clothes and visit the Ramanathswamy temple, where wet clothes are not allowed inside.
Experience darshan of the Kashi Lingam by Hanuman.
Stay overnight in Rameshwaram.
Day 18 – Saturday: Rameshwaram Exploration
Arrive before 5 AM for the darshan of the Sphatik Mani, a legendary site believed to be where Sheshnaag rests. The darshan is only available between 5 AM to 6 AM.
Collect some sand from the beach as it will be required when you reach Varanasi.
You have free time to explore optional attractions like Dhanushkoti. Ensure to return to Madurai by evening.
Return to Madurai and spend the night there.
Day 19 – Sunday: Madurai to Srisailam
Visit the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai in the morning and depart for Srisailam after lunch.
Board Train number 22716 (MDU KCG SF Exp) departing from Madurai at 1:15 PM. The train reaches Kurnool city the next day at 8:08 AM, taking approximately 19 hours.
Day 20 – Monday: Srisailam Exploration
As it’s Monday, without delay, leave for Srisailam via bus or taxi.
Stay at Srisailam, where the only accommodation option is at the temple premises. Note that due to the wildlife surroundings, entry and exit from Srisailam are restricted at night.
Day 21 – Tuesday: Srisailam to Hyderabad
Wake up early and after the morning darshan, depart for Hyderabad by bus or taxi. The distance is approximately 230 km, and ensure you reach Hyderabad by evening.
Upon arrival in Hyderabad, head to Secunderabad Junction Railway station to catch Train number 17007 (SC DBG Express) departing at 10:40 PM. This train runs only on Tuesdays and Saturdays and reaches Jasidih junction after a 32-hour journey at 6:49 AM on Day 23.
Day 22 – Wednesday: Train Journey
Spend the day traveling on the train.
Day 23 – Thursday: Arrival in Jasidih and Visit to Baidhnath Dhaam
Arrive at Jasidih junction at 7 am and proceed to Baidhnath Dhaam (Deogarh) from the station by auto.
Find accommodation near Tower Chowk.
Witness the Sharadhaalu by paidal yatra, where holy water from Sultanganj is brought for jal abhishek, a ritualistic bathing of the deity. The distance from Sultanganj to Baidhnath Dhaam is approximately 105 KM.
For VIP darshan in the temple, it costs INR 250.
Visit the Baidhnath Jyotirlinga and the Parvati Shakti Peeth, where the heart is said to have fallen.
Take a bath at Shiv Ganga, located approximately 500 meters away, believed to have healing properties.
Visit the Basukinath temple, approximately 42 km away, located in Jarmundi village.
Explore the Shiv Parvati Gathbandhan on the temple premises.
Day 24 – Friday: Deogarh to Varanasi
Have an early morning darshan and then leave for Varanasi.
There are several train options like 12303 (Poorna Exp) or 12273 (NDLS Duronto Exp), which take approximately 7-8 hours. Ensure to leave Deogarh by 12:30 PM to reach Varanasi by 7:30 PM or 8:12 PM.
Stay in Varanasi overnight.
Day 25 – Saturday: Varanasi Sightseeing
Wake up early and visit Kaal Bhairav for darshan, which may take 1-2 hours.
Then proceed to Baba Vishwanath and visit Annapurna Mandir, Durga Kund, Sankatmochan, and enjoy the Ganga Aarti in the evening.
Explore the Shakti Peeth Vishalakshi Devi, where the right ear Kundal of Devi Sati is believed to have fallen.
Day 26 – Sunday: Varanasi to Rameshwaram
Start the day with early morning darshan at Vishwanath Temple for Sparsh Darshan. The timing for Sparsh Darshan is from 4 am to 5 am.
Remember to bring the sand that was collected from Rameshwaram on Day 18. Legend has it that the sand from Rameshwaram should be immersed in the Ganga in Varanasi, and bring some Ganga water to Rameshwaram for abhishek to complete the darshan rituals.
Make arrangements to visit Rameshwaram once more.
Board Train number 16368 (Kashi Tamil Exp) departing Varanasi at 4:45 PM. This train reaches Madurai after 48 hours at 3:35 PM. It runs only on Sundays, which means Day 27 will be spent traveling on the train.
Day 27 – Monday: Train Journey
Spend the day traveling on the train.
Day 28 – Tuesday: Arrival in Madurai and Travel to Rameshwaram
Reach Madurai by 3:30 PM.
Depart for Rameshwaram by bus.
Stay overnight in Rameshwaram.
Day 29 – Wednesday: Jal Abhishek and Return Journey
Perform Jal Abhishek using the Ganga water collected from Varanasi.
Leave for your hometown.
Day 30/31: Return Home
Arrive back in your hometown, concluding the spiritual journey. Har har Mahadev!
Read also: MANIMAHESH KAILASH YATRA 2024: A SACRED JOURNEY ON JANMASHTAMI
Conclusion
Concluding our journey, “A Month with Shiva: 30-Day Itinerary and Stories of the 12 Jyotirlingas” has taken us through the heart of India’s spiritual heritage. Each Jyotirlinga, from the mighty Kedarnath in the Himalayas to the ancient Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, stands as a testament to the enduring devotion and divine presence of Lord Shiva.
The stories of these shrines, whether it’s the moon regaining its light at Somnath or the mighty Bhima’s defeat at Bheemshankar, offer profound insights into the cultural and religious fabric of India. This 30-day pilgrimage not only provides a structured path for devotees but also enriches the soul with the timeless tales of faith, miracles, and divine interventions. As we conclude this sacred voyage, may the blessings of Lord Shiva accompany you, illuminating your path with wisdom and peace.