Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, located in Verul (Ellora) near Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name Grishneshwar translates to “Lord of Compassion.” This temple holds immense religious and spiritual value, attracting devotees throughout the year, especially during the Shravan month and Maha Shivratri.
Rebuilt by Maloji Bhosale in the 16th century and later restored by Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century, the temple is a prime example of South Indian temple architecture. The temple is also located near the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key Details of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple |
| Location | Verul, Aurangabad District, Maharashtra – 431102, India |
| Main Deity | Lord Shiva (Grishneshwar) |
| Significance | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas |
| Built By | Maloji Bhosale, restored by Ahilyabai Holkar |
| Nearby Landmark | Ellora Caves (~1.5 km away) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Dress Code | Traditional attire; men must go bare-chested in the sanctum |
| Best Time to Visit | Shravan Month, Maha Shivratri, Winter (Oct–Feb) |
| Contact Number | 📞 +91-240-2400620 / 94222-07017 |
Grishneshwar Temple Timings 2025
| Season/Event | Morning Hours | Evening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Days | 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Shravan Month (Special) | 3:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Temple Open All Days | Monday to Sunday |
Grishneshwar Aarti & Pooja Schedule
| Type of Seva / Aarti | Timings |
|---|---|
| Kakad Aarti | 5:30 AM |
| Rudrabhishek Pooja | 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Maha Abhishekam | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM |
| Afternoon Darshan | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Shej Aarti (Night) | 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Temple Closing Time | 9:30 PM |
📿 Special rituals and extended darshan are held during the Shravan month and Maha Shivratri. Please check with the temple authorities in advance.
Ritual Highlights at Grishneshwar Temple
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Rudrabhishekh: Performed with Vedic chants and holy water/milk to please Lord Shiva.
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Kakad Aarti: A divine early morning ceremony that marks the beginning of daily rituals.
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Madhyan Aarti: Afternoon prayers to invoke spiritual peace.
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Sheja Aarti: Performed before closing the temple, it offers a calming end to the day’s worship.
How to Reach Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
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By Road: Easily accessible from Aurangabad (~30 km). Buses and taxis are available.
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By Rail: The nearest railway station is Aurangabad Railway Station (~30 km).
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By Air: Aurangabad Airport is the nearest (~35 km from the temple).
Temple Rules and Visitor Guidelines
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Men entering the sanctum sanctorum must remove their shirts.
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Modest dress is recommended for all devotees (cover shoulders and legs).
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Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.
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Footwear must be removed before entering the temple complex.
Grishneshwar Temple Contact Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Address | Grishneshwar Temple Road, Verul, Maharashtra 431102 |
| Phone Numbers | 📞 +91-240-2400620, +91-94222-07017 |
| Email ID | Not officially listed |
| Official Website | NA (Refer to Maharashtra Tourism Portal) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What are the temple timings during the Shravan month?
The temple opens at 3:00 AM and closes by 11:00 PM during the Shravan month (July–August).
Q2. Is there any entry fee to visit the Grishneshwar Temple?
No, darshan and entry are free for all devotees.
Q3. Can women enter the sanctum sanctorum?
Yes, both men and women can enter the sanctum, but men must go bare-chested.
Q4. Are online booking facilities available?
Currently, there is no official website or online booking. Devotees must visit the temple in person for pujas and rituals.
Q5. Which is the nearest attraction to the Grishneshwar Temple?
The Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are located just 1.5 km away.