Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located in Verul village near Ellora Caves in Aurangabad district, Maharashtra, is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Also known as Grushneshwar, the name translates to “Lord of Compassion”. Devotees from all over India and abroad visit this ancient shrine to seek blessings from Lord Shiva in his Grishneshwar form.
Nestled just 1.5 km from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ellora Caves and 30 km from Aurangabad city, this temple not only holds immense spiritual significance but also architectural beauty, built in the traditional Hemadpanthi style.
Grishneshwar Temple Darshan Timings 2025
| Activity | Timings |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening Time | 05:00 AM |
| Morning Aarti | 05:30 AM – 06:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 05:00 AM – 09:30 AM |
| Rudrabhishek Pooja | 07:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Maha Abhishekam | 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM |
| Afternoon Darshan | 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 05:00 PM – 09:30 PM |
| Shej Aarti (Night Aarti) | 08:30 PM – 09:00 PM |
| Temple Closes | 09:30 PM |
🔔 Note: During the Shravan month, the temple opens earlier at 3:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.
VIP Darshan Booking 2025
While general entry is free, those wishing to avoid long queues can opt for the VIP Darshan Pass available only at the temple premises. Currently, there is no official website for online booking, but the temple committee is planning to launch one soon.
| Darshan Type | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free |
| Special Darshan (VIP) | ₹500 |
| Mangala Aarti | ₹200 |
| Bhog Aarti | ₹200 |
| Sandhya Aarti | ₹200 |
| Shej Aarti | ₹200 |
| Abhishek | ₹1,000 |
| Annadanam | ₹1,500 |
| Special Puja | ₹2,000 |
🎫 Tickets must be booked directly at the on-site e-ticket counter. Arrive early, especially during weekends and festivals like Mahashivratri, when the crowd is larger.
Key Highlights of Grishneshwar Temple
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Jyotirlinga Status: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
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Style of Architecture: Hemadpanthi style, with intricate carvings and a serene layout
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Proximity to Attractions: Just 1.5 km from Ellora Caves and 30 km from Aurangabad
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Spiritual Significance: Associated with compassion and rebirth of faith through devotion
How to Reach Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
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Nearest City: Aurangabad (30 km)
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Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station
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Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (35 km)
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By Road: Well connected by buses, taxis, and private vehicles
📍 Address: Ghrishneshwar Temple Rd, Verul, Aurangabad, Maharashtra – 431102
Dress Code at Grishneshwar Temple
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Men: Required to go bare-chested if entering the sanctum sanctorum (garbha-griha)
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Women: Must wear traditional Indian attire (saree, salwar suit, etc.)
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Footwear, mobile phones, and leather items are not allowed inside the temple premises
Contact Information
| Department | Details |
|---|---|
| Local Temple Office | +91-240-2400620 / +91-94222-07017 |
| Email ID | Not Available |
| Official Website | Not Available |
Best Time to Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
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Ideal Season: October to February (cooler weather, less crowded)
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Festive Highlights: Mahashivratri and Shravan Maas draw maximum crowds
FAQs
Is entry to the temple free?
Yes, general entry is free. VIP Darshan and Aarti have separate charges.
Can I book VIP Darshan online?
Currently, no online facility is available. Booking must be done at the temple counter.
What is the best time for Abhishek Pooja?
Morning hours, between 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, are ideal for Rudrabhishek.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Bare-chested entry for men into the sanctum is mandatory. Traditional attire for women is expected.
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is a spiritual retreat that draws seekers of Lord Shiva’s blessings from all corners of India. Whether you are on a pilgrimage across all 12 Jyotirlingas or simply exploring Maharashtra’s spiritual sites, Grishneshwar offers a deeply sacred experience. With VIP Darshan passes, affordable Aarti services, and a setting steeped in history and serenity, your visit is bound to be transformative.
🕉️ Har Har Mahadev!