Nestled in the historic town of Ellora near Aurangabad, Grishneshwar Temple is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Also known as Ghrushneshwar or Ghushmeshwar, it is the twelfth and last Jyotirlinga in the traditional list. With deep mythological roots, exquisite temple architecture, and close proximity to the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar makes for an unmissable spiritual and cultural journey.
Significance of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Grishneshwar is unique among the Jyotirlingas
It is the smallest Jyotirlinga temple in India.
Devotees are allowed to touch the Shiva Linga – a rare practice in Jyotirlinga temples.
The temple is one of the few where men are required to be bare-chested to enter the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum).
The temple is not just a shrine—it’s a living symbol of devotion, resilience, and architectural beauty.
The Legend of Grishneshwar
The legend of Grishneshwar revolves around a pious woman named Ghushma. Her sister, Sudeha, unable to bear children, persuaded Ghushma to marry her husband Sudharm. Through dedicated worship—creating and immersing 101 Shivalingas daily—Ghushma bore a son. Out of jealousy, Sudeha killed the boy and cast his body into the water.
Unshaken, Ghushma continued her prayers. Miraculously, her son returned, and Lord Shiva appeared before her, moved by her unwavering faith. When asked for a boon, Ghushma requested Shiva to remain there forever. He manifested as a Jyotirlinga, named Ghushmeshwar, blessing the site eternally.
Architecture of the Temple
The Grishneshwar Temple, rebuilt in the 18th century by Ahilyabai Holkar, features stunning South Indian-style architecture:
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Made of red basalt stone, spread across 44,400 sq. ft.
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A majestic five-tiered Shikhara (tower) with intricate carvings
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Carvings of stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Lord Vishnu’s avatars
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A small yet beautifully designed sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) where the Shiva Linga faces east
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Nandi (Shiva’s sacred bull) idol in the central hall
Despite being the smallest Jyotirlinga temple, its architectural depth and spiritual aura make it an exceptional experience.
Historical Background
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The temple is believed to have been originally built before the 13th century.
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It faced destruction during Mughal invasions and Hindu-Muslim conflicts.
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It was rebuilt in the 16th century by Maloji Bhosale, grandfather of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, after discovering hidden treasure.
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It saw multiple reconstructions during the Mughal-Maratha wars, with the final structure built by Ahilyabai Holkar, the visionary queen of Indore.
Grishneshwar Temple Timings
| Season/Month | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Regular Days | 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Shravan Month (Aug–Sep) | 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 3–4 hours
Note: Items like mobile phones, cameras, food, and belts are not allowed inside.
How to Reach Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Grishneshwar Temple is located just 1 km from Ellora Caves and 31.5 km from Aurangabad City.
By Air:
Aurangabad Airport (30 km away) is the nearest airport.
Direct flights connect to Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Delhi.
By Train
Aurangabad Railway Station is well-connected to major Indian cities.
By Road
MSRTC buses and private taxis connect Aurangabad and Ellora frequently.or Omicron Journey Private limited
Route: SH 60 → NH 52 → Grishneshwar Temple Road
