Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Tour in Ellora – A Divine Pilgrimage Near Ellora Caves

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the most sacred temples in India. It is considered the last of the 12 Jyotirlingas. This Jyotirlinga is a symbol of deep devotion and compassion, which attracts a large flock of devotees from all parts of India. Grishneshwar Temple is located in Verul Village, Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad), Maharashtra, and is just 1 km from the renowned Ellora Caves. According to the devotees, praying in this temple brings immense peace and spiritual fulfilment. At Saibaba Travels, we offer the best Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Tour Package, which ensures a smooth, convenient, and highly spiritual trip.

As a reliable tour operator and car rental service provider in Maharashtra, we understand the diverse needs and preferences of our customers. Thus, our Jyotirlinga tour in Ellora includes high-quality accommodations, well-maintained private cars, a local tour guide, and breakfasts. By choosing us, you can ensure an unforgettable spiritual trip that can be cherished forever.

Religious and Mythological Significance

The mythological belief behind the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is that a pious woman named Ghushma lived with her husband, who also had a jealous first wife named Sudeha. Ghushma was a devotee of Lord Shiva and used to make Shiv Lingams with clay. Ghushma was soon blessed with a son, but Sudeha drowned Ghushma’s son in the same lake where Ghushma used to immerse the clay-made Shiv Lingam. Despite the tragedy, Ghushma continued to worship Lord Shiva. Due to her devotion, Lord Shiva became pleased and brought her son back to life. After that, Lord Shiva promised to reside there as the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga. 

Thus, this mythological story has a tremendous connection to devotion because it highlights how the power of faith can overcome suffering. Ghushma’s story inspires devotees to never lose faith in worship. Lord Shiva’s worship is done in the Grishneshwar Temple by performing Abhishek directly on the Lingam. 

According to the Shiv Purana, Grishneshar is the 12th and the final Jyotirlinga. This place holds tremendous religious and spiritual significance because it helps devotees find peace, prosperity, and relief from past sins. Overall, the Grishneshwar Temple represents the soul’s final quest for liberation (moksha).

History and Architecture of Grishneshwar Temple

This temple is mentioned in ancient sacred texts, such as the Skanda Purana and the Shiv Purana. It is believed that the devotion and faith of Ghushma led Lord Shiva to worship there as Jyotirlinga. The Delhi Sultanate destroyed this temple multiple times during the 13th and 14th centuries. In addition, the temple was destroyed during the Mughal-Maratha conflict as well. However, it was first restored during the 16th century by Maloji Bhosale, who is the grandfather of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The current structure of the Grishneshwar Temple was built by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore during the 18th century.

The architecture of this temple is massively influenced by the 18th century Maratha Style and South Indian Style. Grishneshwar Temple is mainly constructed using a red volcanic rock that gives it a unique look as compared to other temples, where black rock has been mostly used. Devotees can witness a large carved statue of Nandi in the assembly hall of this temple.

Darshan Timings and Important Rituals

Here are the most important timings you need to keep in mind before visiting the Grishneshwar Temple:

• Opening Time: 5:30 AM (daily)
• Closing Time: 9:30 AM (daily)
• Morning Darshan: 6 AM to 12 PM (daily)
• Afternoon Break: 1 PM to 4 PM (open for visitors)
• Evening darshan:4 PM to 9:30 PM (daily)

Some of the most prominent puja and rituals performed in the Grishneshwar Temple are:

• Mangal Aarti: 5 AM (daily)
• Jalhari Sagan: 8 AM (daily)
• Maha Puja: 12 PM (daily)
• Sandhya Aarti: 8 PM (daily)
• Shayan Aarti: 10 PM (daily)

In addition, special Pujas, such as Rudrabhishek (Shivling is bathed by holy substance), Mahabhishek, special Monday Pujas (auspicious day for worshipping Lord Shiva), and Maha Shivratri celebrations draw large devotees.

How To Reach Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga?

You can reach the Grishneshwar Temple by the following modes of transport:

• By Air: You can reach Aurangabad (Sambhajinagar) Airport, which has connecting flights from all major cities in India. From the airport, it takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga. By choosing the Grishneshwar Tour Package of Saibaba Travels, you will receive airport pickup and drop-off service as well.
• By Rail: You can reach the Aurangabad Railway Station, which has major rail connectivity from different parts of India. After reaching the station, you can travel to the Grishneshwar Temple in 40 minutes by booking our tour package or car rental service in Aurangabad. There is public transport, such as buses and shared taxis, available as well.
• By Road: Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) is the nearest major city while travelling to the Grishneshwar Temple. It takes around 40 minutes to reach Grishneswar Jyotirlinga from Sambhajinagar. If you choose our Maharashtra Jyotirlinga tour package or cab service, you can be assured of a comfortable and spiritual trip.

Choose Our Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Tour Package

At Saiababa Travels, we offer a 5 Jyotirlinga Maharashtra Tour Package, which includes the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga:

• Day 1: After arrival in Aurangabad, you will be taken to Grishneshwar Temple, which is one of the Jyotirlingas and is near the famous Ellora caves.
• Day 2: You will be taken to two Jyotirlingas, namely Aundha Nagnath and Parli Vaijnath, which will further enhance your spiritual experience.
• Day 3: On the third day, you will be taken to the Trimbakeshwar Shiv Temple in Nashik, which is famous for its three-faced Jyotirlinga.
• Day 4: On the 4th day of your tour, you will be taken to Shirdiand Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.
• Day 5: On your last day of the tour, you will be taken to Shani Shingnapur, before bidding you farewell from Sambhajinagar with happy memories and spiritual satisfaction.

Please note that you can customize the package as per your convenience by contacting us before choosing.

Our package inclusions:

• Airport or railway stations pick up and drop off.
• Stay at a 3-star hotel or equivalent.
• Daily breakfasts.
• Entrance costs for every temple visit.
• Expert local guides.
• Well-maintained and air-conditioned cars for sightseeing and visits.

Why Choose Saibaba Travels For Booking Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Tour?

Arranging spiritual tours that can deliver joy and create memories requires a customer-centric approach. As one of the best tour operators in Maharashtra, we understand the religious and spiritual significance of the Jyotirlingas. These are the top reasons to choose us for experiencing a memorable and spiritual trip to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga:

Professional Travel Advice and Tips

The following pieces of information and tips can prove to be immensely beneficial if you are planning a Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga trip in Maharashtra:

• Temple rules and entry guidelines: Mobile phones, cameras, and leather items are strictly prohibited inside the temple. In addition, shoes need to be removed before entering. There are lockers available to keep these items.
• Dress Code: You need to dress cleanly and modestly. Covering of the shoulders and knees is highly recommended to offer respect to the sacred temple.
• Crowd management tips: Mondays, weekends, and special occasions, such as Maha Shivaratri, are crowded. Thus, the darshan takes around 3-4 hours during these days. If you are looking for a quick darshan, then it is advsiable to avoid these days.
• Local customs and rituals: Devotees are allowed to touch the Jyotirlinga in this temple. For Rudrabhisheks, advance booking needs to be done. Lastly, maintain silence inside the temple as a part of temple rituals. 

Best Time To Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga

• Best Months: October to March are the best months to visit the Grishneshwar Temple. This is because the weather remains pleasant and cool during these months, which helps in enjoying a comfortable trip.
• Festival Season visits: If you visit during Maha Shivratri or Shravan, you can enjoy a vibrant and colourful environment. In addition, spirituality and devotion can be experienced at the highest level here during the festival months.

FAQs

Q. Why is Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga considered the last Jyotirlinga?

Answer: Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is considered the last Jyotirlinga because it completes the circuit of sacred pilgrimage, which also marks the culmination of the spiritual journey.

Q. Where is the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga located in Maharashtra?

Answer: It is located in Verul Village, near the famous Elora Caves in Sambhajinagar (previously known as Aurangabad).

Q. How much time is required for Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Darshan?

Answer: Generally, it takes around 1-2 hours for the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Darshan. However, it can stretch upto several hours during special occasions. 

Q. Can Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga and Ellora Caves be visited in one day?

Answer: Yes, the distance between Grishneshwar Temple and Ellora Caves is just 1 KM, which makes it easy to cover both destinations in one day.

Q. Are special pujas available at Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga?

Answer: Yes, special pujas, such as Rudrabhishek, Jalabhishek, and Panchamrit Abhisehk are performed at the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga. 

Q. What is the best way to reach Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga from Aurnagnabad (now Sambhajinagar)?

Answer: By booking the best car rental service of Saibaba Travels, you can reach Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga from Samnhajinagar conveniently and comfortably. However, public transportation,  such as buses and shared taxis, is also available.