The twelve Jyotirlingas are considered highly sacred in Hinduism and are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Each Jyotirlinga represents a different manifestation of Shiva. Here’s the list along with their locations:
1. Somnath Jyotirlinga
- Location: Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat
- Significance: It is considered the first among the Jyotirlingas and has a history of destruction and rebuilding due to invasions.
2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga
- Location: Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
- Significance: Located on the banks of the Krishna River, it is also one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas.
3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
- Location: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
- Significance: Known for its unique Bhasma Aarti, it is the only south-facing Jyotirlinga.
4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
- Location: Mandhata Island, Madhya Pradesh
- Significance: Situated on the island formed by the Narmada River, it is shaped like the sacred “Om” symbol.
5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
- Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
- Significance: Located in the Himalayas, it is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage and accessible only for six months due to snow.
6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga
- Location: Pune, Maharashtra
- Significance: It is situated amidst dense forests and is associated with the story of Bhima, a demon defeated by Shiva.
7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Significance: Located on the banks of the Ganges, it is one of the holiest temples and holds immense spiritual importance.
8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga
- Location: Nashik, Maharashtra
- Significance: It is near the origin of the Godavari River and is known for its unique three-faced linga.
9. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga
- Location: Deoghar, Jharkhand (or Parli, Maharashtra, as debated)
- Significance: Known as the temple of healing, it is believed that Ravana offered his ten heads here.
10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
- Location: Dwarka, Gujarat
- Significance: It symbolizes protection from negativity and evil.
11. Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga
- Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
- Significance: This temple is closely associated with Lord Rama’s journey and the establishment of the Shiva linga by him.
12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
- Location: Ellora, Maharashtra
- Significance: It is the smallest of the Jyotirlingas and is located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves.
Each Jyotirlinga has its own legend, cultural significance, and architectural uniqueness, making them important centers of pilgrimage. Let me know if you’d like detailed stories or maps for any of these!