12th Jyotirlinga

Lord of Compassion

The final Jyotirlinga, located near the majestic Ellora Caves. A testament to divine mercy and architectural splendor.

Verul, Maharashtra

The Final Abode of Light

Grishneshwar is the twelfth and last of the Jyotirlingas on earth. The name means "Lord of Compassion".

Located in the village of Verul, it stands just a kilometer away from the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ellora Caves. The temple is a stunning example of Hemadpanthi architecture, built with red volcanic rock and black stone.

12th

Jyotirlinga

18th

Century

1.5km

From Ellora

Hemadpanthi Style

Exquisite stone carvings on the temple spire.

Rebuilt By

Ahilyabai Holkar (18th C)

Style

Hemadpanthi

Deity

Ghrneshwara (Compassion)

Heritage

Near Ellora Caves

Timeline of Devotion

Puranic Era

A devout woman named Ghushma worshipped Shiva here. Her son was killed by her sister, but Shiva restored him to life due to her unwavering devotion, manifesting as the Jyotirlinga.

16th Century CE

Maloji Bhosale of Verul (grandfather of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) initiated the restoration of the ancient temple ruins.

18th Century CE

The present temple structure was rebuilt by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, who is credited with restoring many major Hindu temples across India.

Modern Era

Today, it stands as a testament to Maratha architecture and devotion, welcoming millions of pilgrims who also visit the adjacent Ellora Caves.

Architectural Marvel

The 5-Tier Shikhara

The temple tower is built in five distinct layers, featuring intricate carvings of gods and goddesses in red stone.

Sanctum Sanctorum

The Garbhagriha houses the east-facing Lingam. Uniquely, men must enter the sanctum bare-chested as a mark of humility.

Stone Carvings

The walls and pillars are adorned with beautiful sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology in the Hemadpanthi style.

Pilgrim Services

Darshan Timings

Temple Opening	5:30 AM
Morning Darshan	5:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Evening Darshan	1:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Shravan Month	3:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Special Poojas

VIP Darshan	₹200 (Counter)
Abhishek	User Defined (With Pujari)
Panchamrit Abhishek	Available Morning
General Entry	Free

VIP Entry

Ellora Tour

Guest House

Photography (Exterior)

Visual Journey

Temple Exterior

Red stone majesty

Temple Complex

View from courtyard

Ellora Caves

Nearby UNESCO site

Official Resources

Official Website MH Tourism District Admin

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