Grishneshwar Temple
The twelfth and last of the Jyotirlingas, near the Ellora caves. A short walk brings you from world-class Buddhist rock art to a living Shiva shrine.
Photos of Grishneshwar Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- 16th century CE (rebuilt)
- Architecture
- Nagara-Bhumija
- Address
- Verul, Ellora, Aurangabad 431102
- Timings
- 05:30–21:30
History of Grishneshwar Temple
Rebuilt by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in the 18th century over an older 6th-century Rashtrakuta shrine.
Festivals Celebrated at Grishneshwar Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Shravan Somvar
How to Reach Grishneshwar Temple
Ellora is 30 km northwest of Aurangabad. Combine with a visit to the Kailasa temple in Cave 16.
Frequently Asked Questions about Grishneshwar Temple
Where is Grishneshwar Temple located?
- Grishneshwar Temple is located at Verul, Ellora, Aurangabad 431102, in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Grishneshwar Temple?
- The presiding deity at Grishneshwar Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Grishneshwar Temple?
- Grishneshwar Temple is generally open 05:30–21:30. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Grishneshwar Temple built?
- Grishneshwar Temple was established 16th century CE (rebuilt). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Grishneshwar Temple?
- Grishneshwar Temple is built in the Nagara-Bhumija style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Grishneshwar Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Grishneshwar Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Shravan Somvar. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Maharashtra and beyond.
How can I reach Grishneshwar Temple?
- Ellora is 30 km northwest of Aurangabad. Combine with a visit to the Kailasa temple in Cave 16.
Why is Grishneshwar Temple significant?
- The twelfth and last of the Jyotirlingas, near the Ellora caves. A short walk brings you from world-class Buddhist rock art to a living Shiva shrine.
Is there an entry fee at Grishneshwar Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Grishneshwar Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Grishneshwar Temple?
- Grishneshwar Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Maharashtra temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.