Visiting the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is a spiritually uplifting experience for every devotee of Lord Shiva. Situated close to the iconic Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, this sacred shrine holds immense importance as it is the twelfth and final Jyotirlinga described in the Shiva Purana. Every year, thousands of pilgrims travel here to offer prayers, perform Abhishekam, and take part in the powerful daily aarti rituals.
If you are planning a trip to Grishneshwar Temple in 2026, this guide will help you with every important detail—online darshan booking, VIP ticket information, temple timings, Grishneshwar Abhishekam schedule, dress code, location, how to reach, and useful travel tips for a smooth and peaceful visit. The information is written in clear, simple language so that every visitor can easily understand and plan their pilgrimage without confusion.
Grishneshwar Temple Quick Information (2026)
This quick-reference guide gives devotees an easy overview of all the essential details before planning a visit to the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located near the historic Ellora Caves.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple |
| Deity | Lord Shiva |
| Location | Verul, Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), Maharashtra |
| Darshan Timings | 5:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free for General Darshan |
| Best Months | July–August (Shravan), Feb–March (Maha Shivratri) |
| Ideal Visit Duration | 1–2 hours |
| Nearest Attraction | Ellora Caves (1 km) |
| Dress Code | Traditional Indian attire |
Grishneshwar Temple Darshan Timings 2026
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple welcomes devotees from early morning till late evening. The darshan timings are divided into two convenient sessions so pilgrims can plan their visit without rush or confusion.
Darshan Schedule (Daily Timings)
| Darshan Session | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Darshan | 5:30 AM | 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 7:30 PM | 9:30 PM |
Peak Season Darshan Timings
During festival days and important occasions, the temple adjusts its timings for the convenience of devotees:
- Shravan Month: The temple may open as early as 3:00 AM to manage the heavy crowd.
- Maha Shivratri: Extended darshan hours; the temple often remains open till late night.
If you are planning your visit during these days, make sure to reach early to avoid long queues and enjoy a peaceful darshan experience.
Grishneshwar Temple Pooja & Aarti Timings
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple follows a sacred daily routine of poojas and aartis that attract devotees from across India. These rituals are performed with traditional mantras, drum beats, conch sounds, and the lighting of deepams, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere inside the sanctum. Knowing the correct Grishneshwar Temple aarti timings helps pilgrims plan their visit and experience the most important rituals of the day.
Daily Pooja & Aarti Schedule
| Ritual / Aarti | Timings | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Mangal Aarti | 4:00 AM | Daily |
| Morning Jalhari Pooja | 8:00 AM | Daily |
| Maha Prasad | 12:00 PM | Daily |
| Evening Jalhari Pooja | 4:00 PM | Daily |
| Sandhya Aarti | 7:30 PM | Daily |
| Shej Aarti | 10:00 PM | Daily |
Best Aarti to Attend
If you want to witness the temple at its spiritual peak, make sure you attend the Sandhya Aarti. This evening ritual is considered the heart of the daily worship at the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. As lamps glow, bells ring, and devotees chant in unison, the entire temple fills with devotion and positive energy. It is the most recommended aarti for first-time visitors.
Abhishekam at Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
The Abhishekam at Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the most sacred rituals performed by devotees. During this ceremony, pilgrims offer milk, curd, honey, bilva leaves, and holy water directly on the Shiva Linga, accompanied by powerful Vedic mantras. Many devotees believe that performing Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Abhishekam helps remove negativity, brings inner peace, and attracts health, prosperity, and divine blessings from Lord Shiva.
Abhishekam Timings 2026
| Abhishekam Session | Timings | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Daily |
| Afternoon | 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Daily |
These timings help visitors plan the ritual smoothly, especially during weekends and festival days.
Abhishekam Charges
• Approx. ₹551 per person (subject to change as per temple guidelines)
This fee includes all essential offerings needed for the ritual.
Booking Availability
• Offline booking only, available at the temple counter
• Online Abhishekam booking is expected to start soon as per temple updates
Important Tip for Devotees
If you are planning to perform Abhishekam during Shravan Month or Maha Shivratri, arrive early because the slots fill up very fast due to heavy crowd. Early morning hours are the best for a peaceful experience.
Grishneshwar Temple Entry Fee & Ticket Options
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple offers free darshan for all visitors, making it easily accessible to devotees from across India. However, those looking for a quicker or more convenient experience can choose from different paid ticket options. Knowing the Grishneshwar Temple ticket price, VIP Darshan charges, and Special Darshan benefits can help you plan a smooth and comfortable visit.
Ticket Options (2026)
| Ticket Type | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | Free | Regular Queue |
| Special Darshan | ₹200 – ₹500 | Faster Entry |
| VIP Darshan / Abhishekam | ₹500 – ₹700 | Priority Access + Abhishekam Participation |
General Darshan
General Darshan is completely free, but queues can become long, especially during weekends, Shravan Month, and Maha Shivratri. Ideal for devotees who prefer a traditional temple experience.
Special Darshan
Special Darshan is best for:
• Families
• Senior citizens
• Devotees with limited time
It offers faster entry and reduces waiting time significantly, making the darshan experience more comfortable.
VIP Darshan / Abhishekam Ticket
The VIP option provides:
• Priority entry
• Participation in Abhishekam
• Quicker access to the sanctum area
It is the most suitable choice for devotees who want a deeper spiritual experience without long queues.
Online Booking for Grishneshwar Temple (2026 Guide)
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple online booking system makes it easier for devotees to reserve their darshan slot without standing in long queues. At present, Special Darshan online booking is available, and the temple is expected to introduce online Abhishekam booking soon. Booking your ticket in advance ensures a smooth, time-saving, and hassle-free visit.
How to Book Grishneshwar Temple Darshan Tickets Online
Follow these simple steps to complete the Grishneshwar Temple online darshan booking:
- Visit the official temple website or any authorized darshan portal.
- Go to the Special Darshan or VIP Darshan Booking section.
- Select your preferred date and time slot.
- Enter all required devotee details such as name, age, mobile number, and ID proof.
- Choose the type of darshan you want (Special Darshan / VIP Darshan).
- Proceed with secure online payment.
- Download the e-ticket and keep a valid ID proof with you during the visit.
Important Tips for Online Darshan Booking
• Book your tickets early during Shravan and Maha Shivratri, as slots fill quickly.
• Arrive 30–45 minutes before your allotted time to avoid last-minute delays.
• Make sure that ID details match your ticket to prevent entry issues at the temple.
How to Reach Grishneshwar Temple (Travel Guide 2026)
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is easily accessible by air, rail, and road, making it convenient for devotees traveling from Maharashtra and other parts of India. The temple is located close to the world-famous Ellora Caves, which makes the overall journey smooth and enjoyable.
By Air
• Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (approx. 30 km from the temple)
You can easily find taxis and app-based cabs outside the airport. The drive takes around 45–50 minutes depending on traffic.
By Train
• Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station (approx. 29 km)
From the station, you can hire auto-rickshaws, state buses, private taxis, or shared cabs, all of which operate frequently toward Ellora and Verul.
By Road
Regular buses and private vehicles make road travel the most flexible option.
Frequent buses available from:
• Aurangabad
• Pune
• Mumbai
Private taxis, shared jeeps, and rental cars are also widely available for a comfortable trip straight to the temple.
Temple Address
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Mandir
Verul, Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad)
Maharashtra – 431102
Bonus Tip for Visitors
Since Ellora Caves is just 1 km away from the Grishneshwar Temple, most travelers prefer visiting both places on the same day. It saves time and helps you explore two major attractions in a single trip.
Best Time to Visit Grishneshwar Temple (2026 Guide)
Planning your visit at the right time can make your Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga darshan peaceful and memorable. While the temple remains open throughout the year, some periods offer a more spiritually enriching experience.
Shravan Month (July–August)
The Shravan season is considered the most auspicious time to visit the temple. Devotees from across India arrive in huge numbers to offer prayers, perform Abhishekam, and seek blessings. Expect heavy crowds, long queues, and extended temple hours during this month.
Maha Shivratri
One of the biggest festivals at the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Maha Shivratri is perfect for witnessing special rituals, night-long aartis, and divine celebrations. If you love festival vibes and spiritual energy, this is the ideal time to visit.
Weekdays & Early Mornings
For a calm and peaceful darshan, weekdays and early morning hours are the best. This time ensures shorter queues, minimal waiting, and a more relaxed temple experience.
Dress Code at Grishneshwar Temple
The Grishneshwar Temple dress code is strictly traditional, especially for devotees who wish to enter the sanctum (Garbhagriha). Following the dress code helps maintain the purity of the temple and ensures smooth entry.
Dress Code for Men
• Dhoti or traditional wear
• Shirts and T-shirts are not allowed inside the inner sanctum
Men must remove their upper garments before entering the Garbhagriha, as per temple traditions.
Dress Code for Women
• Saree
• Salwar kameez
• Any modest traditional Indian attire
Western outfits may not be allowed in certain areas, particularly near the sanctum.
Following these guidelines ensures hassle-free entry and shows respect toward the temple’s ancient customs.
Temple History & Importance of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Grishneshwar Temple holds immense religious and historical importance as it is home to the 12th Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. This sacred temple was rebuilt in the 18th century by the revered Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, who is also known for restoring major temples like Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath. Her efforts helped preserve the temple’s spiritual legacy for future generations.
Mythological Significance
According to ancient stories, the temple is associated with Kusuma, a deeply devoted follower of Lord Shiva. Her pure prayers and unwavering devotion moved Shiva to appear before her in the form of a Jyotirlinga. This story highlights the temple’s spiritual power and the blessings devotees receive through sincere worship.
Architectural Beauty
The temple stands as a stunning example of ancient Indian craftsmanship:
• Constructed using strong red basalt stone
• Adorned with intricate carvings depicting various legends
• Beautiful walls filled with mythological sculptures
• A powerful and peaceful Garbhagriha, where devotees can feel the divine energy
The temple’s traditional design, combined with its calm surroundings, creates a serene atmosphere that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.
FAQs on Grishneshwar Temple Online Booking & Darshan 2026
Q. How can I book Grishneshwar Temple darshan online?
You can book online darshan tickets through the official Grishneshwar Temple portal or government pilgrimage platforms offering advance booking.
Q. Is VIP or Special Darshan available at Grishneshwar Temple?
Yes, the temple offers Special Darshan tickets that help devotees enter the queue faster during busy hours.
Q. What are the daily darshan timings of Grishneshwar Temple?
The temple usually opens early morning around 5:30 AM and closes at night around 9:30 PM, with breaks during rituals.
Q. Are mobile phones and cameras allowed inside the temple?
No, mobile phones, cameras, and leather items are strictly not allowed inside the temple premises.
Q. Can women enter the Garbhagriha at Grishneshwar Temple?
Yes, unlike many temples, women are allowed to enter the Garbhagriha for darshan.
Q. What is the dress code for the Garbhagriha?
Men must remove upper garments before entering the Garbhagriha as per temple rules.
Q. How far is Grishneshwar Temple from Ellora Caves?
The temple is just 1 km from Ellora Caves, making it easy for tourists to visit both places on the same trip.
Q. Which is the nearest railway station to Grishneshwar Temple?
Aurangabad Railway Station is the nearest major station, located about 30 km away.
Q. What is the best time to visit Grishneshwar Temple?
The best time is during early mornings or weekdays to avoid rush, especially in Shravan month and Mahashivratri.
Q. Is there any online pooja booking available?
Yes, many poojas like Rudrabhishek and Jal Abhishek can be booked online in advance.
Q. Are lockers and cloakrooms available at the temple?
Yes, lockers and storage facilities are available near the entrance for mobiles and belongings.
Q. How much time does darshan usually take?
On normal days, darshan takes 20–40 minutes, while on weekends or festivals it may take 1–3 hours.
Q. Is parking available near the temple?
Yes, paid parking is available close to the temple premises.
Q. Is photography allowed at Grishneshwar Temple?
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple.
Q. Can I visit the temple at night?
Yes, the temple remains open till around 9:30 PM, but timing may vary on special days.
