Located in Verul (near Ellora) in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, the Grishneshwar Temple is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is considered the final (twelfth) in that list The temple sits just about 1.5 km from the world-heritage site of the Ellora Caves, making it both a highly important pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination. Architecturally, it is built in the Hemadpanthi style, with intricate carvings and black stonework, and spans a sizeable area.
Devotees visit here from all over India to perform darshan, abhishekam, aarti and special sevas. With the sacred status of a Jyotirlinga, the atmosphere is deeply spiritual. Traditional dress code norms apply within the sanctum (garbhagriha) and the rules are strictly followed. The temple management provides facilities such as darshan queues, special/VIP passes, and many seva options. For 2025 visits, it’s wise to plan ahead—arriving early, especially during festival seasons like Shravan month and Mahashivratri, helps.
According to the official temple website, it lists “daily opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 7:00 PM; Saturday, Sunday & Monday 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM”. While this may differ in practice (other sources list longer hours) it gives a baseline.
Accordingly, if you’re planning to visit, it’s best to arrive early in the morning, respect the dress code (men bare-chested in garbhagriha as per local tradition), allow time for darshan and, if possible, combine your visit with the Ellora Caves.
Srirangam Vishwaroopa Temple Darshan 2025 | Timings, Sevas
Quick Overview Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple |
| Location | Verul (Ellora), Aurangabad District, Maharashtra – 431102 |
| Main Deity | Lord Shiva (Grishneshwar) |
| Significance | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva |
| Entry Fee | General Darshan – Free; VIP/Special passes charged (see below) |
| Official Website | www.grishneshwartemple.com |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February for cooler weather; early morning for less crowd |
| Nearest Airport / Rail | Aurangabad Airport (approx 30-35 km), Aurangabad Railway Station |
| Accommodation | Various hotels and lodges within walking distance of temple and Ellora caves (see later) |
Temple Timings
Here are the tentative timings for 2025, noting that special occasions (Shravan month, Mahashivratri) may see extended hours:
| Period / Session | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Morning Darshan | ~5:00 AM | ~12:00 PM |
| Regular Afternoon / Evening Darshan | ~4:00 PM | ~9:30 PM |
| Special (Shravan / Festival) | As early as ~3:00 AM | Up to ~11:00 PM |
| Daily Opening Hours (alternative listing) | ~6:00 AM | ~7:00 PM (Tues–Fri) / ~9:00 AM to ~7:00 PM (Sat–Mon) |
Note: These times are approximate; always check latest local updates or with the temple office. Arriving early is advisable to avoid crowd and ensure seamless darshan.
Sevas & Darshans Available
Below is a table listing key darshan and seva options at the temple for 2025, with available timings and approximate charges (these may be subject to change by temple authorities).
| Type of Seva / Darshan | Timing / Details | Approx. Price* |
|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | At any open session | Free |
| Special / VIP Darshan | Preferential queue, faster entry | ₹ 500 approx. |
| Mangala / Bhog / Sandhya / Shej Aarti | Early morning, afternoon, evening, night respective aarti times | ~₹ 200 each |
| Abhishekam (Rudrabhishek / Panchamrut Abhishek) | Morning and midday rituals (7:00 AM onwards) | ~₹ 1,000 approx. |
| Annadanam / Special Puja | On request (bulk offerings) | From ~₹ 1,500 upward |
*Prices are indicative and may vary; always confirm with temple administration at time of booking.
Important: While general entry is free, sevas and VIP passes are charged. For Abhishekam and other pujas, devotees often need to book in advance (see section 6). If you plan to attend a special seva, arrive early and carry valid ID.
How to Reach the Temple
Here are practical travel options to reach Grishneshwar Temple:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Aurangabad Airport (approx. 30-35 km from the temple). From there, taxis or cab services can be taken.
- By Rail: The closest major railway station is Aurangabad Railway Station (about 30 km away). From the station, hire a taxi or use state buses towards Verul/Ellora.
- By Road: The temple is well-connected by road. Buses from Aurangabad city, private taxis and shared cabs operate. If you are driving, you can take the road towards Ellora, then Verul village.
- From Major Cities: From Mumbai, Pune, or Nashik, you can either drive or take bus/train to Aurangabad, then proceed to Verul.
- Address: Grishneshwar Temple Road, Verul, (Ellora), Aurangabad District, Maharashtra – 431102.
Tip: If you are coming early in the morning, ensure your transport arrives before the temple opening time for an easier experience. Also, parking near the temple premises may be limited—use cabs or shared transport when possible.
How to Book the Darshan Tickets & Sevas
Here’s how you can book darshan, VIP passes or puja services at Grishneshwar Temple in 2025:
- General Darshan: No advance booking required for basic entry; you can turn up during open hours and join the queue.
- Special / VIP Darshan & Sevas:
- According to multiple sources, there is no fully official online ticketing portal for VIP darshan at present; bookings are still done at the temple counter.
- For pujas (abhishekam etc), certain portals (like YatraDham) provide booking forms for panditji and puja arrangement.
- On the temple’s official website (as per listing), the form allows selection of puja mode (online/offline) and date.
- Steps to Book:
- Visit the official website www.grishneshwartemple.com.
- Navigate to “Online & Offline Puja Booking” or “VIP Darshan” section.
- Fill in required details (name, phone, address, puja type/date).
- Choose mode (online payment or onsite payment).
- After successful booking, you’ll receive confirmation with Panda/Priest details (for puja) or ticket slip (for darshan) if applicable.
- On-site Booking: If you prefer onsite: arrive early at temple e-ticket counter, request VIP/seva pass, pay charges, obtain slip, then enter designated queue. Based on sources, arrive about 30-45 minutes before your slot to avoid delays.
- Important Tips:
- While booking, check if your chosen date is a festival or busy season; early slots may fill quickly.
- Ensure you carry valid ID proof (sometimes required at entry).
- Men entering the sanctum may need to remove upper clothes (bare-chested) as per tradition.
- Confirm payment and booking slip authenticity.
- For pujas with priests you booked, reach on time, follow their instructions regarding arrival, dress and seating.
Nearby Attractions
If you are visiting Grishneshwar Temple, you can also explore these nearby sights:
- Ellora Caves – UNESCO World Heritage site, just ~1.5 km away from the temple.
- Daulatabad Fort – Historic medieval fort near Ellora/Verul, good for a half-day side trip.
- Bibi‑ka‑Maqbara – Often called the “Taj of the Deccan”, in Aurangabad; a bit further but manageable.
- The village of Verul/Ellora – Walk around the environs, local shops, artisan crafts, quiet temple surroundings.
- For nature: the surrounding region offers calm landscapes, especially if you stay overnight.
Important Instructions for Visitors
Here are key do’s and don’ts to ensure a respectful and smooth visit:
Do’s
- Dress modestly: For men, if entering the sanctum (garbhagriha), going bare-chested is a traditional requirement. For women, traditional attire (saree/salwar-kameez) is preferred.
- Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially during peak periods.
- Carry minimal belongings; keep gadgets away if the temple restricts photography.
- Respect rituals: during aarti, darshan, keep quiet, follow directions of temple staff.
- If participating in sevas, follow instructions from priests: about arrival time, seating, what you can/cannot bring.
- Keep your booking slip or ticket handy if you have VIP/seva passes.
- Remove footwear before entering temple premises (as customary).
- Be patient and polite with temple staff and other devotees.
Don’ts
- Do not bring leather items, non-Hindu ritual items, or cameras into restricted areas unless permitted. Some sources mention mobile/phones/leather items may not be allowed.
- Do not rush or push during darshan queues; maintain discipline.
- Avoid entering the garbhagriha with undue items; large bags or unnecessary items may be barred.
- Avoid visiting during extremely crowded times without booking VIP or anticipating waiting time.
- Do not assume VIP pass guarantees immediate entry; you still may need to queue at designated lane.
- Avoid littering or disrespecting temple property or rituals.
Accommodation Options
Here are some stay-options near the temple, useful for planning an overnight stay:
| Hotel / Lodge | Location & Notes | Approx. Price* |
|---|---|---|
| Ellora Heritage Resort | Very near Ellora Caves & Grishneshwar Temple; good amenities. | Mid-range |
| Hotel Kailas | Preferrably located opposite Ellora Caves, walking distance to temple. | Moderate |
| Hotel Tulsi Inn | In Khuldabad/Verul region, very close to temple (3-minute walk). | Budget to Moderate |
*Prices vary by season and booking site; please check live rates for your dates.
It’s advisable to book as early as possible during busy seasons (July–Aug, Feb), and choose a lodging with easy access to both the temple and Ellora Caves.
FAQs about Grishneshwar Temple
Q1. Can I book darshan online for the temple?
A: While basic general darshan does not require booking, VIP or Seva bookings currently may need to be done onsite. Some puja bookings may be available via external portals
Q2. What is the cost for VIP Darshan?
A: Approx. ₹ 500 (as per 2025 listings) for VIP/special darshan, though pricing may vary.
Q3. Are there any dress code regulations?
A: Yes. Men entering the garbhagriha often must be bare-chested; women should wear traditional attire. No leather items, sometimes no cameras in inner sanctum.
Q4. Is photography permitted inside the temple?
A: Photography is generally restricted inside the sanctum. It’s best to check on-site for specific areas where it may or may not be allowed.
Q5. What is the best time to visit?
A: Early morning hours on regular days offer smoother darshan. Cooler months (Oct-Feb) are preferred. Avoid peak festival crowds if you prefer a calm visit.
Q6. Are children and women allowed in the inner sanctum?
A: Yes, women and children are permitted; the traditional bare-chest rule applies to men only.
Q7. How much time should I allot for the visit?
A: Allocate at least 1–2 hours for darshan, puja, walking around the temple premises. If you also plan to visit Ellora Caves, you may need half a day.
Q8. Is parking available near the temple?
A: Yes, but parking may be limited and busy during peak times. Using a taxi or shared transport is often easier