One of the twelve Jyotirlingas
The Jyotirlingas are the twelve most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva — and Grishneshwar (sometimes spelled Ghrishneshwar) is traditionally counted as the last of them. The current temple was rebuilt in the 18th century by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar after several historical restorations. Its red sandstone Hemadpanthi architecture, intricately carved shikhara and intimate sanctum sanctorum make it one of the most atmospheric living temples you'll visit in this region.
Visitor information (2026)
| Open | 05:30 – 21:30 daily (timings can extend on festival days like Mahashivratri). |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Free |
| Photography | Allowed outside; strictly not allowed inside the sanctum. |
| Dress code | Modest dress required. Men are traditionally asked to remove their upper body shirt before entering the sanctum. |
| Distance from Ellora gate | ~1 km — walkable in 10 minutes. |
| Distance from city | ~30 km / 50 min by road. |
Pro tips
- Visit before Ellora opens (around 06:00) — the temple is at its most peaceful then.
- Avoid Mondays and Mahashivratri unless you specifically want the festival energy; expect queues of 1+ hour.
- Mobile phones are typically not permitted inside; lockers are available at the entrance for a small fee.
- Combine smoothly with Ellora Caves — temple first, then caves through the day.