Jyotirlingas in South India and Other Must-Visit Shiva Temples

What is a Jyotirlinga?

A Jyotirlinga is a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva, believed to have manifested as a pillar of divine light. The word combines “Jyoti” (light) and “Linga” (symbol of Shiva), signifying his infinite presence. According to legend, there are 12 Jyotirlingas across India. Each shrine marks a place where Shiva revealed his divine form. Devotees believe visiting them grants spiritual merit and liberation.

In This Blog You Will Learn 

What is a Jyotirlinga? Meaning and spiritual significance

Jyotirlinga in South India

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, Andhra Pradesh

• Best time to visit
• Top attractions

Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, Tamil Nadu

• Best time to visit
• Top attractions

Other Famous Shiva Temples in South India

• Bhimeswaram in Andhra Pradesh
• Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Tamil Nadu

How to Reach:

• Travel options for all mentioned temples (Air, Train, Road)

Where to Stay:

• Recommended stays in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu

Jyotirlinga in South India:

Jyotirlingas in South India hold immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. These sacred shrines are believed to be the places where Shiva manifested as a pillar of divine light, symbolising his infinite power. Unlike the northern and central parts of India, where most Jyotirlingas are located, South India is home to a few select temples that are equally revered and steeped in mythological importance. Pilgrims from across the country travel to these southern shrines to seek blessings, perform rituals, and experience divine energy. Here are the Jyotirlingas in South India you must visit:

• Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, Andhra Pradesh
• Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, Tamil Nadu

• Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, Andhra Pradesh

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga in Andhra Pradesh is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in India. Located in the picturesque town of Srisailam, this sacred temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and also one of the 18 Shakti Peethas, making it a rare and powerful pilgrimage site for both Shaivites and Shaktas. Perched on the Nallamala Hills along the banks of the Krishna River, Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is not only a spiritual destination but also a place of breathtaking natural beauty. Devotees believe that visiting this temple cleanses the soul and brings divine blessings from both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Best time to visit Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga:

The best time to visit Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga in Andhra Pradesh is from October to February, when the weather is cool and ideal for pilgrimage. This period also includes major festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Ugadi, celebrated with great devotion. It’s best to avoid summer and monsoon due to heat and travel disruptions.

Top Attractions at Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga:

• Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple: The main Jyotirlinga shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Bhramaramba, known for its intricate carvings and spiritual energy.
• Bhramaramba Devi Temple: A revered Shakti Peetha located within the temple complex, where Goddess Parvati is worshipped in the form of Bhramaramba.
• Srisailam Dam & Krishna River Viewpoint: A scenic spot near the temple offering breathtaking views of the Krishna River and lush Nallamala hills.
• Pathala Ganga: A sacred ghat on the Krishna River, accessible by steps or ropeway, where devotees take holy dips before darshan.

• Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, Tamil Nadu

Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga in Tamil Nadu is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India and holds immense spiritual importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Located in the coastal town of Rameswaram, this revered temple is part of both the 12 Jyotirlingas and the Char Dham Yatra, making it a unique and powerful spiritual destination. According to legend, Lord Rama worshipped Shiva here to atone for the sin of killing Ravana, a Brahmin. With its grand architecture, sacred water tanks, and divine aura, Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga in Tamil Nadu attracts pilgrims and tourists throughout the year.

Best time to visit Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga:

The best time to visit Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga in Tamil Nadu is from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant for sightseeing and temple rituals. This season avoids the region's harsh summer heat and heavy monsoon rains. It’s also a great time to experience festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Ram Navami.

Top Attraction at Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga:

• Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple: The main shrine housing the Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, famous for its long corridors, Dravidian architecture, and 22 sacred theerthams (holy wells) for ritual bathing.
• Agni Theertham: A sacred seashore near the temple where devotees take a holy dip before entering the shrine; it is believed to cleanse sins and fulfil wishes.
• Dhanushkodi Beach & Ram Setu Viewpoint: A serene and mystical beach at the tip of Rameswaram, offering views of the legendary Adam’s Bridge (Ram Setu) believed to be built by Lord Rama’s army.
• Pamban Bridge: A historic sea bridge connecting Rameswaram to mainland India, known for its engineering marvel and scenic views of the ocean.

Other Famous Shiva Temples in South India:

South India is home to a treasure trove of ancient and powerful Shiva temples that go beyond the famed Jyotirlingas. These sacred sites are deeply woven into the region’s cultural, mythological, and architectural heritage. From coastal shrines to hilltop sanctuaries, each temple offers a unique glimpse into the diverse ways Lord Shiva is worshipped. Here are some of the most famous Shiva temples in South India that continue to inspire awe and devotion.

• Bhimeswaram in Andhra Pradesh
• Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple – Kashi of the South, Tamil Nadu

• Bhimeswaram in Andhra Pradesh

Bhimeswaram in Andhra Pradesh is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Draksharamam near Kakinada in the East Godavari district. It is considered by some traditions to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees. Also known as the Draksharama Temple, it showcases classic South Indian temple architecture and rich mythological lore, believed to be the place where Lord Shiva manifested as Bhimeswara to destroy the demon Rakthakundha. With its sacred ambiance and historical importance, Bhimeswaram in Andhra Pradesh remains a must-visit spiritual destination.

Best time to visit Bhimeswaram: 

The best time to visit Bhimeswaram in Andhra Pradesh is from October to March, when the weather is cool and ideal for temple visits. This season also sees vibrant celebrations of festivals like Maha Shivaratri. It's advisable to avoid the hot summers and rainy monsoons for a more comfortable experience.

Top Attractions at Bhimeswaram:

• Bhimeswara Swamy Temple: The main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring a massive two-tier sanctum and a unique crystal Shiva Linga visible from both levels.
• Sapta Godavari Kundam: A sacred temple tank where seven holy rivers are believed to converge, making it ideal for ritual bathing before darshan.
• Ashta Someswaras: Eight surrounding shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, each located in a different direction, forming a spiritual circuit for devotees.
• Temple Architecture and Inscriptions: The temple showcases stunning Chalukya and Chola architecture, with intricately carved pillars, grand gopurams, and ancient inscrip

• Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple – Kashi of the South, Tamil Nadu

Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple, often referred to as the Kashi of the South, is a revered Shiva temple located in the temple town of Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Kasi Viswanatha, this sacred shrine mirrors the spiritual importance of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Devotees believe that a visit to this temple holds the same merit as visiting the northern Kashi, making it a powerful site for seeking blessings and performing ancestral rituals. With its Dravidian architecture, rich legends, and spiritual aura, Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple in Tamil Nadu draws pilgrims from all over South India.

Best time to visit Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple:

The best time to visit Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple in Tamil Nadu is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for temple visits. This period also aligns with major festivals like Mahamaham and Margazhi, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere. Summers can be very hot, so it's best avoided for comfortable darshan.

Top Attraction at Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple:

• Majestic Rajagopuram: The temple features a towering 72-foot-high Rajagopuram with intricate carvings that showcase deities, celestial beings, and mythological stories.
• Sanctum of Lord Kasi Viswanathar and Goddess Visalakshi: The main sanctum houses the Shiva Lingam as Lord Kasi Viswanathar and a separate shrine for Goddess Visalakshi, drawing parallels to Kashi in Varanasi.
• Navakannigar Shrines (Nine River Goddesses): Unique shrines dedicated to the nine sacred rivers of India including Ganga, Yamuna, and Cauvery, believed to have bathed here for absolution.
• Sub-Shrines and Sacred Elements: The temple complex includes shrines for Bhairava, Dakshinamurthy, Surya, and Chandikeswara, along with a sacred neem tree and traditional flagstaff.

How to Reach:

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga – Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh

• By Air: Nearest airport is Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Airport) – approx. 220 km.
• By Train: Nearest railhead is Markapur Road (85 km) or Nandyal.
• By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Hyderabad, Kurnool, Vijayawada.

Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga – Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

• By Air: Nearest airport is Madurai Airport (170 km).
• By Train: Rameswaram Railway Station is well-connected to Chennai, Madurai, and other major cities.
• By Road: Accessible by buses and taxis via Pamban Bridge from mainland Tamil Nadu.

Bhimeswaram (Draksharamam) – Andhra Pradesh

• By Air: Nearest airport is Rajahmundry (50 km).
• By Train: Kakinada Town and Samalkot are the closest railway stations (20–25 km).
• By Road: Well-connected by buses and private taxis from Kakinada, Rajahmundry, and Amalapuram.

Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple – Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu

• By Air: Nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli (90–100 km)
• By Train: Kumbakonam Railway Station (KMU) is just 1 km from the temple.
• By Road: Connected by road to Chennai, Thanjavur, Trichy, and other nearby towns.

Where to Stay:

Andhra Pradesh: 

Starlit Suites Resort in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh is a modern and comfortable resort in Tirupati ideal for both short visits and extended pilgrhttps://www.clubmahindra.com/blog/images. The suites are well-furnished with kitchenettes, living areas, and private balconies. Guests can enjoy amenities like a rooftop pool, restaurant, and easy access to Tirupati’s temples. Its central location near the railway station makes it a convenient choice for travellers.

Tamil Nadu:

Le Poshe Resort in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu is a peaceful hill resort surrounded by greenery, ideal for a relaxing retreat in the Western Ghats. This resort in Kodaikanal offers well-furnished rooms and cottages with private balconies and scenic valley views. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a multi-cuisine restaurant, spa, fitness centre, and outdoor activities. Its tranquil setting and proximity to Kodaikanal’s major attractions make it a perfect resort in Kodaikanal for families and nature lovers.

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Exploring the Jyotirlinga in South India along with other famous Shiva temples is a spiritually enriching experience that connects devotees to the divine presence of Lord Shiva. Each temple, whether a Jyotirlinga or a revered shrine, holds deep mythological significance, unique architectural charm, and powerful energy that draws pilgrims year-round. These sacred sites offer not only religious fulfilment but also a glimpse into the cultural and spiritual soul of South India. A visit to these temples promises inner peace, blessings, and a journey through centuries of devotion and tradition.