About Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga Temple
Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga Temple is an ancient Shiva shrine located in Parli Vaijnath, Beed district, Maharashtra. It is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas in India and is believed to be over 3000 years old. The temple sits atop a hill approximately 75-80 feet above ground level and was renovated by Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century. It is renowned for its association with healing, as 'Vaidyanath' means 'Lord of Physicians', and features unique rituals signifying the unity of Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect to see a stone temple complex fortified with strong walls and spacious corridors situated on a small hill. The main entrance features brass-plated doors known as Mahadwar. Inside the sanctum, devotees are permitted to touch the smooth black stone Shaligram Jyotirlinga during specific darshan hours. The site includes sacred water bodies like Harihara Tirth and Narayan Kund within the complex. Visitors should be prepared for stairs to access the elevated temple structure and distinct ritual timings for abhishek and general darshan.
Key highlights
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One of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India
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Devotees are allowed to touch the Jyotirlinga during specific morning and afternoon hours
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Unique tradition of offering Tulsi leaves to Shiva and Bilva leaves to Vishnu symbolizing Hari-Hara unity
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Ancient temple estimated to be 3000 years old, renovated by Ahilyabai Holkar in 1706
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Sacred Harihara Tirth and Narayan Kund located within the temple precincts
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Situated atop a hill at the confluence of Brahma, Venu, and Saraswati rivers
History of Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga Temple
The temple is believed to have been constructed during the Yadava dynasty around the 12th or 13th century AD and later renovated by Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar in 1706. Mythology associates it with Ravana carrying the Jyotirlinga to Lanka before being tricked into placing it permanently at this site. It is considered a Hari-Hara kshetra where Shiva and Vishnu are worshipped together.
Culture & Context
Known as Vaidyanath or 'Lord of Physicians', the temple is culturally significant for healing and well-being. It uniquely signifies the union of Shaivism and Vaishnavism through the offering of Tulsi to Shiva and Bilva to Vishnu. Major festivals like Mahashivratri and Shravan Maas attract millions of devotees who perform special rituals and carry holy water from the Godavari river.