01
Somnath
Gujarat
The first Jyotirlinga, on the shore of the Arabian Sea
12 Jyotirlinga Tour Package
FeaturedModerate
Starting from Jamnagar
18 Days / 17 Nights
1-50 people
12 Jyotirlinga Tour
5 (1 reviews)
Tour Overview
Embarking on the 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra is more than just a tour; for a devotee of Lord Shiva, it is the journey of a lifetime. Across the vast landscape of India, from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched shores of Rameshwaram, these twelve sacred shrines represent the "Endless Pillar of Light." Among the top tailor-made India tours, this tour stands tall for the pilgrims who wish to visit the most spiritual among the temples of India.
At Waytoindia.com, we have meticulously crafted an 18-day itinerary that balances the intensity of spiritual devotion with the comfort of modern travel. Whether you are seeking spiritual liberation (Moksha) or simply wish to experience the raw energy of Vedic traditions, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your sacred expedition. Our India travel packages are highly acclaimed among the Hindu pilgrims (NRIs/OCI card holders) coming from abroad form countries such as UK, USA, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia and Australia, just to name a few. 12 Jyotirlinga tour package cost starts INR 90,000 onwards.
Tour Highlights
Darshan of Somnath Jyotirlinga
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga with Bhramaramba Shaktipeeth
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga with Harsiddhi Shaktipeeth
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga on the holy Narmada River
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga with Devprayag and Ruderaprayag
Darshan Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar with Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga
Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga with Annapurna Temple & Ganga Aarti
Baidyanath Jyotirlinga with Shaktipeeth of Maa Jaya Durga
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Jyotirlinga with Bet Dwarka with Dwarkadhish Temple
Darshan Dwarkadhish Temple (it's one of the sacred Char Dham)
Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga with 22 sacred Teerthams
About This Tour
12 Jyotirlinga Yatra tour package takes you to all the worship places of Lord Shiva.
The Divine Circuit: Your Comprehensive Guide to the 12 Jyotirlinga Tour Package
Embarking on a 12 Jyotirlinga tour package is more than a simple holiday; it is a profound spiritual odyssey that spans the length and breadth of India. For devotees of Lord Shiva, visiting these twelve "pillars of light" is believed to be the ultimate path to spiritual awakening and the cleansing of past karmas.
Why Choose a Comprehensive 12 Jyotirlinga Tour Package?
Planning a trip that covers eight different Indian states can be a logistical challenge. By opting for a professional 12 jyotirlinga yatra tour package, you ensure that the complexities of flight connections, local transport, and temple timings are expertly managed. This allows you to stay focused on your Sadhana (devotion) rather than the stress of travel.
The Sacred Map: Locations Covered in the Yatra
Our 12 jyotirlinga list with locations ensures you don't miss a single sacred spot:
Western India: Somnath and Nageshwar (Gujarat); Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar, and Grishneshwar (Maharashtra).
Central India: Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh).
Northern India: Kedarnath (Uttarakhand) and Kashi Vishwanath (Uttar Pradesh).
Eastern India: Baidyanath (Jharkhand).
Southern India: Mallikarjuna (Andhra Pradesh) and Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu).
Timing is critical for this pilgrimage. Because the circuit includes high-altitude Himalayan regions and tropical southern coasts, the best time for 12 jyotirlinga yatra is generally between October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasant across the country.
Crucial Note: If you are looking for a 12 jyotirlinga tour package from Delhi or Mumbai during the summer, please be aware that the Kedarnath shrine typically opens in late April or early May, depending on the Hindu calendar.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Pilgrimage
Dress Code: Many temples, particularly in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, require traditional attire (Dhoti for men, Saree/Suit for women) to enter the inner sanctum.
Health Prep: This is an 18-day journey. We recommend a basic health check-up, especially for the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga tour portion, which involves high altitudes.
Booking in Advance: Due to the high demand for Bhasma Aarti in Ujjain and helicopter tickets in Kedarnath, it is wise to book your 12 jyotirlinga tour package at least 3-4 months in advance.
Best Time
Oct–Mar
Ideal For
Pilgrims/Devotees, Families, Seniors
Difficulty
Moderate
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Welcome to Jamnagar/ Ahmedabad/ Rajkot!
As soon as you land, our local representative will assist you and transfer you to Dwarka. Once you reach, check-in to the hotel and settle in. In the evening, you can visit the highly revered Dwarkadhish Temple on your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and offer your prayers.
The temple dates back to more than 1400 years and displays intricate carvings on its walls and interiors. Head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
On day 2 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, begin your day with a healthy breakfast and then check out of the hotel.
Drive to Bet Dwarka. Also, popularly known as "Kingdom of Lord Krishna", this is where the Lord spent endless hours of togetherness with his wife, Rukmani.
On the way, visit the famous Nageshwar Jyotirlinga and Rukmani Temple on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga tour package.
Nageshwar (Gujarat): Located near Dwarka, this temple symbolizes protection from all poisons and negativity.
What makes Nageshwar Jyotirlinga unique is it's association with protection from venom & fear and that it houses one of the largest Shiva statues. Spiritual essence of of this Jyotirlinga is protection, fearlessness, inner strength that is believed this Jyotirlinga imparts to the devotees of Lord Shiva who visit this sacred shrine.
After lunch, drive to Somnath via Porbandar. As you reach the hotel, check-in and freshen up.
In the evening, visit the Somnath Jyotirlinga on your 12 Jyotirlinga tour and seek the blessings of the deity.
Somnath, Gujarat: Known as the "Eternal Shrine," it represents faith that with stands the test of time. It is the first among the twelve Aadi Jyotirlingas.
Head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
On day 3 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, start your day early with the morning darshan of Somnath Temple.
Somnath Temple stands tall as a symbol of indestructibility of Sanatan Dharma, having been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt through history. Mythologically, as per Skanda Puran, it was here that Moon God (Chandra) was freed from a curse after worshipping Lord Shiva.
While Somnath temple remains open for Darshan between 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, yet it has been our experience that that early morning darshan (before 8 AM) offers the most peaceful spititual experience, especially during weekends. Further, it is worth noting that evening aarti draws large crowds. Many of our first-time visitors have shared that the emotional connect with Lord Shiva is felt strongest during quiet sunrise hours, when the sound of waves blends with temple chants. Hence we suggest that you plan your Darshan during the early morning timings i.e. before 8:00 am. This way you would also be able to attend the morning Aarti that is scheduled at 07:00 am.
After the darshan, head back to the hotel and enjoy a scrumptious breakfast.
Post that, check out of the hotel and transfer to Diu Airport by road to board your flight to Mumbai.
As soon as you land in Mumbai, transfer to Trimbakeshwar by road.
As soon as you reach, check-in to the hotel and relax. The spiritual essence of Trimbakeshwar Temple lies in being a spiritual shrine well known for ancestral peace, karmic cleansing. Many pilgrims visit Trimbakeshwar for Kalsarp Dosha Nivaran. Trimbakeshwar is also famous for being origin of the Godavari River and a major centre for ancestral rites such as Narayan Nagbali.
Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra: Famous for its three-faced Lingam representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It is also the origin of the Godavari River.
After settling down in hotel, visit the well-known Trimbakeshwar Temple and the holy Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga in Nasik on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga package. If time permits, we strongly suggest that you visit Kalaram Temple in Panchvati area of Nashik. Built around in 1792, it is believed that Sardar Rangarao Odhekar had a dream that the statue of Rama in black colour is there in the river Godavari. Sardar Rangarao Odhekar took the statues from river and built the temple which houses black color idols of Lord Ram, Mata Janki ji and Lakshman ji. Temple is built in a way that the morning sunlight first reaches feet of Lord Ram instilling a divine feeling in the pilgrims. Further, the idol of Lord Hanuman faces Lord Ram which is a sight to behold.
Later, head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
Day 4 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package is bit hectic and involves driving for almost 10 hours. You begin your day with a healthy breakfast and check out of the hotel.
Make your way to Bhimashankar by road. Visit another jyotirlinga inside Bhimashankar Temple on your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package.
Bhimashankar, Maharashtra: Located in the Sahyadri hills, it is the source of the Bhima River and is surrounded by a reserved forest sanctuary.
It is important to note that weekdays are generally calm and quiet while weekends and Shravan month are crowded as lot of pilgrims from nearby places also visit the shrine. Since the temple is located in the Ghats, our visitors have frequently reported sudden temperature drops, even in summer. Mythologically, Bhimashankar is believed to be the site where demon Tripurasura was destroyed by Lord Shiva. Bhimashankar is also credited with the place where river Bhima originates. Being located in the Sahyadri forests, entire place is lush green.
After your puja, drive further to Shani Shingnapur, which is dedicated to Lord Shani.
Later, continue your journey to Shirdi, the holy abode of Sai Baba. As you reach Shirdi, check-in to the hotel and settle in. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
On day 5 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, start your day early and visit the Shirdi Sai Temple to attend the Kakad Aarti.
After your darshan, head back to the hotel and enjoy a lavish breakfast. Later, check out of the hotel and transfer to Grishneshwar.
On your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, pay a visit to the sacred Grishneshwar Mahadev Jyotirlinga and seek the blessings of the Lord. If time permits, you may visit the Ellora Caves (UNESCO site).
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga tells a moving story of devotion and grace. Ghusma, a devoted worshipper of Lord Shiva, immersed 101 Shivalingas daily. When her jealous co-sister killed her son, Ghusma remained steadfast in faith. Pleased by her devotion, Shiva revived her son and chose to reside here, making Grishneshwar a sacred Jyotirlinga.
It has been our experience that one should plan visit to Grishneshwar Mahadev Temple early in the morning.This is because once the usual tourist crowd going to Ellora starts arriving at the temple, the temple becomes crowded. Thus, we suggest that you plan your visit to Grishneshwar Mahadev Jyotirlinga early in the morning.
Note that Grishneshwar Mahadev temple opens for Darshan at 5:30 am in the morning and then closes for the afternoon t 12:00 pm to reopen at 01:00 pm. The temple finally closes after Shayan Aarti at 09:00 pm.
Also note that Grishneshwar temple hosts festivals such as Shivratri, Shravan, Kartik Purnima and Ganesh Chaturthi and thus travellers might find lot os pilgrims if they plan their trip during this period.
After the darshan, drive to Aurangabad. As you reach, check-in to the hotel and settle in. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
Book Trimbakeshwar Grishneshwar Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Tour
On day 6 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, start your day with a delicious breakfast and check out of the hotel. Transfer to Aurangabad airport to board your flight to Indore.
As soon as you land in Indore, transfer to Ujjain by road. As you reach, check-in to the hotel and relax.
Ujjain, one among the Sapta Moksha Puris is famous for the only south-facing (dakshinamukhi) Jyotirlinga at Mahakaleshwar Temple. Few people know that Mahakaleshwar Temple isn’t a single shrine, in fact it has 3 layers. Just above the main Sanctum Sanctorum of Mahakaal Temple on the upper shrine is Omkareshwar Shiva(this is distinct from the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga on the banks of river Narmada). On the third floor is Nagchandreshwar, which opens up only on the date of Nag Panchami, Within the Temple Precincts is Swapneshwar Mahadev.
One of the most important event at Mahakaleshwar Temple Ujjain is the morning Bhasma Arti for which prior bookings have to be made well in advance. There was a time when pilgrims could go inside the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple and offer Jal Prashad and could even do Mahabhishek, but the same is not allowed now.
Enjoy your darshan at the Mahakaleshwar Temple on your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package. The lingam at this revered temple is believed to be born of itself.
Mahakaleshwar, Madhya Pradesh: The only south-facing (Dakshinamurti) Jyotirlinga, famous for the daily Bhasma Aarti where Lord Shiva is worshipped with sacred ash.
Post your darshan, head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
On day 7 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, start your day with a healthy breakfast and check out of the hotel. Drive to Omkareshwar. As you reach, visit the sacred Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga on your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package.
Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh): Situated on an island in the Narmada River shaped like the sacred symbol "Om."
After the darshan, head back to Indore airport to board your flight to Hyderabad. As you land, transfer to the hotel and settle in. Rest for the remaining day to rejuvenate yourself and continue with your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra the next day. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
On day 8 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, begin your day with a lip-smacking breakfast. The first half of the day is at leisure. You can check out some of the top attractions of Hyderabad like the famous Golconda Fort, Charminar, and Hussain Sagar.
In the evening, check out of the hotel and transfer to Srisailam by road. As you reach, check-in to the hotel and relax. You can check out the local markets or eatery joints if you wish to. Head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
On day 9 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, start your day with a delicious breakfast and check out of the hotel. Make your way to Mallikarjun Jyotirlinga and enjoy your darshan of the pious lingam on your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package.
Mallikarjuna, Andhra Pradesh: Located in Srisailam, it is unique because it is one of the rare sites revered as both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peeth.
After the visit, drive back to Hyderabad airport to board your flight to Madurai. As soon as you land, transfer to the hotel and relax.
In the evening, you can visit the well-renowned Meenakshi Amman Temple on your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package and witness the ceremonies that take place in the evening. Head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
On day 10 of your 12 Jyotirlinga tour package, begin your day with a lavish breakfast and then check out of the hotel. Transfer to Rameshwaram by road. As you reach, check in to the hotel and settle in. The day is at leisure.
You can indulge in local sightseeing and cover some of the top attractions of the city on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra package like The Five-Faced Hanuman Temple, Dhanushkodi, and Gandama dana Parvatham. Head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
Day 11 of your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, start your day early and visit the pious Rameshwaram Temple at 4:30 in the morning.
Enjoy your darshan of Spatika Lingam on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra. Post that, take a holy bath at Agni Tirath and other holy wells at the temple. On your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, visit the Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga and offer your prayers.
Ramanathaswamy, Tamil Nadu: Located in Rameswaram, this Lingam was established by Lord Rama before his battle with Ravana. It features 22 holy water wells (Theerthams).
Post the darshan, head back to the hotel. Enjoy a nice breakfast and then check out of the hotel. Transfer to Madurai airport to take your onward flight to Delhi. As soon as you land, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
On day 12 of your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, post an early breakfast, check out of the hotel and make your way to Haridwar by road.
As you reach, check-in to the hotel and settle in. Spend some time relaxing in the hotel before attending the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra. Soak in the divinity that this pious city has to offer.
After the aarti, you can even check out the nearby local markets to shop for souvenirs and other holy items. Head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
On day 13 of your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, enjoy a lip-smacking breakfast and then check out of the hotel. Make your way to Guptakashi by road. As you reach, check-in to the resort and settle in. The day is at leisure. You can explore it on your own.
You can visit the many temples that Guptakashi is lined with like Ardhnareshwar Temple, Vishwanath Temple, and Manikaran Kund on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra. Head back to the resort for your overnight stay.
On day 14 of your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast and transfer to Guptakashi / Phata Helipad for boarding a helicopter to Kedarnath. As you reach, get priority Darshan tickets for your Kedarnath darshan that are available only for helicopter passengers.
Kedarnath, Uttarakhand: The highest of the 12 Jyotirlingas, located in the Himalayas. It is open only for 6 months a year (May to Oct/Nov).
On your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, experience the spiritual vibes at the Kedarnath temple which was constructed by the Pandava brothers and later revived by the revered saint Adi Shankaracharya. After the darshan, reach back to Guptakashi / Phata helipad in the helicopter and from thereon, transfer to the vehicle to reach the resort. Enjoy your overnight stay at the resort.
Learn more about our Kedarnath extension tour - Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Tour Package
On day 15 of your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, post a delicious breakfast, check out of the resort. Transfer to Dehradun airport by road to catch your onward flight to Varanasi. As you reach, check-in to the hotel and settle in. The day is at leisure. You can explore the divine city of Varanasi and visit the temples, or take a stroll along the ghats on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra.
In the evening, enjoy the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedha Ghat on your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra package. Head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
On day 16 of your 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra, start your day early by visiting the famous Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Offer your prayers to the Almighty and seek its blessings.
Kashi Vishwanath, Uttar Pradesh: Located in Varanasi, the oldest living city in the world. A visit here is believed to liberate one from the cycle of birth and death (Moksha).
You can later visit the Bhairav Temple on your 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra. Post the darshan, head back to the hotel. Enjoy your breakfast and then check out of the hotel. Transfer to Patna.
As you reach, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Rest of the day is at leisure. You are free to spend it in exploring the city on your own. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
Read detailed guide for Kashi Vishwanath Darshan - Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga Tour Package
On day 17 of your 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra, post an early breakfast, check out of the hotel. Transfer to Deoghar by road. As you reach, transfer to the hotel, check-in and relax. On your 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra, visit the popular Baidyanath Jyotirlinga and offer your prayers.
Vaidyanath / Baidyanath, Jharkhand: Also known as Baidyanath Dham, Shiva is worshipped here as the "Supreme Healer" (Vaidya).
It is believed that devotees who visit this Jyotirlinga are relieved of all their worries and miseries in life. After the darshan, head back to the hotel for your overnight stay.
Today is the last day of your Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra. Check out from the hotel and drive to Patna airport to board your onward flight back home.
12 Jyotirlinga Darshan Tour – A Complete Guide
How We Plan Your 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra
Covering 12 temples across 8 states is a long journey. To ensure comfort, especially for senior citizens, our itinerary is designed with a Smart Hybrid Travel Model:
Flight Connects: We utilize flights for long-distance legs (e.g., traveling from West India to South India) to save days of travel.
Scenic Drives: Short distances (like Ujjain to Omkareshwar) are covered in comfortable AC SUVs for a scenic experience.
Relaxed Pace: Unlike rushed tours, we include rest stops at key locations to prevent pilgrim fatigue.
What's Included
Accommodation on double/twin-sharing basis in the hotels.
Meals, as mentioned in the detailed itinerary and costing that, shall be shared with you.
All transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary by Vehicle as per the number of persons(Only land transfers).
Driver allowance, parking, toll, interstate taxes.
Goods & Service Tax at the prevailing rates.
What's Not Included
Items of personal nature like drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc.
Any other meals not mentioned in the itinerary or inclusions.
Any guide fee, entrances, camera fee etc.
Liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control.
Any other item not specifically mentioned above in 'Prices Include'
Any air/rail/coach/ferry fares.
Any change in package price due to hike in fuel prices and government taxes.
Any surcharges for super peak season.
Kedarnath Helicopter Tickets
Any VIP Darshan Passes.
A guide for pilgrims travelling from abroad
The 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra
Are you planning this sacred journey from the US, the UK, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia or Mauritius? Here, in one place, is everything you need to know before you travel and while you are in India.
18 TO 24 DAYS12 TEMPLES, 8 STATESHIMALAYA TO THE SEAPRIVATE & COMFORTABLE
The shrines
Swipe →02
Nageshwar
Gujarat
Near Dwarka, with a tall 25 metre Shiva statue
03
Trimbakeshwar
Maharashtra
A three-faced linga, and a Kumbh Mela site
04
Bhimashankar
Maharashtra
In the Sahyadri hills, beside a wildlife sanctuary
05
Grishneshwar
Maharashtra
The smallest, next to the Ellora Caves
06
Mahakaleshwar
Madhya Pradesh
Famous for the Bhasma Aarti, and south-facing
07
Omkareshwar
Madhya Pradesh
On an Om-shaped island in the Narmada river
08
Mallikarjuna
Andhra Pradesh
Known as the Kailash of the South
09
Rameshwaram
Tamil Nadu
22 holy wells and the longest temple corridor
10
Kashi Vishwanath
Uttar Pradesh
The new Corridor, and the Ganga aarti
11
Vaidyanath
Jharkhand
Both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha
12
Kedarnath
Uttarakhand
High in the Himalayas, about 3,583 metres, a 16 km walk
01Season
When to come: Kedarnath decides the dates
One temple decides your dates. The best time is September and October. The weather is pleasant in most places, and Kedarnath is still open before the winter snow closes it. Note that we can anyway create one or more clusters for you where you can do this journey in more than one period.
- The full journey depends on the mountain seasonKedarnath, high in the Himalayas, stays open only from about late April to mid-November. For 2026 the likely dates are around 22 April to 11 November. Please check the exact dates before you book, as they change a little each year.
- Why September and October are bestThe rains are over, the weather in the plains is comfortable, the south of India is at its best, and Kedarnath is still open before it closes for winter.
- Avoid the hills during the rainsIn July and August the hill paths become wet and slippery, and there is a risk of landslides near Kedarnath and in the Western Ghats. Gujarat and the coast stay hot and humid. It is better not to travel in these months.
- A word about festival crowdsMahashivratri and the holy month of Shravan are very special, but huge crowds gather at Kashi, Mahakaleshwar and Vaidyanath at these times. If you travel then, please be ready for long queues.
Please plan around this
A winter trip (about November to April) cannot cover all twelve temples, because Kedarnath is closed. If you can only travel in winter, you can visit the southern and western temples now, and keep Kedarnath for another visit.
02Arrival, visa and phone
Before you fly
A few simple things to arrange before you reach India, so everything is easy from the moment you land.
New rule, from 1 April 2026
There is a new rule. Every foreign passport holder, and even OCI cardholders, must now fill an e-Arrival Card. It is free and is filled online within 72 hours of arriving, on the Indian Visa Online website (the Su-Swagatam portal). It is not a visa, but it is required. Many NRIs do not know about it yet, so please remember it.
- Arrange your visa or OCIIf you hold a US, UK or Australian passport, apply online for the e-Tourist Visa. It usually comes through in about three days. If you have an OCI or PIO card, you can enter India without a visa, for life, using your passport and that card. Mauritian citizens should check the latest rules with the Indian High Commission in Port Louis.
- Arrive in one city and fly home from anotherBook a flight that lands in Mumbai and returns from Delhi. Mumbai is the best place to start, as it is closest to the western temples. Ending in the north lets you fly home from Delhi, instead of travelling all the way back to Mumbai.
- Sort out your phone before you landAn eSIM is a phone connection you set up online, with no card to insert. One from Airalo or Holafly needs no paperwork and works the moment you land, so you can call and use maps right away. A local Airtel or Jio SIM is cheaper but needs your passport and one or two days to start working. Airtel usually works best in the villages and hills.
Mauritius
Air India and Air Mauritius fly direct to Delhi. There are only a few flights each week, so plan around the days they operate.
USA
Air India flies direct to Delhi from New York (JFK and Newark), Chicago, San Francisco and Washington.
UK
There are many direct flights from London Heathrow, and a direct flight from Gatwick to Ahmedabad, which is handy if you want to start in Gujarat.
Australia
Air India is the only direct flight, from Sydney and Melbourne to Delhi. Otherwise you change planes in Singapore.
Singapore
Singapore Airlines, Air India, IndiGo and Scoot fly direct to Delhi. Singapore Airlines also flies to Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad, which is useful for the southern temples.
Malaysia
From Kuala Lumpur, AirAsia, Batik Air, Malaysia Airlines, IndiGo and Air India fly direct to Delhi, Chennai and other cities, with very good links to the south of India.
03Paying in India
Paying without an Indian bank account
These days most payments in India are made by phone, using a system called UPI. The good news is that visitors from abroad can now use it too. Here is how to pay easily.
- Visitors can use UPI tooAt the big airports you can set up a prepaid wallet called UPI ONE WORLD, using your passport and visa. After that, you simply scan a QR code with your phone to pay taxis, shops and many temple counters. No cash needed.
- NRIs can use UPI on a foreign numberIf you have an NRE or NRO bank account in India, you can connect UPI to it using your overseas mobile number, including numbers from the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Singapore and the UAE. You do not need an Indian SIM card.
- Still carry some cash in temple townsIn small temple towns, on the walk up to Kedarnath (for ponies, the carried chair and prasad) and in the Garhwal hills, cards and UPI often do not work. Please carry some Indian rupees in cash. ATMs in faraway places can be few, and sometimes empty.
04Who can go inside
Can you go inside? Please carry your passport
Almost all the temples welcome every devotee. Only two need one small step first. This is helpful to know if your family includes people of different faiths.
Temple
Entry for visitors from abroad
Somnath
Note: You need a short permission note from the temple Trust office. Phones are not allowed anywhere inside the temple grounds, and lockers are provided for them.
Kashi Vishwanath
Note: Carry your passport and a copy of your visa for the foreigner darshan, which costs around 600 rupees. Phones are not allowed inside.
All other 10
Open: Open to everyone. Please dress modestly and follow the temple's rules inside the sanctum.
05Inside the temple
What to wear, and temple customs
These are living temples with daily worship. Even if you pack light, please carry one traditional outfit, as some temples ask for it inside.
- A dhoti for the inner sanctumAt Trimbakeshwar and Grishneshwar, men go in bare-chested, wearing a cotton dhoti, for the worship inside. Women wear a saree, or a salwar-kameez with a dupatta.
- The holy bath at RameshwaramAt Rameshwaram there is a holy bath at 22 wells (called theerthams), which costs around 25 rupees. It is done in your clothes, so you get wet. You cannot go into the sanctum in wet clothes, so please carry a dry set of traditional clothes to change into.
- Phones are often not allowedAt Somnath, Kashi Vishwanath and Grishneshwar, phones and cameras are not allowed inside. Leave them in the cloakroom lockers and enjoy the darshan in peace.
- Leave leather outsideAnything made of leather, such as belts, wallets and bags, must be removed before many sanctums. Shoes are left at the counters well outside the temple.
06Book in advance
Darshan and the Bhasma Aarti
The most special prayers can be booked in advance, and seats fill up quickly. It is best to plan these a few weeks ahead.
- Mahakaleshwar Bhasma Aarti, UjjainThis special aarti, where sacred ash is offered, is done only here, very early in the morning at about 4 AM. Book it on the official website and upload a photo ID. It costs around 200 rupees and fills up fast, especially on Mondays and in the month of Sawan. Reach Gate 4 by about 3 AM. Men wear a dhoti, and women cover their head during the ash ritual.
- Kashi VishwanathBook the early-morning Mangala Aarti, or the easy darshan, in advance. The new temple Corridor has different queues, and a local guide makes it much easier to find your way.
- Use the official counters onlyBuy any VIP or senior quick-entry passes only from the official temple counters. Please do not buy from the agents who approach you in the queue offering special darshan.
A help for older travellers
Booking the VIP, easy or senior darshan at each temple in advance lets you avoid the long queues. Over a three-week journey, this makes a real difference for older pilgrims.
07The hardest part
Kedarnath: on foot or by helicopter
Of all twelve, this is the hardest to reach. It is a 16 km walk uphill to about 3,583 metres, high in the mountains. Here is how to do it safely.
- On footIt is a 16 km walk uphill from a place called Gaurikund. Cars stop earlier at Sonprayag, and a shared jeep takes you the last 5 km or so. The walk takes about six to ten hours. You can also hire a pony (about 2,500 to 3,500 rupees) or a palki, which is a chair carried by four men (about 4,200 to 5,500 rupees). The palki is much easier on older knees.
- By helicopter, booked only through IRCTCHelicopters fly from Sersi, Phata and Guptkashi. They can be booked only on the official government website, heliyatra.irctc.co.in. Seats sell out very fast. The fare changes every year, so please check the current price before you book.
- Registration is requiredBefore the climb you must register, free of cost, for the Char Dham Yatra. You cannot buy helicopter tickets without it, and you will not be allowed past Sonprayag without it. Please carry your passport or OCI card.
Please take the height seriously
Even by helicopter, you reach 3,583 metres suddenly, with no time for your body to adjust. Older travellers, and anyone with a heart problem, should see their doctor first and get a fitness check. Take travel insurance that covers an emergency airlift, and ask your doctor about a medicine called Diamox, which helps with mountain sickness. The best months are May and June, and September and October.
08Wellbeing
For older pilgrims
Some simple, honest advice for older pilgrims doing the full journey.
- Fly between regions, rather than driveWherever possible, we use short flights inside India instead of long days in the car. Across eight states, this is much kinder on older backs and knees.
- Kedarnath by helicopterThis is the one truly difficult part of the trip. We book the helicopter for you through IRCTC after your registration is done. Please have a health check-up before you come.
- Insurance with airlift coverPlease take travel insurance that covers emergency treatment and an airlift if needed. This is very important for the mountain part of the trip.
- Build a little stamina beforehandTry to take a short walk every day for a few weeks before you travel. It makes both the climb and the long queues much easier to manage.
09Short on time?
Doing it in stages
If you cannot take three weeks off at one time, you can do the yatra over two or more visits. Cover one part of India now, and the rest the next time you come.
3-4days
GujaratSomnath and Nageshwar, starting from Ahmedabad, Rajkot or Diu
4-5days
MaharashtraBhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar and Grishneshwar, starting from Mumbai, Pune or Aurangabad
2-3days
Madhya PradeshMahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar, starting from Indore
4-6days
The SouthMallikarjuna and Rameshwaram are far apart, so fly between Hyderabad and Madurai
6-8days
North and EastKedarnath, Kashi and Vaidyanath, starting from Delhi or Dehradun, Varanasi and Deoghar
10Where to begin
Where to begin
Start the journey from whichever city is easiest for you. We arrange the flights, trains and car transfers to suit where you begin.
- From DelhiA good base for North India, with easy flights and trains to Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. See the Delhi departure package
- From MumbaiOne of the easiest places to start, with direct flights to the Maharashtra temples and good connections all over India. See the Mumbai departure package
- From AhmedabadA good choice if you want to visit Somnath and Nageshwar first, and then continue with the rest.
- From Bengaluru and ChennaiBoth have direct flights to the main pilgrimage cities. Chennai goes well with a visit to Rameshwaram in the south.
Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Stotram
Carry all twelve with you
Saurashtre Somnatham cha Shrishaile Mallikarjunam...
This short verse names all twelve temples in a single breath. It is said that those who recite it morning and evening are freed from the sins of seven lifetimes. It is a blessing to keep with you, even before you have completed the whole journey.
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Yashvind Kumar Poteeram
June 23, 2026
5
Excellent Service for 12 Jyotirlinga Darshan
A big thanks to Way To India for organising such a truly memorable and spiritually fulfilling experience during our 12 Jyotirlinga Darshan pilgrimage from 1st May to 18th May. They organized the entire journey exceptionally well, ensuring that every aspect of the trip was smooth, comfortable, and hassle-free. From transportation and hotel arrangements to darshan planning and coordination, everything was managed professionally. Despite the extensive travel across multiple destinations, the itinerary was well-structured, allowing us to complete all the Jyotirlinga darshans comfortably. Thanks to staff of Way To India, especially, Ms Neha, who was supportive, responsive, and attentive throughout the journey, always ready to assist whenever needed. Her dedication and careful planning made this sacred pilgrimage stress-free and enjoyable. I sincerely appreciate their excellent service, commitment, and hospitality. Highly recommend Way To India to anyone planning a spiritual tour, especially for the 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra. Thank you for making this divine journey so special and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
A pilgrimage to all 12 Jyotirlingas is much more than a holiday, it's a deeply spiritual journey that takes you across some of India's most sacred destinations. Covering thousands of kilometers and multiple states, planning such a trip can be challenging. That's where our experience helps.
At WaytoIndia, we focus on creating comfortable, well-organized, and personalized Jyotirlinga tours so that you can concentrate on your spiritual experience while we take care of the travel arrangements. Whether you are traveling alone, with family, as a senior citizen, or coming from overseas, we can customize the journey according to your preferences, budget, and travel dates.
No special permits are required for visiting the 12 Jyotirlinga temples. However, it is advisable to carry valid identification, such as an Aadhar card or passport, as some temples may request it for entry.
The best time for the 12 Jyotirlinga Tour is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans.
Modest attire is recommended when visiting the Jyotirlinga temples. Men should wear long pants and shirts, while women should opt for long skirts or dresses. Avoid revealing clothing and ensure your shoulders are covered.
While the Jyotirlinga Tour is generally safe, it's wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables. Always follow local customs and respect the temple rules.
Transportation during the tour is typically provided by a private vehicle. Ensure that the vehicle is comfortable for long distances, as the tour covers multiple states and involves significant travel time.
Most major cities along the Jyotirlinga route have good mobile network coverage. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better connectivity. Wi-Fi may be available in hotels, but it's advisable to have mobile data for emergencies.
Pack comfortable clothing suitable for temple visits, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and sturdy footwear for walking. Don't forget essentials like toiletries, medications, and a reusable water bottle.
Yes, it's important to follow temple etiquette. Remove your shoes before entering, maintain silence, and avoid taking photographs in restricted areas. Always ask for permission before touching any religious artifacts.
Accommodation options vary from budget hotels to luxury resorts. It's advisable to confirm your preferences with the tour operator to ensure suitable arrangements are made for your stay.
The 12 Jyotirlinga Tour typically spans 17 nights and 18 days, covering all twelve temples across various states in India. This duration allows for adequate travel time and exploration of each site.
Yes, meals are included as per the itinerary. However, it's advisable to check with your tour operator regarding specific meal arrangements and any dietary preferences you may have.
Atleast 18 to 19 days are required for the 12 jyotirlinga Yatra.
Approximate INR 90,000 per head.
Yes, senior citizens can do this Yatra
Yes, Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple is included in this trip.
No, Helicopter tickets are not included in this trip. Shuttle services for Kedarnath Temple can only be booked via https://www.heliyatra.irctc.co.in/ .
No, VIP darshan passes not included in this package. If you need VIP passes please inform us before the yatra. wherever it is possible, we will definitely arrange it.
Yes.
Starting from
₹90,000onwards*
per person
18 Days / 17 Nights
*depending on number of travellers & hotel category
Duration18D / 17N
Starting CityJamnagar
DifficultyModerate
Group Size1-50 people
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