Divine Significance: The first and most revered of the twelve Jyotirlingas, where Shiva manifested as an infinite pillar of light. Legend says the temple was first built by Somraj (Moon God) in gold, then by Ravana in silver, Krishna in wood, and King Bhimdev in stone.

Divine Significance: Highest Jyotirlinga in the Himalayas where Shiva manifested as a bull to escape the Pandavas. The Kedarkhand describes how Bhima tried to catch Shiva who merged into the ground, leaving the hump portion.

Divine Significance: Most sacred Jyotirlinga where Lord Shiva permanently resides. The Kashi Khanda states that even a glimpse of this lingam provides moksha, and those who die here attain liberation.

Divine Significance: Source of river Godavari and site where Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva reside in one lingam. The Brahma Purana describes how sage Gautama's penance brought Ganga here as Godavari.

Divine Significance: The only Jyotirlinga facing south (Dakshinamukhi), considered the ruler of time (Mahakaal). The Shiva Purana describes its power to destroy negative planetary influences.

Divine Significance: Sacred Jyotirlinga established by Lord Rama before his Lanka expedition. The Ramayana describes how Rama worshipped Shiva here to seek blessings for victory over Ravana.

Divine Significance: Jyotirlinga where Shiva defeated demon Bhima and manifested to protect his devotees. The Shiva Purana narrates the story of Bhima's terror and Shiva's intervention.

Divine Significance: Sacred island shaped like Om symbol where Shiva defeated demon Vindhya. The Shiva Purana describes how Narada's advice to Vindhya led to this divine manifestation.

Divine Significance: Sacred Jyotirlinga where Ravana performed intense penance and received Shiva's blessings. The Shiva Purana describes how Ravana carried this lingam from Kailash.

Divine Significance: Sacred Jyotirlinga where Shiva and Parvati both reside. The Skanda Purana narrates how Shiva and Parvati took residence here to console their son Kartikeya.

Divine Significance: Jyotirlinga where Shiva protected his devotee Supriya from demon Daruka. The Shiva Purana narrates how Shiva emerged from the earth to destroy the demon.

Divine Significance: The last and youngest Jyotirlinga, where Shiva appeared to devotee Kusuma. The Shiva Purana describes her unwavering devotion despite family persecution.