Baidyanath Temple, Deoghar

Significance

Baidyanath, known to pilgrims as Baba Dham, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The complex holds the central shrine of Baba Baidyanath and 21 other temples. Vaijnath at Parli, in Maharashtra, is also venerated as this Jyotirlinga.

History and legend

Legend tells that Ravana worshipped Shiva in the Himalayas and was allowed to carry a linga to Lanka, on the condition that it would stay wherever it was set down. On the way, near Deoghar, he handed it to a shepherd, said to be Vishnu in disguise, who placed it on the ground. Ravana could not lift it again, and the linga has remained here since.

Before you go

• During the Shravani Mela in July and August, pilgrims carry Ganga water from Sultanganj to offer here, and the town is extremely crowded.
• Deoghar’s airport opened in 2022, so flying in is now possible; check current routes.
• Many pilgrims also visit the Basukinath temple after Baidyanath.