Introduction
The Parli Vaijnath Temple, located in Beed district, Maharashtra, is a very famous and spiritual temple of Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India and is known for its healing powers and divine energy Thousands of devotees visit this temple each year to pray for health, peace, and spiritual growth. This article shares the temple’s history, stories, significance, festivals, and travel details simply.
Key Highlights
- Location: Beed, Maharashtra
- Importance: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
- Main Deity: Lord Shiva (Vaidyanath)
- Special Feature: Believed to have healing powers; shows unity of Shaivism and Vaishnavism
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
History of Parli Vaijnath Temple
Origins and Development
The temple was built around the 12th or 13th century during the Yadava dynasty. Later, rulers from the Chalukya, Yadava, and Bhosle dynasties helped renovate it and expand it. In 1706, Queen Ahilyabai Holkar renovated the temple, giving it its present grand look. Its design mirrors Maharashtra’s traditional architecture. It showcases the skill and dedication of ancient builders.
Architecture
The temple stands on a 75-foot-high hill and has strong stone walls and broad corridors. The entrance doors are covered with copper, and the walls have beautiful designs that tell ancient stories. The Shiva Linga, made from black Shaligram stone, can be touched by worshippers during prayer — which is considered a very sacred privilege.
Origin of Parli Vaijnath Temple
1. Movement to Ocean
“According to a legend, when the gods and demons moved the ocean to get Amrit, Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and medicine, came out from the ocean carrying the pot of Amrit.”. The Raksha tried to attack him, so Lord Vishnu hid him inside a Shiva Linga. The Linga started glowing, and the demons ran away. That holy place became Parli Vaijnath, meaning “Lord of Physicians.”
2. Ravana’s Story
Another legend says that Ravana, the king of Lanka, performed prayer to please Lord Shiva. Shiva gave him a Shiva Linga, with a condition that it should not touch the ground. On his way back, Ravana had to stop, and Lord Ganesha, disguised as a shepherd boy, placed the Linga on the ground. It got fixed there forever — this became the Parli Jyotirlinga.
Both stories show the spiritual link between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, and why this temple is known for healing and spiritual energy.
Importance
The Parli Vaijnath Temple is one of the main Jyotirlingas where people come here to pray for health, peace, and moksha (liberation). The name “Vaidyanath” means “Divine Healer.” Worshippers believe that Lord Shiva blesses them with good health and relief from diseases.
Unique Traditions
One special ritual here is offering Tulsi leaves to Lord Shiva and Bilva leaves to Lord Vishnu, which is opposite to normal practice. This shows the unity of Shaivism and Vaishnavism. The temple celebrates Vaikuntha Chaturdashi, when Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu both are worshipped together. It is also an important stop in the Dwadasa Jyotirlinga Yatra, a journey covering all 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
Major Festivals at Parli Vaijnath Temple
The temple becomes very lively during festivals, when thousands of devotees visit.
- Mahashivratri: The biggest festival with all-night prayers, bhajans, and lamps lighting up the temple.
- Shravan Month: Devotees pour milk on the Shiva Linga and pray for health and prosperity.
- Dussehra: Celebrated with colourful processions showing the victory of good over evil.
- Other Festivals: Gudi Padwa, Navratri, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti are also celebrated joyfully with music, bells..
These festivals fill the temple with happiness, devotion, and spiritual energy.
Famous Culinary Specialties
Parli Vaijnath, in Maharashtra’s Beed district, is famous for the Vaijnath Jyotirlinga temple. But its food scene also showcases Maharashtrian culture. The town offers simple, tasty vegetarian dishes made with local spices and grains. You can find traditional street food, breakfast items, and temple-inspired meals at small eateries and stalls near the temple. Here are the most popular dishes based on local guides and visitor reviews.
Iconic Dishes
- Vada Pav: This classic street food features a spiced potato fritter (vada) in a soft pav (bun). It comes with chutneys and fried chilies. Vendors like Chotu Kolhapuri offer variations, such as cheese or mayonnaise versions, making it a local favorite.
- Puran Poli: A sweet flatbread filled with lentils and jaggery, usually enjoyed during festivals like Mahashivratri at the Vaijnath fair. * This dessert shows the area’s love for jaggery sweets. It offers a great balance of flavors.Poha: Flattened rice cooked with onions, peanuts, and mustard seeds, often topped with sev (crispy noodles) and lemon. It’s a light, nutritious breakfast, featuring locally sourced rice.
- Upma: A savory semolina porridge cooked with spices, vegetables, and curry leaves. It’s comforting and adapts well to Marathwada’s dry climate.
- Idli and Vada: Steamed rice cakes (idli) and lentil donuts (vada) are inspired by South Indian cuisine, made with local urad dal. These are popular at places like Anusaya Restaurant, offering a lighter option compared to heavier Maharashtrian dishes.
- Maharashtrian Thali: This platter includes regional vegetarian curries (like bhajil), rice, chapati, and yogurt sides. It’s a great way to experience local home-style cooking.
Dining Recommendations
For an authentic taste, check out eateries near the temple or bus stand:
- Anusaya Restaurant (Vidyanagar): Known for South Indian breakfasts like idli-vada combos, it has high ratings for hygiene and quick service.
- Street Vendors near Temple: Perfect for vada pav and poha, especially during the annual Shivratri fair, when seasonal sweets add to the offerings.
These dishes highlight Parli Vaijnath’s role in Marathwada’s culture, where food enriches spiritual tourism. Visitors should try them fresh to enjoy the Deccan plateau’s diverse spice profiles.
How to Visit
Best Time
You can visit the temple any time of the year, but October to February is best due to pleasant weather. Summers (March to June) can be quite hot.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport – Aurangabad (200 km), connected to Mumbai and Delhi.
- By Train: Nearest station – Parli Vaijnath, connected to Pune, Hyderabad, and other cities.
- By Road: Buses and taxis are easily available from Beed, Latur, and Nanded.
- Stay: Many hotels and guest houses are available near the temple for devotees.
Nearby places
If you are planning a trip, you can also visit these nearby holy places:
- Aundha Nagnath Temple (118 km): Another famous Jyotirlinga with ancient carvings.
- Tulja Bhavani Temple (240 km): This temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhavani. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj prayed here.
- Hazur Sahib Gurudwara (105 km, Nanded): A major Sikh pilgrimage site.
- Yogeshwari Devi Temple (25 km): A beautiful old temple surrounded by caves.
- Dharur Fort: Known for its scenic views and historic stories.
Conclusion
The Parli Vaijnath Temple is not just a temple — it is a place of faith, healing, and divine peace. Its strong legends, impressive architecture, and rich traditions uplift every visitor. Visit this Jyotirlinga for prayers, festivals, or simply for peace of mind. Undoubtedly it will touch your heart.
