Planning a 3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour and worried about how to travel comfortably between all three sacred shrines? You have come to the right place. Urban Cruise provides dedicated vehicle on rent for the complete 3 Jyotirlinga tour in Maharashtra — covering Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar, and Grishneshwar — from Mumbai, Pune, and Thane with transparent pricing, experienced drivers, and zero last-minute cancellations.
Maharashtra is home to 5 jyotirlinga in Maharashtra out of 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, making it the most important pilgrimage state for Lord Shiva devotees in the entire country. Among these five, the 3 Jyotirlinga circuit — Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple, Nashik Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, and Grishneshwar Temple in Aurangabad— is the most popular tour package because it covers approximately 600 to 700 km and can be completed comfortably in 3 to 4 days through the lush Sahyadri hills, the sacred banks of the Godavari River, and the UNESCO-heritage landscape near Ellora.
Whether you need a car on rent for a family of 5, a Tempo Traveller on rent for a group of 9-26, or Maharaja Tempo Traveller, Force Urbania on rent & Luxury buses on rent for a premium pilgrimage experience, Urban Cruise has the right vehicle on rent for your Jyotirlinga Yatra. Unlike the longer 5 Jyotirlinga circuit that extends into Hingoli and Beed districts, the 3 Jyotirlinga route is efficient, road-friendly, and ideal for families, senior citizens, and working professionals with limited leave.
What Are Jyotirlingas? A Quick Spiritual Context
A Jyotirlinga is a sacred manifestation of Lord Shiva as an infinite column of light — “Jyoti” meaning divine light and “Linga” referring to Shiva’s cosmic form. According to Hindu scriptures, there are 12 Jyotirlingas across India, each uniquely blessed and self-manifested (Swayambhu), carrying immense spiritual power for devotees.
Pilgrims believe that darshan (sacred viewing) of a Jyotirlinga cleanses accumulated karma, fulfils spiritual wishes, and brings the devotee closer to moksha. Mahashivratri, Shravan month, and Mondays are considered the most auspicious times to visit.
How Many Jyotirlingas Are in Maharashtra?
5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra out of 12 jyotirlinga across India. These are Bhima Shankar jyotirlinga (Pune district), Nashik Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Grishneshwar (Aurangabad district), Aundha Nagnath jyotirlinga (Hingoli district), and Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga (Beed district). No other state in India has this many Jyotirlingas, which is why Maharashtra remains the number one destination for Shiva pilgrims every year.
For pilgrims travelling from Mumbai or Pune, the 3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour Package covering Bhima Shankar jyotirlinga (Pune district), Nashik Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Grishneshwar (Aurangabad district) is the most practical and popular choice. The route is well connected by road, the distances are manageable, and with the right vehicle on rent from Urban Cruise, every leg of the journey stays comfortable and stress-free.
3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra – Temple Overview
Bhima Shankar Jyotirlinga – Pune District
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the most powerful and scenic Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra, located in the Sahyadri hills at an altitude of around 3,250 feet in Pune district. The temple is built in the Hemadpanthi style of architecture and is surrounded by the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary — making it the only Jyotirlinga in India set inside a protected forest. The Bhima River, one of Maharashtra’s major rivers, originates near this Bhima Shankar Jyotirlinga. Darshan is available from 4:30 AM to 9:30 PM, and the morning Abhishek begins at 5:00 AM.
To reach Bhimashankar from Mumbai, the distance is approximately 220 km and takes around 4 to 5 hours. From Pune, the distance is 110 km and takes about 3 hours. The final 20 km of the route involves ghat road with sharp bends and a steep ascent, which is why pilgrims travelling to Bhimashankar bly benefit from booking Vehicle on rent for Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga rather than relying on shared transport or self-drive. Urban Cruise provides car on rent such as Innova Crysta on rent, Ertiga on rent, and Innova Hycross on rent for families, and Tempo Traveller or ForceUrbania on rent for groups — all with experienced ghat-road drivers who know this route well.
For luxury groups travelling to Bhimashankar, the Maharaja Tempo Traveller on rent Its 1×1 recliner maharaja seats and individual AC vents & Hire Luxury Bus on rent such as sleeper bus & Bus with Washroom is the most comfortable option. It makes the long uphill drive from Mumbai or Pune feel genuinely restful. Urban Cruise makes the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga yatra truly special experience.
Key things to see at Bhimashankar jyotirlinga include the Kamalaja Devi Temple adjacent to the main shrine, the Gupt Bhimashankar cave, and the Sakshi Vinayak Temple which devotees visit before entering the main Jyotirlinga. The best time to visit Bhimashankar jyotirlinga is October to March when the weather is cool and the forest is beautiful.
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Nashik District
Trimbakeshwar jyotirlinga Maharashtra is located about 28 to 30 km from Nashik city and is one of the most theologically unique Jyotirlinga among all 12 Jyotirlingas. The Mahadev Shivling has three faces representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh — a rare Tridev form found nowhere else. The Godavari River, one of India’s holiest rivers, originates from the Brahma Giri Hills just 2 km from this temple, giving Trimbakeshwar extraordinary spiritual importance. Darshan timing starts from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
From Mumbai, Trimbakeshwar is approximately 165 km away via NH-3, taking about 3 hours — one of the most highway-friendly stretches on the entire 3 Jyotirlinga tour route. From Nashik, it is just 30 minutes by road. Because the NH-3 Mumbai–Nashik highway is wide and smooth, all vehicle types perform equally well here, so pilgrims can choose based on group size and comfort preference.
Urban Cruise offers a wide range of vehicles on rent for the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga tour. Families of 4 to 6 travelling from Mumbai, our car rental service is ideal for Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Yatra because is very spacious, reliable, and very comfortable on the expressway. For groups of 9 to 17, the Force Urbania on rent is the premium choice — panoramic windows, VIP recliner seats, and cup holders make the Nashik valley drive genuinely enjoyable.
For groups of 9 to 26, the Tempo Traveller on rent gives the best balance of comfort and cost. Large pilgrim groups of 20 to 35 should consider the mini bus on rent, while groups of 40 and above will find the Luxury Bus on rent — Volvo, Tata, or Bharat Benz — the most economical and comfortable option. For those travelling from Mumbai at night to arrive in Nashik by early morning and catch first darshan, the Sleeper Bus on rent from Urban Cruise is an excellent choice — AC berths, privacy curtains, and onboard washroom make the overnight journey restful.
Trimbakeshwar town parking is limited on weekends and Mondays. Arriving with a dedicated vehicle on rent from Urban Cruise means your driver manages vehicle positioning and waiting while you complete darshan and visit the Kushavarta Kund for ritual bathing — a significant practical convenience over public or shared transport.
Other important spots at Trimbakeshwar include the Brahmagiri Hills trail leading to the Godavari Udgam (river origin point), and the Anjaneri Hill, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, visible from the town.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Aurangabad District
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga holds the remarkable distinction of being the 12th and final Jyotirlinga among all 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located in Verul village, approximately 30 km from Aurangabad city and just 1 km from the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar is the most culturally rich stop on the 3 Jyotirlinga yatra. The temple was rebuilt in the 18th century by the legendary queen Ahilyabai Holkar and features stunning red sandstone Hemadpanthi-influenced architecture. Darshan timing starts from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM.
From Nashik to Grishneshwar, the distance is approximately 185 km and takes 4 to 5 hours on the direct route. Most pilgrims travelling on the 3 Jyotirlinga tour reach Grishneshwar on Day 3 of the itinerary, meaning their vehicle has already covered 400 or more kilometres by this point. Comfort and driver reliability are most critical here. Urban Cruise ensures that all vehicles on rent are well-maintained throughout the tour and that drivers are experienced specifically on the Nashik–Aurangabad corridor — not just the Mumbai-Pune leg.
For families completing this final leg of the 3 Jyotirlinga tour, the car on rent is the recommended choice — both have generous boot space for luggage accumulated over 3 days of travel. For groups of 9 to 20 who want to arrive at the final Jyotirlinga in full comfort and composure, the Maharaja Tempo Travelleron rent or Force Urbania on rent is ideal. The recliner maharaja seats allow fatigued pilgrims to rest on the Nashik–Aurangabad stretch and arrive at Grishneshwar refreshed for darshan. For large groups visiting Grishneshwar as part of a society or temple trust tour, the Luxury Bus on rent — Volvo, Tata, or Bharat Benz — from Urban Cruise provides the best per-seat value.
What makes the Grishneshwar stop particularly worth planning is the Ellora Caves next door. After completing darshan, most groups spend 2 to 3 hours at Ellora — one of the world’s greatest collections of rock-cut architecture, including the magnificent Kailash Temple carved out of a single mountain. Having a dedicated vehicle on rent from Urban Cruise with a waiting driver means you can take your time at Ellora without any scheduling pressure before heading back to Aurangabad or returning to Mumbai or Pune.
3 Jyotirlinga Tour – Day by Day Itinerary with Vehicle Recommendation
Day 1 – Mumbai or Pune to Bhimashankar
Depart early morning from Mumbai at 5:00 AM or from Pune at 6:00 AM. The drive from Mumbai covers 220 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Sahyadri ghat road, taking 4 to 5 hours. From Pune, it is 110 km taking about 3 hours.
Arrive by late morning, complete darshan at Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, visit Kamalaja Devi Temple and Gupt Bhimashankar cave, attend evening Aarti, and stay overnight near Bhimashankar or return to Pune.
Day 2 – Bhimashankar to Trimbakeshwar, Nashik
Depart after breakfast for Nashik, 180 km away via Igatpuri, taking approximately 4 hours. Arrive Nashik by midday, visit Kushavarta Kund, complete darshan at Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, and explore Panchavati Ghats in Nashik city. Overnight at Nashik.
Day 3 – Nashik to Grishneshwar, Aurangabad (via Shirdi Optional)
This is the most flexible day. The direct Nashik to Aurangabad route is 185 km and takes 4 to 5 hours. Most pilgrims add Shirdi (75 km from Nashik) and Shani Shingnapur (72 km from Shirdi) on this leg, making the total distance around 260 km and 6 to 7 hours of driving. Arrive Grishneshwar, complete darshan, visit Ellora Caves next door, and stay overnight in Aurangabad.
Day 4 – Aurangabad to Mumbai or Pune (Return)
Depart by 7:00 AM from Aurangabad. Mumbai is 350 km away taking 5 to 6 hours. Pune is 230 km taking 4 to 5 hours. Urban Cruise provides comfortable door-to-door return drop in the same vehicle booked for the tour.
3 Jyotirlinga Tour – Distance & Drive Time Reference
| Route | Distance | Estimated Drive Time |
| Mumbai to Bhimashankar | 220 km | 4 to 5 hours |
| Pune to Bhimashankar | 110 km | 3 hours |
| Bhimashankar to Trimbakeshwar | 180 km | 4 hours |
| Trimbakeshwar to Grishneshwar (direct) | 185 km | 4 to 5 hours |
| Trimbakeshwar to Grishneshwar via Shirdi | 260 km | 6 to 7 hours |
| Grishneshwar to Mumbai | 350 km | 5 to 6 hours |
| Grishneshwar to Pune | 230 km | 4 to 5 hours |
| Total circuit from Mumbai | Approximately 600 to 700 km | 3 to 4 days |
Darshan Timings at All 3 Jyotirlingas
| Jyotirlinga Temple | Opening Time | Closing Time | Best Darshan Window |
| Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga | 5:00 AM | 9:30 PM | 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM |
| Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga | 5:30 AM | 9:00 PM | 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM |
| Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga | 5:30 AM | 9:30 PM | 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM |
Arriving 30 to 45 minutes before opening on weekdays gives you the clearest, most peaceful darshan at all three shrines.
Best Time to Visit 3 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra
| Time Period | Travel Conditions | Recommendation |
| October to March | Cool and dry weather across the Pune–Nashik–Aurangabad corridor | Best time for the 3 Jyotirlinga tour in Maharashtra |
| December and January | Temperatures remain between 15°C and 25°C | Especially comfortable for senior pilgrims |
| February or March (Mahashivratri period) | Spiritually significant time but very heavy temple crowds | Book vehicle on rent and hotels 4 to 6 weeks in advance |
| July to September | Monsoon conditions on ghat sections make road travel difficult | Avoid long-distance road travel during this period |
Vehicle Options for 3 Jyotirlinga Tour from Mumbai and Pune
Urban Cruise offers the widest range of vehicles on rent for the Maharashtra Jyotirlinga tour — from compact cars for couples to luxury buses for large groups. Here is a complete guide to choosing the right vehicle based on your group size and comfort requirement.
Car on Rent for Jyotirlinga Tour
Urban Cruise offers car rental service for the 3 Jyotirlinga Yatra tour package with vehicles like Innova Crysta, Innova Hycross, Ertiga, and more (Visit fleet). These options are ideal for small families looking for a spacious and comfortable travel experience throughout the pilgrimage. For luxury travel, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz cars with chauffeur service are also available, making the Jyotirlinga Yatra more comfortable, premium, and special.
Luxury Vans on Rent for Jyotirlinga Tour
Urban Cruise offers luxury van rental services for the 3 Jyotirlinga Yatra tour package with premium options like the Toyota Vellfire on rent (6 to 7 seater) and Toyota Commuter on rent (8 seater). These luxury vans provide recliner seating, individual AC vents, and an executive travel experience for small groups and families. Starting from Rs. 60 to 100 per km, they are best for pilgrim groups or travellers seeking VIP comfort throughout the 3 Jyotirlinga Yatra.
Tempo Traveller on Rent for Jyotirlinga Tour
The Tempo Traveller on rent for 9 to 26 passengers is the most popular choice for Maharashtra’s 3 Jyotirlinga Yatra, offering AC, pushback seats, USB charging, and ample luggage space, Tempo Traveller start from 18 per km. For a more premium experience, the Maharaja Tempo Traveller provides luxury 1×1 recliner maharaja seating, individual AC vents, and premium interiors, ideal for comfortable group pilgrimage travel.
Force Urbania on Rent for Jyotirlinga Tour
The Force Urbania on rent is available in 9 to 17 seater configurations and is the premium mid-size group vehicle for pilgrimage tours. It features panoramic windows, VIP recliner seats, cup holders, AC, and charging ports. The panoramic windows are especially wonderful on the Bhimashankar ghat road and the Nashik valley stretch. Starting from Rs. 28 per km. The Urbania with Massager seats version is also available for groups wanting next-level comfort at Rs. 50 per km.
Mini Bus on Rent for Jyotirlinga Tour
The Mini Bus on rent seating 20 to 35 passengers is the right choice for larger pilgrim groups 3 Jyotirlinga tour together. Starting from Rs. 27 per km for the 27-seater and Rs. 36 per km for the 35-seater, both come with pushback seats, powerful AC, luggage space, and Google Maps navigation.
Luxury Bus on Rent for Jyotirlinga Tour
For groups of 40 to 56, the Luxury Bus on rent from Urban Cruise — Volvo, Tata, Ashok Leyland, or Bharat Benz — offers premium comfort. Starting Per Km Rs. 40, each bus is equipped with reclining seats, individual AC vents, USB charging points, and a music system. This is the most economical option for large group Jyotirlinga yatras from Mumbai or Pune.
Sleeper Bus on Rent for Overnight Jyotirlinga Yatra
The Sleeper Bus on rent is available with 32 to 42 berths for groups that want to travel overnight — departing Mumbai in the evening and arriving at Nashik or Aurangabad by early morning in time for first darshan. Starting from Rs. 65 per km, the sleeper bus features AC berths, privacy curtains, reading lights, USB charging points, and onboard washroom facilities. This is the smartest overnight option for large pilgrim groups wanting to maximize darshan time.
Vehicle Rental Rate Summary
| Vehicle Type | Seating Capacity | Starting from |
| Car & SUVs | 5 to 7 seater | Rs. 15 per km |
| Luxury Car on rent (BMW / Audi / Mercedes) | 4 to 7 seater | Rs. 50 per km |
| Luxury Van on rent (Vellfire / Commuter) | 6 to 8 seater | Rs. 60 per km |
| Tempo Traveller on rent | 9 to 26 seater | Rs. 18 per km |
| Maharaja Tempo Traveller on rent | 9 to 20 seater | Rs. 21 per km |
| Force Urbania on rent | 9 to 17 seater | Rs. 28 per km |
| Mini Bus on rent | 20 to 35 seater | Rs. 27 per km |
| Luxury Bus on rent | 40 to 56 seater | Rs. 40 per km |
| Sleeper Bus on rent | 32 to 42 berths | Rs. 65 per km |
Bonus Shrines to Include in Your 3 Jyotirlinga Tour
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Shirdi is located roughly between Nashik and Aurangabad, making it a natural addition to Day 3 of the 3 jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour package. The Samadhi Mandir of Sai Baba is one of India’s most visited pilgrimage sites, attracting over 25,000 devotees daily and welcoming people of all faiths. Entry is free. Distance from Nashik is approximately 75 km.
Shani Shingnapur Temple
Shani Shingnapur is 72 km from Shirdi and is one of Maharashtra’s most extraordinary shrines — featuring an open-air Swayambhu idol of Lord Shani and the famous doorless village surrounding it. Free entry. Adding both Shirdi and Shani Shingnapur on Day 3 extends the driving distance to around 260 km.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are required for 3 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra Tour?
The best plan is 3 nights and 4 days. We cover the Maharashtra Jyotirlinga tour package—Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar, and Grishneshwar—comfortably. You can also add Shirdi and Shani Shingnapur on Day 3.
Can I visit all 3 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra in one trip?
Yes! You can visit all 3 Jyotirlingas in one trip easily. The 3 Jyotirlinga Yatra covers Bhimashankar, Trimbakeshwar, and Grishneshwar — approximately 600 to 700 km total. It can be completed comfortably in 3 to 4 days by road. The route is well connected, road-friendly, and ideal for families, senior citizens, and working professionals with limited leave.
Which vehicle is best for a senior citizen group on the Jyotirlinga tour?
The Maharaja Tempo Traveller on rent or Force Urbania on rent is bly recommended for senior pilgrims due to the 1×1 recliner seats that significantly reduce fatigue on mountain and long-distance roads. The Sleeper Bus on rent is ideal for overnight legs.
Can I book a vehicle for Jyotirlinga Yatra from Pune?
Yes! You can easily book a vehicle from Mumbai & Pune for the 3 Jyotirlinga Yatra. Urban Cruise offers the best vehicle on rent for Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra tour package— for the complete 3 Jyotirlinga and 5 Jyotirlinga tour circuits. All options are available for any group size.
Book Your Vehicle on Rent for 3 Jyotirlinga Tour Today
If you are planning a 3 Jyotirlinga tour in Maharashtra from Mumbai, Pune, or Thane, Urban Cruise is your most trusted vehicle rental partner. You need a Vehicle on rent for Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Trimbakeshwar Yatra, Grishneshwar jyotirlinga— our team will match the right vehicle to your group size, budget, and travel dates.
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