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New Delhi: The holy month of Sawan (Shravan) has once again transformed India’s spiritual landscape. Shiva temples across the country are witnessing serpentine queues, Kanwariyas are travelling hundreds of kilometres carrying Gangajal, and millions of devotees are planning pilgrimages to the sacred 12 Jyotirlingas—the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Sawan 2026 began on July 30 and will conclude on August 11 (Sawan Shivratri), making it one of the busiest pilgrimage periods of the year.

For devotees in Delhi-NCR, visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas may not be practical during a single Sawan. However, several of these revered shrines are relatively more accessible from the national capital by road, rail or flight. From the spiritual aura of Varanasi to the Himalayan abode of Kedarnath, these five Jyotirlingas make for some of the most rewarding Shiva pilgrimages from Delhi.

Among all Jyotirlingas, Kashi Vishwanath remains the most sought-after pilgrimage destination. Located on the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi, the temple is believed to grant liberation (moksha) and occupies a central place in Shaivite tradition.

The temple has witnessed an unprecedented rise in footfall after the inauguration of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor, with official figures indicating that it has become one of the world’s most visited religious sites. During Sawan, devotees arrive from across the country for special Rudrabhishek rituals and Monday prayers.

Approximate distance from Delhi: 820–850 km

How to reach:

• Direct flights from Delhi to Varanasi
• Overnight trains from New Delhi
• Road journey via Yamuna Expressway and Purvanchal region

Perched at an altitude of 3,583 metres, Kedarnath is the only Himalayan Jyotirlinga and one of the most revered Shiva shrines in India. Unlike other Jyotirlingas, the temple remains open only for about six months every year due to extreme weather.

The pilgrimage begins from Gaurikund, followed by a trek of around 16 km (or helicopter services for eligible travellers). Despite the challenging journey, lakhs of devotees undertake the yatra every year, especially during the pilgrimage season.

Approximate distance from Delhi: 450–470 km (to Sonprayag) plus trek

How to reach:

• Drive to Sonprayag via Rishikesh
• Trek from Gaurikund
• Helicopter services from Phata, Guptkashi or Sersi (subject to availability)

One of India’s most famous Shiva temples, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is unique because the deity faces south – a rare feature among Jyotirlingas.

The temple is globally known for its early morning Bhasma Aarti, where the Shivling is traditionally worshipped with sacred ash. Ujjain witnesses enormous crowds during Sawan, with special religious processions and elaborate temple rituals drawing devotees from across the country. Official estimates suggest the temple receives several crore visitors annually.

Approximate distance from Delhi: 760–790 km

How to reach:

• Flights to Indore followed by a 55-km drive
• Direct trains from Delhi
• Road journey via Agra–Gwalior route

Popularly known as Baba Baidyanath Dham, this temple is among the most important destinations during Sawan because it hosts the iconic Shravani Mela, one of India’s largest annual religious gatherings.

Every year, millions of Kanwariyas collect holy water from Sultanganj and walk nearly 105 kilometres barefoot before offering it to Lord Shiva at Baidyanath Temple. The month-long pilgrimage is considered one of Hinduism’s largest annual religious processions.

Approximate distance from Delhi: 1,200–1,250 km

How to reach:

• Flights to Deoghar Airport
• Trains to Jasidih Junction
• Road connectivity from major eastern cities

Situated on the sacred Mandhata Island in the Narmada River, Omkareshwar derives its name from the island’s natural shape, which resembles the sacred ‘Om’ symbol.

Although relatively less crowded than Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar offers a serene spiritual experience. Pilgrims often combine visits to both Jyotirlingas in a single trip while travelling through Madhya Pradesh.

Approximate distance from Delhi: 850–900 km

How to reach:

• Flight to Indore
• Around 80 km drive from Indore Airport
• Rail connectivity via Omkareshwar Road station

• Book train and flight tickets well in advance, as Sawan is one of India’s busiest pilgrimage seasons.
• Expect significantly larger crowds on Sawan Mondays and Sawan Shivratri.
• If travelling towards Uttarakhand or Delhi-NCR during the Kanwar Yatra period, check traffic advisories, as several highways and arterial roads may witness diversions and restrictions.
• Carry valid ID proof, comfortable footwear and light luggage, especially for Kedarnath pilgrims.
• Many temples offer online darshan and aarti booking facilities to reduce waiting time.

A pilgrimage during Sawan is considered especially auspicious for devotees of Lord Shiva, and each Jyotirlinga offers a distinct spiritual experience. For devotees in Delhi, these five destinations remain among the most accessible and rewarding Jyotirlinga pilgrimages to undertake during Sawan 2026.