Baidyanath Jyotirlinga

Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, at Deoghar in Jharkhand, is also known as Baba Baidyanath or Baba Dham. Tradition holds that Ravana sought to carry this lingam to Lanka, and that it was set down here - permanently, according to the story - making Deoghar its home ever since. The temple sits at the centre of the town, and the town has grown up around it over centuries.

Architecture and significance

The main shrine is surrounded by a cluster of smaller temples within the same courtyard, traditionally connected by sacred threads tied between them as part of ritual practice. Deoghar's defining event is Shravani Mela, held through the month of Shravan (usually July-August), when lakhs of kanwariyas walk roughly 105 km from Sultanganj carrying Ganga water to offer here - one of the largest annual pilgrim gatherings anywhere in India.

How to reach

Deoghar has its own airport at Devipur, and Jasidih Junction, a few kilometres away, is a major railway station. Read our Deoghar city guide for the fuller picture, including where to stay.

Best time to visit

October to February for a calmer visit with shorter queues; Shravan for the full Shravani Mela atmosphere, though it is by far the busiest and most crowded time of year. See our festival calendar for more on timing a Shravan visit.

If you're planning a trip to Baidyanath Dham, browse verified guest houses in Deoghar - real hosts, honest prices, no hidden fees.