Famous Shiva Temples to Visit this Shivratri 2024

Shivaratri is getting closer, and it's time to embrace the divine.

Lord Shiva is worshipped by many and is not just confined to religious belief alone but is also a spiritual and cultural phenomenon.

Lord Shiva is one of the prime gods of Hinduism and one of the supreme deities in Indian mythology. Known as the destroyer of evil, and the supreme power is venerated from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, and there are hundreds of temples dedicated to him.

Many of these temples in India are architectural wonders and also spiritual havens.

If you are planning to celebrate this great night of Lord Shiva at your home, check out some of the Shivratri decorations ideas.

In this blog, we will explore some of the most famous and fascinating Shiva temples in India, delving into the stories and legends associated with them and uncovering the hidden gems that make each one a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian mythology and culture.

So why don't we check out the best temples dedicated to Lord Shiva?

So why don't we check out the best temples dedicated to Lord Shiva?

10 Famous Shiva Temples in India

1. Kedarnath Temple
2. Kailasanatha Temple
3. Ekambareshwarar Temple
4. Jambukeshwarar Temple
5. Arunachaleswara Temple
6. Kalahastheeshwara Temple
7. Thillai Natarajar Temple
8. Amarnath Temple
9. Somnath Temple
10. Murudeshwara Temple
11. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi
12. Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
13. Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand
14. Omkareshwar Temple
15. Trimbakeshwar Temple, Maharashtra
16. Mallikarjuna Temple, Srisailam
17. Kailashnath Temple, Ellora
18. Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain
19. Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, Junagadh
20. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh

Let's explore in detail

1) Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand

One of the iconic Shiva temples in India and also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand is one of the top destinations you have to visit atleast once in your lifetime if you are an ardent Shiva devotee.

As the temple is situated high in the Garhwal Himalayan Range, it is only accessible through an uphill trek and the best time to visit Kedarnath temple is from April to November. While you are in Kedarnath Temple, why don't you trek or travel on a sacred pilgrimage to Kailash Parvat and Om Parvat?

2) Kailasanatha Temple, Maharashtra

Kailasanatha Temple is one finest built ancient temples in India. Part of the Internationally acclaimed Ellora regions, the Kailasanatha temple is a testament to the Rashtrakuta architecture. The entire temple is cut and carved from a rock cliff, an example of pure skill and craftsmanship.

3) Ekambareshwarar Temple, Tamil Nadu

Ekambareshwarar Temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams that honor Lord Shiva as the presiding deity of all the five different elements of nature - earth, water, air, fire, and sky (space) as he is present in every aspect of reality. In the Ekambareshwarar temple of Kanchipuram, Lord Shiva is worshipped through Prithvi Lingam, denoting earth. The temple has been around for 3000 years and has architectural styles of various dynasties contributing to its whole.

4) Jambukeshwarar Temple, Tamil Nadu

Jambukeshwarar Temple is another Pancha Bhoota Sthalam where Shiva is worshipped through Appu Lingam or the element of water. Inside the temple, the Shiva linga is engulfed within a stream, signifying the elemental water. Legends have it that here Shiva revealed Shiva Gnjana, or ultimate knowledge, to goddess Parvathi.

5) Arunachaleswara Temple, Tamil Nadu

Arunachaleswara Temple in Thiruvannamalai houses the Agni Linga denoting the fire element. Also called the Jyothi Lingam, Arunachaleswara temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams reputed across the country. Covering over 10 hectares, the temple complex is one of the largest in India. Legend has it Shiva appeared as a huge column of flames atop the hill. Thus Arunachaleshwara Temple is a must-visit temple for all Shiva devotees.

6) Kalahastheeshwara Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Kalahastheeshwara Temple at Kalahasthi houses the Vayu lingam which denotes the element of air. This is also the temple where the saint or Shaivaite Nayanar Kannappa plucked his eyes to offer to Lord Siva. The temple complex was crafted by Chola and the Vijaya nagara dynasties.

7) Thillai Natarajar Temple, Tamil Nadu

Thillai Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram houses the Akasa lingam or Ether lingam, which denotes an element of space among the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams. It is also said that during the Chola reign, Shiva appeared in the form of Nataraja and performed Ananda Thandava. During Maha Shivratri, the temple holds the annual Natyanjali dance festival.

8) Amarnath Temple, Jammu, and Kashmir

Amarnath Temple is one of the natural wonders of India and one of the most visited Shiva Temples in India. The temple is located amongst a mountain cave system where every year during the winters, a huge Ice Linga is formed naturally. The temple is located at an altitude of 3888, and the terrain makes it a rather difficult place to reach. However, the spiritual ambiance is amazing.

9) Somnath Temple, Gujarat

The architectural masterpiece is one of the most famous Shiva temples in India. This temple too, becomes a sea of devotees during Shivratri. The temple stood the test of time though being attacked and ransacked many times over the centuries. Known as one of 12 Jyothirlinga Temples, Somanath Temple has been rebuilt in Maru-Gurjara style near the sea shore.

10) Murudeshwara Temple, Karnataka

Murudeshwara Temple is the most famous Karnataka shiva temple. Located in the small coastal town of Murudeshwara in Karnataka, India is a magnificent shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva with 123 feet statue of Lord Shiva looking at the ocean. The divine atmosphere of the temple is truly a spectacle.

11) Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most highly regarded Shiva temples, that has one of Lord Shiva's 12 Jyotirlingas. The breathtaking image of silver-plated domes gracing the temple complex welcomes visitors as they explore its mesmerizing pathways. Its atmosphere of purity and architectural splendor captivate pilgrims and tourists alike, transporting them on a spiritual journey unlike any other.

12) Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar, Odisha

The Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is an outstanding example of Kalinga architecture, which is distinguished by its intricate carvings and towering spires. The temple's complex is one of India's oldest Shiva shrines, dedicated to Shiva as Tribhuvaneshwara, "Lord of the Three Worlds." Construction most likely began in the sixth or seventh century CE, with further structures built over the ages to create a huge masterpiece. Enshrined within is the revered self-manifested (Swayambhu) Shiva linga, drawing thousands of devotees daily.

13) Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand

The Thrissur Vadakkumnathan Temple, located in the heart of Kerala, glorifies Lord Shiva in his avatar as Vadakkumnathan. The temple, known for its rich artistic legacy, is the centerpiece of the renowned Pooram festival, a magnificent event including a diverse array of adorned elephants and a calming percussion ensembles. This sparkling festival respects Shiva while also highlighting Kerala's unique traditions and creative prowess.

14) Omkareshwar Temple

The idolized Omkareshwar temple complex is situated on the holy island town of Mandhata, in Madhya Pradesh, concealed within the Narmada River. There are actually two Shiva lingas here, Omkareshwar and Amareshwar. These two symbolic lingas represent the two sacred syllables "Om," the universal sound which is considered to be the source of all creation. Omkareshwar is a highly sacred pilgrimage place, attracting devotees from all over the world due to the presence of two Shiva lingas embodying the powerful "Om".

15) Trimbakeshwar Temple, Maharashtra

Nestled amidst the lush greenery on the banks of the Godavari River's source in Nashik, Maharashtra, lies the revered Trimbakeshwar Temple. This ancient pilgrimage spot bears great significance for Lord Shiva's devotees. Unlike other Shiva lingas, the center emblem here is a three-faced linga that depicts Lord Shiva in his glorious Trimurti form, which includes Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. This unique artwork highlights Shiva as the center of all creation and existence. Trimbakeshwar Temple, considered one of the holiest Jyotirlingas, provides a spiritual experience where visitors can witness Lord Shiva's multifaceteed might.

16) Mallikarjuna Temple, Srisailam

The Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, is one of Lord Shiva's twelve incarnations and carries great spiritual significance. It is also considered a Shakti Peetha, as it is where parts of Goddess Sati's body fell after her self-immolation. The temple, located in the scenic Nallamala Hills on the banks of the Krishna River, attracts devotees seeking blessings, spiritual enlightenment, and the holy union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

17) Kailashnath Temple, Ellora

The Kailashnath Temple at Ellora exemplifies historical craftsmanship and devotion. This beautiful temple complex is carved from a single rock and portrays Mount Kailash, Lord Shiva's dwelling. Its exquisite carvings, sculptures, and large halls exemplify the grandeur of Indian rock-cut architecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it continues to captivate visitors with its spiritual significance and architectural beauty.

18. Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain

Kal Bhairav Temple at Ujjain honors Kal Bhairav, an aggressive manifestation of Lord Shiva. It is notable for its unique ceremonies, which include offering alcohol to the deity, indicating acceptance of all parts of life. This old temple draws worshipers looking for blessings of protection and courage. Its environment reflects the intensity and force connected with Kal Bhairav, making it a unique spiritual attraction in Ujjain.

19. Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, Junagadh

The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple in Junagadh, located at the foothills of Girnar, is known for its spiritual significance and spectacular Mahashivratri celebrations. During this auspicious event, the temple transforms into a center of devotion and cultural celebration, attracting pilgrims and Naga sadhus, renowned ascetics famed for their austere lifestyles. The atmosphere is infused with religious passion giving tourists a rare view into India's rich spiritual heritage set amidst a backdrop of natural beauty.

20. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located in the beautiful forests of Rishikesh, has great mythological significance. According to legends, Lord Shiva drank the powerful poison, Halahala, during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), saving the universe from its catastrophic effects. This occurrence turned his throat blue, giving him the name Neelkanth. The temple's peaceful settings and spiritual aura draw pilgrims seeking blessings and peace of mind.

So guys these are the most famous Shiva Temples to visit this Shivratri.

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