18 Famous Shiva Temples in India
India is the home of goddesses and gods, and justly it is. Of all the Gods Shiva is believed to be the most powerful and most absolute. In actual fact, Shiva is the most worshipped god of Hindus across the world. Lord Shiva has been identified as the primary Hindu god worshipped by Shaivaities. Why is Shiva among the most revered gods of the Hindu religion? Hinduism is based on the Trimurti concept, where the three major superpowers in the realm of God are believed to be the ones responsible for to creation, maintenance as well as the destruction of the world. Shiva in the Hindu trio is called the one who destroys the universe. The other two gods include Brahma (creator) in addition to Vishnu (preserver). Shiva is revered as savings.
The devotees bathe the linga in milk to move positive energy around. Shiva is known for blessing his true devotees with final salvation. Because Lord Shiva holds a special place in the hearts and minds of millions of Indians there are many Shiva temples scattered across India. Many of them were built by famous individuals and others contain a wealth of knowledge about the beginning and development of this universe. If you’re a true fan to Mahadev his own, or simply curious about the Hindu faith in general visiting these mystical Shiva temples is a fascinating trip to be taken. We’ve got provided you with an overview of the most notable and respected Shiva shrines across India. Start putting them on your list today and maybe you will be able to find yourself closer to God!
Famous Shiva Temples In India
Biggest and Oldest Shiva Temples in India:
Here are some oldest Lord Shiva Temples in India what that should go to.
1. Kedarnath Temple: Uttarakhand
Kedarnath Temple – The Most Powerful Shiva Temple in India
The place is in need of no introduction. One that is regarded as one of the tops but difficult places to visit is each Shiva devotee’s goal. Lord Shiva is said to have appeared as jyotirlinga, or “cosmic light”. There are 12 of them and of them, Kedarnath is the most awe-inspiring (3581mts) and is probably the most important and revered. The origin of the temple can be seen in the epic poem of Mahabharata as well. It is one of the most famous char dhams and is among the most sought-after tourist destinations generally. The Shiva temple was constructed in the 8th century AD and remains sturdy in Uttarakhand. It is located in a stunning location close to the Mandakini River and in the Rudra Himalaya range. Imagine praying to Mahadev in a setting of snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows. This is one of the most stunning places to visit now.
This temple is part of the 5 temples in the Panch Kedar. It is located on Dev Bhumi in Uttarakhand this temple is open to the public between April and November. It is closed for the remainder of the year because of extreme conditions. There’s no summertime here and oxygen levels could decrease. The area is typically covered in snow during the time of closure. So, before embarking on a trip to this site it is essential to make sure they are prepared. It is a good idea to stock up on medicine, glucose and warm clothing while hiking up. Take part in yoga and exercises to keep in shape before your trip.
Address: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand 246445
Timings The timings are: Timings: Morning Darshan 4 am until 3 pm, evening Darshan 5 pm until 9 night
Dress Code The dress code is warm and comfortable clothes. Women should avoid dresses in sarees, and wear salwar kameez and trousers instead. It’s cold, and at quite a high altitude, therefore dress appropriately. Socks, gloves, sweaters with mufflers, and an umbrella are essential.
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
How to Reach By Air: closest airport to Jolly Grant is Jolly Grant, 260km. By Rail: The nearest railhead is Rishikesh which is 243 kilometers. By road: Excellently connects with Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Delhi.
Temple Website: http://www.badarikedar.org/
Best Time to Visit May to October with the exception of monsoons. Badri Kedar Festival in the month of June gathers skilled artists from across the country. The festival runs for eight days.
The other attractions: Gandhi Sarovar (2kms from the city) with its floating ice in the crystal-clear waters is amazing. The dip in Gaurikund which has its therapeutic thermal springs is an absolute should. Shankaracharya Samadhi is located right in front of the temple. Beautiful trekking experiences and village explorations are available in abundance.
2. Somnath Temple: Gujarat
Somnath actually is a reference to the moon’s protector god’. It is believed that the moon god initially constructed this temple in gold as a homage to Lord Shiva. After the temple was destroyed, it was rebuilt again in silver, and the rebuilding process continued. It is the Somnath Shiva Temple situated in Gujarat. The temple is renowned as one of the Twelve Jyotirlinga temples, which was dedicated to the powerful Lord Shiva. One of the main reasons for popularizing the Somnath Temple is that this Shiva temple was the site of a variety of historical significance events that took place a long time ago.
It was sacked by invaders like Mahmood from Ghazna, Afzal Khan, and others from outside. The wealth of the area was robbed and it was also tried to be destroyed about 17 times. But, it has stood the test of time and is sturdy even today. This is why this Somnath temple is a popular one due to its rich past and its unique story that is a symbol of strength and triumph.
Address: Somnath, Veraval, Gujarat 362255
Timings: 6 AM – 9:30 PM. Show with Light and Sound between 8 and 9.
Costume Codes: Traditional attire is the best choice. Mini skirts and unprofessional clothes are not allowed.
Approx. Visit Duration: 1 Hour
How to Reach: Somnath is 95 km via a route from Diu. You can fly to Diu. Somnath is well connected via buses and trains to major cities. The closest stations are Somnath (0.5 km) along with Veraval (7kms away from Somnath) which are linked to Ahmedabad as well as other major cities.
Temple Website: http://www.somnath.org/
The best time to visit: You can go to its biggest celebration during the full moon of Kartik Purnima in November/December. Shivratri can also be a significant celebration for the temple.
Additional Attractions Gir National Park is 43 kilometers away and it should be visited as the place where the last Asiatic Lions.
3. Mallikarjuna Swamy: Andhra Pradesh
Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is situated inside Andhra Pradesh and is one of the jyotirlinga temples. It is a temple that is beautiful, located in the picturesque Nallamalai Hills Srisailam, which is situated at 476 meters above sea level. It is regarded as the place of worship for Lord Shiva. The surroundings are tranquil, with the riverbank of the Krishna River as the setting which adds to the beauty of the whole. The temple itself is extremely important in terms of historical significance and is among the most popular sacred sites in the nation. The temple was built by the King Harihara Raya. It is considered to be one of the oldest Kshetras found in India.
Address: Srisaila Devasthanam, Kurnool Dist, Atmakur Mandal, Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh 518101
Timings: 6:30 AM – 3:30 Pm, 6 PM – 10 PM
The dress code is a traditional dress or decent clothes
Approx. Visit Duration: 3 Hours
How to get there: by air, the nearest airports are Hyderabad (230 K.M.) From there, you’ll be able to locate a bus that will take you to Srisailam. By train via rail Markapur station (91 km) away from Srisailam.
Temple Website: http://www.srisailamonline.com/index.html
The best time to visit Cultural events is held on Sundays and Saturdays.
Another Attraction: A holy River bathing in the Krishna River Krishna (750 steps required).
18 Famous Shiva Temples in India
4. Lord Shiva Mahakaleshwar Temple: Madhya Pradesh
The city of Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain, there’s a famous three-story Shiva temple that is known by its term, Mahakaleshwar. It’s situated next to the Rudra Sagar lake. The grand and magnificent, carvings with gorgeous patterns and pillared porches provide an enchanting ambiance nice. It is definitely among the other 12 Jyotirlingas.
Mahakal is regarded as the lord of death for hell, earth, and heaven. Mahakal is the main representation of the powerful god Shiva who is believed to be the end of all evil. The exact time of its birth is not known, however, it is believed to be in existence since the prehistoric period as per the Puranas. Many of the ancient poems written and composed by poets of the past also mention the Mahakal temple.
Address: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh 456001
Timings: 5 am,3:30 pm, 6:00pm to 10 pm
Dress Code: Dress code for women: Sarees and dhotis suitable for men in specific areas and aartis only allow entry in this type of attire.
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
How to get there: Ujjain is in the western railway zone. Trains can be taken to any one of the cities and reach Ujjain. It is well connected to Indore as well via railway and road. A bus journey from Indore is 55km. The closest airport is Indo (60Km further).
Temple Website: http://dic.mp.nic.in/ujjain/mahakal/default.aspx
The best time to visit: Mahashivratri is when the temple is alive like no other day of the year. If you’d like to witness the Nagachandresvara’s ling Nagachandresvara You should go to at the shrine on Naga Panchami because only on this day can you do so.
Other Attractions Other Attractions: Explore Indore and also visit The Lal Bagh palace in the city.
5. God Shiva Temple Omkareshwar: Madhya Pradesh
Another one among the 12 Jyotirlingas is yet another Shiva temple that is located within Madhya Pradesh. It is situated on an island part of the River Narmada, called Mandhata or Shivapuri. The shape of the island is believed to resemble the shape of the Hindu sacred symbol of the ‘Om’. It is among the most sought-after pilgrimage locations across the nation. In this temple, rituals of pujas take place during mid-day and the morning prayers are performed in the name of the temple trust.
Address: Omkareshwar Mandir Road, Mandhata, Madhya Pradesh 451115
Timings: Opens at 5 am, and closes at 5 PM in the eveningnces at 4 PM. God’s sleep view is available from 9 to 9:30 pm.
Dress Codes: There is no specific dress code has been specified.
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
How to Get There: The nearest airport is Indore (80kms far away). Trains can get there via either the Khandwa Railway station or the Indore Railway station at a distance of 78 kilometers. Also, by bus, it is accessible from major cities. Private and state-owned buses are plentiful between Indore (77km), Khandwa (78km), and Ujjain (135km).
Temple Website: http://shriomkareshwar.org/
Best Time To Visit: Maha Shivratri Mela, Karthik Utsav and Narmada Jayanti.
Other Attractions The island is covered by mountains. You can take a trip around the island to see breathtaking views. Island parikrama is thought to be very uplifting and is a means of washing off one’s sins
6. Bhimashankar Temple: Maharashtra
The Bhimashankar temple located in Maharashtra is located in the Sahyadri hills, which are surrounded by thick forests. Bhimashankar is the point of entry into the Bhima River. It has gained importance since it was designated as a wildlife sanctuary. It is one of the 12 important Jyotirlingas, it is situated close to Pune city and is a favorite of an abundance of pilgrims who throng the temple’s gates every single year. Built in a Nagra style, this temple shows a visit to how Tripurasur had to be defeated through the merged appearance of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati.
Address: Maharashtra State Highway 112, Bhimashankar, Maharashtra 410509
Timings: Morning: 5 am – 3 PM, 4 Pm – 9:30 pm
The dress code is traditional dress is suggested
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
How to Reach: The nearest terminal and the airport is located in Pune which is 125 km away. Buses are available out of Pune, Ghatkopar, and Kalyan too.
Temple Website: http://bhimashankar.in/
Best Time To Visit: September to February. For adventure lovers, The monsoon is an ideal time.
Another Attraction: Visitors could explore the Bhaja caves as well as Khopali’s Imagica Theme Park in Khopali the next day.
18 Famous Shiva Temples in India
7. Kashi Vishwanath Shiv Mandir: Uttar Pradesh
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is situated inside the sacred city of Varanasi along the bank of the River Ganga. As pure a settin,g it can get and is believed to be the refuge for all dedicated souls. According to legend, a person who breathes his last breath in this place is liberated from the cycle of Rebirth. Shiva was believed to enter an oath of moksha straight into the ears of his devotees who take their last breaths in this holy spot. It is located in the city of Varanasi the temple is a magnet for people from across the globe, including devotees who are dedicated to Shivaities.
It is often referred to for its golden or beautiful temple. It was constructed in the year 1780, by Maratha Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. The temple dates back to the beginning of time and is mentioned in Hindu writings and more. The first structure Kashi was built during the reign of Hari Chandra in the 11th century. Following that, it endured destruction and invasions several times before the present temple was eventually built in its place.
Address: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Timings Darshan times are from 4 AM to 11:15 AM 12:20 PM to 7:15 PM and 8:30 pm until 9 8:15 PM.
Dress Code Dress Code: Mini skirts are not permitted. Conservative attire is recommended.
Approx. Visit Duration: 3 Hours,
How to Reach: Varanasi is connected to the major cities of India via air, road and railway. The nearest railway station that is close to the temple’s location is Varanasi city stop, which is just 2 kilometers away. By road, it’s situated on the NH2 connecting Calcutta to Delhi that connects several major cities. Direct flights departing from Delhi and connecting flights from all cities are available to Varanasi. Taxis, Autos and Rickshaws are readily available at the airport for passengers to take you to the hotel or the mandir.
Temple Website: http://www.shrikashivishwanath.org/
The best time to visit: Rangbhari Ekadashi, Mahashivratri and Kartik month
Other Attractions: Take a dip and soak with the divine Ganga. Vishwanath Gali for cheap shopping and purchasing puja-related products. Enjoy the finest street food that you can find in India. Kalvaurav the temple can be found 1.5 kilometers away. It is believed that you should make your prayers there too. Sarnath as well as Allahabad are two cities close by to explore.
8. Vaidyanath Temple: Deoghar
The temple is situated at Deoghar, Jharkhand. The name of the temple is very soothing as “Viday” means “doctors” and ‘nath’ is a reference to ‘Lord”. The meaning of “Vidyanath” is the Lord who is the one who performs the role of doctors. It is said that Ravan at this particular spot sought the blessings of Lord Shiva and received his boons from him which were later used to wipe out the entire world. He presented his ten heads to Shiva in succession in a ritual sacrifice, and was so enthralled by the gesture and Lord Shiva himself appeared on the earth to heal his.
Because he behaved like an ailment in this instance the holy site was named and gained its significance from this incident and has been immemorial ever from the time of. It is comprised of a temple complex in which there is the principal temple which is Baba Baidyanath in which the Jyotirlinga is located as well as the other 21 temples.
Address: Pera Gali, Shivganga Muhalla, Deoghar, Jharkhand 814112
Timings: 4 am to 3:30pm, 6:00pm to 9 pm
Costume Code: Classic dress
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
How To Get There by Rail: The closest train station is Jasidih (10 kilometers away). By Air: Nearby airports including Ranchi, Patna, Gaya and Kolkata that are linked to all major cities in India. Badham is therefore connected via roads from these cities.
Temple Website: http://babadham.org/
The Best Time to Visit The world is famous due to the Shravan Mela in July and August.
Other Attractions: Take a trip to Naulakha Mandir Naulakha Mandir is 1.5 km away.
9. Ramanathaswamy Temple Shiva: Tamilnadu
Rameswaram Temple – famous shiva temple in Tamilnadu
It is located on a tiny island located in Tamilnadu, Rameswaram, it is the southernmost jyotirlingas of India. The holy site of pilgrimage was believed to be closely connected to Ramayana and the victory of Rama. Ramanathaswamy is important to Shias Shiavaities mostly due to its position as a temple. It is believed to have been built at the exact location where Lord Rama revered Lord Shiva.
It is also believed that Rama constructed an island bridge across the ocean to Lanka to retrieve Sita to Ravana. This is why it’s so popular and on the same level as Varanasi as a temple, this one town is revered and adored by Shaivas as well as Vaishnavas. It also has a massive historical significance to curious explorers and is well-known for its Dravidian architectural style.
Address: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
Timings Time: Morning: 5 am to 1 pm, and evening 3 pm until 9 midnight
Dress Code: Simple and conservative clothes that can be bathed in. Take a change of clothing since darshan is not permitted in wet clothes.
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
How to Reach: The closest airport is 163 km away in Madurai. Rameshwaram is also linked by railway and roads to Coimbatore, Chennai, and other important cities.
Temple Website: http://www.rameswaramtemple.tnhrce.in/
The best time to visit When: Maha Shivarathri and floating festival (Thai Poosam Night).
Additional Attractions Theerthams as wells that bathe in. Each one is believed to possess special medicinal qualities and gifts. Adams Bridge and Dhanushkodi Beach in Rameshwaram.
10. Amarnath Temple: Kashmir
Amarnath Temple – a major pilgrimage of India
Amarnath Temple Amarnath temple is located about 3888m, and 45 Kms far from Pahalgam, Kashmir and is famous for the natural development of the Shiva Linga that was formed from snow. It is comprised of the holy Amarnath cave, which is regarded to be one of the most sacred places of worship in Hinduism. Many believe that it is the place where Lord Shiva is on earth. According to legend, Shiva entered the cave together with Parvati to impart the secrets for creation as well as immortality.
Huge crowds of devotees take part in the sacred Amarnath Yatras during the months between July and June. The belief is that Lord Shiva invites his devotees to this pious, cave that is surrounded by snow which he showers with his affection and blessings. The breathtaking surroundings of the snowy mountains will give you an increased sense of peace and blissful joy. But be aware that the trek up to the top of these mountains isn’t easy and you should be prepared and well-stocked to deal with the extreme weather and topography.
Address: Baltal Amarnath Trek, Forest Block, Anantnag, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir 192230
Timings: 9 Am – 5 PM
Dress Code: Comfy woolen clothing is a must when you travel here, and it’s always cold. Raincoats, monkey caps gloves, and other items are important to have.
Approx. Visit Duration: 3 hours or more
How To Reach: Two routes lead to Baltal and the other from Pahalgam. Baltal is just 14 kilometers from the Cave and is accessible via road or by helicopter. Pahalgam is located 47 kilometers from the cave and is also the starting place of the trek. Both starting points are easily connected to Srinagar. Srinagar is the closest airport, and Jammu is the closest rail station.
Temple Website: http://www.shriamarnathjishrine.com
Best Time to Visit Amarnath Yatra is only taking place between July and August. It is advised to avoid the initial month of the Yatra, which can begin at the end of June and can be messy.
The other attractions: Pahalgam can be described as a picturesque town to visit that will be awe-inspiring. Shri Shankar Acharya temple is quite close.
18 Famous Shiva Temples in India
11. Lingaraj Temple: Odisha
Lingaraj Temple – oldest Shiva Temple in India
One of the most ancient temples in Bhubaneswar city, the main worshiper is Tribhuvaneswar (Lord of the Three Worlds). It is a renowned Shiva holy site as well as a tourist attraction in its own right. It was constructed between the 10th and 11th centuries. It is described as “the truest fusion of dream and reality”. The entire temple is covered by exquisitely skilled carvings, leaving every inch of the 55-meter-tall structure unoccupied. It is embellished with Kalinga architectural style. But it is only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple.
Address: Rath Rd, Lingaraj Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Dress Code: Clean traditional clothing is the best
Approx. Time to visit: 20 minutes only for one of the temples, Shiv Mandir and 2-3 hours for all the temples on the premises.
How to Reach: Local taxis and autos that are available from anywhere within Bhubaneswar will drop you off directly at the entrance of the temple.
Temple Website: http://bmc.gov.in/TouristAtcton.aspx
The Best Time to Visit: Chandan Yatra, Rath Yatra, and Shivratri
The other attractions are: Parasurameswara Temple is 0.7 km away. Vaital Deul Temple just 0.2 km away.
12. Kotilingeshwara Temple: Karnataka
The temple of Shiva is located inside the village Kammasandra. It is located within the Kolar district in Karnataka. It has one of the biggest Shiv lingams around the globe and therefore is extremely popular with devotees. In reality, it’s the largest and most tall (33meters) Shiv lingam in Asia that draws around 2 lakh bhakts devout the year o visit this shrine. It is flanked by smaller lingams, an initiative that involves the construction of approximately 1 million.
People who are believers can build lingams under their names at no cost and the regular prayers will be performed by the authorities in charge regularly in these two. Free mass weddings are held every year, with celebrations and entertainment.
Address: Kodilingam Temple Road, Ghattakamadenahalli, Kolar-563121
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Dress Code: Modest Clothing
Approx. Time to Visit: 20 minutes only for Shiv Mandir, the principal Shiv Mandir and 2-3 hours for all the temples within the premises.
How to Reach: Kolar is 2.5 hours from Bangalore. The closest airport is Bangalore from which taxis to Kolar can be arranged. Rail networks are well connected via the Bangalore Hubli – Hubli line.
Temple Website: N/A
The best time to visit is Between July between January and July. Shivratri will be celebrated with great energy.
Others Attractions room for those who wish to be in tranquility. Antharagange Caves is 2.2 km away.
13. Daksheswara Mahadev Temple: Haridwar.
Daksheswar Mahadev Temple – popular Shiva temple in India
The origins of the temple are described within the Shiv Puranas. According to the legend, it was at this exact spot that Sati had plunged to her death in Yajna arranged by her father, King Daksha Prajapati. She was angry over Shiva not being summoned to his Yajna, as her father had done. Lord Shiva was the bravest warrior to get revenge on King Daksha and was later summoned by all gods including Vishnu to the exact location.
According to legend, this is why the lingam was seen here. The name is a reference to the father of the goddess Sati and King Daksha along with Lord Shiva The temple dates to the beginning of time and is revered by many committed Mahadev bhakts. It is situated in Kankhal just 4 kilometers from the holy city of Haridwar situated in Uttarakhand.
Address: MK Gandhi Road, Ahead of Chowk Bazaar, Kankhal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408, India
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Dress Code: casual traditional
Approx. Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
How To Reach: Hire a taxi from Haridwar. The nearest railway station is the Haridwar train station (03 km) and the closest airport is Dehradun (38 kilometers).
Temple Website: N/A
Best Time To Visit: Maha Shivaratri and Navratri
Other Attractions: shop at the entry point for stones, gems, and shiva lingams. Daksha Ghat, with the chance to bathe deep in holy Ganga. Har Ki Paur.
14. Vadakkunnathan Temple: Kerala.
Vadakkunnathan Temple – Ancient Shiva Temple in Kerala India
Another stupendous temple this one is dedicated to the name of Lord Shiva and is located in Thrissur, Kerala. Imagine typical Kerela style architecture. Murals of scenes from Mahabharata and towering structures across the entire length. It’s an absolute must-see for those who are interested in history and art because of its unique artwork and carvings alone. It is believed to have been constructed on the orders of Lord Parasurama. For those who aren’t aware, the story goes that the region that is Kerala was actually taken back of the ocean by Lord Parasurama. A rich legacy, historical significance, and customs that are reeking everywhere This place of worship is truly amazing and exceptionally well-preserved.
Address: Swaraj Round N, Kuruppam, Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur, Kerala 68000
Timings: 4 AM – 10:30 AM, 5 PM – 8:30 PM
Dress Code: casual traditional
Approx. Time of Visit: 1 hour
How to Reach: By train. The nearest station is Thrissur (1.5 kilometers away)
The closest airport is Cochin International Airport (47 km away)
Temple Website: N/A
Best Time To Visit: Annual Pooram festival is famous for its elephants and fireworks (April-May). Shivratri time.
Other Attractions: Charpa Falls and the Punnathurkotta Elephant Sanctuary
18 Famous Shiva Temples in India
15. Srikalahasti Temple: Andhra Pradesh
Srikalahasti Temple – the most famous Shiva temple in South India
The temple is photographed in a location that is as beautiful as you can get. The Shiv Lingam is surrounded by the gorgeous Dakshina Kailasa Mountain at the rear. In front, there’s the Swarnamukhi river, which adds to the excitement. The place is believed to be home to a lot of devotees who are saints, sinners, and saints and gods who have come to worship and achieved relief in times past.
It is among the most sought-after Shiva places due to the mythological tale that ties Mahadev to this renowned place. According to the legend, it was here that Kannappa made an offer to his eye to protect his bleeding lingam. But before he could accomplish that, Shiva intervened and granted him Moksha instead. This is why devotees flock to the temple as their sacred place to fulfill their desires as well as to achieve Mukti.
Address: Srikalahasti, Rajampet, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517644
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Costume Codes: appropriate attire for darshan. Certain dosha poojas require dress codes so be sure to inquire with the ticket booths before.
Approx. Duration of visit 3-4 hours
How To Get There: Srikalahasti Bus Stand, is located just 2 km away. There is public transport at the bus stop. The closest railway Station can be found at Srikalahasti Railway Station( 3 km from the airport.) Tirupati Airport, a 45-minute drive away, is the closest airport.
Temple Website: N/A
The best time to visit The months of November and February are the most enjoyable weather vice.
The other attractions are Pathala Ganapathi underground temple within the complex as well as The Bharadwaja Tirtha. The Dravidian architectural style here is an excellent example of getting a better understanding of the traditional southern Indian style.
16. Chidambaram Nataraja Temple: Tamil Nadu.
Another famous Shiva Temple dedicated to the God of Shiva himself is known as Natarajar (shiv is the god of dancing). The temple has mythological origins and is among the five sabhas in which Shiva is believed to have performed dancing in the sky. The architectural design of the temple is what makes it distinctive.
It is influenced by the tradition of Bharatnatyam the dance that is the signature style of the state that is Tamil Nadu. It is comprised of 9 gateways, four towers, and a Sikaram coated with Gold providing nothing less than beauty and a view into the rich culture of Tamil Nadu.
Address: East Car Street, Chidambaram | Vijay Gems, 608001, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM
Dress Code: Decent attire. Avoid wearing skin-revealing attire and stick to lighter ethnic clothing if you can. There is no strict code for the wearing of dhotis or sarees, however, men must take off their shirts when walking near idols.
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 Hours
How to Reach: Tiruchirapalli (195 km) and Chennai (245 km) are the closest airports. It is also connected by railway to Trichi and via roads to major cities.
Temple Website: N/A
The best time to visit an annual dance festival is celebrated each year during Maha Shivratri which is a should-see.
Other Attractions: Visit the pichavaram Mangrove Forest.
17. Bhojeshwar Shiva Temple: Madhya Pradesh.
Bhojeshwar Temple – famous shiva temple in India
With the 7.5 feet tall Shiv Linga the temple located in Bhojpur village is a landmark. Bhojpur village is famous due to an unusual reason. It is thought to be started in the 11th century, but the temple has not been completed in its construction and design. What’s even more fascinating is that plans for the construction of the temple were found to be written on the rocks surrounding it. The construction materials that had been left on the site have also been recovered.
However, no conclusive explanation for the reason for the cessation of construction was able to be made. But it has provided profound insights into how constructions for such sites were planned in the period. It has shed an understanding of the temple construction methods in the 11th century and let scholars dig deeper into the mysteries of architectural skills of the time. This temple is very important to us and was designated as a Monument that is National Importance by
it is the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Address:RaysonBhojpur, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 464993
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Dress Code: Wearing a nice dress is a must.
Approx. Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
How to get there: Bhopal (30 km away) is linked via rail and air to major cities. It is possible to take an auto or bus between Bhopal to the temple.
Temple Website: NA
The best time to visit is November-February to escape the summer heat, and Mahashivaratri to revel in the fantastic celebrations and the crowd.
Other Attractions: Visit the Bhimbetka caves
18. Kailashnath Temple: Maharashtra.
Kailashnath Temple – Largest Shiva Temple in India
A single of the world’s most well-known cave temples of India, The Kailash or Kailasanatha temple located in the Ellora Caves draws visitors, religious followers, and historians too. It is due to its unique architecture, magnificent scale, and sculptured mechanism. It was constructed in the 8th century, and is among the largest cut-outs of rock Hindu temples in old India. The most fascinating thing is the method of carving it from a single chunk of rock. It is one of the biggest out of 34 excavations in Ellora which took around one century to be completed.
The carved panels depict scenes of the epics of Mahabharata along with Ramayana. It is among the biggest Indian cut-rock Hindu temples within the Ellora Caves, Maharashtra, India. A huge stone cut from only one piece of rock. It is regarded as one of the most amazing shrines of caves located in India due to its dimensions, structure, and sculptural style.
Address: Ellora, Maharashtra 431102
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM. Closed on Tuesdays
Dress Code: There is no specific dress code for dress However, a casual and easy-to-wear will work best.
Approx. Time of Visit: 2 hours
How to Reach: 0.3 Km from Ellora Bus station. The nearest airport is Aurangabad (30Km far away). Direct trains to the major Maharashtrian cities are readily available.
Temple Website: N/A
The best time to visit is during an annual Ellora festival of dance and music held typically in November or December.
Other Attractions: Visit all 34 caves in the Ellora as well as the nearby Ajanta caves. Shop in the open-air market for Buddha sculptures or silver jewelry and paintings.
18 Famous Shiva Temples in India
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:
Are there any other Shiva temples located in India in addition to the ones listed above? These are hidden gems worth exploring.
Yes. There are other temples dedicated in honor of the Mahadev and a few of them have a fascinating tradition to share. The interesting themes and customs help them stand out from the list of temples above. They are essentially hidden gems, but with an incredible history, amazing sites, and significance. For example, Pahari Baba Mandir in Ranchi is worth mentioning because of its connection with the sacrifice of the Indian liberation fighters. It is situated within the same area in which the majority of them were hanged by the British in the days before independence.
Stambheshwar Mahadev temple in Gujarat is another, it stands out because of the temple changing appearance and disappearing throughout all day. Indeed, you are only able to visit this temple at low tides since otherwise, it gets submerged by the Arabian sea due to the position. It is nevertheless loved by those who find the strength to come here to receive blessings and elsewhere. Another example can be found at The Tungnath Mandir in the Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand. It is the most affluent Shiva temple anywhere in the world, at twelve thousand feet high above the sea. It is yet less well-known.
Which Temple Other Than Amarnath is Said to Have a Natural Shiva Ling?
The less well-known Ambikeshwar Temple in the Amer Fort of Jaipur. It is thought that the shivling in this temple is organic, and was found to be at a depth of 22 feet beneath the earth. After the shivling’s removal from beneath the ground, king Kankil Dev commanded an establishment of a temple there and the same Shiva is believed to be lying in its spot. A circular hole is surrounded by the lingam and devotees are required to look in to see if they can get darshan. There is also a legend that says that during the monsoons 10 feet of water appear from the distance and completely submerges the lingam.
Which Shiv Temple is Said to Witness The Increase in Height Year on Year?
Bhubaneshwar Nath Temple, or Bhakura Mahadev Temple in Marauda Village, Chhattisgarh is believed to possess powerful godlike abilities even today. The village has gained a lot of attention because of the ever-growing Shivlingam. The linga is believed to increase in size every year. The surrounding forest setting makes for a fascinating and magic. Locals believe that the shivlingam’s elevation is increased by 6 to 8 inches each year.
Shiva God of All Emotions and is believed to be the embodiment of passion. Shiva is the god for people who are seeking the highest moksha. But, as we’ve explained above, the pilgrimages to the Shiva temples of India are not just for the fervent Shiva Bhakts. Actually, every temple has a lot more to the table in terms of architecture history, mythology, and stories. It is truly a glimpse into our rich and varied history, these tales aren’t just fascinating however they can also draw one closer to the roots of their culture. If you’re interested in embarking on this thrilling journey, consider which options are interesting, and going! Rekindle your faith or the archaeologist within you…but make sure you be sure to share the things you enjoyed to us the most. Enjoy your journey and let the blessings of Shiv be with you for the rest of your life.
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