12 Famous Shiva Temples in India: Must Visit This Mahashivratri 2025

Lord Shiva is considered the supreme god in Hinduism, whose temples are filled in India from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Shiva is a powerful depiction that both peace and chaos can coexist within one. Shiva is mostly presented as the peaceful, animal-loving god, who spends most of his time meditating in the Kailasha. However, He also has a fierce side, who performed Tandav Nritya and is famous for his Nataraj and Bhairav avatars. His symbolic Shivling form is worshipped all over India. Shiva is one of the most worshipped gods in India, as his devotees fill every corner of India. Known to bless his devotees with a happy and prosperous married life and fulfill the wishes of his devoted worshippers, He is God of the Gods. He is worshipped in lord shiva Hindu temples as the destroyer of evil and rescuer of the innocent and the biggest protector of his devotees.

12 Famous Shiva Temples in India

If you are an ardent devotee of Shiva, exploring the 12 Jyotirlingas should be in your bucket list. These Jyotirlingas are spiritual home to the most ancient, culturally and spiritually rich traditions of India. According to the Hindu Mythology, these jyotirlingas are the most holy shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also believed that these are the exact places where Shiva manifested as a fiery column of light, establishing himself as the supreme power of the universe. In these pilgrimage sites, Shiva is being worshipped in different forms, sometimes as a peaceful entity and sometimes as a fierce deity. The grand celebration of Mahashivratri is the main attraction of these temples, where the union of Mahadev and Parvati is celebrated by worshipping the Shivalingam.

1. Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath is the most famous Shiva temples in India are present in Uttarakhand, situated at an altitude of 1200 feet, in the Rudra Himalayan Range. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is considered one of the most idolized pilgrimage sites in India. You cannot access this temple most of the year, as it receives heavy snowfall due to extreme cold weather. The temple remains closed for 6 months during the winter season and is only open for his devotees to visit during the summer season, from May to June.

Special Features

It is also believed that Maheshwar used to stay here with goddess Parvati, and is worshiped as Kedarnath, the ‘Lord of Kedar Khand’, in the form of a triangular rock. The foundation of the temple was laid by the Pandava Brothers, who were seeking their forgiveness from Shiva. However, the present architecture of Kedarnath temple is said to have been constructed during the 8th Century AD, by Adi Shankaracharya.

Things To Do

• It is believed that pilgrims who visit Kedarnath Dham, first make their way to Gangotri and Yamunotri, two holy rivers, to collect Holy water.
• After collecting the holy water, the devotees make a long trek, as the temple stands at an altitude of 3,583 meters, to offer the holy water to Kedarnath Shivling.
• Kedarnath Dham is one of the most important Shiva temples in India, and receives thousands of devotees every year, especially during the Char Dham Yatra.
• Despite its remote location, the devotees walk steep slopes to witness the Kedarnath temple and offer flowers, holy water, and Shiv Aarti.
• According to the legend, taking a bath in the pond of Gangotri and Yamunotri holy water present within the temple can get rid of all your worries and sins.

When to Visit

If you want to visit there for a Kedarnath Darshan then the nearest road is Gaurikund. Rishikesh is the nearest railway station to Kedarnath. The temple remains open from 4 AM to 9 PM, during this time you can take darshan and seek blessings.

2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Image Credit – Alight India

The lord shiva’s highest temple in India, Kashi Vishwanath Dham is one of the significant religious sites for the Hindus. This popular Jyotirlinga is also known as the Golden Temple of Varanasi and stands as the most ancient of all temples of Shiva. Lord Shiva’s deity in Kashi Vishwanath temple is known as the Vishwanatha or Vishbeshwara, which means “the ruler of the universe”.

Special features

Situated on the banks of the holy Ganga River, in the cultural capital of the country, it is said to be the most important Shiva temple in India. According to the Hindu Shastrya, this jyotirlinga is one of the most powerful Shiva temples in India, which broke open the ground and moved towards heaven, showcasing its power over the Gods. Among the 12 famous Shiva temples in India, it stands as one of the most respected and visited temples, where Shiva offers liberation and happiness to all.

Things to Do

• The temple is dedicated to lord Shiva, who lived in Kashi and attracts millions of devotees from all over the world.
• The pilgrims come to take a dip in the holy water of the Ganga River and return to the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from God Shiva.
• The temple is a scenic beauty with beautiful architecture and 800 kg of gold plating in its tower.
• If you are planning to visit Kashi Dham, make sure to leave your mobile phones, cameras, and other electronic gadgets outside the temple premises.
• Only Hindus are allowed to access the well of wisdom present inside the temple. Several small temples adorn Kashi Vishwanath from the inside, including Kaal Bhairav, Vishnu, Virupaksh Gauri, Vinayaka, and Avimukteshwara.

When to Visit

The different pooja timings of Kashi include Mangala Aarti which starts from 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM, and the Bhoga Aarti takes place from 11:15 AM to 12:20 AM. During the evening the time limit of Sandhya Aarti is from 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM, and at night the Shringara Aarti happens from 9:00 PM to 10:15 PM. The last aarti where Shiv Rudrashtakam Stotram is chanted is named Shayana Aarti, which takes place from 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM.

3. Gir Somnath

Image Credit – Sterlingholidays

Somnath is regarded as the first of all the jyotirlingas present in India and is considered the most sacred of all god Shiva temples in India. Located in the Kathiawar region of Gujarat, Somnath temple has been reconstructed several times and attracts millions of devotees, who offer their prayers and seek blessings from the deity of lord Shiva.

Special Features

The current structure of the temple was built in 1950, inspired by the Chalukya style. Legend has it that when Prajapati cursed the Moon, he worshipped Somnath to gain his lost beauty and shape. The almighty, known for fulfilling the wishes of their devotees, granted the wish of the Moon and resided here as Somnath. Legend suggests that Mahadev visited this shrine as a sizzling ray of light. It is one of the lord shiva statue temples in India, that is believed to be the top place to worship the deity. Inside the temple, there is a museum where a sound and light show takes place, during the evening time after the aartis.

Things To Do

• There are many temples that considered sacred like Old Mandir by Ahilyabai, Laxmi Narayan Mandir, Mahadev Temple and Mahakali Maa Temple. You can also visit these temples and offer prayers and seek blessings from different gods and goddesses.
• Thousands of pilgrims visit the sacred town every year to pay homage. While visiting Somnath you have the chance to learn and engage yourself in the history and architecture of the magnificent temples.
• There are several museums, historical structures and forts that are still present narrating tales of the years gone by.
• The temple is present in a coastal town and has many beaches to help you unwind and relax.
• The pilgrimage site has many unique handicrafts market offering a range of products to buy. You can always spend some time at the local Bazaar and purchase beautiful arts and crafted jewellery for yourself.

When to Visit

If you are interested in Shiva stories and tales of Hinduism, you must visit this shrine. The temple remains open from 6 AM to 10 PM every day. While the Aarti takes place at 7 AM, 12 noon, and 7 PM. The famous light and sound show, ‘Joy Somnath’, happens daily between 8 to 9 pm. The surroundings of this temple are peaceful and draw countless devotees to the shrine. The temple is well connected with the major cities of India, so you can take a cab to cover the distance. However, Veraval Railway station is the nearest railway station if you prefer a train.

4. Grishneshwar Temple

Image Credit – Amargranth

The Grishneshwar Temple, with Shikhara-style architecture, is one of the 12 famous Shiva temples in India. With carvings of Gods and Goddesses on the wall, and the main court adorned with the Nandi bull, this temple is a huge part of Shiv Purana. Grishneshwar temple is located in Maharashtra, near the caves of Ajanta and Ellora.

Special features

The significance of this Jyotirlinga built by Ahilya Bai Holkar, lies in its simple but beautiful architecture. Also known as Gru Someswara and Kusum Eswarar, the temple’s spiritual atmosphere makes it an ideal place for meditation and worship. Grishneshwar is considered the smallest of all the lord shiva temples in India, with its architecture resembling a South Indian style.

Things to do

• It is also known to be the holiest place to visit in Aurangabad, attracting millions of devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.
• Rich in culture and tradition, its sculptures carved on red rocks captivate every visitor. You can learn about the legends of Lord Shiva, and Vishnu from the depiction on the wall of the temple.
• This temple is only one of the temples of Shiva, where the devotees are allowed to touch the Shivling.
• However, men need to be bare-chested, to enter the main Shrine inside the temple, where the Shivling is placed.
• Taking pictures is not allowed, however, you can view the intricate mythological carvings on the pillars of the temple.

When To Visit

If you are planning on visiting the jyotirlinga for Darshan and Puja, visit between 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Due to the huge footfalls during the month of Shravan, darshan takes about 6 to 8 hours to complete. If you are from other parts of India, you have to take a flight or a train to reach Aurangabad. The city is approximately 30 km away from the temple, which you can easily cover by taking a taxi.

5. Nageshwar Temple

Image Credit- Tirthyatraindia

Located on the west coast of Gujarat, this temple is connected with the story of Shiva killing the demon named Daruka. As this temple is associated with Shiva protecting his devotees from the Daruka Rakshasa, it became a Shiva symbolism for protection and strength.

Special features

The temple of Nagnath is believed to be one of the lord shiva’s first temples in India and thus holds spiritual importance for the devotees seeking protection against all kinds of evils. This temple’s holy shrine of Nageshwar Mahadev is situated in an underground holy chamber.

Things to do

• All year-round thousands of devotees visit the temple to offer holy water/ milk and flowers at the feet of Shiva and seek blessings.
• You will be captivated after seeing the 25m tall statue of Shiva along with the mesmerizing view of the Arabian Sea.
• The architectural magnificence along with the spiritual ambience, and calmness of the natural surroundings of the temple makes it one of the best temples to seek spirituality and guidance from the Lord.
• If you are an ardent Shiva devotee then you can indulge yourself in the temple’s cultural heritage that extends to other aspects of life and stories of the supreme deity, Mahadev.

When to visit

If you are planning on visiting this powerful temple of Shiva during the holy time of Mahashivratri, you should go for darshan between 6 AM and 12:30 PM. If you opt for an evening darshan the time limit is from 5 PM to 9 PM. The temple remains open every day of the week, from 6 AM to 9 PM. The nearest stations to this temple are Dwarka and Veraval station. If you are traveling through the airways then Jamnagar is the nearest airport to Dwarka.

6. Rameshwaram Temple

Image Credit – Travelsetu

Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga is one of the lord shiva’s oldest temple in the country. The temple is popularly known as the “Varanasi of the South”, and is one of the most visited holy places in India. It is believed that the temple was worshipped by Lord Rama, hence people often visit the temple to seek blessings from Lord Rama. This historic temple has captivated travelers with its profound spiritual significance. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama, came to this temple to seek atonement for the lives he lost and killed, after returning victorious from his battle against Ravana. He is believed to have established a magnificent Shiva temple here, consecrating a sacred Shiv Linga within its hallowed walls.

Special Features

The intersection of the third corridor on the west and the paved path leading from the western gopuram to the Setumadhava shrine, forms a unique structure in the shape of a chess board. This architectural formation is popularly known as Chokkattan Madapam. The outer set of corridors is reputed to be the longest in the world being about 6.9 m in height. They further reach 400 feet in each in the east and west and about 640 feet in north and south. The inner corridors of the temple are about 224 feet in the east and west and about 352 feet each in north and south.

Things To Do

• Situated on the Rameshwaram Island of Tamil Nadu, the temple is surrounded by sea and is a sanctuary of beautiful structures.
• Decorated with the longest corridors and 36 tirthas, it has both visual as well as spiritual appeal.
• It holds a special importance for Hindus, as Lord Rama worshipped Shiva in this place, to atone for his sins. Thus, there is also a murti of Lord Rama, where you can offer prayers and seek blessings after worshipping Shiva Shambhu.
• The temple consists of two Lingas, Shivalinga and Ramalinga. However, the God of all Gods, Shiva Shambhu is worshipped first according to lord Rama’s words.
• It is important to wear dhoti paired with a shirt, pyjama, or pants along with a shirt, by the male devotees, who want to take a darshan of the Shivling. While for women and girls, the suggested attire is saris, churidhar, or ‘pavadai’ with a half-sari.
• You can also take part in Mahashivaratri, also known as the “Grand Night of Shiva”, considered one of the most auspicious festivals, which is celebrated each year with great festivities.

When To Visit

If you are planning to visit Rameshwaram temple, you should visit the eye-beholding Dhanushkodi beach, where Rama built Ram Setu in Lanka, to save his wife from Ravana. Being one of the Char Dhams of India, it also hosts several festivals other than poojas, that are worth witnessing. Darshan of the Lords is only permitted till 8 PM, even though the temple remains open from 5 AM to 9 PM. It is connected with the major South Indian cities and the nearest airport is in Madurai.

7. Bhimashankar Temple

Image Credit – Maharashtraplanet

This temple is located in the Sahyadri Hills of Maharashtra and is considered the sixth Jyotirlinga of the 12 famous lord shiva hindu temples. The presence of Jyotirlingas makes Bhimashankar one of the popular trekking places for people in Maharashtra.

Special Features

Bhimashankar is a popular Hindu Shrine that is believed to be the source of the Bhima River. The temple has a magnificent black rock structure and is surrounded by wild forest, making it a peaceful place for seeking spiritual solace. According to Hindu Mythology, it is believed that this temple was constructed by Bheema, Kumbhakarna’s son, hence the name Bhimashankar. The place turns into a festival ground during Maha Shivratri, when pilgrims from all over India, visit the shrine for dev darshan.

Things To Do

• If you are a nature lover, you cannot afford to miss the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a vast expanse of lush greenery of about 130 square kilometers, and is filled with diverse wildlife.
• After offering prayers to Shiva Ji and performing Shiva aartis, spend some time around the temple watching the beautiful stone carvings and intricate designs that date back to the 13th century.
• You can also make a visit to the Hanuman Lake for a peaceful retreat. Most visitors go there to unwind or take a leisurely boat ride.
• A trek to Nagphani Point can be challenging but the mesmerizing views of the Sahyadri mountain makes it a famous trekking destination that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forest.

When To Visit

When you decide to visit this temple, you have to make a short trek through the woods, which will surely add a bit of adventure to your spiritual journey. The place brilliantly showcases the Buddha cravings by the Vishwakarma sculptors of the ancient period, making it an architectural as well as a wildlife sanctuary. If you are looking for a religious as well as an adventurous journey, this temple on top of a hill is the perfect choice to visit during the Maha Shivratri. Every week the temple opens from 4:30 AM to 9:30 PM, while the actual darshan starts from 5 AM and lasts till 9:30 at night.

8. Trimbakeshwar Temple

Image Credit- Incredibleindia

It is one of the 12 jyotirlingas, located near Brahmagiri Mountain, the place from where the Godavari River originated. The temple is set in the middle of three hills with the origin of Godavari right next to it. The Trimbakeshwar temple is a place to witness serene beauty all around and immerse yourself in devotion and spirituality. This Jyotirlinga pilgrimage site signifies the infinite nature of Lord Shiva, where he is regarded as the limitless, formless, and absolute Brahman and the primal soul of the universe. Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the 12 famous, self-existent temples of Lord Shiva, with the epic saga of Shiva and a sense of myth associated with its origin.

Special features

According to Shiv Purana, Kailashpati Shiva came to reside in this temple, after the Godavari River, and Gautami rishi pleaded with him to do so. Shiva and Shakti emerged in this temple in the form of Trimbakeshwar, and since then Godavari River has come to be known as Gautami Ganga. The most fascinating part of this temple is that it features three pillars which symbolize Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Rudra Avatars of Lord Shiva.

Things To Do

• The temple is considered one of the sacred of all the jyotirlingas, attracting devotees from all around the world. Wearing a silk dhoti is mandatory for the male devotees, who are the only ones allowed inside the ‘Garbhagriha’.
• Most pilgrims prefer this holy place, to perform rites and rituals in the holy water of Gautami Ganga.
• After their ritual, they collect holy water to pour on Shivling, chanting Shiva Mantra, and offering flowers.
• If you are visiting the temple, then you need to book pandits to perform pooja for Maheshwar.

When To Visit

You can visit the temple any day of the week from 6 AM to 9 PM. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is the nearest airport, while Igatpuri is the nearest railway station.

9. Vaidyanath Temple

Image Credit- Behindeverytemple

Vaidyanath Dham, also known as Babadham, is one of the 12 Mahajyotirlinga shrines, where Lord Shiva self-manifested into existence. The ancient temple complex of Vaidyanath houses 22 beautiful temples along with the main Jyotirlinga temple. Vaidyanath is one of the most ancient temples of Mahadev and finds mention in many Hindu texts like Shivapurana, Matsyapurana, and Ramayana. The temple is situated in a spectacular location near the Mayurkashi River, and is visited by religious travelers, who come here to seek blessings during the month of Shravan. A beautiful Shaktipeeth shrine of Goddess Parvati is located next to the main temple. Vaidyanath is a testament to the sacred bond of Shiva and Shakti, which is believed to be the foundation of the world.

Special features

Another one of the famous Jyotirlingas is the Vaidyanath temple, in Jharkhand. It is one of the biggest Shiva temples and is also among the 52 Shakti peethas of Sati Devi in the Hindu religion. There is a popular tale related to this temple, that includes Ravana the devoted worshipper of Shiva. Mythology says that when Ravana invited Shiva to Lanka, Shiva took the form of a linga, ordering him to reach Lanka without putting it down. Vishnu tricked Ravana into putting down the Shiva Linga for rest, and since then Mahadev came to reside here as Lord Vaidyanath.

Things To Do

• The intricate stone carvings are worth viewing, for they speak of a different story in Hindu mythology, with many Shiva Stories sculpted on the temple walls.
• Baba Baidyanath Dham receives maximum worshippers during the month of Shravana and Maha Shivratri.
• You should visit the temple during Shravan Mela, as it is one of the attractions of this temple that draws millions of devotees.
• The devotees carry the holy water of Ganga from Sultanganj 108 km away to the temple, to seek the help of Shiva to get rid of their miseries and attain salvation.
• Most pilgrims offer holy water from the Ganges to the deity, during the Shravan month, to attain peace from all troubles.
• Try to visit during the Shravan Mela, as the temple will be most spiritual and culturally rich during this time of the year.
• The Holy Kunds are believed to have healing powers, thus, taking a bath in the holy kunds and eating the Prasad is considered blessed and good for health.

When To Visit

All seven days a week the temple remains open from 4 AM to 9 PM. During Mahashivratri the darshan timings are extended from the usual 7:30 to 8 AM, the right time to visit for the best experience.

10. Omkareshwar Temple

Image Credit – Tripxl

The Madhyameshwar Omkareshwar temple is a significant part of Hinduism, dedicated to lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be the highest Shiva temple, in terms of blessings that Shiva offers to His worshippers.

Special Features

It is believed that Shiva residing in this temple never lets his devotees return empty-handed. Translated as the Lord of the Om Sound, the temple stands as one of the most significant parts of Hindu Mythology. According to the legend, once there was a war between the Gods and the Demons, where the Gods prayed to Shiva for help. Pleased with their devotion, Maheshwar emerged as Omkareshwar, to defeat all the evil Danavas and save the realm of God from destruction. The oldest lord Shiva temple in India houses both Kedarnath and Madmaheshwar Dev during the months of winter.

Things to do

• The water confined within the inner walls of this temple has highly sacred qualities that can lead to the absolute purification of your soul.
• Visit the local markets and Handcraft shops near the temple.
• they are filled with stalls selling religious items such as Rudraksha beads, idols of deities, incense sticks, and prayer books.
• The evening aarti of Omkareshwar temple is one of the highlights of the day.
• Trek to the Kajal Rani Cave to experience a bit of adventure.
• There are some popular dining places near the temple that are pilgrim’s favorite. Take a walk and enjoy traditional Indian thalis and other vegetarian dishes at reasonable prices.

When To Visit

If you want to visit this place to seek Lord Shiva’s protection, you need to visit between 5:30 AM to 12:20 PM or 4 pm to 8:30 PM However, the temple remains open from 5 in the morning till 10 at night.

11. Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple

Image Credit – Srisailamtourism

The last of the 12 jyotirlingas, the temple is located at the hilltop of Shri Saila Mountain. This temple holds the deities of Shiva and Parvati. Beautiful sculptures and architecture can be found in the temple of Mallikarjuna.

Special features 

Built by King Harihara Raya of Vijayanagar, this temple is one of the most celebrated temples with its roots from ancient times. The idols of Nandi, Sahasralinga, and Nataraja Stuti along with the three-legged sage Bringi can be found inside the temple. It is believed that Parvati once cursed the sage Bringi to stand because he only worshipped lord Shiva. However, Shiva helped his devotee by giving him a third leg so that he could stand comfortably.

Things To do

• You can also find the Story Behind the Shiv Tandav Stotram, in the carvings on the walls of the temple.
• Explore the flora and fauna of the Nallamala Forest that lies at 17KM from the town. its natural surroundings are best for forest camping.
• In order to discover the livelihoods, lifestyle, and culture of the local ethnic tribes of Andhra Pradesh, you can take a tour of the Chenchu Lakshmi Museum.

When to Visit

The beautiful shrine remains open from 4:30 AM to 10 PM every day. If you are looking for a darshan of the Shivling to offer pooja and seek blessings, the time is between 6:30 am and 1 pm and 6:30 pm and 9 pm.

12. Mahakaleshwar Temple

Image Credit – Pilgrimagetour

This temple housing the most sacred Shiva deity is visited by millions from different parts of the country, especially during Mahashivratri. Located in the Mahakal forest in Ujjain, the temple is believed to have been constructed by a five-year-old infant boy, Srikar. Well recognized as one of the Mukti Sthans of the country, the temple is a unique jyotirlinga, situated near the banks of Kshipra River.

Special Features

The fact that makes it one of the 12 famous jyotirlingas is that the deity residing here is known as the Swayambhu, which means that it has built itself. Mahakaleshwar is one of the most significant and powerful Shiva and Shakti Peeth.

Things To Do

• Take part in the Nitya Yatra after taking a bath in holy Sipra and then visit the idols of goddess Mahakalesvara, Harasiddhi, Nagachandresvara, goddess Avantika, Kotesvara, and Agastyesvara for seeking blessings.
• A sacred procession dedicated to lord Shiva passes during every Monday and is organized on the fortnight of Bhadrapada is celebrated with great excitement and zeal.
• For attending the Aarti do make your bookings beforehand, otherwise you will not be able to see it from inside the temple.
• Do not forget to carry your photo-ID Proof. Pan cards are not accepted.
• You need to wear decent clothes while visiting the shrine and try covering your head while the aarti takes place.

When To Visit

You can visit the temple to witness morning aarti and Shiva Bhajan, which is the main attraction of this religious place. For darshan of the lord, you have to visit between 5 AM to 3.50 PM and between 4.15 pm to 9.30 pm.

To experience a rewarding journey toward spirituality you have to explore the famous Shiva temples in India. From sacred jyotirlingas to underground shrines, all offer beautiful lessons on Hindu mythology that can lead you towards more knowledge about your cultural background. Additionally, the artistic carvings, along with the aartis of Lord Shiva, offer peace and solace like no other.

Read more blogs: