Looking for Most Famous & Powerful Lord Shiva Temples Across India? Here is a list of Most Famous & Powerful Lord Shiva Temples Across India.
During the beginning of the earth, when the beginning of the 20th century was about 15 - 20 thousand years ago, Goddess Devta had been the first step in the earth. At that time, the whole earth was covered with snow. At the same time, Mahadev Shiva went to the center of the earth to make it his home.
Lord Vishnu chose the sea and the Brahma Dev as the place of his abode. In the book of ancient religious texts, it is found in the book where Lord Shiva is situated, beneath this mountain, Patallok is situated here, Lord Vishnu resides here.
Above the seat of Lord Shiva, which means heaven and then the Brahmalok are located across the atmosphere. Apart from this, there was nothing on earth at that time, life on earth came from the powers of this trinity.
According to scientists, Tibet is the oldest land in the world, and in ancient times it used to be the ocean. Then when the sea was removed, the other earth appeared and thus gradually life spread.
Lord Shiva, the first person on this earth, tried to spread the propaganda of life. This is why Lord Shiva is also called Dev Dev. It is the beginning of the beginning ie Lord Shiva is the beginning. Due to being Adinath, Lord Shiva is also known as Adish.
The order word is made from this same word only when Nath Sadhoo meets each other, then by order, Lord Shiva shrines.
In addition to Lord Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu acted on the origin and reciprocity of life on the whole earth.
All of them together made the earth worth living and here the god, demon, demon, Gandharva, Yaksha and man's population increased.
Most Famous and Powerful Shiva Temples
1. Kashi Vishwanath Shiva Temple
Varanasi is home to Baba Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva. It enshrines one of the 12 Jyotirling of Shiva. It is said that the Kashi Vishwanath temple was rebuilt several times. The latest structure standing here dates back to the 18th century.
The Kashi Vishwanath temple complex consists of a series of smaller shrines, located in a small lane called the Baba Vishwanatha Galli, near the Ganga River.
The original Kashi Vishwanath temple was destroyed by the army of Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1194 CE when he defeated the Raja of Kannauj as a commander of Mohammad Ghori.
The temple has a beautifully carved Golden spire and every devotee here can make their offerings to the deity directly. The Sivalinga is placed in a square pit about 2 feet deep and is always immersed in a pool of milk and water offered by devotees.Just outside the main shrine, there are 2 sub-shrines for Siva and other of Goddess Annapoorna, Guru of Kasi Viswanath.
2. Shree Somnath ShivaTemple,
Somnath Temple is situated at ‘Prabhas Kshetra’ near in Saurashtra in the state of Gujarat on the Arabian Sea. This temple is basically a home of 12 ‘Jyotirlinga’ of India. The seven-storied structure of the Somnath temple is tall to 155 feet and was constructed in the Chalukya style of architecture. The temple was built by the professionals and masters masons of the Sompuras, Gujarat.
The temple and its landmark are not visible from Somnath seashore till Antarctica. In an inscription at the temple, it was written in Sanskrit on the Arrow-Pillar of the sea-protection wall. Dr. Rajendra Prasad the first president of India conveyed that- ‘’Somnath Temple signifies that the power of creation is always greater than the power of destruction’’. This temple has an illustrious history and religious importance and thus Somnath temple attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors across the world. Tourists can also visit the place round the year but the best season to visit is winters – from October to March.
3. Kedarnath ShivaTemple, Uttarakhand
According to a Hindu mythological, it was believed that Kedarnath was the holy residence of Lord Shiva after a consistent request from Nar – Narayan a 5th Vishnu Avatar. After the end of the great war of Mahabharat, Vyas advised the Pandava brothers to go and meet Lord Shiva and ask him for forgiveness since they had killed their kin the Kauravas. The story goes ahead to mention that Lord Shiva was in no mood to forgive them and transformed himself into a bull. He also hid by sinking headfirst into the ground. Bhim, the strongest of the Pandava brothers then immediately grabbed the bull’s tail and started pulling him to make him forcefully appear before them. Due to this Lord Shiva’s bull form got divided and appeared at the sites of Panch Kedar. The earliest mention for kedarnath is seen in the Skanda purana which is a holy Hindu book that marks the origin of the holy river Ganga.
Another interesting legend revolves around Nar and Narayan – two of the most popular incarnations of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Nar and Narayan had performed some rigorous penance here with an earthen shiv lingam at Bharat Khand. Lord Shiva was extremely pleased with their penance and appeared before them and asked them for a boon. They asked him to stay permanently at Kedarnath in the form of a jyotirlinga. Hearing this, the lord agreed to fulfill their wishes and enshrined himself in the form of a jyotirlinga above which the main dham shrine of Kedarnath was constructed.
4. Kailashnath Shiva Temple, Ellora
The Kanchi Kailasanathar temple is that the oldest and delightful handmade structure in Kanchi Puram settled in Tamil Nadu, India, it's an oldest Hindu temple within the Dravidian art form. it's dedicated to Lord Shiva and is understood for its historical importance. The temple was engineered from 685-705 AD by a Rajasimha ruler of the Pallava folk. The low-slung sandstone compound contains an oversized variety of carvings, as well as several half-animal deities that were common throughout the first Dravidian architectural period. The structure contains fifty-eight little shrines that are dedicated to numerous types of Shiva. These are engineered into niches on the inner face of the high compound wall of the circumlocutory passage. The temple is one among the foremost distinguished traveler attractions of the town.
5. Brihadeeswara Shiva Temple, Thanjavur
Brihadeeswara Shiva temple in Thanjavur is one of the most ancient Lord Shiva Temple, Temple is located in the city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, India. Brihadeeswara Temple is also known as "Raj-Rajeshwara" and "Raje-Rajeshwaram". Brihadeeswara Shiva temple is one of the Biggest and famous Shiva Temples In India. Thanjavur was known as “The rice bowl of Tamil Nadu,” which was an important city to the "Cholas Panth". This Temple was developed by King of Chola Panth Shree Arumoshivarm in 1100 years ago and some development like the outside wall was done in the year 1406. Construction of the Brihadisvara Temple is in the center of the city. Thanjavur had the distinction of being specifically constructed as a religious city with the temple centermost.
The most interesting part of this temple is the shadow of the temple, which surprisingly never falls on the ground at noon. The Brihadeshwar Temple is one of the tallest and famous temples in the world and is so designed that the viman does not cast a shadow at noon during any part of the year.
6. Mahakaleshwar Shiva Temple
Ujjain (also known Ujjayini, Avantika), is an ancient city of Malwa region in central India, on the eastern bank of the Kshipra River. Ujjain means city on ascendance with conquest scream. Ujjain comes from Ujjainee in ancient times, it is also called the gleaming area of the paradise and the holy city of temples for the Hindus. According to Hindu scriptures it was initially called Avantika.
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingams, which are supposed to be the most sacred abodes of Shiva. It is located in the ancient city of Ujjain in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the side of the Rudra Sagar lake. The presiding deity, Shiva in the lingam form is believed to be Swayambhu, deriving currents of power (Shakti) from within itself as against the other images and lingams that are ritually established and invested with mantra-shakti.
7. Bhimashankar Shiva Temple
The Bhimashankara temple is a composite of old and the new structures and is built in the Nagara style of architecture. It is a modest temple yet graceful temple and it dates back to mid 18th century. The shikhara of the temple was built by Nana Phadnavis. The great Maratha ruler Shivaji is also said to have made endowments to this temple to facilitate the carrying out, of worship services. As with other Shiva temples in this area, the sanctum is at a lower level.
Although the structure here is fairly new, the shrine Bhimashankaram (and the Bhimarathi river) have been referred to in literature dating back to the 13th century CE. Saint Jnaneshwar is said to have visited Tryambakeshwar and Bhimashankar.
Other temples and shrines: There is a shrine to Kamalaja near the Bhimashankara temple. Kamalaja is an incarnation of Parvati, who aided Shiva in his battle against Tripuraasura. Kamalajaa was worshipped with offerings of lotus flowers by Bhrama. Shaakini and Daakini the Shivaganas who helped Shiva in the battle against the demon are also honored and worshipped here.
The Mokshakund thirtha is located behind the Bhimashankara temple, and it is associated with the rishi Kaushika. There are also the Sarvathirtha, the Kusharanya thirtha where the Bhima river begins to flow eastward, and the Jyanakund.
7. Omkareshwar Shiva Temple
8. Mallikarjuna Shiva Temple
Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is made with black pillars and has many carvings of various events. There are many shrines in this temple. This temple is located in Kambaduru.
Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy, Shiva Temples In India is enlisted in the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, devoted to Lord Shiva. Each Jyotirlinga temple has the idol of Lingam as the presiding deity. The manifestation of Lord Shiva is dissimilar for every Jyotirlinga temple. The Sri Mallikarjuna temple faces the east and houses the main deity, Lingam.
It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams. The uniqueness of this temple dishonesty in the amalgamation of Jyotirlinga and Mahasakthi in a single campus, which is one of its kind. It is the most celebrated and ancient temple in town. It was built by King Harihar Raya Vijayanagar.
The temple has carvings and sculptures in the walls, which adds to its splendor. It is one of the most gorgeous and holy temples in town, located amidst the majestic Nallamala Hill. One must completely not miss this on a visit to Srisailam.
9. Pashupatinath Shiva Temple, Mandsaur Nepal
One of the most sacred Hindu temples of Nepal – Pashupatinath Temple is located on both banks of Bagmati River on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath is the most important God Shiva Temple. Every year Pashupatinath Temple attracts hundreds of elderly followers of Hinduism.
They arrive here to find shelter for the last several weeks of their lives, to meet death, be cremated on the banks of the river, and travel their last journey with the waters of the sacred river Bagmati, which later meets the holy river the Ganges. Hinduists from every corner of Nepal and India are arriving here to die.
It is believed that those who die in Pashupatinath Temple are reborn as a human, regardless of any misconduct that could worsen their karma. The exact day of their death is predicted by astrologers in Mumbai of the temple. If you are attracted to the places where the spirit of death can be felt, then
consider Pashupatinath as your first destination. It is a temple with a special atmosphere of death; death is present in almost every ritual and every corner of it.
10. Panchalingeshwara Shiva Temple, Karnataka
Shree Panchalingeshwara temple in Karnataka is one of the ancient and largest temples of Shiva in Dakshina Kannada District. This Shiva Temples In India is at the heart of Vittla city & currently managed by a committee.
Sree Panchalingeshwara temple is having a special architecture known as "Gaja Prusta" i.e. back of an elephant. Other temples built in this architecture are Madhur & Adur in Kerala.
This temple is located close to the eastern edge of Sedam town where a stream flows in a curve. Turning attention to the temple complex. It a group of four Shiva Temples. The complex's gateway is richly decorated with an arch, pair of Dwarapalas guarding the entrance. As we step in, there's one temple straight ahead.
11. Tejo Mahalaya, Shiva Temple, UP
During their rule, they looted and destroyed hundreds of thousands of Hindu temples. Aurangzeb himself destroyed 10,000 Hindu temples during his reign! Some of the larger temples were converted into mosques or other Islamic structures. Ram Janmbhoomi (at Ayodhya), Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, and Krishna Temple (at Mathura) are just two examples. Many others exist!
The most evident of such structures is the Taj Mahal--a structure supposedly devoted to carnal love by the Moghul king Shah Jahan to his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal. Please keep in my mind that this is the same Shah Jahan who had a harem of 5,000 women and the same Shah Jahan who had an incestuous relationship with his daughter justifying it by saying, 'a gardener has every right to taste the fruit he has planted'! Is such a person even capable of imagining such a wondrous structure as the Taj Mahal let alone be the architect of it?
The answer is no. It cannot be. And it isn't as has been proven. The Taj Mahal is as much a Islamic structure as is mathematics a Muslim discovery! The famous historian Shri P.N. Oak has proven that the Taj Mahal is actually Tejo Mahalaya-- a shiv temple-palace. His work was published in 1965 in the book, Taj Mahal - The True Story. However, we have not heard much about it because it was banned by the corrupt and power-crazed Congress government of Bharat who did not want to alienate their precious vote bank--the Muslims.
12. Shore Shiva Temple, Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) is a very popular town in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The ideal location of the town, on the Coromandel Coast, adjacent to the Bay of Bengal, has also made the town highly popular amongst tourists. During the 7th and 10th centuries of the Pallava dynasty, the town was established as a seaport and thus, has prospered accordingly.
Mahabalipuram Shore Temple
The architectural brilliance has also played a crucial role in attracting tourists from native and foreign land. The casuarinas trees and lovely white sandy beaches also make Mahabalipuram worth visiting for the vacationers looking for a tranquil location. Apart from this, Mahabalipuram is also popular amidst shopping freaks as there are exquisite local handicrafts are available in the shops at great prices.
Mhabalipuram Tourist Place
Amongst various architectural attractions, the Shore Temple has attracted tourists from far-flung regions. Here is a small synopsis provided about the Shore Temple that reflects the architectural brilliance and importance of the site.
Shore Shiva Temple
The folklore states existence of 7 temples on the shore line. Presently, there is only one temple is available on the shore and is popular as the Shore Temple. The artisan Rajasimha constructed the temple during the 7th century, under the reign of Narasimha Varman II. This ancient South Indian temple is constructed according to the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has become very popular amidst tourists due to its recognition as one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The temple is adorned with numerous carvings. The temple constitutes of three separate buildings, 2 dedicated to the Lord Shiva and 1 dedicated to the Lord Vishnu.
Fast Facts:
- Location: Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India
- Built In: 7th Century
- Architectural Style: Dravidian
- Dedicated To: Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva
- Attraction: One amongst the earliest structural temples in South India
- Significance: Renowned as World Heritage Site
- How To Reach: Through regular Buses or by hiring Taxis from anywhere in Tamil Nadu.
13. Lingaraj Shiva Temple, Bhubaneswar
Lingaraj Temple is the largest Shiva Temples In India located in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, India. It is considered to be the favorite temple of Bhubaneswar Maharaj. It is one of the oldest Shiva temples in the city and it is one of the greatest temples in the city according to the oldest (Histology). This temple is otherwise dedicated to Lord Shiva. But Lord Vishnu in the form of Shaligram is also present here. Near the temple is Bindusagar lake. This temple was founded in 617-657 AD / 0th or 11th century. By the way, this Shiva temple In India has a lot of recognition. Let me tell you that two demons named Litti and Vasas were killed here by Goddess Parvati, after the battle, when Shivji made a coup and called all the holy rivers to contribute, this is the Bindusagar lake.
Nearby is the huge temple of Lingaraj. Ever since this temple is worshiped in the name of Lord Shiva and from that day onwards this temple has a lot of recognition. People come here to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. There is also a rule of worship here, although there are rules of worship everywhere, but the rules of this temple are as follows - According to the method of worship here, firstly a bath is done in Bindusarovar. Then Kshetrapati Anant Vasudev is seen. It is followed by Ganesh puja and then after worshiping Nandi, the vehicle of Shivji, enters the main place to see Lingaraja. Where the self-erecting ling of granite stone is eight feet thick and about one feet high.
14. Kotilingeshwara Shiva Temple, Kotilingeshwara
In this way, you must have seen many temples of Shiva, you have also seen many forms of them. Just think, if the size of the temple tells the glory of Lord Shiva and the power of Lord Shiva is realized as soon as you enter the temple, then what better thing would be. The world's highest Shivalinga is present in Kolar district of Karnataka, around which the Kotilingeshwara Shivlinga tells the unique story of the devotion of their devotees to Shiva.
A Shiva Temples In India, which is situated in the greenery of the holy, beautiful, and serene nature, tells itself the story of this temple being the most unique. Mahadev himself lives in its beauty that takes the mind and tells the story of the power of Shiva here. Along with the world's highest Shivling in this temple, there are about 1 crore Shivling as well.
It is called Kotilingeshwar Dham, which is situated in Kammasandra, a small village in Kolar district of Karnataka. On entering this temple, the devotees eye a tuck only to see the shape of the temple because it is situated in the form of Mahadev, which is perhaps the only one of its kind in the world. The size of the temple here is in the form of Shivling, which is also the highest Shivling in the world. The height of this temple in the form of Shivling is 108 feet. On seeing this, the devotees become fully Shiva and testify about the 1 crore Shivling present around the temple.
One may wonder why millions of Shivling are installed around the main temple. The secret of this marvel is hidden in the wishes of the devotees who come here. Devotees come to this temple with true devotion in their mind and according to their ability, get the Shivling ranging from 1 feet to 3 feet, installed here in their own name. It is the glory of Mahadev that now the number of these Shivalingas has reached about 1 crore.
In front of this huge Shiva-linga, Nandi is seen as grand and huge, whose height is 35 feet and it is situated on a platform 60 feet long, 40 feet wide and 4 feet high. Statues of Goddess Maa, Shri Ganesh, Shri Kumaraswamy and Nandi Maharaj are installed around this huge Shiva-linga as if they are offering their worship to their adorable. This amazing form of the temple and the belief that every vow will be completed, draws thousands of devotees from far and wide.
On entering the temple, the devotees in the statue of Kotilingeshwar get to see the visions of Lord Mahadev, and the innocent ones in the form of Kotilingeshwar appear eager to defeat the sufferings of their devotees. In addition to the main temple of Kotilingeshwar, there are 11 temples in this entire temple complex, in which the temples of Brahma, Vishnu, Annapurneshwari Devi, Venkataramani Swamy, Panduranga Swami, Panchmukh Ganapati, Ram-Lakshmana-Sita are mainly seated.
It is believed that by tying yellow thread on two trees present in the temple premises, every wish is fulfilled. In particular, the problems of marriage are removed. The marriage of girls from poor and poor families is done on behalf of the temple at a nominal fee. All the arrangements are done on behalf of the temple. At the same time, proper arrangements are made for the living and eating of devotees coming from far and wide. On Mahashivaratri, the beauty of this temple is seen on sight. The number of devotees earning pious benefits reaches 2 lakh by offering their devotion to their deity.
15. Murudeshwar Shiva Temple, Murudeshwara
Murudeshwar is around 180 km from Mangalore on the National Highway. On the route along the highway is the alluring Maravanthe Beach with the Arabian Sea roaring on the west and a serene river on the east along this route for almost 2 km.
The Murudeshwar Shiva Temples In India has a history that dates back to a few centuries. A small temple existed here for generations. But with time the temple disintegrated. A local businessman R N Shetty took up the renovation of the temple on a grand scale making the place the tourist haven that it is today. A large life-like statue of Lord Shiva invoking Ganga has been erected on top of the hill. The renovated temple is a blend of the Chalukya and Kadamba style of architecture. During the renovation, the entire fishing hamlet got a facelift, not just the temple. Guesthouses are in plenty. The place has a restaurant that is built on the seashore.
16. Kasivisvesvara Shiva Temple, Lakkundi
The Kashivisvesvara Temple is located in Lakkundi town of Gadag district, Karnataka. The Kasivisvesvara Temple is an excellent example of the Kalyani Chalukya school of architecture and Hoysala architecture. This Shiva temple is a Dvikuta, meaning it has two shrines facing each other. A small shrine faces the main shrine, which is located on the western side of the temple. An open 'mandapa' separates both the shrines. The Kashivisvesvara Shiva Temple shows evidence of inspiration derived from contemporary North Indian Sekhari and Bhumija styles of architecture.
The door-post moldings of the southern doorway are covered in beautiful scrollwork. On either side of the doorway stand pilasters. The lintel of the doorway carries an idol of Gajalakshmi. This feature is a trademark of the architecture of this region. The Shiva temple has two entrances, one at the eastern end and another at the southern end. The temple dome has been constructed in the north Indian style of architecture which resembles a lathe. It is one of the most graceful temples in this region.
17. Nagareshwara Shiva Temple, Karnataka
The Kalyani Chalukya temple architecture paved way for the even more intricate and beautiful Hoysala architecture. If you want to see how Kalyani Chalukyas have influenced the Hoysalas in this regard, one of the best examples out there is the Nagareshwara Temple at Bankapura, in Haveri district of northern Karnataka.
This temple is known to many as "aravattu kambada gudi" (temple of sixty pillars) as it has 60+ huge lathe turned pillars across its main hallway. Exotic carvings in the around the main doorway is one distinct specialty of the Kalyani Chalukyas which the Hoysalas probably did not improve upon. This temple gives you (along with the ones at Lakkundi and Dambala) one of the best visual treats around the main entrance you can witness across temples of Karnataka.
The temple, known to be constructed in the early parts of the 12th century by the Kalyani Chalukyas, received support from the Hoysalas as well. Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana conquered the Bankapura fort, followed by the Hanagal fort to establish the Hoysala supremacy in the region that was continued by his grandson Veera Ballala II. The temple came under heavy attacks during the reign of the Bahamanis and Adil Shah, but its beauty remains in fact and is now maintained well by the ASI.
18. Kedareshwara Shiva Temple, Karnataka
The Kedareshwara Temple, dedicated to lords Shiva, dedicates the name of Dakshina Kedara (Kedareshwar of the South) to Balligave. The temple was initially constructed by the Western Chalukya regime, and then around 1060 AD, Hoysala King Vinayaditya is known to have given enormous amounts of donation and has added the typical Hoysala emblem of Sala slaying the lion on top of the Shikharas of two of the three sanctums. The Shiva temple is a Trikuta shrine, with Kedareshwara Linga in the main sanctum, a Brahma Linga in another, and a statue of Janardana form of Vishnu in the third. The Shiva temple sanctums also house statues of Suryanarayana and Bhairava.
All around the temple, the transition from Chalukya Architecture to Hoysala is very clearly noticeable. The Shiva temple is maintained in great shape, has one of the most beautiful Nandi statues you will come across all over Karnataka, and seems to have been the primary inspiration for many of the following Hoysala temples of the next 100 years, including the famous ones at Belur and Halebidu.
19. Daksheswara Mahadev Shiva Temple, Uttarakhand
Daksheswara Mahadev Temple or Daksha Mahadev temple is a Hindu Shiva temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Named after King Daksha Prajapati, the father of Sati or Dakshayani, Lord Shiva ‘s first wife. Daksha is one of the fourteen Prajapatis, creator deities, presiding over procreation, and protector of life, in Hindu mythology.
The present Shiva Temples In India was built by Queen Dhankaur in 1810 AD and rebuilt in 1962, and is a place of pilgrimage for Shaivaite devotees on Maha Shivaratri. Standing next to the main temple is the Das Mahavidya temple, dedicated to the Mahavidyas, a venue for devotees of Devi to congregate for special pujas, during the Navratri celebrations. Also within the complex, there is a temple dedicated to Ganga. Next to the temple is the Daksha Ghat on the Ganges and close by is the Nileshwar Mahadev Temple.
20. Annamalaiyar Shiva Temple, Tamil Nadu
Lord Shiva has his largest dwelling in Thiruvannamalai, in the name of Annamalaiyar temple, which dates back to 1000s of years and has a mention in the oldest Tamil literature like Thevaram and Thiruvasagam.
When Lord Brahma (the Creator) and Lord Vishnu (the Protector) entered into a quarrel to ascertain who was the most powerful, Lord Shiva entered into the scene to evaluate their power.
To assess their strength, He announced a contest, where the winner is the one who could spot his crown and his feet. After announcing the contest, HE immediately transformed into a Big Spark of fire, which stretched from the Heaven to the Earth.
While Lord Vishnu took the form of Varaha and excavated deeper into the land to locate Lord Shiva’s feet, Lord Brahma became a swan and flew high in the sky to spot the crown of Lord Shiva.
21. Taraknath Shiva Temple, West Bengal
Taraknath Temple is one of the most ancient Shiva Temples In India. This is the major temple of Tarakeswar. It’s a spiritual place where you can find your self. It is a major pilgrimage spot in the town of Tarakeswar. The Taraknath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva where he is worshiped as Taraknath.
As per local legends, the temple was built after a dream which led the mendicant brother of Raja Vishnu Das to discover a Linga in the jungles near Tarakeswar. The temple was later built around the swayambhu linga (self-manifested) referred to as Baba Taraknath in 1729 AD.
Mondays are considered auspicious to pray Taraknath. Thousands of devotees visit the temple during Maha Shivaratri in Phalgun month and Gajan Festival in Chaitra month. Sravana month (July - August) is also considered auspicious for Shiva and special poojas and worships are held on every Monday of the month. The temple worship timings are from 6:00 am to 1.30 pm and evening 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
22. Vadakkunnathan Shiva Temple, Kerala
Shiva here is popularly known as Vadakkunnathan (The Lord of the North). His abode is the Kailash in the Himalayas. Since the Himalayas are to the north of India, this name probably refers to that fact.
According to a very popular legend, this temple was built by Parasurama. He is the 6th incarnation of Lord Vishnu and precedes both Rama (7th incarnation) and Krishna (8th incarnation). Thrissur Pooram is held at the Tekkinkadu Ground (there used to be a teak forest here) around the Vadakkunnathan Temple. Only Hindus can enter the temple. However, non-Hindus can access the Tekkinkadu Ground and participate in Thrissur Pooram.
23. Bhavnath Mahadev Shiva Temple, Gujarat
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has been believed to have stood here at Junagadh from ancient times. Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is one of the foremost Holy Places in Junagadh city and famous for Bhavnath Fair which is visited by devotees from around the world.
The Shiva Temples In India is located in the neighboring area of the Girnar mountain range which is near to Girnar Taleti. From Girnar Taleti one has to reach the temple by foot climbing up to the Girnar hills. The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is surrounded by many ancient holy places resting at the foothills of Girnar.
Every Year at the temple two key festivals are celebrated which include Maha Shivaratri and Lili Parikrama.
A five-day Bhavnath Mahadev Fair (Bhavnath Mahadev Mela) is held during the festival of Mahashivratri which is a worldwide tourist attraction. The Mahapuja (Prayers) of Lord Shiva takes place at midnight in this temple on the 14th day of the dark half of the month of Magh, as per the Hindu calendar.
24. Srikalahasti Shiva Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Srikalahasti temple is a very famous Shiva Temples In India located in the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. It is one of the most well-known temples in South India. Vayu is incarnated as a Lord Shiva and Worshipped as Kalahastheeswara. This can be seen from the other miraculous feature of Srikalahasti Temple – the Vayu-linga. In the temple, there is a lamp which a wavering flame throughout day and night without any traces of wind to facilitate it's flickering. This indicates the presence of Lord Vayu.
The Shiva linga is of white color and is said to be self-manifested- Swayambhu. Goddess Parvathi Devi is worshiped as Gnanaprasunambika. This temple is also considered as “Dakshina Kasi and Rahu-Ketu-Kshetra”. The main lingam is not touched even by the priest, even to date it remains untouched. Hence, abhishekam is not offered to the main lingam but the holy mixture of water, milk, sandalwood, flowers, camphor, and other key ingredients are offered to the Utsava Murthy.
Know More About Srikalahasti Shiva Temple Clieck Here
25. Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva in the form of the “the Great God of the Cave” is the largest & most ornate of the world heritage site tantric Hinduistic temples at Khajuraho, India. It was built during the reign of King Vidyadhara (r. c. 1003-1035 CE when Khajuraho served as the capital of the Chandela kingdom.
Kandariya Mahadeva Shiva Temples In India located in the Khajuraho a city of Madhya Pradesh at Lat Long of 24.8530° N, 79.9197° E, Kandariya Mahadev temple at 282-meter height from sea level.
26. Tungnath Temple, Uttarakhand
Tungnath temple is the world’s highest Lord Shiva Temples In India at an altitude of 12,073 ft from sea level. It is believed to be 5000 years old from the time of Mahabharath and comes third in the pecking order of Panch Kedar.
Tungnath is mainly famous for two things- first, the ancient Tungnath temple believed to be one thousand years old and considered as the world‘s highest Shiva temple located at an altitude of 3,680 Mts. Second, Chandersheela, where Lord Rama did penance for recovering from ’Brahmhatya,’ after killing Ravana who was a Brahmin.
The craze of Chandersheela (4,000 Mts) remains all-time high as the sunrise and 360 degrees panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas continue to attract a large number of tourists. But, the completely ignored ‘Ravansheela,’ has started pulling visitors without any publicity.
27. Natarajar Temple, Tamil Nadu
Chidamabaram meaning “Sky of consciousness” or if you assume that its name is Chit+Ambalam meaning “The stage of performing arts” or if we refer to it by its Tamil name, Thillai ambalam ((meaning a place having Thillai trees-a species of mangrove trees) has a very unique temple in India. It is a temple of Lord Shiva as Nataraja ( the king of dancing). It is unique because more than 99% of Shiva temples depict him in the form of a Shiva Linga but here the Lord stands six feet tall in a remarkable dancing pose (People say the statue is made of Gold), that too in the pose of Ananda Thandava(The male dance of ecstasy).
He is also called “Thillai Koothan (the dancer of Thillai) in Tamil To a Saivite in Tamil Nadu ” the word temple “ would only indicate Chidambaram. Though God has this unique form, in this temple, he is also worshipped as the “Sky of consciousness” and this temple is referred to as Akasa Kshethra(the sky temple).
God has also worshipped here in the form of Emerald Linga as well as Crystal Linga. Another greatness of this temple is that it is the oldest Shiva Temples In India with a golden roof (AD 907-950). Due to this, it is called as Pon Ambalam (Golden temple). Another great peculiarity of this temple is the “Chidambara Rakasiyam (The secret of Chidambaram).
This Rakasiyam can be seen by the devotees through a window next to the sanctum sanctorum of the main Nataraja temple. Most of the time it would be covered by a curtain. When is open we can see the secret covered by layers of musk over which a golden Vilwa garland will hang. The devotees believe that the perennial dance of joy of god is going on there.
28. Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple, Sikkim
Brightly scarlet colored big statue of Veer Balwaan Bajrang Bali lifting Dronachal Parvat in hand is located at the entrance of Kirateshwar Mahadev Mandir; Legship town under West Sikkim district in the Indian state of Sikkim. The temple is located at a distance of 5 kms from Pelling connected with Geyzing (also known as Gyalshing, headquarters of West Sikkim district) alongside Pemayangtse and 89 kms from the state capital city Gangtok. Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated on the banks of beautiful River Rangit (or Rangeet), which has many mythological episodes of the Mahabharat attached to it. A foot suspension bridge takes the devotees from the main road to the temple. The temple is also known as Kirateshwar Mahadev Thaan or simply known as Shiv Mandir by the local people.
According to the Hindu mythology, pleased with Arjun’s (3rd of the Pandava brothers) hard penance and devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him, in the very spot where the temple lies, as a Kirat or Hunter and blessed him with success in the Mahabharat war. Kirat means hunter hence the temple named Kirateshwar meaning the Hunter God. Long time ago as the people found miraculously existed a stone manifesting Shiva Ling in another words Lord here is self-manifested or Swayambhu. The said Shiv Ling is the main effigy of worship. Belief of many that a mere visit with true devotion to this temple fulfills one’s wishes particularly a wish for son or daughter and also wishes for peace harmony and good health. According to another popular belief, whosoever worships here will earn virtues of two life times.
29. Jambukeswarar Temple
Jambukeswarar Temple is situated in a suburb of Trichirapalli called Thiruvanaikaval. This temple is actually in an island surrounded by the river Kaveri and Kollidam.
Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of this temple is called Jambukeswar and the goddess is Sri Akilandeswari. Shiva is in the form of Lingam and is considered as an embodiment of the element water. There is a freshwater spring underneath the Shiv Linga. It is revered as one of the Pancha-Bhoota Stalams.
The temple was built by Kocengannan(Kochenga Chola), one of the Early Cholas, around 1,800 years ago. For more detailed description of the temple's origin and history, one can always Google.
The gopuram or the tower at the entrance of the temple looks very simple and unassuming. But once you enter the temple you will be amazed with the grandeur of the pillars and the sculptures. Sri Jambukeshwara Temple has five concentric walls and seven gopurams. It is believed that this temple was also built around the same time Ranganathaswamy temple was built.
30. Sukreswar Temple, Assam
The Sukreswar temple, located at Sukreswar, is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for housing the sixth Jyotirlinga of India. According to one of the popular beliefs, it is said that a person performing post-death rituals at this temple will attain ‘moksha’ or peace for the dead. Constructed by the Ahom King Pramatta Singha, in 1744, this temple is believed to be the place where Sage Sukra resided and worshipped Lord Shiva.
Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River in Assam, the Sukreswar Temple is a holy place for the Hindus. Many devotees from all round the world visit this religious place in Guwahati, Assam throughout the year. The temple is set up on the top of a hill called the Hasti whose named has been mentioned in the Kalika Purana. One of the largest Lingas of Lord Shiva is housed and worshipped in this temple.
31. Bhojpur Shiva Temple, Bhopal
The Bhojeshwar Temple is quite unlike any other structure I have seen in India, contribued in part by the fact that it was never finished. This has made dating the structure a little difficult as there is no dedicatory inscription, although by the style of the sculpture and this temple having the same mason marks as a nearby Jain temple, experts have with some confidence tied down a date to the 11th century.
There are a number of somewhat odd elements to the temple. There is no mandapa connected to the sanctum, and it has a rectilinear roof as opposed to the more typical curvilinear domed tower. Three of the temples walls are completely plain on the exterior, with just a few carvings on the entrance wall that don’t look as though they originally belonged there. These anomalies has led some people to believe that the temple was in fact a funerary monument.
32. Amarnath Temple
The Amarnath caves are one of the most famous shrines in Hinduism, dedicated to the god Shiva, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The shrine is claimed to be over 5,000 years old and forms an important part of ancient Hindu mythology.Inside the main Amarnath cave lies an ice stalagmite resembling the Shiva Linga, which waxes during May to August and gradually wanes thereafter.
This lingam is said to grow and shrink with the phases of the moon, reaching its height during the summer festival. According to Hindu mythology, this is the cave where Shiva explained the secret of life and eternity to his divine consort Parvathi. There are two other ice formations representing Parvathi and Shiva's son, Ganesha.
The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m (12,760 ft), about 141 km (88 mi) from Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The Central Reserve Police Force, Indian Army and Indian. Paramilitary Forces maintain a strong presence in the region due to concerns of security and hence prior permission is needed from the Government of India before making a pilgrimage (Note: as of June - 2009, no permit was necessary to go to the cave, even for foreigners).
