12 Must-Visit Shiva Temples in India to Experience a Soul-Stirring Journey

Faced with fears, dilemmas, and moments of crisis? 

A tryst with Shiva is what you need to tread the path of finding solace, healing, and gratitude.

However, you might ask:

• How can I connect with Shiva?
• How can I feel Shiva’s divine energy?
• How can I call Shiva for help?

Let us begin by telling you that Shiva is omnipresent, and with a pious and selfless heart, you can find him within.

But for a more palpable experience, we recommend you plan a visit to these 12 iconic Shiva temples in the historical place in India that exude a stream of powerful spiritual energy to bless your soul.

12 Famous Shiva Temples in India

From the majestic Adiyogi Shiva Statue in Bangalore, land of Himalayas to the famous temples in Tamil Nadu, let’s explore some extraordinary places that celebrate the mighty Lord Shiva, the supreme force of destruction and creation. 

An architectural gem in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, this temple showcases the captivating Kalinga style of architecture. Dedicated to Lord Harihara, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, Lingaraj Temple is revered as one of the oldest and most important temples in the city.

Standing tall at 180 feet, the central tower of this temple is a remarkable sight to behold. It embodies the true essence of Kalinga architecture, representing the culmination of medieval architectural traditions in the city.

The temple, built in the Deula style, consists of four main components: the Vimana (sanctum), Jagamohana (assembly hall), Natamandira (festival hall), and Bhoga-Mandapa (hall of offerings).

Located in Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, this grand Mahadev temple in India is renowned for its massive structure and intricate architecture. With four towering Gopurams (temple gates), Annamalaiyar Temple holds a prominent place among the famous Shiva temples in the state.

Prepare to get enchanted as you approach this awe-inspiring temple complex, famous for its impeccable craftsmanship. Spanning across an expansive 25 acres, the complex oozes an air of positivity and peace.

Within its sacred grounds, you’ll discover a multitude of intricately adorned shrines and halls, each a testament to the grandeur of Indian architecture.

Situated at the foothills of Girnar in Gujarat, this temple attracts devotees from the Hindu and Jain communities. The annual Bhavnath Fair held here during January and February is a must-visit, offering a vibrant and spiritually uplifting experience.

With its roots tracing back to ancient times and its legend intertwined with mythology, the Bhavnath Mahadev temple holds a significant place in history.

According to the Puranic era, the tale goes that as Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati traversed the Girnar hills, a divine garment slipped from their celestial forms, landing gracefully at the present-day Mrigi Kund. 

Nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Tungnath Temple is the highest-known Shiva temple in the world. You can visit this place in April and its location along the Chandrashila trek route provides breathtaking views and a serene ambiance for devotees and trekkers alike.

The temple’s origins trace back to the foundation laid by Arjuna, the valiant third brother of the Pandavas. Following the North Indian architectural style, this magnificent temple stands as a testament to the rich heritage of the region.

Enveloped by a divine aura, the temple complex encompasses not only the primary shrine but also a collection of twelve intricately adorned shrines dedicated to various deities. Each shrine adds to the ambiance, fostering a sense of spiritual reverence.

Located in the enchanting valleys of Kashmir, Amarnath Temple is a famous Shiv temple and sits inside a vast cave at an altitude of 3888m. The pilgrimage to this sacred shrine is a test of devotion, as devotees brave challenging terrain to witness the formation of the naturally occurring Shiva Lingam.

Beyond the spiritual quest, the scenic vistas that envelop the temple are nothing short of extraordinary. As you traverse the sacred path toward the temple, nature unfolds its breathtaking beauty, captivating your senses and uplifting your soul.

Majestic mountains, pristine valleys, and tranquil streams provide a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the overall serenity and sanctity of the pilgrimage.

It’s impossible to overlook the famous Kedarnath Temple (one of the 12 Jyotirlings) when listing the famous Lord Shiva temples in India. Perched on the Garhwal Himalayan Range in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath Temple, as part of the revered char dham yatra, it offers a spiritual journey amidst stunning natural beauty, with the Mandakini River flowing nearby.

As you set foot on the sacred premises of Kedarnath Temple, you are embraced by an atmosphere charged with divine energy.

The sanctity of this hallowed shrine resonates through its very foundations, evoking a profound sense of devotion and spiritual connection. Countless devotees flock to this sacred abode to seek blessings and immerse themselves in the blissful presence of Lord Shiva.

Situated in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is another revered Jyotirlinga. Constructed centuries ago by King Harihara Raya, this temple holds immense significance for Hindu devotees, with Lord Shiva worshiped as Mallikarjun and Goddess Parvati as Bhadrakali.

The grand complex of Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is a sight to behold. Its magnificent architecture encompasses not only the main shrines of Lord Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba Devi.

It is an array of mandapams, spacious halls adorned with majestic pillars, and several smaller shrines dedicated to Vriddha Mallikarjuna, Sahasra Lingeshwara, Ardhanariswara, Veerabhadra, and Uma Maheswara.

Located near Nashik in Maharashtra is the best place to visit in May month, Trimbakeshwar Temple is a highly frequented Shiv mandir in India and houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Known for its Hemadpanthi-style architecture, this temple features intricately carved black stone walls and statues, including representations of Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Lord Rudra.

This sacred place is renowned for its ability to provide a comprehensive solution to various afflictions and to remove obstacles from the paths of those facing unfortunate circumstances.

In essence, it is a divine abode where prayers and religious rituals find favor with the divine, providing respite from challenging times in life. 

Situated in Pune, Maharashtra, this temple holds both religious and architectural importance and one of the finest place to go in September. Known for its Nagara architectural style, it narrates the legend of Lord Shiva vanquishing the demon Tripurasur, showcasing the triumph of good over evil.

The Bhimashankar temple complex exudes a modest charm, adorned with intricately carved sculptures representing various deities. The architecture of the temple showcases the graceful Nagara style and the distinctive Hemadpanthi style of construction.

Within its premises, one will find the sacred Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), the Sabhamandap (assembly hall), and the Kurma Mandap (tortoise-shaped hall).

Located in Jharkhand, Baidyanath Temple is associated with Lord Shiva’s healing powers. It is believed that Lord Shiva treated the head of the demon Ravana at this spot, making it a significant pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings and wellness.

Witness the remarkable spectacle as they carry sacred water from the Ganges River, traveling an impressive 108 km to reach the temple.

Rumor has it that the line of devoted worshippers stretches the entire 108 km, a testament to their unwavering faith and devotion. Experience the spiritual energy and connect with the divine at this extraordinary pilgrimage site. 

Situated in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, this temple is an integral part of the Temple Tour in southern India. Legend has it that Lord Rama worshiped Lord Shiva here to absolve himself of the sin of killing Ravana, a Brahmin.

The temple’s longest corridor in the world attracts art enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike. Experience the awe-inspiring Ramanathaswamy temple, a true delight for tourists. Adorned with a majestic 38-meter ‘Gopuram’, the temple boasts long corridors, intricately carved pillars, and a remarkable Third Corridor.

Built by rulers since the 12th century, it holds the title of Asia’s longest corridor, spanning 197 meters from East to West and 133 meters from South to North. A place of significance, Swami Vivekananda himself offered prayers here in 1897. 

Located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, this temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the reign of Raja Raj Chola, it showcases the splendid Dravidian architectural style.

The temple’s towering Vimanam and exquisite sculptures make it a must-visit destination for devotees and art enthusiasts. The Brihadeeswarar Temple stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Chola rulers, showcasing their devotion to Lord Shiva and the visionary power of Raja Raja Chola I.

With its exquisite design, this temple is a marvel, surrounded by magnificent walls that date back to the sixteenth century. 

Final Thoughts 

Embark on a soul-stirring journey to these famous Shiva temples in India and embrace the spiritual essence of the country.

Plan a trip with your loved ones and create cherished memories in the land known for its divine heritage. It’s time to experience the unparalleled spirituality that awaits you in the tranquil abodes of Lord Shiva.