List of Shiva Temples Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadev, is revered across India as the Supreme Being who creates, protects, and transforms the universe. Devotees from every corner of the country and around the world embark on spiritual journeys to visit temples dedicated to this powerful deity. India is home to many sacred Shiva temples, but among them, the 12 Jyotirlingas and the Pancha Bhuta Sthalams stand out due to their religious, historical, and architectural significance.
This comprehensive guide explores the best Shiva temples to visit in India, offering insight into their mythology, importance, and travel details.
What Are Jyotirlingas? List of Shiva Temples
The word Jyotirlinga means “radiant sign of the Almighty Shiva.” There are 12 such temples in India, where Shiva is said to have appeared as a column of light. These temples are scattered across different parts of the country and are considered especially holy by Shaivites (followers of Shiva).
Each Jyotirlinga has a legend and historical significance that makes it unique. Pilgrims believe that visiting all 12 grants moksha (liberation) and immense spiritual merit. List of Shiva Temples
The 12 Jyotirlinga Temples in India List of Shiva Temples
Here’s a detailed table of the 12 Jyotirlingas, including their locations and highlights: List of Shiva Temples
| # | Jyotirlinga | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Somnath | Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat | The first Jyotirlinga, rebuilt multiple times; located near the Arabian Sea. |
| 2 | Mallikarjuna Swamy | Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh | Located on the banks of the Krishna River and one of the 18 Shakti Peethas. |
| 3 | Mahakaleshwar | Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh | Only Jyotirlinga facing south (dakshinamukhi); famous for Bhasma Aarti. |
| 4 | Omkareshwar | Near Indore, Madhya Pradesh | Island-shaped like “Om”; located on the Narmada River. |
| 5 | Kedarnath | Kedarnath, Uttarakhand | In the Himalayas, accessible only a few months a year. Most remote Jyotirlinga. |
| 6 | Bhimashankar | Pune, Maharashtra | Surrounded by dense forests; associated with the slaying of demon Tripurasura. |
| 7 | Kashi Vishwanath | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | Located in the holiest city of India; spiritual epicenter for Hindus. |
| 8 | Trimbakeshwar | Nashik, Maharashtra | Origin of Godavari River; known for its unique three-faced Shiva Lingam. |
| 9 | Baidyanath | Deoghar, Jharkhand | Associated with Ravana’s devotion; known for healing powers. |
| 10 | Nageshwar | Dwarka, Gujarat | Believed to protect devotees from poison and evil forces. |
| 11 | Ramanathaswamy | Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu | One of the Char Dhams; corridor with 1,000+ intricately carved pillars. |
| 12 | Grishneshwar | Ellora, Maharashtra | Close to Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
The Significance of Pancha Bhuta Sthalams
In South India, there are five sacred temples where Lord Shiva is believed to manifest as the five elements of nature: Earth (Prithvi), Water (Apas), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Space (Akasha). These are called the Pancha Bhuta Sthalams.
| Deity | Element | Location | Speciality |
| Jambukeswarar | Water | Thiruvanaikaval, Tamil Nadu | Shiva is worshipped near an underground water stream. |
| Arunachaleswarar | Fire | Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu | An enormous temple, also the site of the Karthigai Deepam festival. |
| Kalahastheeswarar | Air | Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh | Lamp inside temple flickers despite absence of air. |
| Ekambareswarar | Earth | Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu | Has a mango tree said to be over 3,500 years old. |
| Natarajar | Sky | Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu | Famous for Shiva’s cosmic dance—the Tandava. |
Must-Visit Shiva Temples Beyond Jyotirlingas
Apart from the Jyotirlingas and Pancha Bhuta Sthalams, here are some more iconic Shiva temples that you shouldn’t miss: List of Shiva Temples
1. Tarakeshwar Temple, West Bengal
A very sacred place for Shiva devotees in eastern India, especially during the Shravan month.
2. Lingaraj Temple, Odisha
Located in Bhubaneswar, this temple is one of the finest examples of Kalinga architecture and is considered the oldest in the city.
3. Mukteshwar Temple, Uttarakhand
Perched in the hills, this temple offers spiritual peace and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
4. Neelkanth Mahadev, Rishikesh
It’s believed this is the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison during the Samudra Manthan.
5. Amarnath Cave Temple, Jammu & Kashmir
Accessible only during summer, this sacred cave contains a naturally forming ice Shiva Lingam.
Best Time to Visit Shiva Temples in India
- Shravan Month (July–August): Considered most auspicious.
- Mahashivratri: Celebrated in February or March with grand processions and night-long vigils.
- Post-Monsoon to Early Winter: Ideal for visiting temples in Uttarakhand or Maharashtra.
Travel Tips for Temple Visits
- Dress modestly and follow temple customs.
- Some temples do not allow non-Hindus inside the sanctum—check in advance.
- Many temples are in remote areas; carry water, snacks, and basic medication.
- Photography may be restricted in some temples.
Conclusion
From the cold heights of Kedarnath to the serene beaches of Rameswaram, the temples dedicated to Lord Shiva offer a spiritual experience like no other. These temples are a perfect blend of devotion, history, architecture, and mythology. Visiting them not only deepens one’s spiritual journey but also introduces the traveler to India’s profound heritage.
Whether you follow the Jyotirlinga pilgrimage, visit the Pancha Bhuta Sthalams, or explore regional Shiva temples, each destination promises a sense of peace and divine connection.