Maha Shivratri 2025: Top 10 Lord Shiva Temples In India And Their Sacred History

Top 10 Lord Shiva Temples In India And Their History: Maha Shivaratri is the biggest sacred Hindu festival that is dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated with great devotion across India. On this day, devotees of Lord Shiva attend temples, fast and do prayers. Numerous famous and ancient Shiva temples in India have profound spiritual and mythical importance. Pilgrims from all over the world are attracted to each temple because of its unique history and incredible architecture.

List Of Top 10 Lord Shiva Temples In India And Their Significant History

From the snow-covered Kedarnath temple to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, these holy temples stand for dedication and faith. Let's take a look at the top 10 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in India and learn about their significant historical background.

1. Somnath Temple, Gujarat

Somnath Temple ( Image: Instagram) 

Somnath temple is one of the first and oldest Jyotirlingas that was rebuilt multiple times as a result of invasions. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Chadradev (moon) made this temple first with gold. In 1951, the current structure was finished under the direction of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Its exquisite carvings and distinctive setting close to the Arabian Sea are noteworthy.  

2. Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand

Kedarnath is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas to appease Lord Shiva following the Kurukshetra War. Later, in the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya rebuilt the temple. Situated amidst snow-capped mountains and renowned for its stone architecture, it draws pilgrims despite inclement weather.  

3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath temple ( Image: Instagram) 

Originally built by King Hari Chandra, Kashi Vishwanath temple was reconstructed in 1780 by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as the universe's ruler. Its spiritual significance and golden spire draw worshippers from all over the world to this location on the banks of the Ganges. 

4. Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain

Mahakaleshwar Temple ( Image: Instagram) 

Built-in the 11th century under the Paramara dynasty, this temple is well-known for its south-facing Jyotirlinga (Dakshinamurti). The Bhasma Aarti, in which Lord Shiva is worshipped with sacred ash, is what makes it famous. This temple is another Jyotirlinga and is believed to have appeared on its own (Swayambhu). 

5. Amarnath Cave Temple, Jammu and Kashmir

Known for the naturally created ice Shivling inside a cave, this temple was discovered in the 15th century by a Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik. It is reachable via a strenuous walk in July and August. It is said that in this cave, Lord Shiva gave Goddess Parvati the key to immortality.

6. Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar

Lingraj Temple ( Image: Instagram) 

This Kalinga-style temple, which was constructed in the eleventh century by King Jajati Keshari, is devoted to Harihara, a combination of Lord Shiva and Vishnu. Its elaborate carvings and 55-meter-tall tower highlight Odisha's architectural genius.

7. Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram

Ramanathaswamy Temple (Image: Instagram) 

After killing Ravana, Lord Rama worshipped Shiva at this temple. It is believed that Lord Rama built a lingam here to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings before crossing to Lanka. Ramanathaswamy temple was built by the Pandya dynasty in the 12th century, to ask for forgiveness. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations and is well-known for its lengthy hallways and enormous carved pillars.

8. Mallikarjuna Temple, Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh

Mallikarjuna Temple (Image: Instagram) 

This Jyotirlinga was constructed by the Satavahana dynasty and then expanded by the Vijayanagara emperors. It is associated with the tale of Lord Shiva's visit to his son Kartikeya. The temple is famous for its beautiful sculptures and Dravidian architecture.

9. Baidyanath Temple, Deoghar

Baidyanath Temple ( Image: Instagram) 

This ancient temple, also known as Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, is believed to provide relief from pain. Especially during the month of Shravan, its colourful religious ceremonies match its plain yet hallowed architecture. Mythologically, Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva here to get strength. A local king by the name of Puran Mal constructed the temple, which is renowned for its spiritual value and old stone sculptures.

10. Grishneshwar Temple, Maharashtra

This temple is the smallest and last Jyotirlinga shrine in 12 Jyotirlinga and was rebuilt in the 18th century by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. It is famous for its red stone construction and has elaborate carvings of Hindu deities that attract worshippers from all over the nation.