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28 Famous Shiva Temples In India For A Spiritual Journey
Posted on Thursday, October 19th, 2023 by Heena Ganotra Leave a Comment
Lord Shiva is a prominent deity of the Hindu religion that devotees ardently worship all across the country. Shiva temples in India has played an essential part in Hinduism and Indian Culture. Various thrilling myths and legends exist behind the story of Lord Shiva, resulting in the formation of famous Shiv Mandir like Dwadasha Jyotirlinga (12 temples), Panch Kedar (5 temples), and Panchabhoota Sthalams (5 noteworthy elements) in different corners of the country. Around hundreds of Shiva temples in India exist mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Halt your search for a “Shiv Mandir near me” as we have a classified list of each of these Mahadev temples according to various features.
Table Of Content
1. Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath temple is one of the most popular Shiva temples in India that are dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range of the Uttarakhand along the banks of the Mandakini River. Straddled at the height of 3883m, this Mahadev Mandir is one of the most prominent destinations, among the 4 destinations of the Char Dham Yatra along with Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Badrinath.
- Location: Garhwal Himalayan Range
- State: Uttarakhand
- Country: India
- Address: Garhwal Himalayan Range, near Mandakini river, Uttarakhand 246445
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant
- Built-In: 8th century A.D
- Built By: Guru Adi Shankaracharya
- Architectural Styles: Ashlar style of construction – stone stabs are interlocked without using cement or mortar.
- Deity: Kedarnath, Lord of Kedarkhand (Shiva)
- Temple Timings: 4 AM to 9 PM
- Festivals: Maha Shivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: May to June, September to October
- Nearby Location To Visit: Kalimath, Gandhi Sarovar
2. Amarnath Temple
Another one of the famous Mahadev mandirs, the Amarnath temple takes spiritual tourism in India to a different level. The Amarnath temple is perched at a height of 3888 m in Jammu and Kashmir in India.
The main element of Amarnath is the ice lingam of Lord Shiva formed once a year. The Yatra leading to Amarnath is considered a spiritual journey, and it passes through the rugged terrains of Jammu and Kashmir. This famous Shiva temple in India is a sure spot to be loved by all and can be a part of the next Jammu & Kashmir Tour Package that you book.
- Location: Pahalgam
- State: Jammu and Kashmir
- Country: India
- Address: Baltal Amarnath Trek, Jammu and Kashmir 192230
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar airport
- Built-In: 1850
- Built By: Maharishi Bhrigu
- Architectural Styles: Rock-cut architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6 AM to 5:30 PM
- Festivals: Maha Shivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: May to September
- Nearby Location To Visit: Amarnath Cave, Sheshnag, Zoji La
3. Mahadev Lingaraj Temple
An exclusive specimen of Kalinga Architectural Style, Lingaraj Temple is one of the must-visit Lord Shiva temples in India, known for its exclusive work of art and Kalinga Architecture. The Shiva temple is dedicated to an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is made of sandstone and laterite and has other shrines dedicated to other deities. Mahadev is worshipped here as Tribhuvaneshwara, and his consort is honoured as Bhubaneshwar. Lingaraj Temple is considered one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar city of Odisha.
- Location: Ekamra Kshetra
- State: Odisha
- Country: India
- Address: Ekamkra Kshetra, OldTown, Bhubaneshwar- 751002
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik Airport
- Built-In: 1000 AD
- Built By: King Jajati Keshari
- Architectural Styles: Kalinga Architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva and Vishnu
- Temple Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
- Festivals: Shivratri, Candan Yatra
- Best Time To Visit In: January to March
- Nearby Location To Visit: Mukteswara Temple, Parasurameswara Temple
4. Srikalahasti Temple
The beautiful Srikalahasti Temple is located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. This one of the famous Shiva temples in India is considered one of the most prominent amongst the Pancha Bhuta Sthalas, and Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Kalahasteeswara. The temple was constructed in the 12th Century by Chola and Vijayanagara Kings. This Shiva mandir is considered the Kailash of the South. The white lingam revered in this temple is regarded as a Swayambhu or self-manifested lingam.
- Location: Srikalahasti
- State: Andhra Pradesh
- Country: India
- Address: Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh 517644
- Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport-Chittoor
- Built-In: 5th Century
- Built By: Rajendra Chola
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian style
- Deity: Lord Shiva, known as Kalahasteeswara
- Temple Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
- Festivals: Maha Shivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: October, November, December, January, February, March
- Nearby Location To Visit: Kannappa Temple, Bharadwaja Theertham
5. Shiv Khori
Searching “Shiv Mandir near me”, the Shiv Khori temple in Jammu & Kashmir is an exciting and adventurous place to visit for those who wish to enjoy their stay. It is meant for both devotees and tourists. It is widely believed that the cave ends in the Amarnath temple, which is now sealed after 135 meters. Legends state that the Shiv Khori temple was created when Lord Shiva made this cave with his Trishul while avoiding the demon Bhashmasur while chasing him.
- Location: Shivkhori
- State: Jammu and Kashmir
- Country: India
- Address: Ransoo village, Sangar, Jammu and Kashmir
- Nearest Airport: Sri Guru Ram Das Jee
- Built-In: Unknown
- Built By: Unknown
- Architectural Styles: Stone carved
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 5 AM to 6 PM
- Festivals: Navratri, Maha Shivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: October, November and December
- Nearby Location To Visit: Shiv Mandir, Baba Dhansar
6. Mahabaleshwar Temple
One of the most visited Bholenath temples, the Mahabaleshwar Temple in Gokarna is an ancient, 4th-century CE temple that holds a lot of value for devotees of Shaivism. It is built in a classic Dravidian Architectural style. This Mahadev temple in Karnataka is truly one of a kind as it was created and designed in Dravidian architecture.
- Location: Gokarna
- State: Karnataka
- Country: India
- Address: Koti Tirtha Rd, Kotiteertha, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326
- Nearest Airport: Pune airport
- Built-In: 4th Century
- Built By: Mayuravarma of Kadamba
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architectural style
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6am-12pm, 5pm-7pm
- Festivals: Shivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: December to February
- Nearby Location To Visit: Sri Panchgana Mandir, Muskan Organic Strawberry Garden
7. Brihadeeswara Temple
The Brihadeeswara temple in Tamil Nadu showcases a giant statue of Nandi which is carved out of a single rock. The presiding deity of the temple is Mahadev, while the exterior of the temple enshrines the images of other popular deities such as Dakshinamurthy, Surya, and Chandra. It is one of those Shiva temples in India where devotees can find the statues of Ashta Dikpalas. This Shiv mandir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Raja Raja Chola and proved to be an exemplary style of Dravidian style architecture.
- Location: Thanjavur
- State: Tamil Nadu
- Country: India
- Address: Membalam Rd, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirapalli
- Built-In: 1010 CE
- Built By: Raja Raja Chola
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6am – 12:30 pm, 4pm-8:30pm
- Festivals: Chithirai Brahmotsavam, mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: October to February
- Nearby Location To Visit: Gangaikonda Cholapuram
8. Murudeshwara Temple
The Murudeshwara Temple is situated in Bhatkal Taluk of Karnataka. Located at a hilltop that is enveloped by the water of the Arabian Sea, the temple is a 20-story building. This Lord Shiva temple houses the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world which spreads an enigmatic aura in the evening during sunset and attracts a lot of international tourists from around the world. The statue stands 37 m tall and it is estimated that it took almost 2 years to build the statue.
- Location: Bhatkal Taluk
- State: Karnataka
- Country: India
- Address: Murudeshwara Temple Main road, Karnataka 581350
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
- Built-In: 2008
- Built By: Rani Chennabharadevi
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian style of architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 06:00AM to 12:00PM, 3PM to 8:30PM
- Festivals: Maha Shivaratri
- Best Time To Visit In: October-February
- Nearby Location To Visit: Basavaraja Durga Fort, Bhatkal, Apsara Konda Falls, Baindur
9. Ramanathaswamy Temple
The Ramanathaswamy Temple is located on the beautiful island of Rameshwaram and holds superior value to several Shaivite and Vaishnavite believers. One of the famous Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu, this Mahadev temple holds a lot of significant importance for those who believe in Lord Shiva and also appreciate art and architecture. Believers of Lord Shiva state that the idol of Mahadev in the Ramanthaswamy temple was originally brought from the Kailash mountains by Hanuman who was an ardent devotee of Lord Rama.
- Location: Rameshwaram
- State: Tamil Nadu
- Country: India
- Address: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
- Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport
- Built-In: 12th Century
- Built By: Sethupathy Maravar
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian style of architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 4:30am-1pm, 3:00pm to 8:30pm
- Festivals: Sangadahara Chaturthi, Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: During the festival of Brahmotsavam, June and July
- Nearby Location To Visit: Hanuman Temple, Dhanushkodi Beach
10. Tungnath Temple
An ideal choice for devotees who are equally dedicated to adventure activities, the temple of Tungnath is the highest-known Shiva Temple in the world. Located at a height of around 3680m in Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand, this temple can be found at the base of Chandrashila Peak. Trekkers trek through the Tungnath temple to reach Chandrashila Peak. The temple of Tungnath is one of the Panch Kedar Temples of Uttarakhand and thus holds great importance among the Hindus.
- Location: Rudraprayag
- State: Uttarakhand
- Country: India
- Address: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand 246419
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant airport
- Built-In: Unknown
- Built By: Pandavas
- Architectural Styles: North Indian Himalayan Architecture
- Deity: Lord Krishna
- Temple Timings: 6 am to 7 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri, Mahanavami
- Best Time To Visit In: September to December
- Nearby Locations To Visit: Chandrashila, Chopta, Deoria Tal
11. Baijnath Temple
The Baijnath Temple in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh holds a high value to devotees and worshippers of Mahadev. It houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India and it’s a sight to witness for those who travel across the world to pay their respects. This Mahadev temple also presents its visitors with a peaceful time in the Dhauladhar mountain ranges across the Himalayas and leaves them with memories. If someone books a Himachal Pradesh Tour Package and trek or tour through the valleys of the Himalayas, they are sure to find this temple and experience the serenity and picturesque landscapes.
- Location: Baijnath located in Kangra District
- State: Himachal Pradesh
- Country: India
- Address: Almora-Bageshwar-Karanprayag-Rd, Baijnath, Uttarakhand 263641.
- Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport
- Built-In: 1204 AD
- Built By: Ahuka and Manyuka
- Architectural Styles: Nagara Style
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 5 am – 7 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri and Mahanavami
- Best Time To Visit In: Winter
- Nearby Location To Visit: Kausani Tea Estate, Anasakti Ashram
12. Kailasanathar Temple
The Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple in Tamil Nadu was built in the period of 680 A.D to 705 A.D by one of the Pallava ruler Rajasimha. This Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple is also called a “sand temple” as the vertical stone is used in the construction of the temple. The Siva lingam which is 10 feet in height with sixteen faces on it is truly a sight to experience. The most enthralling aspect of the Kailasanathar temple is the Dravidian style of architecture that is built in.
- Location: Kanchipuram
- State: Tamil Nadu
- Country: India
- Address: Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirapalli Airport (TRZ)
- Built-In: 700 AD
- Built By: Narasimhavarman II
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 7 PM
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: November to December
- Nearby Location To Visit: Ekambanadhar Temple, Kanchi Kudil, Kamisha Temple
13. Vadakkunnathan Temple
The temple of Vadakkunnathan is a prevalent Shiva temple in South India. This Shiv Mahadev temple is located in Thrissur in Kerala. Lord Shiva is known here as Vadakkunnathan. It is believed that the temple of Vadakkunnathan is the first temple to be built by Lord Parshuram. The idol of Mahadev is worshipped here each day of the year by offering a huge amount of Ghee. Due to this practice, visitors can now see a huge formation and mould of ghee in place of the Lingam. The ghee that is used for daily Abhishek and puja of Lord Shiva is later given to the devotees to take back home as Prasad or a religious offering. You can experience this and more by booking a Kerala Tour Package and paying this temple a visit.
- Location: Thrissur
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur, Kerala 680001
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: 15th Century
- Built By: Parashurama
- Architectural Styles: Architecture of Kerala
- Deity: Lord Shiva is known as Vadakkunnathan
- Temple Timings: 4–11 am, 5–8:20 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: April to June
- Nearby Location To Visit: Sakthan Thampuran Palace
14. Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
The temple of Kandariya Mahadeva in Khajuraho is known for its exquisite carvings on the walls, ceilings, and pillars. The carvings depict all the four necessary pursuits of life – kama, artha, dharma, and moksha. The Shivan temple is founded on a huge plinth of about 4 metres (13 ft) in height. The temple structure above the plinth is well-planned with intricate detailing artwork. The superstructure is built in a steep mountain shape or form, symbolic of Mount Meru which is said to be the fictitious source of creation of the world.
- Location: Sevagram
- State: Madhya Pradesh
- Country: India
- Address: Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606
- Nearest Airport: Khajuraho Airport (HJR)
- Built-In: Circa 1030
- Built By: Vidyadhara
- Architectural Styles: Nagara Style
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 5 AM-12 PM, 4PM-9 PM
- Festivals: Navratri, Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: December to March
- Nearby Location To Visit: Devi Jagadambi Temple, Lakshmana Temple
15. Kashi Vishwanath Mandir
It is a popular belief in Hinduism that one who breathes his last breath in the temple of Kashi Vishwanath gets liberated from the cycle of rebirth. This Bholenath mandir is located in Varanasi, which is one of the oldest cities in the world. Kashi Vishwanath Mandir holds a preeminent place for devotees in Shaivism and this temple is counted among the twelve Jyotirlingas. The Kashi Vishwanath temple is one of the richest and holiest shrines of India which is dedicated to Mahadev. Small shrines of various Hindu deities surround the main temple. The Kashi Vishwanath temple has a marvellous brown effigy of Lord Shiva on its premises. The Kashi Vishwanath temple has been demolished and reconstructed several times due to wars and cultural arguments. Hence, this Shiva temple near me is an eminent pilgrimage site and a prominent historical landmark.
- Location: Varanasi
- State: Uttar Pradesh
- Country: India
- Address: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
- Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
- Built-In: 1780
- Built By: Ahilyabai Holkar
- Architectural Styles: Nagara style of architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M
- Festivals: Shivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: November to February
- Nearby Location To Visit: Ghats, boat rides to the Ganges
16. Airavatesvara Temple
The Airavatesvara Temple of Tamil Nadu was the last of the three Great Living Chola Temples to be included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 2004. This temple is known for its archaeological grandeur. The temple is named after Airavata, the white elephant of the King of Gods, Indra. The musical steps of Airavatesvara Temple are considered the greatest mystery of all time. The heritage and archaeology to be witnessed of the Chola empire through the Airavatesvara temple are lovely. The locals refer to the Darasuram or Airavatesvara temple as Darasuram Kovil or Airavateswarar Kovil. Kovil refers to the Hindu Temple in Tamil Nadu.
- Location: Kumbakonam
- State: Tamil Nadu
- Country: India
- Address: Gurunathan Pillai, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu 612702
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
- Built-In: 1166
- Built By: Chola king Rajaraja II
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 8am–12 pm, 4–8 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: June to September
- Nearby Location To Visit: Sri Chita Ramachandra Mandir
17. Ekambareswarar Temple
The Ekambareswara temple is one among the Pancha Bhoota Stalam, or each of 5 temples representing the elements of life. This temple is ancient and has a lot of archaeological importance for Hindus and those across India. The Ekambareswarar temple displays the works of every dynasty that ruled Kanchipuram. The 172-foot Raja Gopuram is a marvellous architectural wonder built by the Vijayanagara Empire. The Cholas have made several architectural contributions to the temple as well.
- Location: Kanchipuram
- State: Tamil Nadu
- Country: India
- Address: Sri Ekambareswarar Temple, Nageshwaram East Street, Kumbakonam
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
- Built-In: 9th Century
- Built By: Pallava
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6am–12:30pm, 4–8:30pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: June and July
- Nearby Location To Visit: Mottai Gopura Vasal, Nageswaran
18. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is one of the famous Uttarakhand Shiv Temple. It is a sacred and famous temple located of Lord Shiva that is 32 km from Rishikesh. When you visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, do not miss out on reading the inscriptions on the walls inside the temple.
The Neelkanth Mahadev temple is a highly religious and sacred site for worshippers of Mahadev. The Shiva abode is situated at a height of 1330 meters amidst the valleys of Uttarakhand. The beautiful Shankar temple is encircled by dense forests amidst the sturdy mountain ranges of Nar-Narayan on the convergence of Rivers Pankaja and Madhumati.
- Location: Pauri Garhwal district
- State: Uttarakhand
- Country: India
- Address: Kotdwar – Pauri Rd, Kotdwar, Uttarakhand 246149
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Built-In: 1458
- Built By: Rana Sanga
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian style of temple architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Festivals: Panguni Uthiram
- Best Time To Visit In: March to April
- Nearby Location To Visit: Sri Ulagalanda Temple, Adhi Kamakshi Amman Temple
19. Brahmeswara Temple
This Mahadev mandir in Odisha is an ancient Hindu temple that is dedicated to Shiva which was built at the end of the 9th century CE. The Brahmeswara temple is richly carved inside and out. Nestled religiously in the temple state of Odisha, the Brahmeswara Temple is visited around the year by devotees who are also pulled in by the beauty of four other temples snuggled in the corners of Brahmeswara. The beautiful weather of the city adds to the scenic beauty of the Temple. This Mahadev Lord Shiva temple is carved out in a Kalinga style of architecture and is truly a sight to experience and gaze at.
- Location: Bhubaneswar
- State: Odisha
- Country: India
- Address: Near, Tankapani Road, Siba Nagar, Brahmeswar Patna, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport
- Built-In: 1058 CE
- Built By: Kolavatidevi
- Architectural Styles: Kalinga Architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6.00 AM and 8.00 PM
- Festivals: Shivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: All around the year
- Nearby Location To Visit: Sri Jogulamba temple
20. Jambukeswarar Temple
Referred to as Thiruvanaikaval or Jambukeswaram Temple by the locals, this temple is a Shiva Shrine in Srirangam Island of Tamil Nadu. The Jambukeshwar temple is one of the five Shiva temples in Inida that comprise the Pancha Bhuta Sthalam. Shiva is worshipped here with his consort Parvati, known as Akilandeswari. The main attraction of tourists to this temple is the Shiva Lingam that spouts non-stop trickles of water which is truly a sight to behold with a reflection of Shiva picture. Built around the 2nd century AD, the temple is a perfect example of Dravidian-style architecture. For people who would love to explore historical elements, the temple contains inscriptions from the Chola Period.
- Location: Tiruchirapalli district
- State: Tamil Nadu
- Country: India
- Address: N Car St, Srirangam,, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu 620005
- Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ)
- Built-In: 2nd century AD
- Built By: Kocengannan (Kochengat Cholan)
- Architectural Styles: Dravidian architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 6 am–1 pm, 3–8 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri, Navratri
- Best Time To Visit In: All around the year
- Nearby Location To Visit: Tiruchirapalli Rock Fort, Shri Ranganatha Swamy Temple
21. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple
Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in India that is dedicated to Mahadev, situated in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. It is a sprawling temple complex that is spread extensively with a circular Sanctum. Lord Shiva and Parvathi Devi are the main attractions of this temple. Differing from other temples, there are two main Shrines in this temple, one for Lord Shiva and one for Devi. Lord Shiva is facing East and Devi facing West. The Shivalingam is covered with a gold plate that bears an image of Ardhanareeswara – or the Shiva-Shakti manifestation of Shiva.
- Location: Chengannur
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: SH 1, Kizhakke Nada, Chengannur, Kerala 689121
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: AD 300
- Built By: Perumthachan
- Architectural Styles: The architectural style of Kerala
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 4:30–11 am, 5–8 pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri, Navami
- Best Time To Visit In: April to September
- Nearby Location To Visit: Nilakkal Sree Mahadeva temple
22. Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple
Sree Kurumba Bhagavathi Temple (alternatively Kodungallur Devi Temple) is one of the famous Shiva temples in India at Kodungallur, Thrissur District with a Shiva statue in Kerala. It is committed to the goddess Bhadrakali, Maha Kali, or Parashakthi worshipped in Kerala. The goddess is also known as “Sri Kurumba” or the Mother of Kodungallur. A 2000 year old temple dedicated to Lord Mahadeva, the Thiruvanchikulam Mahadeva temple is famous for the various manifestations of Mahadev.
- Location: Kodungallur, Thrissur District
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Thekkenada Rd, Kodungallur, Kerala 680664
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: Before CE. The exact date is not known
- Built By: Cheraman Perumal
- Architectural Styles: The architectural style of Kerala
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 4am–12:30pm, 4–8pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: April to November
- Nearby Location To Visit: Azhikode Munakkal Beach
23. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
One famous Shiva ka mandir, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is located in the Kottayam district and is extremely popular among tourists for its murals. The most famous is Nataraja’s painting (depiction of Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer) in the gopuram (ornate temple tower). This Shiva temple in Kerala is also well-known for the annual Ezharaponnana (the seven-and-a-half elephants finished in gold) Ezhunnallathu (procession). It is said that a Travancore Maharaja donated the statue of the temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, Khara’ got three Shiva Lingas from Mahadev himself. He took them with him to Kerala, holding one by his teeth and one in his right and left hand.
- Location: Kottayam
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Ettumanoor Temple Rd, Ettumanoor, Kerala 686631
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: 1542 AD
- Built By: Unknown
- Architectural Styles: Traditional Kerala style
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 4am–12pm, 5–8pm
- Festivals: Thiruulsavam in Kumbham
- Best Time To Visit In: October to March
- Nearby Location To Visit: Cherukattu Mana
24. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
Vaikom in the Kottayam district of the southern state of India, Kerala, is one of the main pilgrim centres of the south. Famous for the Vaikkath Ashtami celebrations in November/December, it is one of the few temples held in reverence by both Shaivites and the Vaishnavaites. Vaikkom’s Shiva is fondly called Vaikkathappan. The Shiva Linga here is believed to be from the ‘Treta yuga’ and is regarded as one of the oldest Shiva Mandir and temples in Kerala, where pooja has not been broken since its inception. Vaikathashtami, observed in the Malayalam month Vrishchikam on the eight-day after full moon day, is one Kerala’sthe most popular temple festivals. Vaikathashtami 2021 date is November 27. The festival is held at the famous Vaikom Mahadeva Temple Vaikom near Kottayam in Kerala. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of a Shivling, which is believed to have been formed during the Tretayuga.
- Location: Vaikom
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Vazhamana Rd, Vaikom, Kerala 686141
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: 1594
- Built By: Saint Parasurama
- Architectural Styles: Traditional Kerala style
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 4am–12pm, 5–8pm
- Festivals: Vaikom Ashtami
- Best Time To Visit In: October to January
- Nearby Location To Visit: Vaikom Beach, Fish World Aqua Tourism, Marari Beach, boat and water sports Kochi
25. Ernakulam Shiva Temple
Also known as Ernakulathappan Temple is one of the major temples of Kerala, located in the heart of Ernakulam, the downtown area of the city of Kochi. This one of the most powerful Shiva temples in India, devoted to Mahadev, is considered the city temple, with the presiding deity as the city’s protector, as per local Hindu faiths and traditions. The temple is located within the Durbar Hall Ground and depicts an exemplary Kerala temple style of architecture. Its history has a deep association with the city’s history and was one of the 7 royal temples of Kochi Maharajas. The temple is now under the administration of the Cochin Devaswom Board which looks after the development and maintenance.
- Location: Ernakulam, Kochi
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Durbar Hall, Ernakulam, Kerala 682011
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: 1846
- Built By: Diwan Sri Edakkunni Sankara Warrier
- Architectural Styles: Kerala Temple Style Architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 3.30 AM to 11.00 AM, 4 PM to 8 PM
- Festivals: Thiruvonam, Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: December to March during winters
- Nearby Location To Visit: Kerala Kathakali Centre, Kashi Art Gallery, Wonderla Amusement Park
26. Triprangode Siva Temple
Triprangode Siva Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which is found In Kerala. This one of the ancient Shiva temples in India is easily accessible through different routes. Visiting the Triprangode Siva temple is one of the most essential Hindu pilgrimages in northern Kerala. This temple has been mentioned in the Udanta Sanstrikal dating back to the 15th Century. It exhibits the best example of Kerala’s murals and architectural paintings. The Triprangode temple has an exquisite depiction of the Gajabrusta style of architecture temple and attracts several devotees and tourists from across the world.
- Location: Triprangode, near Tirur
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Triprangode PO,Tirur, Malappuram, Kerala Triprangode, Kerala 676108
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode International Airport (CCJ)
- Built-In: 10th century
- Built By: Gopravi Varma Raja
- Architectural Styles: Gajabrusta-style architecture
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 4:30–11:45am, 4:30–7:30pm
- Festivals: Shivratri, Thiruvathire
- Best Time To Visit In: October to February
- Nearby Location To Visit: Thunchan Parambu, Alathiyur Hanuman Temple
27. Aluva Mahadeva Temple
Aluva Shiva Temple is yet another beautiful temple that sits on the cusp of the Periyar River. It is uncovered on the sandbank between the Mangalapuzha and Periyar rivers. The Aluva Mahadeva temple is one of the most prominent temples dedicated to Mahadev. It is close to Aluva town, Cochin airport, and Metro Station. The Aluva Mahadeva temple showcases the intrinsic architecture of Kerala. The temple is also known as Manappuram Shiva Temple by the locals.
- Location: Aluva
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Manappuram, Temple Rd, Thottakkattukara, Aluva, Kerala 683108
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: between 1001 AD and 1010 AD
- Built By: King Raja Raja Chola
- Architectural Styles: Architecture of Kerala
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 5.00 am to 8:00 pm
- Festivals: Aluva Sivarathri festival
- Best Time To Visit In: October to March
- Nearby Location To Visit: Marthanda Varma Bridge, Aluva Palace, Cherai Beach
28. Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple
Situated on the pure banks of the Bharathapuzha, the Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple attracts art lovers with its majestic tower, historical significance and beautiful environment. This Shiva temple nearby is one of the oldest existing temples of Kerala. This temple is located near Tirur in the Malappuram district in Kerala and is famous for the historic Mamankam festival which is a grand celebration that occurs once every twelve years.
- Location: Tirunavaya
- State: Kerala
- Country: India
- Address: Tirur – Kuttippuram Rd, Dist, Thirunavaya, Kerala 676301
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Built-In: 8th century AD
- Built By: Vaishnava Alvars
- Architectural Styles: Architecture of Kerala
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Temple Timings: 5–11:30am, 5–7:30pm
- Festivals: Mahashivratri
- Best Time To Visit In: October to February
- Nearby Location To Visit: Padinjarekkara Beach, Noor Lake
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which is the oldest shiva temple in India?
Answer: Mundeshwari Temple located in the Kaimur district of Bihar is one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in India.
Q: Which is the first temple to be built by Lord Shiva?
Answer: Nageshwar Temple in Dwarka is considered one of the first jyotirlinga temples of Lord Shiva on earth.
Q: Which is the oldest Shiva Lingam in the world?
Answer: The Gudimallam Lingam of the Parasurameswara temple is considered to be one of the oldest Shiva lingams in the world.
Q: What does the Linga of Lord Shiva mean?
Answer: Lingam, which is Sanskrit for a sign or a unique symbol, is a votary object that symbolizes Lord Shiva. The Linga appears in Shaivite temples and private temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in India.
Shipra Travels has continually acted as an ‘all-in-one’ solution for sorting people’s travel needs. We are here to help you book comprehensive India Tour Packages along with affordable flights. If you are a “Bhole Baba” fan, you must visit the many Shiva temples to celebrate him and the spiritual essence of Bhakti. Our team of professionals would love to assist you in getting budget-friendly packages
About Heena | View Posts
A writer by both passion and profession, Heena Ganotra is "half agony, half hope" but all heart. And oh, she has been a book lover from the start! Her love for books is what convinced her to make a career in the wonderful world of words. She loves what she does and is out-and-out a satisfied soul with a wish to spread happiness like herpes. Insight- Some say she is living the best life anyone could because she reads, writes, travels, and makes merry. They’re right because what else does one really need! :)
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