Mahashivratri 2025, the grand night of Lord Shiva, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India. Devotees across the country observe fasts, perform rituals, and immerse themselves in spiritual celebrations, making it a prime time for a Shivratri temple tour in India.
This auspicious festival is a time of deep devotion, chanting, and temple visits, making it a perfect occasion to travel to some of the most divine Shiva temples and spiritual destinations in India. Here are the 10 best places to visit in India during Mahashivratri, offering an unforgettable experience steeped in devotion, history, and culture.
India is a land of diverse cultures and deep-rooted spirituality, making it an ideal destination for devotees seeking divine experiences. Each of the following places has a unique significance in Hindu mythology and offers an unparalleled spiritual ambiance during Mahashivratri, making them some of the best Jyotirlingas to visit.
From the ghats of Varanasi to the snow-covered peaks of Kedarnath, these places not only provide a sacred atmosphere but also an opportunity to witness grand celebrations, age-old rituals, and an aura of devotion that fills the air. Whether you are a pilgrim or a traveler seeking a mystical experience, these destinations promise to immerse you in the divine presence of Lord Shiva.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in the world. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is among the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds immense religious significance. The temple is a beacon of spirituality, drawing millions of devotees who seek blessings and immerse themselves in the divine energy of the sacred city. During Mahashivratri, the temple comes alive with grand celebrations, night-long prayers, and an electrifying atmosphere of devotion.
Why Visit?
Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is home to the famous Kashi Vishwanath temple Mahashivratri, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is among the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds immense religious significance.
Things to Do & Explore:
Witness the special Mahashivratri celebrations, including the grand Shiv Baraat procession.
Take a boat ride on the Ganges and experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Visit nearby temples like Annapurna Devi Mandir and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Dos and Don’ts:
Do: Follow temple rituals and dress modestly.
Don’t: Carry leather items or non-vegetarian food inside the temple premises.
Best Time to Visit:
Mahashivratri night is the best time to witness the true spiritual energy of Kashi, but arrive a day early to avoid excessive crowds.
2. Kedarnath Temple (Uttarakhand)
Kedarnath Temple, nestled in the snow-clad Garhwal Himalayas, is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, making it a key pilgrimage spot in a Shiva temples in India tour. As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and part of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage, it holds immense spiritual significance. Though the main temple remains inaccessible in winter due to heavy snowfall, its winter abode, Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, serves as a site of worship during this period. The temple's remote yet divine location amidst the mighty peaks makes it an unforgettable destination for devotees and spiritual seekers alike.
Why Visit?
Situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath is one of the holiest Shiva temples and a part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. Though the temple remains closed during winter, devotees often visit its winter abode, Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.
Things to Do & Explore:
Visit Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath during winter when Kedarnath is closed.
Explore the beautiful Mandakini River and surrounding peaks.
Engage in spiritual chanting and meditation at the temple premises.
Dos and Don’ts:
Do: Carry warm clothing and trek essentials.
Don’t: Litter around the holy site or disturb the natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit:
From April to October, or during Mahashivratri at Ukhimath.
3. Somnath Temple (Gujarat)
Somnath Temple, located on the western coast of India, is one of the most revered Jyotirlingas and holds immense historical and spiritual significance, making it a must-visit during the Somnath temple Mahashivratri celebrations. Known as the 'Eternal Shrine,' the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, symbolizing the resilience of faith and devotion. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, Somnath is a powerful site for Mahashivratri celebrations, drawing thousands of devotees who come to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings and experience the divine energy of this sacred place.
Why Visit?
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, Somnath Temple holds historical and religious significance. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times but remains a symbol of devotion and resilience.
Things to Do & Explore:
Witness the grand Mahashivratri night celebrations.
Enjoy the scenic Arabian Sea view from the temple.
Visit nearby attractions like Bhalka Tirth and Prabhas Patan Museum.
Dos and Don’ts:
Do: Participate in Rudrabhishek Puja.
Don’t: Miss out on the temple's light and sound show in the evening.
Best Time to Visit:
Throughout the year, but Mahashivratri offers a special spiritual experience.
4. Trimbakeshwar Temple (Maharashtra)
Located near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is unique for its three-faced Shiva Linga, representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. It is closely associated with the origin of the sacred Godavari River, making it a major pilgrimage site.
Why Visit?
Trimbakeshwar is considered one of the most sacred Jyotirlingas, where the holy Godavari River originates. It is a place of immense spiritual energy and religious significance.
Things to Do & Explore:
Perform Rudrabhishek Puja at the temple.
Visit the sacred Kushavarta Kund, the source of the Godavari River.
Explore Anjaneri Hills, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.
Dos and Don’ts:
Do: Maintain silence and follow temple rules.
Don’t: Enter the temple premises with leather items or improper attire.
Best Time to Visit:
Mahashivratri and Kumbh Mela years.
5. Tarakeshwar Temple (West Bengal)
Situated in the Hooghly district, Tarakeshwar Temple is a major Shiva temple that sees thousands of devotees during Mahashivratri. Known for its sacred water tank and traditional Bengali rituals, it is an important pilgrimage site in the region.
Why Visit?
Tarakeshwar Temple is known for its deep-rooted Bengali traditions and sacred water tank. It is one of the most visited Shiva temples in West Bengal during Mahashivratri.
Things to Do & Explore:
Offer prayers at the ancient Shiva temple.
Take a dip in the sacred Dudhpukur tank, believed to have healing properties.
Explore the surrounding markets selling religious artifacts and sweets.
Dos and Don’ts:
Do: Follow local customs and dress modestly.
Don’t: Enter the temple premises without washing hands and feet.
Best Time to Visit:
Mahashivratri and Mondays of Shravan Maas.
6. Pashupatinath Temple (Nepal, near Bihar Border)
A UNESCO-listed Shiva temple, Pashupatinath is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva outside India. Located in Kathmandu, Nepal, the temple sees grand celebrations during Mahashivratri, drawing devotees from all over South Asia.
Why Visit?
Pashupatinath is one of the holiest Shiva temples in the world, known for its deep spiritual significance and vibrant Mahashivratri celebrations.
Things to Do & Explore:
Witness the grand Mahashivratri festivities and cultural performances.
Explore the temple’s intricate pagoda-style architecture.
Visit the nearby ghats where sacred rituals take place.
Dos and Don’ts:
Do: Follow temple etiquette and respect local customs.
Don’t: Take photographs inside the temple premises without permission.
Best Time to Visit:
Mahashivratri and Teej festival.
7. Lingaraj Temple (Odisha)
A majestic temple in Bhubaneswar, Lingaraj Temple is renowned for its intricate Kalinga architecture and Shivratri celebrations, where thousands of devotees gather to offer prayers and witness traditional festivities.
Why Visit?
Lingaraj Temple is an architectural marvel and one of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in India. Its grand Mahashivratri celebrations attract thousands of devotees.
Things to Do & Explore:
Witness the temple’s grand Shivratri festival and special rituals.
Explore the intricately carved temple complex and its historical significance.
Visit the nearby Bindusagar Lake, a sacred water body associated with the temple.
Dos and Don’ts:
Do: Respect the temple rules and dress modestly.
Don’t: Try to enter the temple if you are a non-Hindu, as entry is restricted.
Best Time to Visit:
Mahashivratri night.
Conclusion
Mahashivratri is a time of devotion and self-reflection, where devotees follow strict Mahashivratri fasting rules and participate in Mahashivratri special puja ceremonies. Whether you seek spiritual awakening or want to explore India's rich religious heritage, these destinations offer a truly divine experience. Plan wisely, respect traditions, and immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of Lord Shiva’s grand celebration!
' fill='%23359391'%3e %3cpath d='M46.1538462%2c43.5714286 L41.5%2c50 L36.8461538%2c43.5714286 L36.8670256%2c43.5714286 C36.3173077%2c42.7142857 36%2c41.6851429 36%2c40.5714286 C36%2c37.4854286 38.4535641%2c35 41.5%2c35 C44.5464359%2c35 47%2c37.4854286 47%2c40.5714286 C47%2c41.6851429 46.6826923%2c42.7142857 46.1329744%2c43.5714286 L46.1538462%2c43.5714286 Z M41.4294872%2c39 C40.6150641%2c39 39.9487179%2c39.675 39.9487179%2c40.5 C39.9487179%2c41.325 40.6150641%2c42 41.4294872%2c42 C42.2439103%2c42 42.9102564%2c41.325 42.9102564%2c40.5 C42.9102564%2c39.675 42.2439103%2c39 41.4294872%2c39 L41.4294872%2c39 Z' id='Location-white'%3e%3c/path%3e %3c/g%3e %3c/svg%3e)
